Orange farming declines in Rumjatar
Summary
Orange farming in Rumjatar, Okhaldhunga, is in steep decline as orchards turn barren, trees die early, and insect attacks reduce harvests to almost nothing. Farmers are shifting to papaya and traditional crops as they urge authorities to save the once-iconic livelihood.
Key Points
- Rumjatar’s once-thriving orange orchards are now largely barren, with many trees failing to bear fruit.
- Farmers report yellowing leaves, drying branches, insect infestation, and trees dying within a few years of planting.
- Many farmers are switching to papaya, millet and maize as orange farming becomes unprofitable.
- Agricultural technicians blame ageing trees and poor care for new saplings, while farmers ask authorities for urgent support.
