Madhesh Province reaches over 78 pc of paddy planting target

JANAKPURDHAM: Madhesh Province has reached 78.59% of its paddy planting target, officials said.

Planting was completed on 300,580 hectares as of July 23, the Madhesh Province Agricultural Development Directorate said.

Siraha district recorded the highest coverage at about 94%, while Mahottari remained the lowest at roughly 55%.

Officials said abundant rainfall this year encouraged farmers to begin planting earlier and with greater vigour. Kiran Bishwakarma, Horticulture Development Officer at the Directorate, said farmers are choosing improved paddy seed varieties and paying close attention to the use of both chemical and organic fertilisers.

Some farmers, however, raised concerns over inadequate irrigation infrastructure and shortages of fertiliser in parts of the province. The Directorate did not provide an immediate timetable for addressing those issues.