19th January 2025, Kathmandu
Laxman Thapamagar, a farmer from Alital-2 in Dadeldhura, has been earning a steady income of NPR 5 lakh per year by selling kiwi saplings.
Dadeldhura Farmer Kiwi Sapling Success
Thapamagar has been running his business under the name Dhruv Agricultural Farm for three years, successfully producing and selling various types of kiwi plants in the Sudurpashchim region.
Diverse Kiwi Varieties in Production
Thapamagar’s farm produces six distinct varieties of kiwi saplings, including Red Kiwi, Hayward, Bruno, Monty Alison, Jessberry, and Green Queen. These plants are sold across various districts in the Sudurpaschim region. Thapamagar has even expanded his business with a branch located in Amargadhi-2, Kusmali, where he continues his kiwi farming operation.
Expanding Kiwi Production and Sales
The Lamitud-based farm spans about 15 ropanis of land, where Thapamagar cultivates kiwi plants and also produces kiwi berries. Currently, the farm has around 5,000 kiwi plants, and the saplings are sold for NPR 150 each to meet increasing demand from local farmers. Thapa Magar has also ventured into berry production, which covers 1.5 ropanis of land. Regular maintenance, including weekly weeding, is essential for berry cultivation.
Profits from Kiwi Farming
Thapa Magar started kiwi farming by purchasing plants at NPR 500 each. Today, he earns NPR 5 lakh annually from the sale of kiwi saplings and berries. His success has attracted other farmers, and currently, around 40-50 farmers in Dadeldhura have begun kiwi farming as well.
Long-Term Investment Opportunity
According to Narendra Pandey, Chief of the Agricultural Knowledge Center, kiwi farming has become an increasingly attractive option for local farmers due to its long-term benefits. Once planted, kiwi plants continue to produce for up to 40-50 years, ensuring a steady source of income. Additionally, the demand for kiwi remains strong, and the local climate is ideal for kiwi cultivation, further encouraging its expansion.
Kiwi farming is becoming a sustainable and profitable venture in Dadeldhura. As more farmers embrace this agricultural opportunity, the region is set to see continued growth and success in the Kiwi market.
For more: Dadeldhura Farmer Kiwi Sapling Success