August 15: The country has witnessed 87 percent paddy plantation as of August 11 this year. The total paddy plantation marks a decline of seven percent compared to the previous year. 

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has reported paddy has been planted in 87% of the total land area. This figure is notably lower than the same period last year.

Sabnam Shivakoti, the spokesperson for the Ministry, said that the recorded data until August 11 accounts for paddy plantation on 1.4 million hectares of land, equating to 87%.

The decline in paddy plantation for this year is attributed to the delayed monsoon in several provinces, namely Madhes, Bagmati, and Gandaki.

The process of rice transplantation will continue until the mid-August (end of Shrawan). Despite the current figures, the Ministry anticipates that the paddy plantation rate will rise to 92-95% by the end of this month.

Province-wise, Koshi Province has achieved a paddy plantation rate of 94%, whereas Madhes stands at only 68%. Meanwhile, Gandaki Province has completed 93% of its paddy plantation, Karnali boasts a rate of 98%, Lumbini stands at 93%, and Sudurpaschim claims the highest rate at 99%.

Additionally, the Ministry has informed that Nepal has initiated tomato exports to India. A total of 30 metric tonnes of tomatoes have been exported to India through the Kakadbhitta and Bhairahawa border points. (RSS)