With the introduction of power tillers, Kaluram Chaudhary from Dhangadhi Sub-metropolis in Kailali has seen a major improvement in his farming practices. Previously dependent on oxen and buffaloes for plowing, he switched to modern equipment two years ago. The use of tools like tractors and power tillers has made land preparation faster and more convenient. "Now, we are free from relying on animals for farming," he said.
Subash Chaudhary from Godavari Municipality has also experienced increased crop yields and productivity since adopting these tools. In addition to using the equipment on his own land, he offers tilling services to neighbors, earning extra income. Many farmers in the area also use these tools for transporting goods once farming activities are complete.
Lalit Singh Rana, 74, from Dhangadhi Sub-metropolis-13, remarked that farmers with access to modern tools are "lucky" compared to the past generations, as farming has become much less labor-intensive. "Agriculture is no longer a backbreaking job," he added.
Farmers in the area benefit from a 50% subsidy on power tillers and other agricultural equipment provided by provincial and local governments. This shift to modern tools has significantly saved time and reduced labor needs.
The integration of modern tools and hybrid seeds has led to higher crop yields, with production per bigha (6772.63 square meters) increasing from eight to ten quintals in the past to as much as 20 quintals at present, according to the Agricultural Directorate. Subash Chaudhary mentioned that nearly every household in his settlement now owns modern agricultural equipment, including threshing machines.
Despite these advancements, farmers continue to face challenges. Changing climate patterns, such as unusual cold waves, floods, and droughts, have become more frequent and severe, posing risks to crop cultivation. Farmers also struggle to secure chemical fertilizers during planting seasons.
The Sudurpashchim government has addressed some of these issues by including the "Sufficiency in Agriculture, the Campaign of Province Government" in this fiscal year's budget, ensuring subsidies for agricultural loans and electricity tariffs to reduce production costs and boost farmers' income. -- RSS