Khemraj Joshi of Maurada, Amargadhi Municipality-2, Dadeldhura, ventured into commercial mushroom farming six years ago with an initial investment of Rs 250,000. Today, he earns an impressive annual income of Rs 2 to 2.5 million.
At a time when many youths leave the country seeking employment abroad, Joshi advocates for the long-term benefits of investing in agriculture, both for personal growth and national development.
Initially Joshi had come to Kathmandu with a plan to go abroad after completing grade 12. But he was later inspired to pursue mushroom farming after visiting agricultural farms in Kathmandu. He now leases two ropani of land for cultivation in his hometown.
The 33-year-old farmer saves about Rs 800,000 annually after family expenses, reports state-owned news agency RSS. Once dependent on Kathmandu for mushroom seeds, Joshi now produces them locally. He supplies around 300 kg of mushrooms per harvest to local markets and neighboring districts in Sudurpaschim Province at Rs 200 per kg.
Recognised as a model farmer in the district, Joshi’s farm employs seven people and is set for further expansion. He believes agriculture can provide substantial returns with minimal investment, reducing the dependency on foreign employment.
Joshi urges local governments and stakeholders to support youth entrepreneurship through training, technical assistance, and financial aid to curb migration and boost local employment.
RSS
