Khadka creates employment for 38 locals through commercial vegetable farming

KATHMANDU: Mahendra Khadka, a farmer originally from Gairagaun in Runtigadhi Rural Municipality–7, Rolpa, has been providing employment to 38 locals through his commercial vegetable farming in Narayanpur, Ghorahi Sub-Metropolitan City–10, Dang.

Khadka has been involved in vegetable farming for the past ten years. Inspired by his father’s footsteps, he initially started on a small scale but gradually expanded to large-scale commercial farming. Today, he cultivates vegetables on 13 bighas of leased land.

As he progressed in farming, he adopted modern agricultural techniques, which significantly increased his annual yield. According to Khadka, his experience has grown with time, and staying in the country and contributing through agriculture has proven fruitful.

“I saw potential in vegetable farming and continued it with dedication. Over time, my production increased,” he shared.

Through his company, Rapti Bawai Agriculture Pvt. Ltd., Khadka grows a variety of vegetables including long beans, cucumbers, bitter gourds, and tomatoes.

Although he initially tried farming in Rolpa, challenges in transportation and market access pushed him to relocate to Dang, where he has expanded his business further.

Khadka says that farming on leased land has proven profitable, with annual vegetable production exceeding Rs 20 million (over 2 crore). “About 35% of the revenue is net profit,” he said, adding that he pays Rs 500,000 annually in land rent. “The locals are happy to find employment at the vegetable farm. They no longer need to migrate elsewhere for income,” he said. He plans to expand the business even further in the coming years.

Geeta Mahara, a local working on the farm, said she is happy to have found employment close to home and receives her salary on time.

Similarly, Ranjita Chaudhary, who has been working at the farm for two years, said her earnings help manage household expenses, and the job has spared her the need to migrate for work.

Despite having immense potential for domestic production, Nepal continues to import vegetables worth billions annually.

Local leaders stress that the three tiers of government should promote vegetable farming and boost local employment, as there are no major hurdles in production or market availability within the country.