Innovative Farming in Dhangadhi: Bista Couple Cultivates Flowers and Napier Grass

Dhangadhi — In Dhangadhi-6 Matiari, Kailali, Shankar Bista and Sushila Bista are revolutionizing local agriculture by cultivating both flowers and high-yield Napier grass varieties. Their leased 18 kattha (approximately 0.6 hectares) plot is now a thriving hub of agricultural diversity, featuring a range of Napier grass breeds including Red Napier, Super Napier, and Smart Napier.

In addition to their year-round flower business, the Bista couple has initiated the production of hay bales to meet the needs of local farmers. These bales are particularly valuable for those raising cows, buffaloes, goats, and fish.

The couple has planted different Napier varieties in designated fields: Red Napier in eight fields, Super Napier in five, Smart Napier in two, and Vetiver in two fields. This strategic diversification ensures a steady supply of high-nutrient grass throughout the year.

Sushila Bista highlights that their hay bales are specifically targeted at farmers with livestock dependent on Napier grass. "We have planted Napier grass, and the grass planted in February will be ready for sale by June," she explains.

The support from the Directorate of Agriculture, which provided a 35,000-rupee subsidy, has been instrumental in their success. This subsidy is part of a government initiative to aid farmers raising cattle, goats, and other livestock.

Napier grass is noted for its nutritional benefits, requiring no additional feed when provided to grass-fed cattle. This grass not only supports animal health but also enhances production.

The Bista couple's approach ensures that the grass can be harvested twice a month during the rainy season and once a month in the winter, with each planting lasting up to 8-9 years.

Their innovative farming techniques have also gained the support of local agricultural bodies, including the Agriculture Knowledge Center, Animal Service Expert Center, and local agriculture and animal branches, which distribute the hay bales to farmers. The success of the Bista couple's farming endeavors has provided a reliable feed source for local livestock farmers, making a significant impact on the agricultural landscape in Dhangadhi.