Farmers in Majaaule-5, Temkemaiyung Rural Municipality are increasingly turning to commercial garlic farming. Once limited to household consumption, garlic cultivation is now emerging as a significant source of income.
With the expansion of rural road networks, garlic produced in the area can now easily reach markets. This has encouraged farmers to prioritize commercial cultivation. Farmer Bijaya Luintel of Majaaule is currently cultivating garlic on approximately two ropani of land. She says that with improved road access, traders now come directly to the village to collect garlic, eliminating previous concerns about selling the produce.
“Earlier, it was difficult to transport the produce to markets, but now, with road access, traders come right to our homes, and prices are good,” Luintel said. She added that last year, garlic sold for up to NPR 200 per kilogram directly from her home. With relatively low production costs and attractive market prices, farmers have been able to earn significant income.
“Many farmers in the village are now engaged in commercial garlic farming,” she noted, “and I am gradually expanding my cultivation area as well.”
Local farmers say that the soil and climate in Majaaule are ideal for garlic cultivation. The crop not only yields well but also stores for a long time, making it a reliable agricultural option. Recently, demand has been increasing from nearby markets as well as from districts outside the region.
Because garlic farming can generate substantial income, it has become profitable even for small-scale farmers. As interest shifts from traditional cereal crops to cash crops, the village’s economic activity has shown positive growth. The local government has prioritized agricultural modernization, irrigation management, and technical support. Improved road infrastructure and assured market access have revitalized the rural economy.
With the expansion of commercial thinking in agriculture fueled by infrastructure development, farmers in Majaaule are moving toward self-reliance. Income from garlic farming is helping improve household livelihoods and is expected to curb rural outmigration.
