Paddy plantation across Nepal has reached 85.72 percent of the targeted cultivation area following the full activation of the monsoon, according to the Department of Agriculture (DoA).
The department reported that farmers have planted paddy on approximately 1.17 million hectares out of the country’s 1.37 million hectares designated for rice cultivation. Plantation gained significant momentum after widespread rainfall improved field conditions from mid-July, following an initially slow start caused by delayed monsoon rains and inadequate irrigation facilities.
Around 195,669 hectares, or 14.28 percent, of paddy fields remain uncultivated. Madhesh Province has the largest area yet to be planted, with 22.12 percent of its designated paddy land still awaiting cultivation.
Province-wise, Sudurpaschim has recorded the highest plantation progress, while Lumbini, Bagmati, Koshi, Gandaki, and Karnali have also reported substantial completion rates.
The DoA said this year’s progress is significantly ahead of the same period last fiscal year, when only 78.84 percent of paddy fields had been planted. Officials attribute the improvement to favorable monsoon conditions and increased farming activity.
Agriculture experts note that timely rainfall remains crucial for Nepal’s rice production, as much of the country’s farmland still depends on rain-fed agriculture. They expect the improved plantation rate to support higher paddy production this year, although uneven rainfall and limited irrigation infrastructure continue to pose challenges in some regions.
