BHOJPUR: Farmers in Bhojpur are increasingly turning to turmeric cultivation as an alternative crop after facing persistent losses of cereal crops due to monkey attacks. Local residents have struggled to protect maize, millet, paddy, and fruits from monkeys, prompting a shift in farming practices.
Turmeric farming is expanding, particularly in lower regions and areas near forests where the threat from monkeys is highest. Navaraj Phuyal, a farmer from Bhojpur Municipality-5, Bokhim, noted that protecting crops like maize and millet from monkeys has become extremely difficult. ‘Since monkeys do not eat turmeric tubers, this crop has become an excellent alternative for us,’ Phuyal said.
Farmers are also reporting good income from turmeric. Local farmer Maiyanani Neupane stated that the produce is easily sold in the local market. Currently, turmeric powder is selling for Rs 100 to Rs 120 per kuruwa. Farmers are encouraged by the lack of marketing difficulties for their produce.
Bhim Prasad Neupane, another local farmer, explained that because turmeric grows underground and is not preferred by monkeys, it is considered a safe crop. The interest in turmeric has grown due to its low investment requirements, minimal labor, medicinal properties, and long storage life. Farmers have demonstrated the potential to increase income by planting turmeric on fields that were previously being left fallow due to the monkey menace. Farmers suggested that if local authorities and the Agriculture Knowledge Center provide improved seeds, technology, and processing machinery, turmeric production in Bhojpur could be significantly enhanced.
