Ludra Bahadur Purja, a 40-year-old farmer from Ward No. 4 of Dhawalagiri Gaunpalika in Myagdi district, has recently switched from traditional farming to cultivating medicinal herbs and Okhar (buckwheat). After working abroad for several years, he returned and chose the option of cultivating medicinal herbs and Okhar as a means of self-employment.
He currently cultivates Okhar and Satuwa (buckwheat) on about 13 Ropanis (approximately 0.65 hectares) of land in the Pakhobari area. He also grows Satuwa on four Ropanis of land, which he ropes from Taplejung and Toripani of Myagdi.
The geographical terrain of Bovang, situated at an altitude of around 2,300 meters above sea level, with suitable weather conditions, is conducive to the cultivation of Satuwa and Okhar. The region used to naturally produce Satuwa in the jungle.
Currently, Ludra Bahadur has around 20,000 quintals of Satuwa ready for sale. The market price for Satuwa is currently around NPR 47 per kilogram. He intends to sell his Satuwa when the market price is good.
Previously, he used to cultivate crops such as wheat, finger millet, maize, and barley in the traditional method, but due to increasing costs and limited returns, he shifted to medicinal herbs and Okhar cultivation. He received financial support from the Agricultural Knowledge Center to set up a farm enclosure with plastic tunnels for controlled cultivation of crops like wheat and fruits. He also learned about the preparation and use of organic manure, which he hopes will lead to increased yields.
In addition to farming, Ludra Bahadur is also focusing on the potential medicinal properties of Satuwa. He is experimenting with its use to treat stomachaches, headaches, snakebites, and poison consumption.
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