Jhapa farmers demand halt to flower imports from India

Commercial flower growers in Jhapa have petitioned the administration to halt flower imports originating from India and to give primary preference to domestic marigold across local markets. According to reports, farmers engaged in commercial flower cultivation stepped forward to prevent a situation where local marigolds fail to secure market access and consequently spoil on the plants. A grower from Birtamod named Sushma Paudel stated that authorities needed to draw attention to the problem because foreign imports prevent domestic produce from finding buyers and lead to waste on the stems. In their memorandum submitted to the District Administration Office, the producers outlined several specific demands to protect local farming. The demands include effective surveillance at customs checkpoints and borders to curb unauthorised inflows, the establishment of fair pricing and accessible markets for local goods, and official encouragement for using domestic flowers in schools, government offices, hotels, and organisations. Farmers also urged authorities to compile accurate statistics on flower cultivation to formulate long-term strategies and to provide government assistance for market expansion and cultivation conservation.