Paddy transplantation in Bhaktapur [In Pictures]

KATHMANDU: Now that the monsoon has arrived, farmers across the country are busy transplanting paddy seedlings.

Since rice is the main staple in the country, the transplantation of paddy seedlings holds special significance in Nepali society. Farmers not only transplant paddy seedlings but also celebrate the occasion with singing, dancing, and merrymaking. Such is the importance of this day that the government celebrates June 29th as National Paddy Day. The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Climate-smart agriculture-friendly technology, increasing rice production’.

Paddy production increased by 6.94% to 5.486 million tons in 2022. The crop contributes around 7% to the national GDP.

According to the agriculture ministry, paddy transplantation is currently underway in hilly districts. Transplantation in the Tarai belt, known as the rice bowl of the country, generally begins in the second week of July.

Here are some glimpses of the transplantation of paddy seedlings in Changunarayan on the outskirts of the Kathmandu Valley.