PRODUCTION, MARKETING AND ECONOMICS OF CUCUMBER IN PANCHAPURI MUNICIPALITY, SURKHET, NEPAL

Purpose:This study aimed to assess the production, marketing, and economic aspects of cucumber farming in Panchapuri Municipality, Surkhet, Nepal. It sought to explore the challenges faced by farmers and provide insights to improve cucumber production and market access in the region. Approach:The research was conducted from June 2nd to June 25th, 2023, involving 80 randomly selected cucumber farmers in Panchapuri Municipality. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with local vegetable growers, cooperative members, and traders. Economic analyses, including the Benefit-Cost (B:C) ratio, were used to determine the profitability of cucumber farming. Results:The results revealed that cucumber farming in the study area is quite productive, with an overall yield of 30.02 Mt/ha and a B:C ratio of 1.41, suggesting good profitability. The average price farmers received for their cucumbers was Rs. 70/ kg. However, most farmers were heavily dependent on local collectors for selling their produce, with no evidence of cucumber export beyond the Surkhet district. Major challenges included diseases like powdery mildew and aphids, unstable market prices, and a lack of direct market access. Conclusions:The study highlights that cucumber farming in tunnels is a profitable venture in Panchapuri Municipality, but there are significant gaps in the marketing infrastructure. While the government has focused on production through subsidies and support, there is a pressing need to improve marketing efforts. Recommendations include providing better training for farmers, facilitating access to markets, promoting organic certification, and supporting the establishment of plastic houses to enhance cucumber production in the region.