Farmers in Tikapur worried as wheat prices fall, await support price

TIKAPUR, Kailali, April 8: Farmers in Tikapur are facing declining returns as wheat prices drop this season, raising concerns over mounting losses.

Local farmers say wheat that sold for Rs 4,000 per quintal last year is now fetching around Rs 3,800. “We invested heavily in seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation, but the returns are disappointing,” said farmer Ruplal Chaudhari, citing input shortages and irrigation delays.

Another farmer, Manjit Rawal, blamed the delay in fixing the government’s minimum support price, adding that recent storms also affected production. Traders report that husked wheat is selling at Rs 3,800 per quintal, while unhusked grain is priced lower depending on quality.

Despite the dip, some buyers like Pahalman Saud said prices remain comparable to last year, noting he purchased wheat at Rs 4,200 per quintal anticipating a rise later.

Last year, the government fixed the minimum support price at Rs 3,867.38 per quintal. However, no rate has been announced yet this year.

Provincial agriculture authorities said a proposal has already been forwarded to the federal government. Local officials stress that timely fixation of the support price is crucial to protect farmers from losses.