Production and Marketing of Apple in Mugu District of Nepal
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24925/turjaf.v14i5.1263-1271.8533Keywords:
Apple , Marketing Channel , Benefit and Cost Ratio , Mustang , Mountain agricultureAbstract
Apple cultivation presents a substantial economic opportunity in the mountainous region of Nepal due to the highly favourable climatic conditions. This study was conducted for the evaluation of the production and marketing status of apples in Chhayanath Rara Municipality, Mugu District, Nepal, in 2024. Data collection was conducted in 120 sample households using a simple random sampling technique and pre-tested semi-structured interviews. Data analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and Microsoft Excel to examine descriptive and economic dimensions. The average area under apple cultivation, the average number of trees, the average productive trees, and the average production per household were found to be 0.67 ha, 217.8, 122.6, and 2.45 metric tons, respectively. The study revealed that apple farming is profitable with a benefit-cost ratio of 1.80 while farming on one hectare. The marketing analysis showed 75.50% of the farmers sell directly to consumers, while those selling through local traders led to reduced profit margins. The study underscores that challenges like poor infrastructure, lack of technical knowledge on apple farming, poor marketing structures, and high postharvest losses are holding back the true potential of productivity and profitability of apple farmers in Mugu district.
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