Kathmandu: Nepal's paddy plantation has reached 87 percent of its target area this year, reflecting a seven percent decrease compared to the same period last year, according to data released by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development.

The Ministry reported that, as of August 11, paddy had been planted across 1.4 million hectares of land, constituting the 87 percent figure.

Sabnam Shivakoti, the spokesperson for the Ministry, attributed the decrease in paddy plantation to delayed monsoon in key provinces including Madhes, Bagmati, and Gandaki. Despite this setback, rice transplantation efforts are anticipated to continue until the end of the month, offering the possibility of an improvement in the overall figures.

While various provinces witnessed differing levels of paddy plantation, the Ministry projected an increase to 92 to 95 percent by the end of the month. As of now, the Koshi Province boasts the highest paddy plantation rate at 94 percent of its land, while Madhes Province is lagging behind at 68 percent. Gandaki Province and Lumbini Province have achieved 93 percent paddy plantation, while Karnali Province leads at 98 percent. Sudurpaschim Province holds the record with an impressive 99 percent paddy plantation coverage.

In a significant agricultural development, Nepal has also initiated the export of tomatoes to India. A shipment of 30 metric tonnes of tomatoes has been successfully exported to India through the Kakadbhitta and Bhairahawa border points, marking a positive step towards boosting cross-border trade.

As Nepal's farmers continue to work towards achieving higher paddy plantation rates, the Ministry remains optimistic about the prospect of improved figures by the end of the month. The nation's agricultural sector is closely monitoring weather patterns and making efforts to mitigate the impact of the delayed monsoon on crop production.