DHANUSHA– As the Chhath festival approaches, bananas valued at Rs 50 million have been imported from India to Janakpurdham, the capital of Madhesh Province, to meet the high demand for this essential festival fruit. Bananas are traditionally offered as argha (offerings) to the deity during Chhath, especially by those who fast.

Bishweshwar Yadav, President of the Janakpur Fruits and Vegetables Traders Committee, stated that the local banana supply is insufficient, making imports necessary. This year’s import value has increased by 25% from last year’s Rs 40 million to Rs 50 million due to higher demand.

According to Bhuvneshwar Purve, Secretary of the Fruit and Vegetable Traders Committee, varieties of bananas from Assam, West Bengal, Hajipur, Thakurganj, and Champaran are imported to meet demand. This year, banana prices have risen by 20%, with spikes selling between Rs 500 and Rs 1000 each.

Local traders note that although Nepal has high potential for banana cultivation, production does not meet demand. Additionally, Indian bananas are often cheaper than domestically grown bananas, especially in border areas, making imports from India a more economical option.