“जुम्लाको मुल्यवान मार्सीधान संरक्षण प्रवर्द्धन हाम्रो अभियान”

In Jumla district, Chaitra 12 is traditionally recognized as the day for soaking paddy seeds. On this day, farmers prepare and soak the required quantity of quality seeds by placing them in jute bags and submerging them in nearby water sources such as rivers, ponds, or drums. After about four days, the seeds are removed, wrapped in muslin cloth, and kept in a warm place to allow sprouting, usually by Chaitra 16. The sprouted seeds are then sown in well-prepared nursery beds around Chaitra 20.

In recent years, Chaitra 12 has been officially observed as Paddy Day in Jumla district. This year (2082/12/12), the day was marked by awareness programs where officials from the Agriculture Research Station, Jumla, oriented farmers and stakeholders on proper seed treatment and soaking techniques.

The event was jointly organized by the Agriculture Development Office and the Agriculture Research Station, with coordination from various government bodies, I/NGOs, and private sector organizations, including KIRDARC Nepal and World Vision International Nepal.

The program not only promoted the cultivation of Marsi rice but also helped raise awareness among farmers and stakeholders about improved and scientific methods of seed treatment and soaking.