Parbat. With the goal of modernizing and commercializing agriculture, Bihadi Rural Municipality in Parbat has launched a “High-Tech Tunnel” farming expansion campaign to make the municipality self-reliant in vegetable production.
To promote professional farming, the municipality has invited proposals from cooperative societies, farmer groups, and commercial farms for the construction of high-tech tunnels—modern structures designed for off-season vegetable cultivation—under an 80 percent grant scheme.
The municipality has allocated NPR 22.5 million in the current fiscal year for the construction program, aiming to diversify production, sustain off-season vegetable cultivation, and attract youth to agriculture, according to the agriculture section of Bihadi Rural Municipality.
“We are providing farmers with access to modern technology to create sustainable income opportunities,” said Chief Administrative Officer Thaman Bahadur Reshmi. He added that tunnel farming can deliver higher yields at lower costs compared to traditional methods, giving a new dimension to agriculture in the region.
Many local farmers have successfully used small-scale tunnels in recent years to increase production. However, lack of access to technology, capital, and proper infrastructure has hindered large-scale high-tech tunnel adoption.
Recognizing this need, the municipality plans to construct modern tunnels collectively, involving cooperatives, farmer groups, and commercial farms, said Chairperson Parveen Gurung.
“With six wards in Bihadi, there is significant potential for seasonal and off-season vegetable production. Hundreds of farmers are already engaged in commercial farming, and improved road access ensures smooth market connectivity,” he added.
Farmers, groups, or cooperatives interested in participating must submit proposals with necessary documents within 15 days from the date of publication of the notice. Preference will be given to groups already active in high-tech tunnel farming.
If successful, this program is expected to position Bihadi as a high-tech agricultural hub, enhance the competitiveness of local produce in the market, and create employment opportunities within the municipality.
Bihadi has previously supported agricultural initiatives, including tunnel farming, by providing grants for mulching plastic, sprinklers, sprayers, and quality seeds to encourage modern farming practices.
