JUMLA: The plantation of Marsidhan, a highly-nutritious paddy species typically available only in Jumla, has begun at Chhumchaur Jiyulo of Patarasi Rural Municipality-3, Jumla. The Marshidhan grows in the world’s highest altitude.

The Agriculture Development Office in Jumla district organized a Dhan Mahotsav, paddy festival, to mark the beginning of the seedlings plantation here. Chief of Office, Ram Bhakta Adhikari, said the festival was jointly organized by the District Agriculture Development Office and the Marsidhan Preservation and Promotion Centre of Patarasi Rural Municipality.

Following the time-honoured tradition, local farmers have sowed the seedlings of popular Marsidhan on Monday. As per the practice, the seeds of Marsidhan kept in sacks are put in to the water for four days and subsequently cultivated in the patch of field.

Marsidhan is a highly demanded staple in the domestic and international markets too and the festival or Paddy Day was observed for its preservation and promotion, Adhikari added.

Chairman of Patarai Rural Municipality-3 Govinda Rawat said that almost half of area of Chhumchaur Jiyulo is fenced to promote the farmers to grow more Marsidhan and added that the entire area should be protected for the preservation of this paddy species.

Vice Chairperson of the rural municipality, Jana Maya Rokaya, said that formers, local residents, stakeholders and government have partnered for its preservation and promotion adding that this paddy has a history connected with the Sinja Civilization.

Rice plantation was found to have started in Jumla since 1098 BS. With the special process of plantation, the importance of Marsi variety also has gained popularity over the time. It is also used as a medicine to heal different diseases, including diabetes. As narrated it was also being sent to royal family members in the past.

However, yields of the rice have reduced of late due to use of pesticides and drying up of water sources in high altitudinal places of Jumla.