Dharan’s Maya Dharane turmeric factory hits Rs. 3.8 million in sales within a month

The Maya Dharane Turmeric Industry in Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City has recorded impressive sales of Rs. 3.8 million just one month after starting operations.

Inaugurated in June at Dharan-20, the factory has quickly become popular among consumers both within Nepal and abroad. Sameer Tamang, a member of the management committee, said Dharane Besar (turmeric) is in demand across multiple districts and has attracted buyers in countries such as Hong Kong, Japan, the USA, and the UK.

Locally processed and packaged, the turmeric has also become a popular gift item, with domestic tourists and Nepalis living abroad sending it as a token. Currently, the factory produces about 300 kg daily, priced at Rs. 800 per kg, but demand already exceeds supply. Raw turmeric is purchased from local farmers at up to Rs. 300 per kg, depending on quality.

“So far, we source turmeric only from farmers within Dharan Sub-metropolis. From washing and drying to packaging, all work is handled at the factory by nine employees,” Tamang said.

The factory was established through a collaboration between the Farmers’ Cooperative, the Consumer Management Committee, and Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City. The city provided the building and processing machines, while the factory team manages processing, packaging, and market delivery.

Local residents have welcomed the initiative, noting its impact on employment and farmers’ incomes. Pancha Maya Rai, a community member, said, “It may be a small step, but being able to sell locally produced goods within our own community is a source of pride. If local industries like this receive continued support, both farmers and unemployed youth will benefit. On a national level, it could reduce imports, boost exports, and create more jobs.”

The factory was initiated under the vision of Mayor Harka Raj Rai. The city’s executive committee approved the plan after he proposed setting up a turmeric factory in Dharan-20, an area known for turmeric cultivation. Many local farmers are already engaged in growing the crop.

The factory building was constructed with an investment of Rs. 1.65 million from the Sub-Metropolitan City and an additional Rs. 208,611 from consumers, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the project.