RAMECHHAP, Farmers in Ramechhap district are increasingly worried as an armyworm outbreak has begun destroying large portions of their maize crops.

The pests initially feed on the leaves and later attack the cobs, preventing the emergence of silks and husks. In cases where silks do emerge, they are often damaged or fail to develop properly, while the leaves are shredded by the insects.

The infestation has affected maize fields across several local units, including Manthali Municipality, Ramechhap Municipality, Likhu Tamakoshi, Gokulganga, and Khandadevi Rural Municipality. If the outbreak is not brought under control soon, farmers fear that their entire maize harvest could be wiped out.

“If these insects are not controlled in time, we may lose the entire crop,” said Sarita Dhungel, a farmer from Manthali Municipality-7.

Krishna Bhujel, head of the Agriculture Development Branch of the municipality, confirmed that armyworms are damaging maize crops.

“We are aware of the situation and are working to control the outbreak,” he said, “but there are still significant challenges in managing it effectively.”