Panjshir Province Cultivates Asafoetida on 75 Jeribs to Boost Farmer Incomes

Agricultural officials in Panjshir province have allocated 75 jeribs of land for the cultivation of hing, commonly known as asafoetida, as part of a targeted initiative to increase local agricultural output and improve rural livelihoods. The current planting efforts are concentrated in the Tawakh area of the Anaba district.

Qari Fazlullah Deobandi, director of the provincial Directorate of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, stated that the crop was specifically chosen for its high market yield and its potential to generate sustainable income for farming households. The directorate emphasized that the program aims to diversify regional agricultural production while providing an alternative revenue stream for local communities.

Farmers in the district have welcomed the initiative, with several residents expressing readiness to expand cultivation on their own private land. Officials noted that the crop’s adaptability to the local environment and its established commercial demand make it a practical option for long-term economic development in the province.

The provincial agriculture department plans to scale the program in future planting seasons, pending the results of the current harvest and ongoing farmer engagement. Agricultural extension staff will continue to provide technical support to participating growers to ensure optimal yields and compliance with market standards. Local authorities have highlighted the crop's economic potential as a key driver for rural development in the region.