Kathmandu: Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Ramnath Adhikari has announced that the ministry is actively working towards achieving self-reliance in the agricultural sector. During a press meeting organized at the ministry, Adhikari discussed the policy and institutional reforms accomplished over the past year since he assumed office. He mentioned that a team has been dispatched to analyze the issues arising from drought in the Madhes Province.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Adhikari highlighted the gradual improvements in subsidies and services provided to farmers. The ministry aims to enhance agricultural productivity, modernization, marketing, and to improve the living standards of farmers. Despite not being able to complete all his envisioned tasks, the minister emphasized his focus on overall enhancement of the country’s agricultural sector and the welfare of farmers. He reiterated that agriculture forms the backbone of the national economy and is vital for the livelihood of millions of Nepalis.
Significant policy initiatives have been undertaken to tackle the long-standing issues related to the procurement and distribution of chemical fertilizers. Amendments have been made to the regulations concerning the purchase and distribution of these fertilizers. Minister Adhikari expressed optimism that these changes would address the challenges faced in supply and distribution management.
Efforts to streamline operations have also been made, with tasks such as registration, renewal of permits, and certification related to seeds now being conducted online. This has made these processes faster, simpler, and more cost-effective. Since mid-November, a ‘Laboratory Information Management System’ has been implemented to further enhance efficiency.
In recognition of exemplary work, fourteen outstanding farmers from seven provinces have been honored with the National Outstanding Farmer Award in various categories. The ministry believes this initiative will honor agricultural professions and encourage youth participation in agricultural enterprises, as stated by Minister Adhikari.
Furthermore, leadership roles that had been vacant in various bodies under the ministry, such as the Nepal Agricultural Research Council, the National Tea and Coffee Development Board, and the Animal Health and Livestock Service Entrepreneur Council, have now been filled.