Bhairahawa: Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Ram Nath Adhikari has emphasized the need for the state to take responsibility for operating the chemical fertilizer industry in Nepal. Speaking at a discussion program organized by the Nepali Congress Regional Working Committee, Constituency-3, Rupandehi, he highlighted the importance of establishing a state-operated chemical fertilizer factory.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Adhikari shared that he has consistently raised the issue in Cabinet meetings, urging decisive action. He revealed that the investment board is actively researching potential sites for the establishment of a chemical fertilizer industry, with a decision expected within a few months.
Minister Adhikari also provided insights into the financial commitments made by the government towards fertilizer procurement. Last year, a budget of NPR 27 billion was allocated, which has been increased to approximately NPR 29 billion this year. Despite the increased budget, it only supports about 450,000 tons of fertilizer, against a national requirement of 1.3 million tons. He expressed that even a slight increase from four to eight, though insufficient, would still be an improvement over the current capacity.
Addressing the persistent complaints about fertilizer shortages across the country, Minister Adhikari assured that the government is actively working to resolve the issue, aiming for a more stable supply from east to west.