Kathmandu. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has called for a significant boost in Nepal’s agricultural production, urging a twofold increase to enhance the sector’s productivity and contribution to the national economy.
Addressing the 13th General Assembly meeting of the University of Agriculture and Forestry at Baluwatar, Prime Minister Oli emphasized the need for a transformation from traditional agriculture to a modern, productive approach.
He highlighted the importance of conducting research on crop suitability and market demands while encouraging the involvement of the private sector and cooperatives to drive productivity improvements.
Prime Minister Oli also underscored the necessity of developing skilled manpower, including agricultural scientists and engineers, to meet the country’s needs. He pointed out that modern technology and large-scale production are crucial for reducing trade deficits and improving economic stability.
In his speech, Oli stated, “The market is increasingly driven by modern technology and large-scale production. Without a significant increase in production, we will continue to face trade imbalances. We need to shift our focus from relying on exports and remittances to strengthening our agricultural sector.”
Additionally, the Prime Minister announced plans to utilize vacant forest areas for the cultivation of fruits and vegetables. This initiative is expected to promote self-reliance and enhance the agriculture sector’s role in the national economy.