KATHMANDU, Feb 9: A tree plantation program has been launched by Sahara Nepal and Varaha ClimateAg Pvt Ltd, supported by The Coca-Cola Foundation aiming to boost Nepal’s agricultural sector and promote climate resilience through a tree plantation program. The initiative focuses on addressing key agricultural challenges and improving land productivity while supporting local farming communities.
According to a press statement issued by the company, the program was officially inaugurated on February 9, 2025, in Kathmandu with the presence of Speaker of the House of Representatives Devraj Ghimire, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Forest and Environment Minister Ain Bahadur Shahi, along with other key stakeholders and representatives from partner organizations.
Nepal’s agricultural sector is facing significant pressures due to climate change, land degradation and declining productivity. Unpredictable rainfall, water scarcity and extreme weather events have further intensified these challenges. The new program seeks to address these issues by promoting horticulture and agroforestry, which are expected to improve yields, diversify crops, and increase farmers’ incomes, the statement mentions.
The program will provide technical training in horticultural practices to help farmers improve soil health, manage water more effectively, and boost crop productivity. “At the Coca-Cola Foundation, we believe in investing in projects that create lasting environmental and economic impacts. This project is a step toward transforming Nepal’s agricultural sector by equipping farmers with the tools and knowledge to improve their productivity, adapt to climate challenges, and create new income opportunities,” said Carlos Pagoaga, President of The Coca-Cola Foundation.
The plantation initiative will initially take place in 11 districts, including Kanchanpur, Kailali, Jhapa, Morang, Sunsari, Udayapur, Saptari, Siraha, Sarlahi, Mahottari, and Parsa. In the second phase, the program will be extended to Jumla and Kalikot districts in Karnali Province.
The initiative is expected to benefit thousands of farm households through enhanced fruit production, soil health restoration, water conservation, and disease control, while also providing additional income opportunities. The project will also introduce a carbon credit system, allowing farmers to earn extra income while contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts.
Forest and Environment Minister Shahi expressed the importance of the initiative, saying, “This program plays a crucial role in addressing Nepal’s agricultural and environmental challenges. By adopting regenerative plantation techniques, we are securing better livelihoods for farmers and strengthening Nepal’s commitment to sustainable land use and climate action.”
Bharat Kumar Giri, Chairperson of Sahara Nepal, remarked, “This initiative empowers farmers with sustainable agricultural practices that not only enhance productivity but also conserve the environment.”
Kaushal Bisht from Varaha ClimateAg Pvt Ltd added, “By integrating agroforestry and carbon credit mechanisms, we are creating a model where farmers can achieve economic growth while contributing to climate resilience.”