In Karnali Province, a staggering 70 percent of families find themselves unable to sustain their basic food needs throughout the year, relying heavily on external sources for their nutritional requirements. According to the recent national agriculture census for the year 2078, only 30 percent of families in the province are self-reliant in agricultural production. This alarming statistic underscores the pressing need for the government to institute comprehensive measures to incentivize and revitalize agriculture in the region. The province, home to 302,000 families engaged in agriculture, faces a stark reality where the efforts of merely 90,600 families are sufficient to feed themselves consistently. The National Statistics Office (NSO) report paints a vivid picture of the challenges and potential solutions that must be addressed urgently. The agriculture sector in Karnali plays a pivotal role, with a significant 82.63 percent of the population relying on farming activities in the vast expanses of 17,411 hectares of arable land. Despite this, the production falls significantly short, raising concerns about food security and the overall well-being of the populace. Experts rightly emphasize the necessity for the government to formulate and implement a production-friendly policy. The current scenario demands a proactive approach that goes beyond mere acknowledgment of the issue. It requires concrete steps to empower farmers, enhance productivity, and ensure sustainable agricultural practices.
What is missing in budget for agriculture?
The adoption of new technologies in agriculture, such as the use of tractors and power tillers replacing outdated tools like iron or wooden plows, is a positive step. However, the government must take the lead in facilitating the widespread adoption of such technologies, providing training and financial support to farmers. This approach not only increases efficiency but also contributes to a more robust and modern agricultural sector. One of the underlying challenges contributing to the agricultural crisis in Karnali is the migration trend to urban areas and foreign countries. As individuals seek opportunities outside their rural homes, valuable agricultural land, particularly in hilly regions, is left unused. This trend exacerbates the food security issue and underscores the need for strategic interventions to encourage sustainable farming practices, even in the face of urbanization.
Experts have rightly warned against a potential increase in dependence if production activities are not ramped up urgently. The government should consider these warnings seriously and act upon them swiftly. The absence of accurate and up-to-date statistics had hindered effective planning and budget allocation. The recent census, carried out by a dedicated workforce of around 7,000 individuals over 45 days, now provides the essential data needed for informed decision-making. This situation highlights the need for comprehensive plans at all government levels, which is a step in the right direction. A well-crafted strategy, backed by a realistic budget, can address the multifaceted challenges faced by the agriculture sector in Karnali. Moreover, ensuring a guaranteed market for agricultural products is pivotal to incentivize farmers and boost overall production. The government must not only acknowledge the severity of the agricultural crisis in Karnali Province but also take swift and substantial action. The time has come for a holistic and well-coordinated approach that includes policy reforms, technology adoption, and financial support to uplift the agriculture sector. The future of Karnali's food security and economic prosperity hinges on the government's proactive measures to transform the agricultural landscape.
