Fertilizer Shortage Looms as New Government Takes Charge; Pesticide Residue Concerns Rise
Summary
Nepal faces a significant shortage of chemical fertilizers as demand exceeds supply, with concerns rising over pesticide residues in vegetables, prompting calls for organic farming alternatives.
Key Points
- The demand for chemical fertilizers in Nepal exceeds 1.3 million metric tons while the government supply targets 600,000 metric tons for the current fiscal year.
- A total of 406,091 metric tons of fertilizers have been sold nationwide by the end of Falgun, with Urea fertilizer showing the highest demand.
- Pesticide residue analysis revealed 116 samples of vegetables and fruits with pesticide levels exceeding safe limits, posing public health risks.
- Experts and activists urge the government to prioritize organic fertilizers to improve soil health and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers.
