Opinion | The overlooked impact of inadequate rainfall and fertiliser shortages in Nepal’s agriculture sector
Summary
Inadequate rainfall and chronic fertiliser shortages are weakening Nepal’s agriculture, pushing farmers to cross the border for inputs and deepening the country’s food deficit. The article warns that without ground-level support and reliable supplies, reform efforts and food security will continue to falter.
Key Points
- Nepali farmers in Sarlahi were released on bail from an Indian jail after being detained for allegedly smuggling fertiliser they had gone to buy for their paddy fields.
- The article says unreliable fertiliser supply and erratic rainfall are two major but overlooked constraints on Nepal’s agriculture sector.
- Rising food imports and growing climate pressure, including El Niño, are increasing Nepal’s vulnerability to food insecurity.
- The piece argues that governance reforms will fail unless they account for the realities of farmers and cross-border rural economies.
