Untapped potential leaves Karnali a tough land for residents
Summary
Karnali remains trapped in poverty despite having hydropower, medicinal herbs, tourism, agriculture and other natural resources that could drive jobs and income. Weak infrastructure, poor services, low production and heavy migration have left the province dependent on food imports, federal support and work abroad.
Key Points
- Karnali’s poverty rate stands at 26.69 percent, above the national average, while unemployment is estimated at 46 percent.
- The province faces major food insecurity, with an annual deficit of about 25,000 metric tons and low irrigation coverage.
- Medicinal herbs, tourism and hydropower all have large economic potential, but weak infrastructure and lack of processing or investment limit earnings.
- Education and health services remain strained, with thousands of teacher vacancies, specialist shortages and frequent medical airlifts.
