Minister Shrestha Emphasizes Role of Irrigation in Agricultural Growth and Employment
Summary
Minister Biraj Shrestha says large irrigation projects can boost agricultural output, create jobs and help reduce rural migration. He urged an integrated plan for the Sunsari-Morang Irrigation Project that combines short-, medium- and long-term solutions to sediment and water-flow problems.
Key Points
- Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Biraj Shrestha said irrigation must be linked with agricultural production and farmers’ income, not treated as a canal-building issue alone.
- He said the Sunsari-Morang Irrigation Project generates more than Rs 14 billion in agricultural production annually and can support wider economic activity.
- Shrestha called for an integrated action plan with clear responsibilities, budgets and timelines for both immediate maintenance and permanent infrastructure.
- He stressed restoring and modernizing old irrigation systems while evaluating new projects based on need and feasibility.
