Vulnerable Nepali farmers faces looming threat of cheap Indian rice
Summary
Nepali farmers face challenges as cheap Indian rice imports undercut local paddy prices, forcing many to sell their produce at lower rates despite government procurement efforts.
Key Points
- Nepali farmers are forced to sell paddy at prices significantly below government-set procurement rates due to cheap Indian rice imports.
- Despite stable paddy production in Nepal, imports of paddy and rice remain high, impacting local farmers' earnings.
- The government-owned Food Management and Trading Company (FMTC) plans to purchase only a fraction of total paddy production, leaving most to local traders.
- Madhesh Province and Terai regions see increased consumption of imported Indian rice due to quality, accessibility, and local production challenges.
