KATHMANDU: Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Ramnath Adhikari, has called on Nepal Rastra Bank to simplify procedures for agricultural loans, citing the crucial role of financial institutions in promoting agro-enterprises and alleviating poverty.
During a meeting on Sunday with central bank governor Dr. Biswo Nath Poudel, Minister Adhikari highlighted the need for streamlined access to credit for farmers. He also stressed the importance of effective monitoring to ensure agricultural loans are being used appropriately.
“I urge the central bank to ensure that agriculture loans are not misused for non-agricultural purposes,” the minister said. He further urged state-owned banks to increase lending to the agricultural sector and adhere strictly to NRB’s agricultural loan directives.
Governor Poudel echoed concerns over the misuse of agricultural funds and emphasized the importance of impactful investment. “We must focus on results — farmers won’t benefit from loans unless they are paired with innovation,” he said.
Sharing his experiences from field visits, Dr. Poudel remarked, “Those who work the land are often left out of grant programs, while those who merely submit paperwork get approved. This needs to change.”
Both leaders agreed on the importance of reforming financial access to strengthen Nepal’s agricultural backbone and promote equitable development.
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