KATHMANDU: Minister for Agriculture, Forests and Environment Geeta Chaudhary has said more than 512,000 metric tonnes of chemical fertiliser have been distributed across the country so far.
Responding to lawmakers during discussions on the ministry’s budget in the National Assembly on Tuesday, Chaudhary said 558,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser had been imported by July 3, including existing stock, of which 512,000 metric tonnes had already been sold and distributed.
She said around 95,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser remain in stock, while an additional 50,000 metric tonnes are expected to arrive soon through the government-to-government (G2G) procurement process.
The minister expressed confidence that fertiliser supplies would be sufficient to meet demand during the ongoing paddy plantation season.
Chaudhary also said the Ministry of Finance has committed to providing additional funds if required to ensure there is no budget shortage for fertiliser imports.
The minister said around Rs 160 million has been allocated for the construction and expansion of small irrigation infrastructure in 156 local levels, while Rs 41.7 million has been earmarked for similar projects under federal agencies.
She added that large-scale irrigation projects being implemented through the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation are expected to improve irrigation facilities for cultivable land in Madhesh, Lumbini and Sudurpaschim provinces in the coming years.
Chaudhary also said the government will implement result-oriented programmes to reduce human-wildlife conflict and promote coexistence between communities and wildlife.
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