Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Development and Minister of Forests and Environment, Geeta Chaudhary, has held a meeting with banana farmers. During the meeting, Minister Chaudhary discussed issues related to banana production, marketing, and fertilizer supply.

Minister Chaudhary emphasized that the agricultural sector can only survive if farmers thrive, stressing the need for coordinated efforts in insurance, production, and market management.

According to Minister Chaudhary, it is essential to prioritize domestic agricultural produce and maintain transparency in the supply chain. While acknowledging the global shortage of chemical fertilizers, she assured that the government is taking initiatives to ensure a smooth supply. 'Increasing prices under the pretext of shortages is not legal; cooperation from everyone is necessary to control black marketing,' the Minister stated.

Minister Chaudhary clarified that the government is facilitating both production and marketing. She urged farmers to focus on production and supply in a way that does not lead to price hikes that burden consumers.

During the meeting, farmers raised concerns regarding insurance, fertilizer supply, marketing, and policy-related issues. They highlighted problems such as delays in insurance payments, failure to receive compensation despite paying premiums, and lack of relief for losses caused by natural disasters.

Banana farmers reported facing difficulties due to strict border controls, fertilizer shortages, and market price instability. Some farmers noted that despite the goal of becoming self-reliant in banana production, they lack necessary technology, fertilizer, and policy support.

Dipendra Tharu, a farmer from Kailali, complained that farmers do not receive fair returns on their investments. 'Why are farmers always the victims? Even when there is a supply shortage, farmers are blamed,' Tharu said.

Janakraj Pant from Chitwan suggested land management and the promotion of farming in riverbank areas. Farmers from Bara emphasized the need to attract the younger generation to the agricultural sector.

Farmers also complained that although there is an 80 percent insurance facility for investments up to 5 million rupees, the payment process is ineffective. They stated that insurance claims often remain unpaid even after a year.

Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Mishra, informed that efforts are underway to simplify the insurance process. He noted that delays in recommendations from knowledge centers have affected the distribution of compensation.

He pointed out the need to increase fertilizer supply, improve production, and update data. 'We will focus on increasing supply rather than just the quota system for fertilizers,' he said.

Secretary Mishra informed that about 800 agricultural technicians have been mobilized across the country and stressed the need for their effective utilization. He also clarified that the government has been providing various subsidies in areas such as irrigation and fertilizers.

Source - https://english.ratopati.com