Nepalese Delegation Visits ICAR-IARI

1 May 2025, New Delhi

A high-level ministerial delegation from Nepal visited the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), here today to foster collaboration and share experiences in enhancing agricultural productivity, with a special focus on hill agriculture.

Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director & Vice Chancellor, ICAR-IARI, highlighted the strong geographical and agricultural ties between India and Nepal. He stressed that both nations face common challenges such as climate change, natural disasters, and pest infestations, issues that require integrated efforts through technology sharing and policy support. He emphasized the achievements and contributions of the institute in fulfilling food needs of the country besides agri exports. Dr. Rao accentuated the importance of introducing farmers to new technologies, promoting agri-entrepreneurship, and fostering academic collaborations. He proposed formulating a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ICAR-IARI and Nepalese agricultural universities to ensure long-term cooperation in research, extension services, and capacity building.

Mr. Kamal Bahadur Shah, Chief Minister, Sudurpashchim Province, Nepal, expressed deep appreciation for ICAR-IARI’s contributions to food security and technological advancement. He stated that the institute’s innovative models and scientific practices could serve as valuable references for Nepal, especially in improving agricultural productivity in its hilly and remote regions.

Mr. Shah outlined Nepal’s current agricultural challenges and emphasized the need for India’s support in capacity building, technology transfer, and policy collaboration. He expressed strong interest in future partnerships with IARI, underlining a shared vision to improve crop yields and adapt to evolving climate and farming conditions.

Dr. R.N. Padaria, Joint Director (Extension), IARI, highlighted the institute’s historic role in the Green Revolution, which transformed India into a food-secure nation.

(Source: ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi)