Kathmandu: Former President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Bhawani Rana, has said that modernising agriculture and increasing youth participation are essential for Nepal’s sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
Rana said linking agriculture with modern technology, innovation, entrepreneurship and the green economy could boost production, create jobs and support economic transformation.
She noted that traditional farming practices, limited use of technology, market uncertainty, inadequate investment and the growing migration of young people have prevented Nepal from fully utilising the potential of its agricultural sector.
“If modern technology, innovation and entrepreneurship can be connected with agriculture, the sector can become a source of job creation rather than just employment,” Rana said. “Encouraging young people to engage in agriculture and related businesses can make a significant contribution to building a productive economy.”
Rana also stressed the need for cooperation among the government, private sector and financial institutions to provide young people with access to finance, technology, skills, markets and training.
She said Nepal’s agriculture sector is increasingly vulnerable to climate change, with irregular rainfall, floods, droughts and rising temperatures affecting production.
“Neglecting the challenges of climate change will make it impossible to make Nepal’s agriculture sector sustainable,” Rana said, calling for climate-friendly farming, sustainable production, water and soil conservation, and protection of biodiversity.
Rana further emphasised that agriculture, green finance, entrepreneurship, technology and climate resilience should be promoted through an integrated approach to build a modern, competitive and sustainable agricultural economy.
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