KATHMANDU: The government has affirmed its dedication to ensuring a smooth supply of chemical fertilizers for the upcoming rice plantation season, despite facing challenges due to insufficient stock. Nepali farmers often encounter difficulties obtaining agricultural inputs on time, largely due to delays in the government's tendering process, contractor issues, and an uneven distribution mechanism. Rice planting typically commences from mid-June and extends until the end of July in Nepal.

Mahanand Joshi, the information officer of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MoALD), stated that the government currently possesses adequate stocks of chemical fertilizers. Additionally, over 350,000 tons of fertilizers are being imported and are expected to arrive in Nepal by the end of June, Joshi added. As per MoALD data, the country presently has 78,179 tons of urea in stock, with Agriculture Inputs Company Limited (AICL) holding 52,018 tons and Salt Trading Corporation (STC) possessing 26,050 tons.

Furthermore, there is a stock of 9,527 tons of DAP earmarked for this year's rice plantation season, with AICL and STC having 5,434 tons and 4,092 tons, respectively. Additionally, the potash stock stands at 11,800 tons, with AICL and STC holding 8,696 tons and 3,106 tons, respectively. Joshi highlighted that both government entities are importing a total of 242,119 tons of urea, 97,865 tons of DAP, and 20,604 tons of potash. The government's existing stock will be utilized in the initial phase of the plantation season, while the imported fertilizers will be allocated to districts where planting begins later.

Nepal's annual fertilizer requirement is estimated at around 600,000 tons, which is predominantly met through imports. Agriculture contributes significantly to Nepal's economy, accounting for nearly one-fourth of its GDP. Rice cultivation plays a crucial role in the country's agricultural output, serving as the primary livelihood source for many farmers. In the current fiscal year 2023/24, Nepal recorded its highest paddy production, with a total of 5.724 million tons, surpassing the 5.621 million metric tons produced in the previous fiscal year 2020/21, according to MoALD data.