Challenges grow in Far-west agriculture, but opportunities remain strong

Far West: Challenges in strengthening the agricultural sector of the Far West Province through commercialization, modernization and diversification continue to rise. Although agriculture contributes significantly to the province’s GDP, issues such as migration, land fragmentation, barren fields, insufficient insurance facilities and declining interest among youth in agriculture remain major obstacles.

Migration from the hilly and mountainous districts to the Terai has led to land fragmentation in the plains, while vast tracts of cultivable land in the hills and mountains lie unused. This has contributed to a decline in overall agricultural production. The province has emphasized the need to engage youth and returnee migrant workers in agriculture and animal husbandry to make productive use of barren land.

Farmers are also discouraged by weaknesses in the agricultural and livestock insurance system, low participation of insurance companies, limited access to insurance for farmers and complications in the claims process. Challenges persist due to shortages of quality seeds, fertilizers and irrigation, along with illegal imports from India that force local farmers to sell their produce at low prices.

The province requires stronger knowledge-sharing initiatives, training and entrepreneurship development programs targeting farmers and youth. Reducing the role of middlemen in the distribution system and establishing a farmer-friendly service structure have also become pressing priorities.

Despite the challenges, agriculture in the Far West holds considerable potential. Effective implementation of the Agricultural Development Strategy (2079/80–2093/94) is expected to promote mechanization, scientific land use and specialized agricultural systems.

In the Kailali-Kanchanpur plains, production of rice, wheat and oilseeds can be boosted through the Chaklabandi system, while the hilly districts of Dadeldhura and Baitadi show potential for increased maize, vegetable and ginger production. Mountainous areas are suitable for apples, oranges and high-value herbal products.

Beekeeping is also expected to grow, supported by a favorable climate, rising interest in modern apiculture and the development of honey market structures.

Various programs under the Ministry of Land Management, Agriculture and Cooperatives, along with agricultural research and education initiatives, are anticipated to increase production in the coming years. Furthermore, the expansion of irrigation and the ongoing Rani Jamara Kulariya and Mahakali Irrigation Projects are expected to bring substantial improvements to agricultural productivity in the province.