Nepal observed the 22nd National Paddy Day on June 29 with the slogan “Intensification in Paddy Cultivation for Food Security and Self-Reliance.” Rice, a derivative of paddy, is a staple food in the country. On this day, eating dahi chiura (curd and beaten rice) is also a tradition.
By the end of June, only around 16 per cent of rice planting has been completed. The government reported that by last Friday, only 15.6 per cent of the planting had been done. According to the Centre for Crop Development and Agricultural Biodiversity Conservation, planting has reached only 3.9 per cent in Madhesh Province, 9.7 per cent in Lumbini, 13.8 per cent in Gandaki, 14.3 per cent in Koshi, and 20.5 per cent in Bagmati. Meanwhile, Karnali has achieved 39 per cent and Sudurpaschim (Far-West) 45.5 per cent of rice planting.
Farmers and organisations related to agriculture are also enthusiastically celebrating this day. However, despite the annual observance, the country has not yet become self-reliant in rice production. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, there is still a shortfall of one million tons of rice. The ministry has stated that a program has been introduced to achieve self-reliance in rice within two years.
