Kathmandu, 24 October 2024 — The International Conference on Inclusive Insurance 2024, held today at Dynasty Hall, Hotel Yak and Yeti, Kathmandu, spotlighted the critical role of agriculture insurance in transforming agrifood systems. Hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Nepal, the conference drew key stakeholders from the insurance sector, government agencies, and agriculture experts.
The theme for this year's conference, "Redefining Agriculture Insurance for Agrifood System Transformation," underscored the urgent need to reassess current insurance practices to better protect farmers and promote sustainable agriculture in the face of climate change and global economic challenges.
Arun GC, Programme Specialist at FAO Nepal, moderated the event, which featured distinguished speakers from across the region. Sonu Kandel, an officer from Himalayan Everest Insurance Limited, emphasized the need for localized insurance solutions that cater to Nepal's unique agricultural landscape. Bhutan Insurance Limited's representative, Neten Sherab, discussed cross-border learnings from Bhutan’s fellowship in agricultural insurance and its potential applications in Nepal.
Sudip Poudel, Acting Head of the Agriculture Department at United Ajod Insurance Limited, highlighted innovative insurance products designed to support smallholder farmers, while Shiva Sundar Ghimire, an expert in agricultural insurance, outlined the technical and policy-level interventions needed to expand insurance coverage across the agrifood sector.
The conference concluded with a call for deeper collaboration between insurance providers, government bodies, and agricultural communities to ensure that insurance schemes are more accessible, affordable, and inclusive, paving the way for a resilient agrifood system in Nepal.
The event was held in a hybrid format, with participants attending both in-person and via Zoom, ensuring broad participation from across Nepal and beyond.
