Siraha, July 18, 2025
A prolonged drought gripping Nepal's Madhesh Province has severely disrupted this year’s paddy plantation, raising concerns about regional food security and the well-being of millions dependent on agriculture.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, only 36 percent of paddy fields have been planted across Madhesh by the end of the peak agricultural month, Asar (mid-July). This marks a sharp decline compared to 61 percent completion at the same time last year.
The root cause, experts say, is an extended dry spell and the absence of timely monsoon rains. Farmlands in districts such as Dhanusha, Sarlahi, Siraha, and Mahottari have remained parched, with critical water sources either drying up or dwindling beyond usability. Many farmers have reported failed attempts to irrigate fields through boring systems, highlighting the lack of accessible groundwater and infrastructure.
In a decisive but desperate move, the Madhesh provincial government has officially declared the province a drought-affected region. Additionally, it has deployed 16 fire engines to severely affected areas like Bara and Parsa to provide emergency drinking water supply.
"This is not just an agricultural crisis," said Chief Minister Satish Kumar Singh. "Without timely relief and long-term adaptation measures, the drought could escalate into a broader humanitarian and food security crisis."
Madhesh, often referred to as Nepal’s breadbasket, plays a vital role in the country’s food supply. A sharp fall in paddy output due to the current drought may not only hit local livelihoods but also trigger a ripple effect on national food availability and prices.
Environmental scientists and policy analysts are urging urgent action, including climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable water management, and infrastructure development to mitigate future risks.
As the climate crisis deepens, the situation in Madhesh stands as a stark reminder of the urgent need for adaptive governance, community resilience, and integrated drought response strategies across Nepal’s most vulnerable regions.
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