Kathmandu, Nepal - The Ministry of Agriculture, Forest and Environment has issued the National Agriculture Policy 2026, aiming to transform Nepal’s agricultural sector into a modern, commercial, competitive, and self-reliant system.
According to the policy, the government has placed priority on food safety, food sovereignty, farmers’ income growth, increased agricultural production, import substitution, and the promotion of agricultural exports. The policy seeks to build a sustainable and production-oriented agricultural system capable of strengthening Nepal’s long-term food security and rural economy.
The new policy also acknowledges several structural challenges facing Nepalese agriculture, including land fragmentation, increasing barren land, youth migration and brain drain, climate change impacts, low productivity, and growing dependence on imported agricultural products. It stresses the need for clear institutional arrangements and coordinated implementation mechanisms to address these issues effectively.
To achieve self-reliance in staple foods and accelerate commercialisation and agro-industrialisation, the policy emphasises the expansion of Nepali agricultural products into international markets through effective branding and value addition. It also highlights the importance of developing an environment-friendly farming system that protects biodiversity while integrating digital agricultural technology, local knowledge, and innovation.
Furthermore, the policy calls for stronger support in the areas of agricultural research, technology extension services, minimum support prices, agricultural insurance, and concessional agricultural loans. These measures are expected to improve farmers’ access to technology, reduce production risks, and encourage investment in the agricultural sector.
Agriculture remains one of Nepal’s largest sources of employment and livelihoods. Policy experts say the success of the National Agriculture Policy 2026 will depend on effective implementation, adequate budget allocation, coordination among federal, provincial, and local governments, and meaningful participation of farmers and agricultural cooperatives.
The policy represents an important step toward modernising Nepal’s farming sector while balancing economic growth, food security, and environmental sustainability.
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