Lalitpur, January 15 – With the theme "Agricultural Biodiversity for a Healthy Life and Environment," Nepal is celebrating the third National Agricultural Biodiversity Day. This annual event, which runs throughout the first week of the Nepali month Magh (mid-January), highlights the importance of conserving and promoting Nepal's rich agricultural biodiversity.
The Department of Agriculture, during a press conference in Lalitpur, emphasized the event’s role in preserving traditional agricultural practices and resources tied to the country’s diverse ethnic, religious, and cultural heritage. Established by a Cabinet decision in 2022, National Agricultural Biodiversity Day aims to raise public awareness, promote sustainable conservation practices, and incorporate agricultural biodiversity into national policies and programs.
Prakash Kumar Sanjel, Director General of the Department of Agriculture, highlighted the event's multidimensional objectives, stating, “The celebration focuses on preserving traditional crops, wild species, livestock, and farmer knowledge to foster environmental sustainability and ensure food security. It also aims to develop and promote methods for the sustainable use of biodiversity.”
Week-long Activities Across Nepal
The celebration features diverse programs nationwide. Today, Agriculture and Livestock Development Minister will deliver a congratulatory message, followed by a televised dialogue on agricultural biodiversity. Key events include a biodiversity fair in Bhumikasthan Municipality, Arghakhanchi, and a Maghe Sankranti Fair in Tokha Municipality, Kathmandu.
On Magh 2, the main ceremony will take place at the Department of Agriculture, Harihar Bhawan, Lalitpur, showcasing traditional agricultural products alongside an award distribution program. Additional activities include a seminar on biodiversity documentation in Bhumikasthan Municipality.
From Magh 1 to 7, interactions, exhibitions, and farmer schools focused on biodiversity conservation and promotion will be held in districts like Siraha, Saptari, Surkhet, Kailali, and Jumla. A unique traditional food promotion event, highlighting regional cuisines, is being hosted at Maulik Bhancha Ghar, New Baneshwar, throughout the week.
On Magh 5 and 6, the "Dalchoki Community Seed Bank and Agricultural Biodiversity Information Center" will be inaugurated in Konjyosom Rural Municipality, Lalitpur. Meanwhile, an engaging discussion and exhibition themed “Local Varieties for All, Forever” will take place in Kathmandu's Durbar Marg.
The week-long celebrations will conclude on Magh 7 with a farmer leadership program in Bhotkhola Rural Municipality, Sankhuwasabha. The closing ceremony in Kapan will feature discussions on the significance of traditional food and biodiversity.
A Step Toward Sustainable Agriculture
This initiative underscores Nepal's commitment to addressing environmental challenges through sustainable agricultural practices. By integrating biodiversity conservation into local, provincial, and federal programs, the government seeks to safeguard the genetic resources critical for resilient food systems and ecological balance.
The celebration not only brings awareness to the public but also encourages collaboration among government bodies, NGOs, and local communities, ensuring that Nepal's agricultural heritage is preserved for future generations.
Ecosphere News applauds this vital effort to sustain agricultural biodiversity, fostering a healthier planet for all.
