Lalitpur, April 28 2025
The National Agriculture Genetic Resource Center (Gene Bank), in collaboration with the Plant Breeding and Genetic Society of Nepal (PBaGSoN), organized a consultation discussion on 26 April at Khumaltar, Lalitpur. The event, attended by around 25 experts and officials, delved into critical topics surrounding the conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources, a pressing issue for global food security and agricultural development.
The consultation aimed to shape Nepal's position on the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA). Specific focus areas included the Multilateral System (MLS), Digital Sequence Information (DSI), and Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS). The discussion also reviewed Nepal's draft legislation on the access, utilization, and equitable sharing of benefits from genetic resources, which is currently under preparation by the Government of Nepal.
Dr. Deepak Kumar Khadka, a senior researcher from Policy Research, emphasized the importance of aligning Nepal’s genetic resource policies with international frameworks while safeguarding the rights of local communities. "The proper management and sharing of genetic resources are key to fostering innovation and resilience in agriculture," he noted.
Snehi Rizal, an intern at Policy Research, highlighted the relevance of the consultation in building consensus among stakeholders. “This discussion is a step forward in ensuring that Nepal's policies reflect the needs of its people and address global challenges,” she said.
The consultation underscored the significance of collective efforts in preserving Nepal's agricultural genetic heritage while balancing development and sustainability.
