KATHMANDU, Jan 1: Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) has proposed a joint Nepal–India investment in a fertilizer manufacturing facility to address Nepal’s chronic fertilizer shortages, according to a press release issued by NICCI. These shortages affect agricultural productivity almost every harvest season.
The proposal was presented by NICCI President Sunil K.C. during an interaction with Dr. Pramod Kumar Meherda, Additional Secretary at India’s Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, during his visit to Kathmandu. Highlighting the challenges caused by unreliable fertilizer supply, K.C. emphasized that a joint investment in a manufacturing facility could ensure timely availability, strengthen food security, and boost agricultural output, the press release stated.
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He also noted that such cooperation would deepen economic ties and promote bilateral collaboration between Nepal and India. The discussion further focused on strengthening the agricultural value chain, improving post-harvest management, promoting sustainable and organic farming, and building capacity among Nepali farmers through targeted training, the NICCI press release added.
Members of NICCI’s MSME Working Committee and representatives from enterprises including Nimbus Nepal and Dabur Nepal highlighted the need for cold storage infrastructure in border areas to reduce post-harvest losses, stabilize prices, and facilitate cross-border trade. NICCI also suggested institutional support for organic certification, enabling Nepali farmers to access premium markets and add value to their produce.
The interaction underscored a shared commitment to enhancing Nepal–India cooperation in agriculture through strategic investments, knowledge exchange, and sustained institutional engagement.
Responding positively, Dr. Meherda requested NICCI to compile key issues affecting Nepal’s agriculture sector and submit them to his ministry, indicating that collaborative solutions could be explored in a mutually beneficial manner.