23rd September 2025, Kathmandu
In a significant move for Nepal’s agricultural future, newly appointed Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Dr. Madan Prasad Pariyar, has officially taken office.
Nepal Agriculture Minister Madan
His assumption of duties at the Singha Durbar on Monday marks a new chapter for the country’s vital farming sector, as he pledged to prioritize government reform and combat long-standing issues of malpractice and inefficiency.
A recognized expert in climate and agricultural development, Dr. Pariyar brings a wealth of experience to the role. His impressive background includes serving as chairman of the High-level State Restructuring Suggestion Commission and advocating for social justice and Dalit rights through the Samata Foundation. With a PhD in engineering and a long history of work with both government and non-governmental organizations, his appointment is seen as a strategic move to bring expert leadership to a critical ministry.
A Clear Mandate: Elections, Reforms, and Accountability
Speaking to the media after assuming his new role, Minister Pariyar outlined his key priorities. His statements were direct and focused on the pressing issues facing the nation and its farmers:
Election Priority: Acknowledging the current political climate, he stated, “The election will be our top priority, and we must work diligently to complete it.” This underscores the interim government’s mandate to ensure a smooth transition and a stable future for Nepal.
Government Reforms and Malpractice: Minister Pariyar committed to implementing “government reforms and preventing malpractices.” This is a crucial promise for farmers who have long suffered from issues such as perennial fertilizer shortages and a lack of timely payment for their produce. His pledge to “thoroughly examine why shortages persist” and “eliminate the weaknesses” in the system signals a shift towards greater accountability and transparency.
Farmer Welfare: In addition to broad reforms, Dr. Pariyar specifically addressed the grievances of dairy and sugarcane farmers, who have staged protests over unpaid dues. He promised to “resolve the problems” faced by these producers, a commitment that directly responds to the needs of Nepal’s agricultural community.
Strengthening International Cooperation for Food Security
Beyond domestic reforms, Minister Pariyar also highlighted the importance of international partnerships. He proposed forming a coordination committee to implement a previously established research agreement with South Korea on potato and rice crops. This initiative demonstrates a forward-looking approach to enhancing Nepal’s agricultural productivity and food security through collaboration and scientific advancement.
What This Means for Nepal’s Agriculture
Minister Pariyar’s appointment and his bold commitments offer a sense of hope for Nepal’s agricultural sector. His background as a technical expert, coupled with a promise to tackle deep-seated corruption and inefficiency, could be the catalyst needed to modernize farming practices, improve supply chains, and ensure the welfare of the country’s farmers.
As the new minister settles into his role, all eyes will be on the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development to see if these ambitious plans translate into tangible results for the millions of people who depend on agriculture for their livelihood.
For more: Nepal Agriculture Minister Madan