28th April 2025, Kathmandu
The 24th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nepal Flour Mills Association took place on 25th April at Hotel Hilton in Kathmandu. Honorable Damodar Bhattarai, the Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, graced the event as the Chief Guest. The AGM was chaired by Mr. Kumud Dugad, President of the Nepal Flour Mills Association.
Nepal Flour Mills Agriwatch Partnership
MoU with Agriwatch
A major highlight of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Nepal Flour Mills Association and Agriwatch, an Indian company known for agricultural data analysis and consulting. The agreement aims to use satellite technology to enhance agriculture in Nepal by offering insights into crop production and market trends.
This is the first time satellite technology has been introduced to Nepal’s private agricultural sector. The partnership will focus on collecting and analyzing data to address farmers’ challenges and improve productivity.
Benefits for Nepal’s Agriculture
The collaboration will bring several benefits:
Market Analysis and Information: Agriwatch will gather price data on agricultural commodities and provide detailed reports to help farmers and traders make informed decisions.
Agricultural Research and Consulting: Agriwatch will offer research and consultations on production, consumption, imports, exports, and market forecasts.
Agricultural Investment and Advice: The company will advise farmers on crop selection, fertilizers, and farming techniques to improve yields.
Digital Agricultural Solutions: The partnership will introduce AI-based crop analysis and digital platforms to connect farmers to markets.
Agricultural News and Updates: Agriwatch will provide real-time news, price updates, and market reports to keep farmers informed.
Strengthening Nepal-India Agricultural Ties
Mr. Unupam Kaushik, the Managing Director of India’s National Cooperative Export Limited (NCEL), also attended the AGM. NCEL has played a key role in facilitating agricultural exports from India to Nepal, including wheat and sugar.
His visit aimed to strengthen Nepal-India agricultural cooperation. NCEL’s support will help Nepal improve its agricultural resources and move toward self-sufficiency.
Recognition of Industry Leaders
During the AGM, Mr. Ravindra Bahadur Shrestha, the founder president of the Nepal Flour Mills Association, was honored for his contribution to the flour milling industry. He received a dosalla (traditional Nepali shawl) in recognition of his leadership.
Moving Towards Self-Sufficiency
With the partnership with Agriwatch, Nepal aims to achieve self-sufficiency in wheat production within the next three years. Scientific data and modern farming solutions will be key in improving agricultural practices. Ongoing support from the government, private sector, and other stakeholders is crucial to realizing these goals.
In conclusion, the 24th AGM of the Nepal Flour Mills Association marked a significant step forward. The collaboration with Agriwatch and stronger ties with NCEL signal a brighter future for Nepal’s agricultural development. The goal is to increase productivity and self-reliance in the sector.
For more: Nepal Flour Mills Agriwatch Partnership