12 June 2026

As part of the ongoing advocacy efforts to strengthen the implementation of the Right to Food and Food Sovereignty Act, 2018, a joint lobby meeting was held with Honorable Agriculture Minister Mr. Bir Bahadur Thapa and Honorable Provincial Assembly Member and Chairperson of the Social Development Committee Mr.Dharma Raj Pathak of Sudurpashchim Province.

During the meeting, the Agriculture Minister highlighted several key initiatives being undertaken by the provincial government to advance food security, farmers’ rights, and social justice in the province.

The Minister shared that the Ministry is currently drafting a Provincial Land Act Bill to support the effective implementation of the Right to Food and Food Sovereignty Act, recognizing that nearly 84 percent of the province’s population is engaged in agriculture. The proposed legislation aims to strengthen farmers’ rights and promote sustainable agricultural development.

Addressing the rights of Freed Kamaiya, Haliya, and Kamalari communities, the Minister shared that the provincial government has developed the Provincial Freed Kamaiya, Haliya, and Kamalari Rehabilitation Procedure, 2024 (2080 B.S.). Through this framework, the government plans to support the resettlement of former bonded labourers by providing land, housing, and livelihood opportunities.

The Minister also acknowledged the significant food and nutrition security challenges facing Sudurpashchim Province. With a poverty rate of approximately 34 percent, hunger prevalence of 14 percent. In collaboration with local governments, the province is planning to identify food-insecure households and introduce a Food Assistance Card system to strengthen the realization of the right to food.

At the same time he shared that the Ministry is planning to establish a Krishak Lagani Kosh (Farmers’ Investment Fund) as a step toward operationalizing a farmers’ pension scheme envisioned under the Right to Food and Food Sovereignty Act.

Honorable Mr. Dharma Raj Pathak, Chairperson of the Social Development Committee, emphasised that land rights fall under the jurisdiction of the provincial government. He reiterated the importance of the Provincial Land Act and informed participants that the Parliamentary Committee is providing technical support to the Ministry in the drafting process.