KATHMANDU, Jun 29: Nepal's President Ramchandra Paudel on Monday called for the modernisation of the country's agricultural sector to achieve total self-reliance in rice production.
He made these remarks on the occasion of National Paddy Day, observed annually to mark the commencement of the monsoon rice-planting season across the country.
Paudel called for a shift in perspective, urging that agriculture should be seen not only as a means of survival but also as a commercial opportunity.
The theme for National Paddy Day 2026 is "Climate Friendly Technology, Self-Reliance in Paddy, and Prosperity."
Nepal imports 25 to 30 per cent of its total rice consumption -- India is the main source. (PTI)
