Those misusing agricultural grant to be made public

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 21: Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Ramnath Adhikari, has announced that the names of individuals who have received substantial subsidies and grants from the Ministry but have not utilized them will be made public.

Speaking to media persons yesterday in the capital, Adhikari stated that the Ministry of Agriculture has disbursed billions of rupees in subsidies over the past five to seven years, and the details will be revealed in a few days. "There is a significant gap between the Ministry of Agriculture and the real farmers," he said, adding that he is working to bridge this gap.

The Agriculture Minister also mentioned that efforts are underway to ensure payments to sugarcane and dairy farmers. "Since I assumed responsibility at the Ministry, Rs. 2.5 million has been distributed to dairy farmers," he said, adding, "Efforts are being made to clear the remaining dues as well."

On a different note, he acknowledged that the public is disillusioned with political parties and emphasized that the current alliance between the Nepali Congress and CPN (UML) should and will work to rekindle enthusiasm among the people. "There is no way to escape from responsibility."

He also urged media persons to point out any mistakes he might make, promising to accept criticism positively.