"Tourism, agriculture, and medicinal herbs can turnaround Karnali economy"

KARNALI, NOVEMBER 26 :Tourism, agriculture, and medicinal herbs have been identified as key economic drivers for the Karnali region, according to a study report presented during a stakeholder discussion organized by International IDEA Nepal in Birendranagar on Monday. The report explored the region's economic growth prospects and potential.

Khagendra Chamling Rai, Province Program Officer at IDEA Nepal, explained that the report was prepared using information from periodic plans, economic surveys, consultations with key stakeholders, and field visits. “The discussion included development partners, women leaders, industrialists, entrepreneurs, civil servants, civil society members, and politicians to collaboratively address the challenges identified,” he added.

Another Program Officer at IDEA Nepal, Pramod Bhagat, delivered a presentation highlighting topics such as the provincial government's vision for an organic Karnali, the Golden Triangle tourism route, sustainable agricultural production in lower Karnali, and infrastructure development.

Project Manager Prakash Jha emphasized the importance of strengthening supply chains. Ensuring effective marketing of regional products, he noted, would significantly increase household incomes.

Mahendra Jung Shahi, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Planning, stressed the need for sustainable utilization of forest resources, a reliable road network, and integrated human settlement planning for Karnali's development.

Kadga BK, Provincial Member of the National Rural Municipalities' Federation and Chairman of Chaukune Rural Municipality, highlighted the importance of recognizing and supporting various professions to establish economic linkages.

The discussion also focused on key issues such as documentation, infrastructure development, grading of indigenous crops, agro-product packaging and marketing, promotion of micro-enterprises, and investments in agriculture, medicinal herbs, and tourism.