Kathmandu, Sept. 18: Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Ramnath Adhikari has said that it is necessary to bring about positive changes in the lives of farmers. 

Addressing the anniversary of the Agriculture and Vegetable Market at Balkhu, Kathmandu, Minister Adhikari said that the goals set by the state could not be achieved until there is a positive change in the lives of farmers. 

After assuming the responsibility of the Ministry, I am taking initiatives for the easy supply of fertilisers to the farmers and the payment of dues of the milk farmers, he said. He said that the farmers should not face any problems in the production of agricultural produce and its marketing. 

Expressing concern over the excessive use of pesticides in vegetables, Minister Adhikari said that it was necessary to minimise the use of pesticides in agricultural produces. He asked the farmer to reduce the use of pesticides and also use them properly. 

Minister Adhikari said that he was trying to fill the gap between the farmers and the concerned authority because farmers’ problems can be solved only if there is closeness between the farmers and the concerned bodies.

He emphasised that there was a need for many agricultural markets like Balkhu to bring the farmers’ produce to the city and sell it.