Kathmandu, April 22 – The Campaign for Food and Agriculture has launched the "Organic Agriculture Awakening Campaign 2082" to tackle pressing challenges in food, farming, and environmental sustainability. The month-long initiative was announced during a press conference yesterday, where campaigners outlined their concerns about the escalating crisis in agriculture and the environment.
Highlighting the excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, campaigners warned of severe impacts on soil health and human well-being. "With climate change exacerbating the situation, our soil is dying, and water cycles are being disrupted," said Uddhav Adhikari, coordinator of the campaign. He pointed out that local agricultural production has failed to meet rising demands, forcing dependency on harmful imported and processed foods that lack essential nutrients.
Adhikari also criticized the government and concerned authorities for their indifference toward the agricultural sector’s issues. "Despite the pressing need, agricultural policies and federal laws meant to guide the sector's advancement remain undeveloped," he said. While food rights and sovereignty laws exist, campaigners argue that poor implementation has left farmers and consumers vulnerable.
Government assurances of prioritizing food security, seed preservation, and pesticide control have done little to instill confidence among stakeholders. Activists claim that current practices favor middlemen and perpetuate inefficiencies in addressing agricultural challenges.
The Organic Agriculture Awakening Campaign seeks to ensure the natural right to healthy and nutritious food while advocating for justice for farmer communities, particularly women, Dalits, indigenous peoples, and marginalized groups. The campaign will feature dialogues and interactions to promote accountability among stakeholders and push for equitable policies on food, land, agriculture, and climate.
This initiative underscores the urgent need for a sustainable and inclusive approach to agriculture, ensuring food sovereignty and environmental protection for future generations.
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