As a government, we need to focus to ensure that the agriculture sector grows because it is part of our diversification program and there is a huge potential to make agriculture one of the significant contributors to the economy.

This was highlighted by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Strategic Planning, National Development & Statistics, Hon. Prof Biman Prasad, during his visit to the Koronivia Research Station today.

He emphasized the importance of agriculture research and extension in ensuring an increase in both production and productivity in the agriculture sector.

“The government is pleased to have increased the budget for the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways and aims to ensure efficient and effective implementation of budgetary provisions that offer value for money,” said Hon. Prasad.

He said that the Ministry of Finance is working to strengthen and reestablish the National Planning Office, so it can better engage with the different ministries and effectively deliver on the government's agenda.

“I would encourage the research division to work closely with the planning office so that we develop a short to medium-term and also long-term agenda to drive the agriculture sector that is going to be a significant contributor to the economy.”

He said that the planning office within the Ministry of Finance will help link the agricultural research division with research collaborators and donors for specific areas.

Hon. Prasad also highlighted the importance of providing resources and a conducive environment for the Ministry staff in ensuring effective service delivery.

The Permanent Secretary for Agriculture and Waterways, Dr Andrew Tukana, welcomed Hon. Prasad while the Head of the Research Division, Shalendra Prasad and the Officer In charge of Livestock Research, Avinesh Dayal presented the achievements, plans and challenges of the crop and livestock research stations.

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