Radhika Tamang, Minister of State for Agricultural Development, inaugurated IPM Produce Market Outlet today in the Balkhu Vegetables and Fruits Market amidst a simple function attended by the high-ranking government officials, FAO staff members, agri-traders and farmers.

The outlet is being managed by Kisan Agro-vet enterprises Pvt Ltd in close coordination with Nepal Fruit and Vegetable Entrepreneurs Federation. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has extended the technical support to the outlet through the Building Agribusiness Capacity of Smallholder Farmers to Market Safe Produce of Good Quality, a technical cooperation project implemented in the farming communities of the district of Kavre, Dhading, Kapilvastu and Bara.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State Tamang expressed satisfaction over the continued joint efforts of the government, the FAO and the private sector to contribute to improved income of small holder farmers and enhanced access of consumers to safe and quality produce. She said that the government will extend all possible assistance to agro-entrepreneurs and smallholder farmers to establish IPM produce market outlets across the country.

Yogendra Karki, Joint Secretary at Ministry of Agricultural Development, Dr Dill Ram Sharma, Director of Plant Protection Directorate, Dr. Binod Saha, Assistant FAO Representative, highlighted the need to promote the IPM agro-produce throughout the country in order to reduce the risk of health hazard.

According to a press release issued by FAO, Prem Lal Maharjan, Chairperson of the National Consumer Forum and Khum Prasad Ghimire, President of Nepal Fruit and Vegetable Entrepreneurs’ Federation were among others who addressed the gathering.

Safe edible items promoted by the Agribusiness Promotion and Marketing Development Directorate, Department of Agriculture and FAO are available in the Balkhu market outlet.