Deepak Mani Pokhrel
GEED, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives

Abstract

Worldwide intensification of agriculture with expanding use of agro chemicals has resulted in several problems. Pests' resistance to pesticides, their resurgence due to reduced natural enemies, pesticide residues in food, water, air and soil, degrading soil environment and ecosystem, animal and human health hazards and ultimate economic losses are known examples. Realizing the facts, organic agriculture is gaining popularity with peoples growing concerns shifted from mere increased production and productivity to resource sustainable and eco-friendly techniques.

Relevant policy documents were reviewed with their content analysis. Agriculture sector policy has a realization of higher cost incurred by conventional agriculture due to agro-chemicals resulting public health and environmental hazards, and higher benefit of organic production due to opportunities associated with prevailing system of agriculture and ecological diversities in the country. The government, based on policy provisions and programs, is committed to promoting organic farming. However, the policy provisions, lacking adequate and integrated instruments, are too broad without clear pathways to their translation into actions. Inadequate research, extension, human resources and other supports on organic production, marketing and input supply have hindered organic agriculture promotion. Organic legislation, standardization, certification and infrastructure in such development are also major issues of policy concerns.