January 26: Farmers and other stakeholders have decided to start protest from January 27 against the government’s decision to allow foreign investment in agriculture sector of Nepal. They have accused the government of trying to sideline the domestic agro-industries by opening foreign investment in this sector.

Farmers, entrepreneurs involved in agriculture as well as small scale industries and 16 different organisations will be staging the protests in the capital starting from January 27.

A struggle committee has been formed under the coordination of Shivaram KC, chairman of Nepal Egg Producers Association.

The Federation of National Farmers Group, Central Livestock Cooperative Association, Dairy Industries’ Association, Nepal Dairy Association, Nepal Fishery Entrepreneurs’ Federation, Nepal Egg Producers Association, Nepal Poultry Farmers Association among others have decided to hold joint protest against the government’s decision.

The struggle committee has been creating awareness among farmers and entrepreneurs in the district level at the moment. After completing its awareness drive on January 26, the committee will shift its focus on Kathmandu-centric protests.

KC said that they initiated the protest programme to exert pressure on the government to take back its decision.

“Most of the agriculture businesses have just become self reliant while others are still struggling to stand on their own. Therefore, foreign investment in this sector should not be encouraged,” said KC.