NARC to Develop Digital Climate Map in SAARC Initiative

Kathmandu, December 14, 2023 – The Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC) has embarked on an ambitious project to develop a comprehensive digital map analyzing climate conditions, not just in Nepal but across SAARC countries, to revolutionize agricultural practices and adapt to climate change.

Collaboration at the Core

In a unique collaborative effort, agricultural scientists from SAARC countries, including India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, are currently meeting in Nepal. This meeting marks a significant stride towards the creation of a digital map that will serve as a crucial tool for farmers and stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

The Digital Map: 

The proposed digital map, a brainchild of NARC, will offer immediate access to climate conditions in the SAARC region. This innovative tool aims to provide insights into the climatic impacts on a variety of crops and agricultural resources like rice, wheat, corn, lentils, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables, fish, and fruits.

Leadership and Global Support

Amar Bahadur Pun, the head of the National Agricultural Environment Research Center under NARC, underscored the significance of this digital map in minimizing the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture. This initiative is receiving international support, notably from the Bisa Summit of India and the Bill Gates Foundation of America.

A Step Beyond Climate Data

The map is designed to be more than just a repository of climate information. It aims to provide actionable solutions and remedies, catering to specific needs such as the optimal timing for sowing, planting, and harvesting different crops. This feature is expected to greatly assist farmers in making informed decisions and enhancing their crop yield.

Combating Climate Change in Agriculture

Recognizing the urgent need to address the challenges posed by climate change to agriculture, this three-year project focuses on collecting comprehensive climate data and making it accessible via a dedicated website. This initiative is seen as a crucial step towards providing timely weather information to farmers, thus reducing the risk of climate-related agricultural damages.

A Unified Front Against Climate Challenges

The ongoing conference in Nepal is a significant step in uniting SAARC countries in their fight against the impacts of climate change on agriculture and livestock. Dr. Dhruvaraj Bhattarai, Executive Director of NARC, highlighted the importance of a joint approach in tackling these challenges.