CHONGQING (CQNEWS) -- The Nepal Southern Agricultural Science and Technology Park, part of the China-South Asian Countries Poverty Alleviation and Cooperative Development Center, was officially launched on August 27 in Bharatpur, a key agricultural city in central-southern Nepal, according to the Chongqing Municipal Commission of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.

This initiative, jointly implemented by Nepal Agricultural and Forestry University and the Chongqing Academy of Agricultural Sciences, saw the participation of nearly 100 individuals in the launch ceremony, including faculty and students from Nepal Agricultural and Forestry University and rice experts from Chongqing.

Bharatpur, one of Nepal’s most prominent agricultural hubs, boasts favorable natural conditions for farming. By leveraging the advanced agricultural technologies and resources of Chongqing, this collaboration aims to unlock the full agricultural potential of Bharatpur and foster shared growth and prosperity between the two regions.

At the launch, Wang Shijie, Deputy Director of the Chongqing Municipal Commission of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, emphasized the broader scope of the project. Beyond boosting rice yield and grain production, the initiative will foster bilateral cooperation in greenhouse vegetable cultivation, livestock breeding, and fish farming.

Under the Hybrid Rice Agricultural Science and Technology Park initiative (Southern Science and Technology Park), Chongqing and Nepal Agricultural and Forestry University will collaborate on experimental research, demonstration projects, and the promotion of high-yield cultivation techniques. The project will establish efficient production demonstration areas and provide comprehensive training, consultation, and guidance.

The greenhouse vegetable technology cooperation will introduce new vegetable varieties and technologies to Nepal and assist in the demonstration and promotion of advanced facility cultivation techniques. Additionally, a pilot project on dairy buffalo breeding will involve constructing a modern demonstration farm, introducing state-of-the-art farming technologies and equipment, and establishing an efficient circular planting and breeding model. Another pilot project will focus on enhancing pond breeding technology through standardized pond upgrades to improve yield and overall benefits.

Since July last year, the Chongqing Municipal Commission of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, in partnership with Southwest University, has built an expert database for agricultural technical assistance in South Asia. This July, they formed an expert group dedicated to supporting Nepal, consisting of specialists from the Chongqing Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Chongqing Aquatic Technology Extension Station, and Southwest University. These experts have conducted field research in Nepal’s Chitwan, Jhapa, and other regions to tailor their support effectively. (Translated by Yuki, Fathom Language Limited)