Extension policies and reforms in Nepal: an analysis of challenges, constraints, and policy options

Abstract In Nepal, primarily agriculture-based economy, the role of agriculture extension in increasing production, enhancing competitiveness of the sector, and improving livelihood of its people are ever increasing. Nepal has adopted various extension models and approaches since the beginning of strategic periodic plans in 1956. Various extension approaches such as training and visit program, block development, integrated rural development project, Tuki, and farming system were considered, the focus of which was to largely increase the production through the introduction of technologies and accessibilities of inputs. The public extension was the dominant service provider. However, with globalization, there have been increased market opportunities for diverse agricultural products beyond boundaries. This has created a need for innovative technology, information, knowledge, human resources, and extension approaches. Accordingly, several institutional changes and pluralistic extension approaches have been adopted to improve the adequacy and efficiency of extension policies. Engagement of private sectors’ service providers including financial institutions, nongovernmental organization, and cooperatives has emerged as complimentary actors/partners in effective service delivery. Competitive grant systems were introduced in various projects, where the capacity of farmers and agro-entrepreneurs was enhanced to access and utilize the grants. Use of ICTs in agriculture for advisory services and various financial products are some of the new approaches taken by multiple actors. Government should recognize these changing context, acknowledge the roles of various actors, invest in human resources development, and innovative technologies and play facilitation role such that the beneficiaries receives the information, services, and inputs on time. Since the country is undergoing through political transformation, public-sector extension system should embrace the change and need to be innovative. The regional cooperation and partnerships need to be sought for sharing experiences and knowledge about the latest developments and in facing the global challenges together.