Agriculture & Rural Development

Agricultural and rural development is a major backbone for the transformation and development of Nepal as it inextricably links with Nepal’s economy. For developing countries like Nepal, the majority of people living in rural areas gain half or a full part of their livelihood from agriculture and associated work. Eighty percent of the country’s population lives in rural areas, and agriculture is their primary livelihood. While the share of agriculture in the total gross domestic product (GDP) has been declining over the years, it still accounts for one-third of GDP. However, stagnation in the agriculture sector is one reason behind rural poverty and the inability to meet food security. A&RD is a core sector driver for the development of countries like Nepal and requires utmost reform. Nepal Technology Innovation Center (NTIC) serves in the A&RD sector and considers it as one of the major areas in formulating technology innovation support programs.