Government and dairy entrepreneurs reach agreement

KATHMANDU: The government and the Central Dairy Cooperatives Association have come to an agreement following discussions held on Saturday evening, signifying a breakthrough in their negotiations.

President of the Central Dairy Cooperatives Association, Amar Bahadur Kunwar, announced the signing of a five-point agreement between the two parties, with Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Dr. Beduram Bhusal overseeing the proceedings.

The key points of the agreement include a commitment from every industrialist to settle dues owed to dairy farmers by April 3.

Additionally, it has been agreed that industries will purchase milk from cooperatives without reducing the quantity, thus ensuring there are no disruptions in the milk supply chain.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock will facilitate the export of milk and dairy products by incorporating it into the policies and programs of the upcoming financial year.

The government also pledges to continue its insurance program for livestock farmers and undertake initiatives to address the demands of the Central Dairy Cooperatives Association.

Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, Dr. Revatiraman Paudel, and President of the Central Dairy Cooperatives Association, Mr. Kunwar, participated in the discussions leading to this agreement.

The Central Dairy Cooperatives Association had initiated protests since February 20, demanding the release of pending payments for milk.

With the signing of this agreement, President Kunwar announced the suspension of all protest activities.