Farmers Protest Over Tomato Prices, Minister Engages in Talks

Kathmandu. Farmers protested by throwing tomatoes on the road at Maitighar Mandal in Kathmandu this morning, citing that they were not getting proper prices for their tomatoes.

Minister of Agriculture, Forest and Environment Gita Chaudhary invited the protesting farmers to the ministry for discussions, demanding that the proper price of production be ensured, market management be made effective, and the interests of farmers be protected.

During the discussion, the farmers expressed the view that the government's effective role is necessary to ensure proper prices for tomatoes, easy market access, and to reduce the influence of middlemen. Minister Chaudhary stated that the ministry is serious about the legitimate demands of the farmers and has given necessary instructions to the concerned bodies to immediately manage the market and systematize the supply system.

With the initiative of the ministry and the coordination of Kalimati Fruits and Vegetables Market, the transportation of tomatoes outside the valley from Kalimati started today. The ministry has stated that this transportation was done with the objective of creating an environment where farmers can get proper prices for their produce by supplying tomatoes to markets outside the Kathmandu valley where there is demand.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forest and Environment has expressed its commitment to further effectively advance market management, supply system strengthening, and market expansion activities to ensure that farmers' produce gets a proper market and proper price.