National Paddy Day today!

Kathmandu: National Paddy Day is being observed today, organising various programs organised across the country to celebrate and promote rice farming.

Since 2004, National Paddy Day has been marked annually on June 29, or Asar 15 in the Nepali calendar. The day aims to boost rice production, modernise and commercialise paddy farming, and uplift the morale of farmers, while recognising the vital role agriculture plays in the country’s development.

In a message issued on the occasion, President Ram Chandra Paudel emphasised that Nepal’s constitution guarantees every citizen the right to food, a right that can only be protected by strengthening rice cultivation. The President underscored that promoting paddy farming is essential to safeguard lives from the threat of food scarcity.

He extended his best wishes to all Nepalis for peace, prosperity, and happiness, noting that as an agricultural nation, Nepal relies heavily on rice — the staple food for most people.

He highlighted its deep connection to the country’s culture, economy, and daily life, adding that rice also holds religious, social, and even touristic significance.

President Paudel expressed hope that the celebration of National Paddy Day would inspire climate-friendly farming practices, encourage increased production, reduce dependency on rice imports, strengthen national food security, and promote greater respect for agricultural labor.