Educationpatra, Kathmandu. In a remarkable initiative, plans are underway to establish a multi-dimensional state-level agricultural research center in Tikapur, Kailali. With the implementation of the national pride project, Rani Jamra Kularia Irrigation Project, and the presence of two agricultural campuses, Tikapur is rapidly evolving into a thriving ‘hub’ of agriculture. The move to create an agricultural research center has garnered significant support from local leaders, experts, and educators, who recognize the immense potential for agricultural growth in the region.
Rupa Sosi Chaudhary, a member of the Kailali District No. 1 House of Representatives, emphasized the need for an agricultural research center to enhance production and conduct research in this agriculturally abundant area. “Tikapur holds tremendous potential in agriculture, and establishing a research center is imperative to harness its capabilities,” she stated.
National Assembly member Garima Shah underscored the significance of collective efforts in establishing the agricultural research center. She asserted, “Through research, the Western Province can achieve further prosperity, and together, we must work towards that common goal.”
Dr. Krishna Kumar Mishra, Director of Crops at the Nepal Agricultural Research Council, expressed that numerous attempts had been made in the past to establish such a center in the Far West region. However, he firmly believes Tikapur would be an ideal location for the multi-faceted agricultural research center. “With two agricultural campuses already established in Tikapur and its identification as a national pride project site, the region boasts immense agricultural potential,” said Dr. Mishra. He further added, “We are fully prepared to establish the research center, and it is essential for the local government to allocate the required land.”
The council has requested 235 bighas of land from the municipality, with an initial requirement of 75 to 100 bighas for the first phase. Dr. Mishra highlighted that the land allocation would be based on necessity and might expand as the center’s scope broadens.
Professor Dr. Ammaraj Joshi, Vice-Chancellor of Sudurpaschim University, believes that the establishment of the Agricultural Research Center will elevate the agricultural sector throughout Sudurpaschim. He stressed the obligation to tap into the Indian market for fruit plants and predicted that the research center’s efforts would attract Indian buyers to the Nepalese market. Dr. Joshi sees tremendous benefits for the university, particularly for the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences based in Tikapur, where students from 67 districts study. The research center can evolve into a robust learning hub for these students.
Tapendra Bahadur Rawal, outgoing mayor of Tikapur municipality, emphasized the necessity of the research center to further promote agriculture. “Presently, agriculture is studied in two campuses within Tikapur, including a three-year program in crop science. Moreover, the center will play a pivotal role in providing vocational training in agriculture, animal husbandry, and forestry to the local workforce,” he explained.
Khadak Shah, the deputy head of Tikapur Municipality, expressed confidence that Tikapur would stand united in establishing the multi-faceted agricultural research center. He highlighted that modernization in agriculture was crucial for the country’s prosperity, and the research center would provide crucial support in this endeavor. “The municipality will actively pursue establishing the agricultural research center through necessary discussions and debates, and we are hopeful for its successful establishment,” Deputy Chief Shah asserted.
Dean Lal Prasad Amagai of Sudurpaschim University Faculty of Agricultural Sciences regarded agriculture as the backbone of development and anticipates an increase in the number of students at the university with the establishment of Tikapur Agricultural Research Center. He expressed optimism that once the center comes into existence, it will significantly contribute to the advancement of agriculture and its impact on national development.
In conclusion, the establishment of a multi-dimensional agricultural research center in Tikapur holds immense promise for the region and the entire Sudurpaschim province. It has the potential to elevate Tikapur as a thriving agricultural ‘hub’ and contribute to the overall prosperity of Nepal through the advancement of the agricultural sector. With the support of local leaders, educational institutions, and experts, the dream of the research center is on the path to becoming a reality.
