Nepal should take lead for Mountain agenda: Minister Dr Pariyar

Kathmandu, –  Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Dr Madan Prasad Pariyar has said that Nepal should take the lead in amplifying issues of mountain conservation within the global community.

Addressing a programme organised by the Ministry of Forests and Environment on the occasion of International Mountain Day today, the Minister said Nepal remains one of the countries most affected by the impacts of climate change and that collective efforts are needed to address its consequences.

The Minister further added that the role played by local communities in the mountainous regions including indigenous peoples, ethnic groups, Dalits, and marginalized communities in mountain and nature conservation is incomparable. The people living in lower regions have particularly benefited from the natural resources, means, and environmental services protected and provided by these communities.

“However, such contributions have remained unrecognized,” he said. He went on to say that snowmelt, and the formation and bursting of glacial lakes due to rising global temperatures, have negatively affected more than two billion people residing in low-lying areas.

The Minister stressed the need for collective efforts with a shared commitment toward glacier conservation, the sustainable use of water resources, strengthening mountain food systems, expanding scientific research, and ensuring fair access to climate finance. He further stated that the government has implemented the National Climate Change Policy 2019, the National Adaptation Plan 2021, and the Third Nationally Determined Contribution 2025 with the aim of promoting efforts related to glacier conservation, sustainable management of water resources, biodiversity, agricultural systems, and community safety.

Secretary at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, Govinda Kumar Karki, said Nepal demonstrated an effective presence in climate change discussions, including mountain-related issues, during the recent COP-30 held in Belém, Brazil.

Ministry Secretary Rajendra Prasad Mishra and Joint Secretary Dr Maheshwor Dhakal shared the achievements regarding Nepal’s participation in COP-30