Kathmandu,29 November: The Embassy of Israel together with Avsar Foundation organized “Krishi Tara Award Ceremony”, the 1st annual national -level award amidst a d grand function in Kathmandu on Thursday night. The award being first of its kind was bestowed to honor deserving Nepali farmers/agri-entrepreneurs who have been purposefully contributing in agriculture through the use of innovations, technologies and skills learnt in Israel after returning from “Learn and Earn (L&E) Program.”
The Embassy of Israel in cooperation with Small Farmer Development Microfinance Financial Institute Limited started this yearlong advanced agricultural training program in 2013. Since 2013, around 2700 Nepali youths, associated with the aforementioned institute have already participated and this year, 540 students are partaking in the same program.
Aiming to encourage local farmers to continue their profession in agriculture by recognizing and rewarding their hard work and passion for agriculture, the application was open to the L&E returnees. Among many applications received, the 10 best young farmers were selected.
Dipendra Karki from Surkhet was adjudged “Krishi Tara” by the selection committee on the basis of his innovation, technologies, skills, impact and sustainability. He was awarded the cash prize of Rs. 500,000 along with a certificate. The top 9 other nominees were also felicitated by Yubak Dhoj GC, Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development.
Congratulating the winner for his outstanding contribution and achievements, Secretary GC appreciated all other farmers for being nominated for the award. On behalf of the Government of Nepal, he , expressed his commitment to onboard many youth farmers into the program, to host them upon their return from Israel and to support them with the programs like agriculture subsidy and other measures.
Acknowledging the contribution of the farmers to the agriculture prosperity, Benny Omer, Ambassador of Israel to Nepal said, “I really appreciate all the farmers who were stimulated by the knowledge, skills and experience they gained from Israel and have started implementing their know-how here in Nepal with the significant amount of money they saved in Israel. This is a great contribution to the modernization of agriculture. Besides, it helps to shape their future and is an important element in national economy too. We should encourage more girls to participate in the L&E Program and to work in the farm upon their return.”
Suman Joshi, Vice Chairperson of Avsar Foundation said, “ Our foundation is pleased to continue supporting economically and socially deprived community of Nepal to help them engage in income generating activities.”
Karki, the owner of Karki Cow Farm, expressing his gratitude to the embassy of Israel and Avsar Foundation said, “I feel the responsibility has doubled after this award. I will leave no stones unturned to do the best in agriculture with the finest and applicable practices of Israeli agriculture.
People’s News Monitoring Service
Login to add a comment