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International webinar conducted on “Best Practices and Innovative Ideas for Pesticide Minimization”

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Farming, Health and Environment Nepal (FHEN) project, a collaboration between NPHF andI COEPH/DASAM, organized an international webinar titled  “Best Practices and Innovative Ideas for Pesticide Minimization” on April 28, 2023. The main objective of the webinar was to provide a platform for sharing different practices and innovative ideas to minimize pesticide use.

 

The program aimed to achieve the following objectives:

  • Sharing knowledge, ideas, and experiences regarding the issue of chemical pesticides.
  • Presenting international practices for pesticide minimization.
  • Discussing the current need to transition to organic farming.
  • Sharing innovative ideas for pesticide minimization and their suitability within the policy context of Nepal.

The webinar featured notable speakers who shared their expertise and insights on the topic.

The speakers included:

Prof. Dr. Eric Jørs MD, MIH, PHD Associated professor SDU ,Senior consultant OUH. He has been dealing with pesticide poisoning for the past 20 years, not only supporting efforts in Nepal but also in Uganda gave a presentation on ideas and practices for pesticide minimization.

Mr. SIHM Musfiqur Rahman Country Director Haychem (Bangladesh) Limited. He was also the Previous Chairman of Bangladesh Crop Protection Association (BCPA) and Previous Secretary General of BCPA. He also Played vital roles in PTAC – pesticide Technical Advisory Committee in policy making process along with Ministry of Agriculture gave the insights and experiences on practices and innovative ideas for Pesticide Minimization in
Context of Bangladesh.

Prof. Dr. Min Raj Pokhrel Associate Professor and Head of Entomology Department Faculty of Agriculture, Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur. He has over 15 years of experiences in academics and research, and 7 years of experiences in working with bilateral and donor agencies in agriculture development in rural gave his presentation on practices and ideas for pesticide minimization.

The webinar served as a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, promoting pesticide reduction, and exploring innovative ideas to address the challenges associated with pesticide use in Nepal and beyond.

Policy Workshop Conducted on “Multisectoral Inputs for Improvising Pesticide Minimization Policy and Guidelines in Nepal”

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Farming, Health and Environment Nepal (FHEN) project, in collaboration with NPHF and ICOEPH/DASAM, successfully organized an workshop titled “Multisectoral Inputs for Improvising Pesticide Minimization Policy and Guidelines in Nepal” on April 28, 2023. The primary aim of the workshop was to provide a platform for sharing diverse practices and innovative ideas to minimize the use of pesticides in Nepal.

As part of their advocacy efforts, FHEN had prepared a draft Pesticide Minimization Guideline with the objective of reducing the negative impacts of chemical pesticides on humans, animals, and the environment. The guideline emphasized the safe and judicious use of pesticides and promoted the
adoption of alternative methods. To further enhance the guideline’s effectiveness, FHEN organized this workshop to gather feedback and reviews from policymakers at all three levels.

The program was designed to achieve the following objectives:

  • Presentation of draft suggestion for pesticide minimization guideline and get review/ feedback on it.
  • Discuss evidence gathered from the planning and follow-up meetings at all three levels.
  • Discuss the need for multisectoral engagement and way forward for the issue of pesticide management.

By bringing together policymakers from different sectors, FHEN aimed to foster collaboration and ensure that the pesticide minimization guideline would receive comprehensive input and support.

Representatives from the Agriculture, Health, and Education sectors of the Federal, Provincial, and Municipal levels participated in this program. The workshop served as a crucial platform for sharing knowledge, exchanging ideas, and creating a roadmap for effective pesticide management in Nepal.

Chandra Prasad Adhikari, a.k.a “Organic Uncle” Successfully Transitions to Organic Agriculture – NPHF’s FHEN Project

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The Nepal Public Health Foundation’s Farming Health and Environment (FHEN) project has been conducting research and providing training to farmers in Chitwan District. One of the farmers, Chandra Prasad Adhikari, recently gained media attention for his transition to organic farming after recognizing the harmful effects of pesticides on soil. He shares his experience and the benefits of going organic in a feature by Himali Khabar. The FHEN project aims to promote sustainable agriculture practices and improve the health and environment of farming communities.

Watch the full video interview with Chandra Prasad Adhikari at the following link:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6qg7DZrbPE&t=8s

NPHF’s FHEN Project Faces Hurdles Due to Nepalese Government’s Rejection of Pesticide Testing in Indian Vegetables

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The Nepal Public Health Foundation (NPHF) is currently undertaking a project on Farming Health and Environment (FHEN) to promote the use of organic farming methods and improve the overall health and well-being of Nepali farmers and consumers. This project aims to reduce the use of harmful pesticides and promote sustainable farming practices. However, the recent decision by the Nepalese government to block the proposal to test Indian vegetables for pesticides is a setback for the project.

According to the Department of Food Technology and Quality Control, about 30 groups of pesticides are used in vegetables, fruits, and other crops, which are imported from India without checking the amount of pesticides used. Nepali farmers are being forced to throw their produce on the streets, as imported vegetables from India flood the market. In the last financial year, vegetables worth 16.96 billion rupees were imported from India without pesticide testing, while Nepali farmers struggled to find a market for their produce.

The government’s decision to block the proposal to test Indian vegetables for pesticides is concerning for both Nepali farmers and consumers. The NPHF believes that it is essential to promote sustainable farming practices to ensure the long-term health and well-being of Nepali farmers and consumers. The organization will continue to work towards its goal of promoting organic farming methods and reducing the use of harmful pesticides in Nepal.

For more information on this topic, visit: https://ekantipur.com/news/2023/03/01/16776328837049628.html

Remembering the Gloriously Worthy Life of Dr. Mathura Prasad Shrestha: Father of Public Health in Nepal

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We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Dr. Mathura Prasad Shrestha, a medical doctor, public health professional, human rights activist, intellectual, and a great teacher. He was rightly acknowledged as the Father of Public Health in Nepal, also having laid the foundation for public health education and research in the country. Dr. Shrestha was an active participant in the first and second historical people’s movements in Nepal, fighting for the betterment of downtrodden people and the establishment of an equitable and humane society. He served as the former chair of Nepal Health Research Council (NHRC) and played a vital role in several organizations including the WHO advisory council for health research, South East Asia Region. Our Executive Chief, Dr. Mahesh Maskey, had the privilege of being mentored by him, and like many others, he is deeply indebted to Dr. Shrestha for his guidance. His legacy will endure, and his values will guide generations to come. Please read the full obituary by Dr. Mahesh Maskey in Nepal Live Today.
Link to the full article:
 https://www.nepallivetoday.com/2023/02/21/obituary-mathura-prasad-shrestha-his-legacy-will-endure-his-values-will-guide-generations-to-come/
In addition, we would like to share some heartfelt messages of condolence from other members of NPHF, including Dr. Rita Thapa, Dr. Nilambar Jha, Dr. Aruna Uprety,Dr. Tirtha Rana, and Dr. Chhatra Amatya, who were also touched by Dr. Shrestha’s wisdom and kindness.

Dr. Rita Thapa:

I have fond memories of Dr. Mathura since the 1970s up to welcoming him at the WHO Health Assembly Geneva as Nepal’s First Health Minister post ‘90 Mass movement. I was proud to hear him describing how the IOM trained doctors were serving Nepal’s rural areas willingly & happily, because of IOM’s policy of no lateral entry of aspiring medical students at the World Health Assembly. Everyone, including the top performers, had to start from the certificate level of Health Assistant training & serve a couple of years in Health Posts before applying for MBBS.  Dr. Mathura then earned an ovation at the WHO Assembly, & mine too as a former Chief of Public Health Teaching at IOM in early ‘70s.

I also cherish a sweet memory of Dr. Mathura in earlier years. I was the then Chief of Nepal’s Integrated Community Health System Development Project. At the instruction of the then DG of Health Services, I had to clarify a few things with Dr. Mathura then working at Trishuli Hospital. Not only did he disarm me with his logic delivered in his usual charming ways, but converted me as his advocate with DG. He was a true leader in every sense.

It is the universal truth that we cannot escape from aging, being ill, losing our loved ones, and  facing death, but  the deeds we do here remain with us forever- in this & after this life. Dr. Mathura lived  his life fully doing  good deeds that will make him happy wherever he may be now! With these thoughts, Dr. Bhekh & I offer him our Hardik Shraddhanjali !!

 

Dr. Nilambar Jha:

I truly agree that it is a great loss for the country & especially for us, following in his footsteps in Community Medicine & Public health. First time I met him, when he came to BPKIHS, Dharan in 1996 to take  my interview for the Assistant professor post. After 30 minutes of interview, he told me that he will help me  to do Dr PH.Iwas surprised to see his vision to have good  manpower for Community Medicine & Public Health in Nepal.

After that, many meetings with great personality Mathura sir, I always found him very simple, positive & encouraging. I offer him Hardik Shradhanjali & pray to God for his soul to rest in peace.

 

Dr. Aruna Uprety:

Dr Mathura was the teacher who gave us wisdom about public health, social issues, relation between politics and health. His contributions to the 1990 mass movement will be remembered. He also had written many stories and he had shared them with us. I remember him as a very good person, humble, simple  and very loving.

 

Dr. Tirtha Rana:

Dr. Mathura was a great leader in the history of public health in Nepal. His insights were very well appreciated in the government system when he was Health Minister. He was the first speaker  to start the Public Health Lecture series in Nepal Public Health Foundation. His contribution to the health sector will always be remembered.  Deepest condolence to the bereaved family members.

 

Dr. Chhatra Amatya:

Thank you for sharing the obituary note of Prof. Dr Mathura Prasad Shrestha. He has touched many lives mentored luminaries in the field of public health and was pioneer of Community Medicine in Nepal.A great humanitarian who loved the country and was always vigilant about the the human rights of the people.Even when he was hospitalized few years back he shared his experience during his illness so that others would learn.

He was ever present for the medical fraternity in times of need and provided support and did not hesitate to challenge the administration regarding the unjust treatment of his colleagues.

My humble tribute to the great soul!

Heartfelt Condolences to the family.

 

 

 

A Moment of Appreciation – Prestigious Journal ‘The Lancet’ has honored Prof. Dr. Buddha Basnyat

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We are very pleased to share Lancet ID profile of Prof. Dr. Buddha Basnyat published in the current issue of ‘The Lancet’ on this ‘January 2023’,  who is arguably the best known face of the research community of Nepal to outside world. I hope it will inspire the upcoming researchers of Nepal that research scientists from Nepal can also contribute meaningfully to global knowledge while serving their own country’s need.  Dr. Basnyat, is  founding member and deputy executive chief of Nepal Public Health Foundation, and also had the honor of delivering the prestigious ‘Nepal Public Health Foundation Lecture’ on ‘December 2016’. The Lancet ID profile is a well deserved honor for a life dedicated to research in the field of infectious disease.  Congratulations!

Mahesh K. Maskey

Founding Chair and Executive Chief

LANCET PROFILE OF DR. BUDDHA BASNYAT – LINK

Buddha Basnyat Lancet ID Profile Jan 2023

Conference organized by TGHN on Enabling Health Research in Every Healthcare Setting on the 24-25 November, 2022 at South Africa

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The Global Health Network organized a conference on Enabling Health Research in Every Healthcare Setting on the 24-25 November, 2022 at South Africa.

The Global Health Network stated that they will be working with all the speakers and presenters to conclude some far-reaching recommendations as the conference aims to create lasting change in research capacity and outputs across the globe.

Pic: Chairing the session: Engaging community in every steps of research cycle, talking to Trudie Lang 

There was a number of speakers, chairs and panel members from around the world where Dr. Mahesh Kumar Maskey (Founding Chair and Executive Chief, Nepal Public Health Foundation) had attended the conference to chair one of the sessions.

Pic: Trudie Lang, Director of The Global Health Network  addressing the conference

Day 1 included Welcoming and Opening by Professor Pontiano Kaleebu, Director, Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) & Director of MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Uganda. Dr Ahmed Ogwell Ouma, Director- General a.i., Africa Centres of Disease Control and Prevention, Ethiopia and Professor Trudie Lang, Director, The Global Health Network, United Kingdom where the four sessions were as follows:

  • – Fostering Leadership and Building Lasting Capable Research Teams
  • – Ensuring Research Findings are Taken Up into Policy and Practice
  • – Enabling Health Research in Every Healthcare Setting
  • – Engaging the Community in Every Step of the Research Cycle

The fourth session was chaired by Dr. Mahesh K. Maskey and the Plenary Speaker was Dr. Gustavo Matta, Public Health Researcher, FIOCRUZ, Brazil on Community Engagement – Our Experience with Zika in Brazil.

Day 2 consisted of a special conference session: Announcing the Designation of The Global Health Network as a World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre & Inviting Engagement with a New Open-Access Online Tool to Support Health Research.

The following sessions were conducted on Day 2:

  • – Improving Health Research Methods and Processes
  • – Preventing Pandemics with Responsive Research Systems
  • – Generating New Evidence from Data Related to Health
  • – Women in Research

 

For more info regarding the conference:

https://hub.tghn.org/event-tghn/global-health-network-conference/

Panel discussion conducted on Linkage of research, education and extension regarding pesticide minimization” on December 6th, 2022 (Mangsir 20, 2079)

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Farming, Health and Environment Nepal (FHEN) project, a collaboration between NPHF and ICOEPH/DASAM, organized a panel discussion on Linkage of research, education and extension regarding pesticide minimization” on December 6th, 2022 (Mangsir 20, 2079).

The objectives of this panel discussion were as follows:

  •       To share knowledge/experiences/ studies on the issue of chemical pesticides.
  •       To address the status of the association between Research, Extension, and Education in Nepal for pesticide minimization.
  •       To discuss the current gap in association between Agricultural Research, Education, and Extension for pesticide minimization.
  •       To discuss the ways forward to foster the association for pesticide minimization.

(Pic: From the left; Ms. Subeksha Shrestha, Dr. Chuman Lal Das, Dr. Mahesh Kumar Maskey,Dr. Deepak Bhandari, Mr. Achyut Prasad Dhakal, Mr. Rojan Karki)

The panellists for the program were:

Panellist:

Dr. Chuman Lal Das

(Director, Epidemiology and Disease Control Division)

Dr. Deepak Bhandari

(Executive Director of the Nepal Agricultural Research Council, NARC)

Dr. Pradip Gyanwali

(Executive Chief of Nepal Health and Research Council, NHRC)

Mr. Achyut Prasad Dhakal

(Central Steering Committee member, NPHF)

Ms. Subeksha Shrestha

(Program Coordinator, Himalayan College of Science and Technology)

Mr. Rojan Karki

(Assistant Professor, Himalayan College of Science and Technology)

And the program was moderated by Dr. Mahesh Kumar Maskey

(Founding Chair and Executive Chief, Nepal Public Health Foundation)

The Farming, Health and Environment Nepal (FHEN) project, a collaboration between NPHF and ICOEPH/DASAM.

There were students from Himalayan College of Agricultural Science and Technology (HICAST)  and BPH (Bachelor of Public Health) and MPH (Master of Public Health) students from Institute of Medicine (IOM) as audience present for the panel discussion who engaged during the open floor discussion.

“ART COMPETITION AND EXHIBITION ON PESTICIDES AND HUMAN HEALTH” successfully completed on 15th Nov’2022

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“ART COMPETITION AND EXHIBITION ON PESTICIDES AND HUMAN HEALTH”

VENUE: NEPAL ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS , SITABHAWAN, NAXAL

Keeping citizens rights to safe food at the core, the Farming Health and Environment(FHEN) project organized an art competition and exhibit highlighting the link between chemical pesticides and their harm to human health as a part of its advocacy plan.

As we attempt to explore more creative ways of advocating for what we believe in, FHEN organized an art exhibit and competition with the hopes of raising awareness and bringing change by means of art. We aim to combine art and social action to advocate for the issue and mobilize our efforts.

The theme for the event was “Pesticides and Human Health”.The competition was held among 19 students selected from Srijana College of Fine arts and Lalit Kala College of fine arts which included Live painting on 14th November, 2022. Similarly the paintings were kept for exhibition on 15th November 2022. Within the time duration of 5 hours, each participant  with a lot of dedication showed their innovative ideas related to the theme through their paintings. Respected judges Mrs.Sushma Rajbhandari, Mrs.Samjhana Rajbhandari and Dr.Mahesh Maskey choosed the talents on the basis of event theme, level of creativity/originality and the quality of artwork and their artistic skills.

Miss Puja Maharjan won the first place, Miss Shreemila Shrestha won the second place and Mr. Kshitiz Limbu won third place. Respected Chancellor of Nepal Academy of Fine Arts, Mr. Kancha Kumar Karmacharya and respected chief guest Mr. Kiran Manandar awarded all the winners with a prize. We thanked all the guests, members, judges and every respected personnels for their support and ended the program successfully. 

Therefore, through this entire event, we aim to raise awareness among the mass about the harms of chemical pesticides to human health. We hope to make consumers aware of their consumption of pesticides exposed to food and make them more concerned about their role in driving demand for pesticide free foods. Nepal Public Health Foundation(NPHF) also hopes that this exhibit has served as a platform for up-and-coming artists.

Dengue – Trend, Symptoms and Prevention

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Introduction

The virus that causes dengue fever is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and, to a lesser extent, Ae are the main vectors of this disease. The virus that causes dengue fever is known as dengue virus (DENV). There are four DENV serotypes, and a single infection can result in a total of four infections.

Current Scenario 

Over the past 20 years, dengue cases reported to WHO have increased more than eight-fold. Dengue fever is considered a year-round problem in Nepal, with the highest risk from June to September. Dengue fever with an endemic epidemic was first reported in 2004. The majority of cases were localized and all four serotypes were confirmed to be present in Nepal.

According toauthorities, as of September 13, 2022, there are about 11,065 cases, 424 in 2021, 17,992 in 2019, and 811 in 2018.

The top 10 districts have reported the highest number of cases 9226 i.e. 83% of the total  cases. 

District Number of cases
Lalitpur 3,793
Kathmandu 2,569
Makwanpur 1,112
Rupandehi 594
Dang 378
Bhaktapur 220
Chitwan 179
Dhading 140
Kavrepalanchowk 129
Terhathum 112                  

                                                  Source: EDCD

Till 13th of September,2022, 9 death has been reported. 

Symptoms 

Dengue fever should be suspected if a high fever (40°C/104°F) is accompanied by 2 of the following symptoms during the febrile period (2-7 days):

  • Severe headache
  • Pain in muscles and joints around eyes
  • Severe headache
  • Pain in muscles and joints around eyes
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Swollen glands
  • Rash.

Prevention

If you already have dengue, avoid mosquito bites during the first week of illness. Since the virus may be circulating in the blood at this point, there is a risk of infecting fresh, uninfected mosquitoes and infecting others.

  • Mosquito Breeding Prevention
    • Restrict access to areas where mosquitoes lay their eggs through environmental controls and modifications.
    • Removal of artificial dwellings that can store water and proper disposal of solid waste.

 

  • Personal protection from bite of Mosquito
    • Use of personal home defense tools such as window screens, insect repellents, coils and vaporizers.
    • It is recommended that you wear clothing that protects your skin from mosquito bites.

 

  • Engagement of Community:
    • Educate your neighbors about the dangers of mosquito-borne diseases
    • Engage with your neighbors to increase long-term vector control efforts and mobilization.

 

Conclusion

In Nepal, the prevalence of dengue fever has increased dramatically. Previously, cases occurred only in the tropical lowland regions of the Terai, but they are increasingly being found at higher elevations and are becoming more common. likely to increase exponentially. Immediate action is needed to improve resource allocation and prioritization to mitigate the dengue epidemic in hardest-hit locations like the Kathmandu Valley.

 

 

 

Source:

https://bit.ly/WHODengueEndemic  (WHO)

https://edcd.gov.np/ (EDCD)

Follow- up Policy Dialogue Meeting at Federal Level on ‘Exploring the Issue of Pesticides in Nepal: Practices, Policies and the Need for Multi-Sectoral Action’

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Background

 The Follow- up Policy Dialogue Meeting at Federal Level was carried out at Aranya Boutique Hotel, Nagpokhari by the participation from the different stakeholders on September 2nd, 2022. The people present for the meeting were from Plant Quarantine and Pesticide Management Centre, Nepal Health Research Council, Department of Food Technology and Quality Control, Ministry of Health and Agriculture and the Policy Research Institute A presentation from Dr. Abhinav Vaidya was shared and we had invited a few people as panelists so they could share a few words. The panelists for the meeting were Dr. Madan Kumar Upadhyaya (Division Chief of Quality Standard and Regulation Division of MoHP), Dr. Matina Joshi Vaidya (Director General of Department of Food Technology and Quality Control), Dr. Pradip Gyanwali (Executive Chief of NHRC), Mr. Manoj Pokhrel (Senior Plant Protection Officer of PQPMC), Mr. Achyut Prasad Dhakal (CSC Member and Former Secretary of MOLMAC) and Ms. Bimala Dahal (Local Organic Farmer).

 

Objective

To exchange knowledge/studies/experiences on the issue of pesticide

  • To create a platform where politicians and policymakers can voice their role and work to address the issue of chemical pesticide
  • To pave the way for discussion and foster multi-sectoral engagement in the planning and implementation of policies on pesticides in Nepal.
  • To identify and strengthen the relationship with key stakeholders at the federal level who are willing to help push the agendas on pesticide policies forward.

 

Key  Statements from the Panel members

Dr. Madan Kumar Upadhyaya

 Dr. Upadhyaya who is the Division Chief of Quality Standard and Regulation Division of Ministry of Health and Population key statements were as follows:

  • Health not just includes curative aspects but also includes preventive aspects
  • Pesticide management is very important but it is lagging behind
  • Community is the main area where pesticide related diseases are emerged
  • MOHP had tried to do many things regarding the issue of pesticide management but it is not enough
  • Lack of awareness and education regarding the issue
  • No coordination among the stakeholders
  • During Policy formulation it is very important to adapt multisectoral approach, its minimization is not possible by the effort of the single sector
  • Lack of human resources and no proper testing

 

Mr. Sailesh Kumar Jha

Mr Jha who is the Deputy Director General from the Department of Food Technology and Quality Control key statements were as follows:

  • There is a lack of coordination among the concerned stakeholders
  • Problems related to the access of database related to pesticide
  • Lacking of a proper mechanism
  • There is also lack of institutional capability and human resource that needs to be tackled for pesticide minimization

 

Dr. Pradip Gyanwali

Dr. Gyanwali who is the Executive Chief of Nepal Health and Research Council key statements were as follows:

  • Ministry level should take ownership
  • Pesticide is not only associated with human health but also related to animal health and agriculture, it also affects mental health of human being so multisectoral approach is very essential
  • Series of discussion for this issue is necessary
  • Message related to this topic should be dispersed for awareness purpose

 

Mr. Manoj Pokhrel

Mr. Pokhrel who is the Senior Plant Protection Officer of Plant Quarantine and Pesticide Management Centre key statements were as follows:

  • Registration work is done by PQPMC and PQPMC has been trying to update the website
  • There is a lack of human resource and also budget for pesticide management
  • Lack of capacity and formal education of the agrovets
  • License are provided to the agrovets on the basis of one- or two-day trainings
  • Pesticide management act has been established

 

Mr. Achyut Prasad Dhakal

 Mr. Dhakal who is the former secretary of Ministry of Land Management, Agriculture and Cooperative and the Central Steering Committee Member of FHEN key statements were as follows:

  • There are many advantages of pesticides as well it helps to manage pest and kill insects.
  • Pesticide is mostly used in Cotton, it leads to different hazards
  • Lack of manpower is a major issue which should be solved for pesticide minimization
  • Institutional arrangements are necessary
  • Focus on empowering human resource
  • Focus on monitoring and supervision
  • Directives and guidelines should be prepared for the safe use of pesticides
  • And it should also include about the proper storage and disposal of the pesticide container, Post-harvest interval (waiting period) and maximum residual limit
  • Proper data should be maintained about Post Harvest Interval
  • Awareness should be created about maximum residual limit
  • Appropriate data is required to work on these guidelines
  • Knowledge about Acceptable Daily Intake should be increased

 

Ms. Bimala Dahal

 Ms. Dahal who is a Local Organic Farmer key statements were as follows:

  • C graded palm oil has been used in Nepal, oil related farming is a neglected issue
  • Large amount of pesticide has been used in this kind of farming
  • When taking about the issue of pesticide, the topic of soil is not often discussed. Discussions related to the quality of soil has to be raised for pesticide minimization.
  • Farmers often tend to use hybrid seed which is also an issue
  • Lack of sufficient market for organic products is also a major hurdle for the transition into organic farming
  • IPM and sufficient market is very important for organic farming

 

Remarks from Chief Guest – Dr. Bishnu Raj Upreti

Dr. Upreti who is the Executive Chairperson of Policy Research Institute key statements were as follows:

  • Pesticide is the concern of the entire nation not just of a single sector
  • Lack of co-ordination among the high-level authority is the major problem
  • Fundamental change is required
  • Discussion should be done with the key stakeholders regarding their respective duties and responsibilities
  • Policies should be formulated on the basis of evidences
  • Policies should be measurable, quantifiable and more specific
  • Health and Agriculture are related to the citizens of the country hence the policies related to it should be formulated on the basis of the evidence.

 

 

13th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF NPHF WAS SUCCESSFULLY CONDUCTED ON SEPT 2, 2022

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On September 2,   2022, NPHF completed its 13th Annual General Meeting in the presence of founding members, life members and other members and stakeholders.

Since the establishment of Nepal Public Health Foundation (NPHF), it has taken initiatives to raise voices and advocate the relevant public health issues at national and regional level.

 

Continuing the tradition, this year we had a privilege to honor Dr. Ram Prasad Pokhrel and Dr. Saraswati Padhye  with NPHF Life Time Achievement Award 2022 for contributions made  in the field of public health  as well as the years of service dedicated by them.