Pokhara, March 4

The government grant meant for youths interested in agriculture has lured scores of youngsters towards agro-business in Kaski.

Youth engagement in agro-business has increased after the Ministry of Agriculture started disbursing grant under the Professional Agriculture Production Programme two years ago.

As many as 250 farmers have received Rs 10 million through the programme for vegetable farming so far in the district.

Manhar Kadariya of the District Development Office said 60 youth selected for the grant for this year were provided first installment of the grant today. Each farmer was provided Rs 20,000 in the first installment.

Yubakdhowj GC, director general at the Department of Agriculture, said they distributed cheques to young farmers today. GC said Kaski district had done a commendable job by providing the fund through banks.

Meanwhile, the farmers who received the grant have urged the government to increase the grant sum. They said the grant for agriculture had stopped them from flying abroad for employment.

Mohan Krishna Timilsena, a farmer, said the amount would serve as seed money.

GC said they were making efforts to increase the grant amount.

Director at western regional agriculture office, Beni Bahadur Basnet, said youth should come forward for the development of agro sector.