Minister Chaudhary Warns Climate Change Is a Growing Economic and Social Crisis

Minister of Agriculture, Livestock Development, and Forests and Environment, Geeta Chaudhary, has stated that climate change is no longer only an environmental concern but has become a serious economic and social issue for Nepal. She emphasized that rising temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns, and extreme events are affecting livelihoods, agriculture, and public health across the country.

Minister Chaudhary highlighted that farmers are facing increasing difficulties due to erratic rainfall, floods, and landslides, which threaten crop yields and food security. These challenges not only impact rural households but also have broader implications for the national economy, including increased costs for disaster management and recovery.

The minister urged government agencies, private sectors, and local communities to collaborate on climate-resilient planning. She emphasized the need for policies that integrate sustainable agriculture, forestry management, and renewable energy, as well as investment in disaster preparedness and community-based climate adaptation programs.

Experts note that climate change can exacerbate social inequalities, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as women, children, and low-income families. Minister Chaudhary stressed that education, awareness campaigns, and access to climate-smart technologies are essential to help communities adapt effectively and build resilience against climate-related risks.

Finally, the minister called on Nepal’s stakeholders to view climate change as a shared responsibility. Proactive measures today can prevent greater economic losses and social disruption in the future, ensuring a sustainable environment and a stronger economy for generations to come.