Kathmandu. On the occasion of National Paddy Day (Asar 15), President Ramchandra Paudel participated in a rice plantation program organized within the premises of the presidential residence, Sheetal Niwas.

The event was organized by the Office of the President, with participation from First Lady Sabita Paudel, representatives of the Nepal Army, staff of Sheetal Niwas, and members of the President’s family.

Inaugurating the rice plantation, President Paudel emphasized the need to transform agriculture from a means of subsistence into a modern and commercial sector. He expressed the view that agriculture should be promoted as a foundation of employment, and that farmers dedicated to food production deserve to be honored.

“We must develop a culture that respects all forms of labor related to agriculture and recognize farmers as providers of food,” he stated.

Following the rice planting, a traditional program of eating dahi chiura (curd and beaten rice) was also held. In Nepali society, it is customary to celebrate Asar 15 by planting rice and eating dahi chiura.