KATHMANDU: Agriculture Minister Gita Chaudhary has pledged to ensure a smooth supply of chemical fertilizers within 15 days, even as Nepal has already completed 83.3 percent of its paddy transplantation for the current planting season.

According to the Department of Agriculture, paddy transplantation had reached 83.3 percent nationwide by July 24 (Shrawan 8), with Sudurpashchim leading at 97.9 percent. Despite persistent fertilizer shortages, farmers across the country are nearing completion of planting.

Speaking during a visit to Dhanusha on Saturday, Chaudhary said fertilizer imports have resumed through multiple border points after temporary disruptions in international supply and assured that stocks would soon reach farmers. She also urged farmers to reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides by promoting organic farming.

The minister also announced plans to launch 10 pilot agriculture projects in Madhesh Province to boost farm productivity, expand technical services and introduce modern farming technologies.