KATHMANDU, Feb. 18 -- Nepal, traditionally known as an agricultural nation, has witnessed a steady decline in its agricultural land every year. According to a detailed study report published by the Forest Research and Training Centre under the Ministry of Forests and Environment in December 2024, the country's agricultural land has decreased, while forest and shrubland areas have expanded.

The report, presented by the Centre's Director General Dr Rajendra KC, highlights that agriculture now accounts for 22.59 percent of the land, while forest and shrubland areas cover 46.08 percent. This represents a 1.75 percent decrease in agricultural land, with the trend primarily attributed to the abandonment of arable land. As land is left fallow a...