Kathmandu: The 23rd National Rice Day and Rice Planting Festival is being celebrated across Nepal today with enthusiasm, highlighting the country's deep agricultural traditions and the importance of rice cultivation to the national economy.

Recognizing the economic, social, and cultural significance of rice, the Government of Nepal has been officially observing Asar 15 as National Rice Day each year. The day is marked by mass paddy planting, cultural performances, and community celebrations in farming areas across the country.

Nationwide Programmes Promote Rice Cultivation
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, along with provincial governments, local authorities, and various governmental and non-governmental organizations, has organized paddy planting programmes and awareness campaigns in districts across the country.

The celebrations aim to encourage rice cultivation, promote agricultural productivity, and recognize the hard work of farmers during one of the busiest periods of the agricultural calendar.

Curd and Beaten Rice Tradition Continues
As farmers spend long hours planting rice in muddy fields, the tradition of eating curd and beaten rice (dahi-chiura) remains an integral part of the day's celebration.

The meal is believed to provide strength and energy during the physically demanding planting season. As a result, Asar 15 is also widely observed as Dahi-Chiura Khane Din (Curd and Beaten Rice Day), with families across Nepal participating in the tradition.

Rice Remains Vital to Nepal's Economy
Rice continues to be Nepal's most important staple crop and plays a significant role in the country's agricultural economy and Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Farmers regard the month of Asar as the most crucial period for ensuring food production for the entire year. Increasing rice production and productivity remains a national priority as Nepal seeks to strengthen food security and move toward greater agricultural self-reliance.

Fields Come Alive with Music and Tradition
Across the country, farmers, youth, and local communities have gathered in paddy fields to celebrate the occasion by planting rice, playing in the mud, and singing traditional Asare folk songs.

The annual festival not only marks the beginning of the main paddy planting season but also serves as a celebration of Nepal's rich farming heritage, community spirit, and enduring connection to agriculture.