Kathmandu: Dr. Arun Kumar Subedi, a distinguished foreign expert well-versed in Nepal-India relations, has provided insights into India's role in the rice trade and its potential consequences. He asserts that India's ability to obstruct rice shipments to Nepal is limited, in contrast to some prevailing beliefs. Nevertheless, he recalls the international outcry that ensued when India restricted rice exports, excluding Basmati rice.

Dr. Subedi urges Nepal's government to prioritize food security, pointing to the country's Most Favored Nation (MFN) status under World Trade Organization regulations and its special rapport with India. He stresses that Nepal should appeal to India to reconsider its prohibition on exporting non-Basmati rice to Nepal. Notably, the majority of Nepal's population relies on non-Basmati rice for sustenance.

In summary, Dr. Arun Kumar Subedi underscores Nepal's need to embrace India's successful agricultural policies to ensure food security. He advocates for diplomatic efforts aimed at persuading India to refrain from curtailing non-Basmati rice exports to Nepal, given the potential repercussions for ordinary citizens, laborers, and tribal communities who heavily depend on it.

Dr. Subedi emphasizes that rice prices have surged not only in Nepal but also in countries like the United States and the UAE. This global price hike has consequently placed pressure on Nepal. Moreover, he observes that West African nations and China have also experienced the effects of these fluctuations. He underscores that the worldwide rice export volume stands at approximately 56 million metric tons, with India contributing around 22 million metric tons.

Drawing parallels, Dr. Subedi discusses the ongoing conflict in Ukraine affecting wheat production (Russia and Ukraine collectively account for 20% of global wheat exports), while African nations are seeking grain exports from Ukraine via the Black Sea.

Regarding India's standing in the rice trade, Dr. Subedi highlights that India commands 40% of the global rice market. He points out India's rice exports to countries like Cuba and the United States. He presents statistics about Nepal's three-month paddy imports from India, underscoring the importance of comprehending India's transformation since 1965.

In 1965, under the leadership of Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, India initiated an agricultural revolution amidst crises resulting from conflicts with China and Pakistan. India's proactive approach led to self-sufficiency in grain production, enabling it to become a net exporter. Conversely, Nepal, which was exporting grains in 1965, now faces the challenge of importing grains.

Dr. Subedi attributes India's success to the initiatives undertaken during that period. He urges Nepal to draw lessons from India's agricultural strategies and advocates for the adoption of similar policies to enhance food security.

He notes that even vital commodities like milk, if imported from India, could affect regions such as Lumbini and Gandaki in Nepal. To address these concerns, he calls for the implementation of a robust agricultural policy. Dr. Subedi suggests that instead of criticizing India, Nepal should glean insights from its accomplishments.