Nepal's Sugarcane Research Program Crippled by Severe Staff Shortage

The National Sugarcane Research Programme in Jitpur, Bara district, is grappling with a critical shortage of personnel, a situation that threatens its very ability to function. With only nine employees filling 26 sanctioned positions, including crucial roles like chief scientist and senior technical officer, the program's core research activities and innovative potential are severely hampered.

This deficit directly impedes the program's capacity to meet its fundamental objectives. As Nepal's sole dedicated sugarcane research institution, its struggle to operate effectively raises concerns about the future of sugarcane research and development in the country. The absence of essential technical expertise means that vital work on soil health, disease management, and pest control is compromised.

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The main objective of this office is to conduct research on sugarcane crops. For that, we need to manage everything from research projects and innovation to operational work.

Programme chief Dil Raj Yadav highlighted the difficulties, emphasizing that the lack of technical manpower limits the institution's ability to conduct essential research projects, drive innovation, and manage operational tasks. The consequence is a diminished capacity to deliver results and develop new technologies, falling short of the expected outcomes for the sugarcane sector.

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We are facing difficulties in developing new technologies. Due to the shortage of staff, the work is not producing the expected outcomes.