Introduction

This region, which encompasses high hill and Himalayan geography, has abundant potential for medicinal herbs such as Yarsagumba. With the concept of developing modern and sustainable agriculture, the Agriculture Knowledge Center, Mugu was established in Shrawan 2075 (mid-2018). At present, it is delivering services under the name Agriculture Development Office. The main objective of this Agriculture Development Office is to bring agriculture-dependent farmers into access to agricultural training, improved seeds and saplings, technology, and commercialization, thereby establishing modern, clean, and sustainable agriculture. With changes in Nepal’s administrative structure, agricultural services are being provided through three levels of government. Under the jurisdiction of the provincial government, this Agriculture Development Office has been carrying out activities that support small farmers and large commercial farmers through private entrepreneurs, farmer groups, farmer cooperatives, and consumers. These activities focus on the identification of agricultural products, increasing production and productivity, promoting modern farming systems, and supporting market development. To facilitate easy marketing of agricultural produce, agricultural roads are currently being constructed in various locations to connect production areas. In accordance with the provincial government’s policy and programs to develop Karnali Province as an organic province, the office has been supporting activities such as agricultural irrigation and road construction; promotion of organic farming; implementation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs; disease and pest management through biological, physical, and botanical pesticide methods; management and improvement of organic fertilizers; and integrated nutrient management. Value addition of agricultural products, agribusiness development, eco-agro tourism, agricultural processing and branding, food safety assurance, quality determination, and quality control are the major priority areas of this office. Details and progress of activities carried out by this office, useful publications, program-related guidelines, published notices, and other related services can be accessed through the office website: adomugu.gov.np.