Himal Press 
Photo: RSS
KATHMANDU: The government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed agreements for concessional loans and grants worth $157 million (approximately Rs 21.23 billion) to implement the Mechanized Irrigation Innovation Project (MIIP) and the Climate Resilient Livelihoods and Landscapes Project (CRLLP).
Under the agreement, ADB will provide $110 million (approximately Rs 14.88 billion) in loans and $15 million (approximately Rs2 billion) in grants for the irrigation project. Similarly, the government has secured $10 million (approximately Rs 1.35 billion) in loans and $22 million (approximately Rs 2.97 billion) in grants for the climate resilience project.
Finance Secretary Dr Ram Prasad Ghimire and ADB Country Director Arnaud Cauchois signed the agreement amid a ceremony at the Ministry of Finance on Wednesday.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary Dr Ghimire said that these projects will boost agricultural productivity and food security while enhancing Nepal’s capacity to address climate challenges.
Similarly, ADB Country Director Cauchois said the projects can make a transformative impact on Nepal’s economic landscape.
Mechanized Irrigation Innovation Project (MIIP)
To be implemented in Rautahat and Sarlahi districts of Madhesh Province, the MIIP aims to introduce advanced irrigation technology. Farmers will have access to water on demand using a prepaid card system. It is expected to benefit over 121,000 farmers. The project aims to enhance agricultural productivity, ensure year-round irrigation, and promote food security.
Climate Resilient Livelihoods and Landscapes Project (CRLLP)
Focused on the rural people of Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces, the CRLLP aims to strengthen resilience against the impacts of climate change. It will address water scarcity, promote nature-based livelihoods and empower local communities through sustainable water management, agroforestry and forest management initiatives.
