With the establishment of a textile industry in Hetauda, the government has urged entrepreneurs and the private sector to invest in cotton farming to boost domestic cotton production. Industry Minister Gaurikumari Yadav and Agriculture Minister Geeta Chaudhary held discussions on expanding cotton cultivation in Dang, Banke, and Bardiya districts. Jitendra Basnet, Director General of the Industry Department, informed that the evaluation of assets and liabilities for reopening the currently closed Butwal Thread Factory is in its final stages. (29 Shrawan, Kathmandu)
Following the launch of the textile industry in Hetauda, the government has placed strong emphasis on increasing cotton production within Nepal. The Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies has called upon businessmen and the private sector to invest in cotton farming. This initiative aims to end the heavy reliance on imported raw cotton for Nepal’s textile industry by ensuring supply through increased domestic cotton production and raw material availability.
According to the ministry, Industry Minister Gaurikumari Yadav met with Agriculture Minister Geeta Chaudhary to discuss expanding cotton farming across Nepal. During the talks, Minister Chaudhary indicated that districts such as Dang, Banke, and Bardiya offer suitable conditions for cotton cultivation. While there is potential for cotton farming in Nepal, the absence of large-scale commercial farming means industries continue to depend heavily on imported raw materials.
The government expects that by simultaneously enhancing cotton production alongside the textile industry, it can promote import substitution, create employment opportunities, and increase farmers’ incomes. Additionally, Jitendra Basnet, Director General of the Industry Department, noted progress toward restarting the long-closed Butwal Thread Factory, with the asset and liability assessment nearing completion. The government aims to reduce foreign cotton imports, boost domestic production, and generate employment opportunities through the expansion of cotton cultivation.
