This is a review of the current state of policies, programmes, legislative framework
and institutions that singly or in combination concern sustainable land use policy, land
management and agricultural development in the country. This review seeks to
achieve two main goals, namely: (a) provide an insight into the planning,
budgeting/annual programming, implementation, monitoring and evaluation processes
and the role of and the extent of involvement of the major stakeholders, including the
intended/target beneficiaries; and (b) draw lessons/principles for use by the concerned
authorities in Nepal both in ongoing plans/programmes/projects and those in
preparation, and also for the guidelines of donors in providing aid to Nepal.
The country’s efforts toward sustainable development, achievements made thus far,
and gaps and weaknesses could not be comprehended properly without first tracing
the historical process of interventions. Hence this paper starts with such a review of
the past, and goes on to the current status. Finally, based on the past experience,
implications are drawn for future actions that could guide the government and the
donor community in more effectively promoting sustainable development in land use
and agricultural development.