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The government of Nepal has endorsed several policy documents related to agriculture and livestock in the past few decades. However, there is a lack of comprehensive review, especially in the dairy sector. Therefore, this study aims to i) make a systematic review of current dairy policies, ii) assess their operational status, and iii) identify issues and gaps to recommend potential policy solutions. The study is based on a qualitative approach by reviewing 26 national and provincial policy documents of the agriculture and livestock sector and interviewing 10 key experts and three private dairy farmers. The study conducted a thematic analysis using the framework method. The study critically analyzed the key policy provisions and their effectiveness under six major themes: commercial milk production, breed improvement, animal feed and feeding, animal health and nutrition, safety, quality and welfare, and post-production. The findings state that dairy policies provide various provisions of support and services. It has impacted the farm level with a gradual increase in milk production and enhanced access to inputs and services for milk producers. However, there are still some constraints in implementing the policies. The provisions and services stated in the policy documents are inadequate to address the needs of farmers. The high cost of milk production, low adoption of productive breeds, and nutritious fodder are further constraints. Strict regulations for milk quality, milk marketing, and control of epidemic diseases need to be imposed through policy provisions. Thus, the policies should be adjusted to increase access to extension services, human resource mobilization, and value-addition opportunities. Further, this study serves as a useful guide to formulating and adjusting policies for dairy sector development to address the production gaps.
Dhungana et al. (Wed,) studied this question.