Spatiotemporal Distribution Patterns of Subsidized Chemical Fertilizer and Stakeholder Perspectives in Nepal’s Federal Agricultural Supply System
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24925/turjaf.v14i7.1854-1867.8668Keywords:
Subsidized chemical fertilizer, Spatiotemporal distribution, Supply chain, Federal governance, Farmer-identification, NepalAbstract
Nepal’s subsidized chemical fertilizer (SCF) distribution system is critical for national food security but faces persistent challenges of temporal mismatches and spatial inequities. This study examined spatiotemporal distribution patterns of chemical fertilizer and stakeholder perceptions of the distribution system across eight local levels in Gandaki and Lumbini provinces during fiscal year 2024/25. Using stratified and purposive sampling, we collected data from 65 respondents representing all tiers of the supply chain: federal (n=2), provincial (n=3), local government (n=15), importers (n=4) and registered sellers (n=41). Spatial analysis revealed pronounced variation in Urea and Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) distribution, with Lumbini Province receiving 23.91 Mt and 13.71 Mt respectively on average per respective local committees (LCs) decision under their jurisdiction, substantially exceeding Gandaki Province (Urea:7.46 Mt and DAP: 2.43 Mt). Terai region dominated chemical fertilizer distribution compared to hilly regions, reflecting topographical and connectivity advantages. Temporal analysis demonstrated bimodal distribution patterns aligned with monsoon and winter crop cycles, with Urea peaking during July-September and April-June, while DAP concentrated in September-October and March-April. However, variations in timing across locations suggest inconsistencies in alignment with crop nutrient requirements. Statistical analysis using Friedman test (χ² = 214.76, p < 0.001) confirmed significant differences in challenge rankings. Respondents prioritized insufficient quantity (C1; ARS = 1.18) and untimely availability (C3; ARS = 1.98) as critical impediments, while farmer-identification based distribution (S2; ARS = 1.25) and strong procurement planning (S1; ARS = 2.09) emerged as most viable strategies (χ² = 211.92, p < 0.001). These findings highlight the need for a more demand-responsive fertilizer distribution system, improved coordination across administrative levels and strengthened last-mile delivery mechanisms to ensure timely, equitable, and balanced fertilizer access to farmers.
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