SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) with the technical support of International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), Nepal organized the Regional Consultation meeting on “Enhancing Sustainable Livelihoods and Nutritional Security in Hilly Regions of SAARC Countries through Horticultural Approaches” via Zoom Video Conferencing Platform during 07-08 April 2021. The meeting aims to update the current status of horticultural activities in the hill and mountainous regions of SAARC countries and making a participatory work plan by creating a common understanding for improving livelihood and nutritional security of the people living there.

The inaugural session was chaired by Dr. Baktear Hassan, Director, SAC. Dr. S M Bokhtia, Honourable Executive Chairman of Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) graced the session as the Chief Guest. Mr. Md. Ali Akbar, Deputy Secretary (PPC), Ministry of Agriculture, Bangladesh and Dr. Pema Gyamtsho, Director General, ICIMOD attended the session as the Special Guests. Program was coordinated by Dr. Nasreen Sultana, Senior Program Specialist (Horticulture), SAC. A total of 21 participants, two from each of the seven SAARC Member State (except Maldives) and six of ICIMOD including 3 invited speakers attended the zoom meeting. In addition, all SAC professionals attended the meeting. Detailed reoprt