Nepalese farmers planting saplings in a paddy field at the beginning of the monsoon season in Jitpur village, on the outskirts of capital Kathmandu, yesterday. Nepal will be celebrating National Paddy Day on June 29. On this day, known as Asar Pandra, farmers begin the annual rice planting season and mark the day with various festivities such as preparing rice meals with muddy water, mud being a symbol for a prosperous season. The agricultural sector contributes about 60% to Nepal’s gross domestic product.
