Kathmandu. A total of 338 local levels across the country have categorized land use. The local levels had completed the classification by mid-April with an objective of formulating and implementing the land use plan. These local levels have already updated the bases, criteria and maps.

A total of 169 local levels across the country have updated the map by preparing bases and criteria. As many as 47 local levels have not been able to start their works due to various reasons.

Similarly, 15 local levels have prepared standards for agriculture sector and prepared details. There are 134 local levels that have updated the map by preparing the basis and criteria for land use classification. There are 50 local levels preparing the basis and criteria.

Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Land, Cooperatives, Federal Affairs and General Administration, Ganesh Prasad Bhatta, informed that the Land Use Act and Regulations have given authority to the local levels for the classification of land.

If the categorization of agricultural and non-agricultural land is done soon, necessary plans can be formulated for the protection of arable land, control of fragmentation, increase in agricultural production through consolidation program, guarantee of food security, systematic urbanization and management of safe housing, infrastructure development and conservation of natural resources. The deadline for classification of land use has been set for the local level until mid-July.