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Quick facts

Born on 1 Oct 1977 in Parbat

Went to Tribhuvan Secondary School, Parbat

Graduated in PN Campus, Pokhara; post-grad in English literature from Tribhuvan University

First elected to the Maryland House of Delegates in 2018 and has been a member of the House since Jan 2019

PhD from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)

Husband to Sangita Baruwal

Father to Ronix Bhandari and Salona Bhandari

I began my early education at a public school established by my grandfather in our village of Parbat. After completing my secondary education there, I decided to pursue higher studies in Pokhara.

During my time in college, I actively advocated for the welfare of students, especially those from rural areas. This involvement sparked my interest in politics focused on helping others. I successfully earned a master’s degree in English literature from Tribhuvan University. Additionally, I served as a school principal in Kathmandu at the young age of 23. I’ve also authored numerous school textbooks and collaborated with two friends to develop the literary theory known as ‘Labyrinth Conscience’.

In 2005, I had the opportunity to travel to the United States to present a research paper at George Mason University. Following that, I decided to stay in the US to further my education. I supported my studies by working at a gas station. Despite arriving in the US at the age of 27, I had already acquired a substantial understanding of American culture, society, and its democratic system through extensive reading.

My journey into American politics commenced with volunteer work on former President Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign. By 2012, I had assumed the role of president within a community association. In this capacity, I engaged in discussions with elected officials on topics such as park renovations, infrastructure development, and attracting investments to the community. I was also actively involved in the Young Democrats of America and held the position of national secretary of the minority caucus.

My inspiration to pursue a political career was drawn from the lives and achievements of politicians like Thomas Jefferson and George Washington. During my participation in the 2016 Democratic National Convention in Pennsylvania, I had the opportunity to meet national leaders. In the 2016 presidential election, I founded the organization ‘Nepali for Hillary’ and actively mobilized volunteers in more than a dozen states in the US.

In 2018, I ran a successful campaign, defeating the director of the Republican Party in my area. I was re-elected to the Maryland State Legislature from the 8th district in the Nov 2022 elections, securing the highest number of votes.

A primary motivation for my involvement in politics was to advocate for and represent the interests of vulnerable people. Once an outsider in America, I worked 12 to 16-hour shifts at a gas station to make ends meet. Now, I find myself on the inside, serving as a State Delegate in Maryland. My proudest achievement is authoring 19 bills, including the Dashain Bill, which was enacted into law. I also co-sponsored many more bills, all aimed at uplifting the people of Maryland. While law-making can be complex, the essence of democracy lies in its accountability. I ventured into US politics to harness this power for the benefit of my community. As the delegate and chairman for the Maryland Legislative Asian-American and Pacific-Islander Caucus, Inc, I advocate for vulnerable communities.

Harry Bhandari (right) with Maryland Governor Wes Moore (middle) and Lt Governor Aruna Miller.

As an immigrant, I firmly believe that overlooking the concerns of Asian Americans, African Americans, and other minority communities would hinder the progress of the United States as a nation. Currently, the US is home to approximately 21m Asian Americans, a number projected to grow to 41m by 2060. During my tenure, I aspire to amplify these voices and ensure their perspectives are integrated into mainstream discourse.

My research into the political and linguistic integration of immigrants in the US has deeply influenced my approach to public service. As both an immigrant and an elected representative, my perspective has in turn shaped my research endeavors. As a lifelong student and educator, a key conclusion I've drawn from my research is the paramount importance of education as the foundation of a strong society and a thriving democracy. Consequently, my top priority remains advocating for and enhancing our educational institutions, a cause that transcends political affiliations, national origins, or socioeconomic statuses.

My focus has consistently been on aiding those in my vicinity to the best of my abilities. I feel equally at ease working in either location, driven by my unwavering commitment to a cause I am passionate about, regardless of geography.

My aspirations for Nepali leaders include concerted efforts to alleviate poverty in the country. I staunchly support the notion that educating the masses will ultimately reduce poverty and enhance the quality of life for citizens. A well-educated child contributes significantly to society. Without a strong educational foundation, addressing challenges such as the climate crisis, economic issues, and cybersecurity becomes considerably more challenging.

To the younger generation, especially those aspiring to enter the political arena, I offer the following advice: Stay well-informed about current events, social issues, and community and global policies. Engage in local activities and volunteer work. Communicate your concerns to your community's representatives. Cultivate skills, embrace diversity, and show respect for different cultures and backgrounds. Maintain an open-minded outlook, celebrate differences, and actively work toward creating a more inclusive society. Always take responsibility for your actions, consider the consequences of your decisions, maintain a positive outlook, and strive for excellence. By doing so, you can achieve your aspirations.

Beyond my legislative duties, I am a tenured faculty member. I take a leave of absence without pay during the legislative session, and when the general assembly is not in session, I work as a full-time educator. I love sharing my passion with the next generation. Additionally, I cherish my role as a loving husband and devoted father to two children. Furthermore, I have a keen interest in reading or listening to at least one book weekly, which fuels my dedication to continuous learning and personal growth.

About him

Kanti Kumari Bhandari (Mother)

I am immensely happy that my son won the election with the help of the American people. He has been helping both the Americans and the Nepali diaspora here. He always listens to the needs of people and helps them, which I like the most. I wish him all the best to continue his good deeds and contribute more to the development projects in Nepal.

Loren Henderson (Professor)

I would like to share a quote from Barack Obama that sums up what I believed for Harry and would like Harry to carry with him: ‘And where we are met with cynicism and doubt and fear and those who tell us that we can’t, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of the American people in three simple words—yes, we can.’

Chris Van Hollen (Colleague)

If anyone likes to talk about the American dream, it’s Harry Bhandari. I feel so proud that he came here to America, worked hard and now is giving back to society. He is an educator and he advocates for education for everybody. People like Harry are the ones who we like to be around with.

In a significant move, the UN General Assembly declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets on 5 March  2021. This resolution, co-proposed by Nepal, India and other nations, garnered support from 72 countries. Its aim is to spotlight the pivotal role of millets in ensuring food security, bolstering nutrition, and enhancing climate resilience.

Millets, often an underrated crop, have been quietly nurturing and sustaining the people of Nepal for centuries. These hardy grains are renowned for their adaptability to diverse and challenging agro-ecological conditions, making them a lifeline in regions with low fertility and limited resources. Compared to major cereal crops, millets stand tall with their superior nutritional value.

For many small-scale farmers grappling with infertile, arid, or upland fields and no access to irrigation or inputs, millets have emerged as a vital food source. With climate change affecting agriculture across the nation, millets offer a sustainable solution to fortify nutrition and food security, while also safeguarding biodiversity.

Nepal boasts a rich diversity of millet types, including:

1. Finger Millet (Kodo)

It is the 4th most important crop of Nepal after rice, maize and wheat in terms of area and production. The major production districts of Nepal for this crop are Khotang, Sindhupalchok, Baglung, Syangja, Kaski, Gorkha and Sindhuli. It is grown in mid-hills and high-hills low in fertility and marginal lands. The disease and pest infestation are low and need less management. Several food preparations are made from finger millet. The most common is a thick porridge locally known as ‘dhindo’ and other products are pancakes, roasted thick breads and fermented alcoholic beverages (‘raksi’).

It is high in fiber and thus digests slowly and aids in weight loss. It has 10 times more calcium than rice and wheat. It is rich in iron, phosphorus, calcium thus extremely good especially for pregnant ladies and  diabetic, uric acid and high blood pressure patients and relieves constipation and diarrhea. It has 9.25 percent protein and 76 percent carbohydrate.

2. Proso Millet (Chino)

It is the 2nd important millet in Nepal. It has the shortest growing period of 60-90 days. It can be grown with low water and fertilizer requirements where other crops can’t grow. In light of the nation's changing environment, it is the crop of the future with tremendous potential for addressing food insecurity in rural regions. Chino is used for making Bhat (boiled), kheer (pudding) and raksi (liquor). The flour can be used for making dhindo (porridge) and roti (pancake and flat bread).

Grown in Mugu, Dolpa, Humla, Jumla, Kalikot, and Jajarkot districts, Chino has phenols (anti-cancer), calcium, magnesium and iron. It lacks gluten so is safe to eat for those who are sensitive to it. Per 100-gram chino contains 55 mg iron, 55 mg calcium, 19.4 mg phosphorus, 9.7 percent protein, 73.9 percent carbohydrates and 11.9 percent crude fiber.

3. Foxtail Millet (Kaguno)

Foxtail millet (Kaguno) is the third most important crop among the group of millets. Major foxtail millet growing districts in Nepal include Mugu, Kalikot, Humla, Jumla, Bajhang, Bajura, Dolpa, Lamjung,Gorkha, Ramechhap and Kavre where crop is grown sole as well as mixed with finger millet, proso millet, beans, amaranths and sorghum, etc. The average production is 815 kg/ha. Foxtail millet is valued by mountain farmers for its nutritional content and health promoting properties, ability to grow with low input and tolerance to drought. Cooked Kaguno is used as Bhat (cooked like rice), dhindo (porridge), kheer (like rice pudding) and sweets.

It is also appreciated for medicinal benefits such as reducing blood glucose levels and cholesterol control in normal as well as diabetic patients. It contains 12.35 percent protein, 60.9 percent carbohydrates and eight percent crude fiber.

4. Sorghum (Junelo)

Sorghum is one of the four major food grains of the world. These days it is being used as biofuel in developed countries. It is cultivated in terrace bonds and used for food and fodder. A good source of iron, calcium and protein, Sorghum is an endangered millet in Nepal. Elderly people and young toddlers with brittle teeth can consume it.

5. Pearl Millet (Bajra)

Pearl millet cultivation in Nepal is very limited to small areas in the Tarai and Lower Hills. It is the most drought tolerant crop among the cereals and millets. Pearl millet has superior nutritive value to sorghum but inferior feeding value. It makes bones strong and good for diabetic patients. Many healthy dishes like Dalia, Roti, Paratha, Sweets and Pancakes can be made from pearl millet. The grain contains about 11.6 percent protein, 67 percent carbohydrates and 2.7 percent minerals.

6. Barnyard Millet (Sama)

In Nepal, its cultivation is limited to western mid-hills. A hardy crop, it can withstand adverse weather conditions better than other cereals. It is used as food for human consumption and feed for livestock and birds. It is rich in protein, Vit B-complex and helps in weight loss. Sama grain contains 6.2 percent protein, 9.8 percent crude fiber and 65.5 percent carbohydrates. 

7. Kodo Millet (Kodi)

A highly drought-resistant crop. Kodi is recommended as a substitute for rice for diabetic patients. Its straw is of poor quality and harmful to horses. It lowers cancer risk and reduces high blood pressure. Kodi contains 8.3 percent protein and 1.4 percent fat. 

To commemorate the ‘International Year of Millets 2023’, I had the privilege of meeting Finger Millet farmers in Chitwan. They cultivate millets where rice struggles to grow, using self-saved seeds and sustainable practices. Many were unaware of the nutritional goldmine they possessed.

These farmers face challenges like the blast disease, but solutions exist through improved seed varieties and disease management. During festivals, they share millet-based dishes and beverages, emphasizing the need for awareness on the nutritional and environmental benefits of millets.

It’s time for governmental and non-governmental organizations to champion millets through seminars, training and workshops, fostering their value addition. Despite lower yields, organic cultivation can bring higher prices in both national and international markets. Millets are not just grains; they are the seeds of sustainability, nutrition, and health. Let's sow the seeds of change together.

The Bill to amend and integrate laws related to education is technically more sound than previous bills as it has several well-defined provisions. But some provisions are contradictory and there’s room for improvement in the government-sponsored bill registered in the House of Representatives. For instance, it talks about teaching in mother tongue, with a rider: Teaching four subjects in English is mandatory. The bill has cited constitutional provisions on providing free basic education, without tasking any authority with their implementation.

It has stipulated selecting the chair of the school management committee from among parents. Well and good. But what about the existing school management committee federation? 

It envisions operating new private schools under Guthi (Board of Trustees), while exempting private schools already in operation from the Guthi system. What of equality? 

Overall, this bill is better than previous ones. How will teachers and other stakeholders react? Let’s wait and watch. 

The author is an educationist 

Nepal, a nation already grappling with food security concerns, now faces a growing fear of impending food scarcity. A confluence of issues on both domestic and global fronts threatens to disrupt the supply of grains and exacerbate the situation.

The outbreak of lumpy skin disease on livestock has dealt a severe blow to Nepal’s agricultural sector. This epidemic, coupled with a low monsoon rainfall and reduced rice plantation, has raised alarm bells regarding the prospects of a diminished paddy harvest.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, paddy transplantation has been affected this year due to the late onset of monsoon in Madhes, Koshi, and Bagmati provinces.

As of July 28, paddy had been transplanted on 77 percent of the 1.35m hectares of available rice paddies. Transplantation had been completed on 90 percent of the total cultivable land last year.
 

Shrinking agricultural land and rising food prices 

In addition to these domestic challenges, a decade-long trend of decreasing agricultural land has cast a shadow on food security. The recently released Agriculture Census for the fiscal year 2021/22 reveals a disconcerting decline of 0.3m hectares in agricultural land over the past decade.

According to the census conducted by the National Statistics Office (NSO), Nepal’s total area of agricultural land holdings in FY 2021/22 stood at 2.22 million hectares, down from 2.52m hectares in FY 2011/12. While the number of farming families has increased, arable land is dwindling, with fragmentation becoming a growing concern. Over the past 10 years, both the total number of land parcels and the average number of land parcels per holding have decreased, a clear indication of a more fragmented landscape.

The majority of agricultural land, approximately 1.73m hectares, is allocated for temporary crops like paddy, maize, wheat, and vegetables, but this area has seen a significant reduction in the last decade. Notably, paddy cultivation has suffered a 16 percent decrease over the same period, a trend echoed in maize and wheat production.

Nepal's food security concerns are further exacerbated by rising food prices. The price of rice, a staple food, is surging in the domestic market, primarily due to India's announcement of a global ban on the export of all rice varieties except Basmati. This decision came in response to Russia’s withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Deal amidst the Ukraine war, straining an already vulnerable global food supply chain.

Despite government reassurances of a three-month stockpile and the upcoming harvest season, panic buying persists, leaving traders capitalizing on the crisis. India's imposition of a global ban on non-Basmati rice exports has only exacerbated the problem.

“The shortage has been created because of the rice export ban by India. But we are hopeful that the new paddy will be produced after two months,” says Sitaram Chaudhary, a rice supplier in Koteshwor, Kathmandu. 

Meanwhile India has also imposed a 20 percent duty on exports of parboiled rice with immediate effect on Aug 25. India had exported 7.4m tons of parboiled rice in 2022.

India’s Ministry of Finance of India issued a notice saying that the government decided to impose export tax on all types of parboiled rice till Oct 16. 

In response to the crisis, Nepal has requested 155,000 tons of grains and sugar from India, highlighting the interconnectedness of the region's food security.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has also requested India to remove export restrictions on non-Basmati rice, noting that such restrictions are likely to exacerbate volatility in food prices in the rest of the world. 

Homnath Bhattarai, information officer at the Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection, says there is a sufficient amount of paddy and rice for the time being. 

“Even though the festival season is near, the supply chain is faring well. We will not have rice scarcity,” he claims.

Global factors amplify woes

Nepal’s plight is part of a larger global crisis, triggered by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Fertilizer price spikes, coupled with concerns about availability, are casting a long shadow over future harvests, potentially leading to sustained price increases.

The war's impact on Ukraine’s agricultural system has been catastrophic, with machinery damage, grain loss, and disrupted logistics. Many farmers have left agriculture to join Ukraine’s armed forces, and the disruption of agricultural logistics, including increased transport costs and plummeting domestic prices, adds to the crisis.

According to official estimates from Ukraine’s Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food (MAPF) and the Kyiv School of Economics (KSE) since Russia invaded Ukraine, 84,200 pieces of agricultural machinery have been totally or partially damaged, four million tons of grains and oilseeds have been destroyed or stolen, and storage for 9.4m tons of agricultural products has been damaged or destroyed.

The Black Sea Grain Initiative, designed to boost grain exports from Ukraine, has partially offset lost maritime routes with more expensive land-based export options. Rising average shipping costs for agricultural products, coupled with limited access to export routes for Ukrainian farmers, further contribute to food security concerns.

The World Food Program (WFP) reports that a record 349m people across 79 countries now face acute food insecurity due to the global crisis. Low- and middle-income, food-importing countries, particularly in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, dependent on Black Sea imports, have borne the brunt of this crisis, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) warns that a prolonged disruption of exports from Ukraine and Russia could lead to an increase of 8m to 13m undernourished people in 2022.

Pakistan floods and fertilizer shortage

Adding to the global challenges, Pakistan's recent floods have impacted rice prices, witnessing a 20-30 percent surge since September 2022, according to the International Food Policy Research Institute. Global stocks have fallen by about five percent year over year, reaching their lowest levels since 2017/18.

Floods have ravaged 1.7 million hectares of agrarian land in Pakistan, damaging major agricultural products, including rice, tomatoes, onions, wheat, and vegetables. The country now faces the risk of food scarcity as a result of these environmental challenges.

Environmental factors, such as the rapid emergence of El Niño and a forecasted positive Indian Ocean Dipole or the Indian Niño, also raise concerns about potential impacts on rice production in South and Southeast Asia.

Moreover, disruptions in global fertilizer markets in 2022 are affecting rice production. China, a major exporter of nitrogen-based and phosphate-based fertilizers to Asia, implemented trade restrictions that significantly reduced exports, causing a spike in fertilizer prices.

Rice is a fertilizer-intensive crop, and 2022 saw large disruptions in global fertilizer markets. 

China, a major exporter of nitrogen-based (N) and phosphate-based (P) fertilizers to many Asian markets, implemented trade restrictions in October 2021 that sharply reduced exports of fertilizer products such as diammonium phosphate (DAP) and urea. Chinese DAP exports, which typically account for 30 percent of global DAP trade, fell by 43 percent in 2022 compared with 2021, while Chinese urea exports declined by 47 percent in the same time frame.

Countries in South Asia and Southeast Asia, responsible for nearly 60 percent of global rice production and over 80 percent of global rice exports, depend heavily on fertilizer imports. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has further exacerbated the global fertilizer price crisis, raising concerns about its impact on future yields.

The global food security crisis underscores the need for coordinated international efforts to address these multifaceted issues. As nations grapple with interconnected challenges, ensuring food security has become a critical imperative.

For Nepal, the ability to mitigate the impending food crisis largely hinges on the formulation and execution of a comprehensive action plan to boost food grain production.

Rice imports from India in MT

Year 2020/21 2021/22 2022/23

Non-Basmati 1,284,631 1,387,355 765,455

Basmati 9,090 19,336 46,593