Morang, July 31, 2025
In the eastern heart of rural Nepal, a remarkable story of transformation and resilience is unfolding. What began as a small network of self-help groups (SHGs) has now grown into a powerful symbol of sustainable grassroots development. Registered officially in 2068 B.S. (2011 A.D.), Digopan Sustainable Empowerment Women’s Cooperative (SEWC) today stands as a beacon of self-reliance, sustainability, and collective empowerment.
"Digopan" - meaning sustainability in Nepali - is more than just a name. It’s a lived reality for over 1,000 women and 17 men who are part of this cooperative. What started as informal savings circles contributing as little as Rs. 10 to Rs. 50 per month has evolved into a formal financial network where members now contribute Rs. 200 monthly, enabling long-term community investment.
The roots of Digopan trace back to a Cornerstone training facilitated by Heifer International, particularly inspired by Cornerstone 4: Sustainability and Self-Reliance. Members say the training didn’t just teach skills - it reshaped their mindset. “We began to believe in our own potential. We saw that we had value. And that together, we had real power,” one founding member reflected.
Since its formal registration with 28 SHGs, Digopan has expanded to include 72 groups and 1,055 share members, largely led by women from farming and marginalized communities. Their activities range from goat farming and meat sales to animal feed distribution, insurance services, and local product marketing. In addition, the cooperative is embracing digital tools such as GeoKrishi, Fonepay, and QR code systems to modernize their operations and improve outreach.
Their recent recognition by the local community - a money counting machine gifted to the cooperative - symbolizes not only growing financial literacy but also community pride in Digopan’s achievements.
Despite numerous challenges - from limited infrastructure to fluctuating markets - Digopan has remained steadfast in its mission. “We weren’t looking for short-term fixes. We wanted something real: strength, dignity, and a future we could stand on with pride,” shared a cooperative leader.
As International Year of Cooperatives 2025 (IYC2025) puts a global spotlight on inclusive and sustainable economies, Digopan SEWC serves as a powerful local example. It demonstrates how empowered women, community-led planning, and consistent commitment to sustainability can bring about lasting change.
Key Highlights
Founded: Informally in 2065 B.S., officially registered in 2068 B.S.
Members: 1,055 share members (predominantly women)
SHGs: 72 active groups
Economic Sectors: Goat farming, animal feed, insurance, meat sales, local product marketing
Tech Tools Used: GeoKrishi, Fonepay, QR Code systems
Recent Recognition: Gifted a money counting machine by the local community
In a world seeking models of grassroots resilience and inclusive growth, Digopan proves that real sustainability begins when communities believe in themselves - and in each other.
