Kathmandu, August 20, 2025
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Nepal, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MoALD), the National Cooperative Federation of Nepal (NACCFL), and other partners, has initiated a major effort to strengthen livelihoods and food systems in Bardiya district.
The first Project Steering Committee meeting of the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program (GAFSP)-funded project was held this week, marking the formal beginning of coordinated action to transform the lives of women, youth, and the Tharu community in western Nepal.
The project aims to build stronger agricultural value chains, open better markets for farmers, and promote home-grown nutritious food for families. Central to its approach are climate-smart farming practices, resilient livestock management, and inclusive development models that directly address the needs of marginalized communities.
According to FAO Nepal, these initiatives will not only enhance household income and nutrition but also provide hope for a sustainable future in a region heavily reliant on agriculture. By focusing on women and youth, the program intends to empower the next generation of farmers and entrepreneurs while uplifting the historically marginalized Tharu community.
Officials highlighted that the integration of climate resilience into farming and livestock systems will help smallholders cope with increasing climate risks, while market linkages and cooperative-led approaches will ensure fairer opportunities for producers.
The GAFSP-funded project in Bardiya is expected to serve as a model for strengthening food systems and rural livelihoods across Nepal.
