Sowing Knowledge, Reaping Prosperity: How Dhan Bahadur Transformed His Farm and Future

                                                                                                                     Dhan Bahadur Rawat in his flourishing organic farm

Dhan Bahadur Rawat, a resident of Koldada, Birendranagar–2, Surkhet, lives with his wife, son, and sister. Despite completing higher secondary education, he struggled to support his family through traditional farming.

A year ago, he leased seven ropani of land to start commercial farming. He set up a plastic tunnel for tomatoes, two mushroom houses, and grew seasonal vegetables like cucumber, gourd, okra, beans, and chili. Despite the large area under cultivation, his returns remained low and profitability uncertain.

The turning point came when he joined the Sundari Farmer Field School (FFS), formed under the Skill Up! Project, implemented by CEAPRED with support from Welthungerhilfe. As FFS secretary, he received training in climate-resilient and organic farming practices. His farm was later developed into a Climate Smart Learning Centre.

He adopted climate smart practices, including off-season vegetable production, raised beds, organic inputs like Bokashi Mal and Jhol Mal, and better staking and spacing methods. He also completed a 60-day Commercial Vegetable Farming Training and attended in an Enterprise Incubation Program in Chitwan, where he gained hands-on experience in nursery management, organic fertilizer preparation, irrigation systems, pest control, and post-harvest handling.

With a mini-tiller provided through a 50% cost-sharing arrangement through Skill up project, farm efficiency improved significantly, reducing labor and preparation time. Today, Dhan Bahadur runs a modern organic farm with confidence. In fiscal year 2082, he earned approximately NPR 500,000 from vegetable sales. Reflecting on his journey, he says, “I used to struggle with basic expenses. Now I plan with knowledge and confidence. My income has grown, and I feel proud when others come to learn from my farm.”                                                             

Dhan Bahadur and his wife harvesting fresh vegetables

His success has inspired fellow farmers, and his farm now serves as a learning site for climate-smart and organic agriculture practices.

 

Story and photo: Archana Gautam