Youth Action Fund|

My journey in Barbardiya Municipality, Nepal, was a deeply transformative experience where we introduced fungal extract decomposers to manage crop stubble, fostering eco-friendly farming practices. This initiative not only enriched my understanding of sustainable agriculture but also provided valuable lessons in community engagement and resilience.

The journey began with collaborations that laid a strong foundation for success. Working with Purak Asia and the Indian Agriculture Research Institute (IARI) in Pusa, New Delhi, I was exposed to cutting-edge research and innovative solutions tailored to local challenges. Formalizing our efforts through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Barbardiya Municipality ensured smooth coordination and the trust of local stakeholders. This partnership reinforced the importance of aligning scientific expertise with the practical needs of farming communities.

Raising awareness among the local population was a crucial step. We launched extensive campaigns that included orientation sessions for elected officials and members of the Barbardiya Social Women Entrepreneurship Cooperative. By distributing Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials to over 1,000 farmers, we ensured that the message of sustainable crop residue management reached a broad audience. Local radio broadcasts and newspaper coverage amplified our outreach, spreading awareness to even the most remote corners of the municipality. Engaging directly with farmers was the heart of the initiative. We selected 20 farmers, one from each ward, based on their regular cultivation of paddy and wheat and their willingness to adopt new methods. These farmers underwent hands-on training to prepare fungal extract cultures, a critical step in managing crop stubble sustainably. Providing them with the necessary materials, including molasses, chickpea powder, and protective gear, empowered them to take ownership of the process. Field demonstrations on paddy residues further showcased the effectiveness of the decomposers, fostering confidence among participants.

Despite the successes, challenges emerged that tested our resolve. The fungal cultures’ sensitivity to cold weather highlighted the need for further research to enhance their adaptability to local climatic conditions. Limited access to comprehensive environmental data posed another hurdle, underscoring the importance of integrating data-driven approaches in future initiatives. These challenges, however, became opportunities to learn the value of flexibility and innovation.

The journey has left an indelible mark on me, shaping my perspective on sustainable development. Looking ahead, I am motivated to expand this initiative by conducting trials during the dry season to test the effectiveness of fungal decomposers on wheat stubble. Simplifying the preparation protocols for these decomposers will be a key focus, ensuring that they are accessible and user-friendly for all farmers. Advocacy for broader adoption and government collaboration will remain central to our efforts.This project was more than an agricultural endeavor; it was a testament to the power of collaboration, education, and community-driven action. By empowering farmers with sustainable alternatives, we are addressing critical issues like air pollution and soil degradation while enhancing productivity. This journey has reaffirmed my belief in the potential of local communities to drive meaningful change, paving the way for a future where agriculture and nature thrive in harmony.

Hands on training to farmers for culture of extract and materials distribution
News coverage in local daily newspaper

Kiran Bhandari

Kiran Bhandari is a veterinarian and sustainable agriculture researcher pioneering fungal decomposer use in Nepal for crop stubble management. He collaborates with farmers and researchers to promote eco-friendly farming through innovation, training, and community engagement.

This article is a product of the Youth Action Fund – Insights to Social Impact, an initiative supported by Purak Asia. The Youth Action Fund is a four-month fellowship program designed to empower young individuals to implement innovative solutions addressing critical societal challenges. The program focuses on themes such as Sustainable Future, Effective Governance, and Alternative Approaches to Rural Economic Issues. It provides essential support and guidance to youth-led initiatives, encouraging their efforts to establish social enterprises and develop creative solutions for governance and sustainability challenges.

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