Cultivating Change: Economic Empowerment Through Organic Farming in Pharping

At Rukmini Foundation, we believe that empowering women is the cornerstone of building stronger, healthier communities. With the generous support of the All People Be Happy Foundation (APBH), we are thrilled to launch a new initiative in Pharping that does exactly that: an organic vegetable farming project designed to create economic opportunities for women while nourishing the next generation.

This project will directly supply fresh, organic produce to the mid-day meal program at Setidevi Secondary School, creating a powerful link between women’s economic empowerment and student nutrition.

Laying the Groundwork: Project Preparation (August 2025)

The project began to take root in August with the careful selection of three women from the Talku community—all mothers of students at Setidevi School—to participate in the program. Our team conducted field visits to identify suitable land and finalized plans for greenhouse construction and farm layout.

The planning phase was bolstered by a visit from Bibi, a representative from our partner, APBH. Her time in Nepal included observing our programs, meeting the team, and interacting with both students and the selected women. Her visit underscored the profound importance of initiatives that intertwine women’s empowerment with broader community development and student well-being.

Sowing the Seeds: Project Launch (September 2025)

This September, the project moves from planning to active implementation. The upcoming activities include:

• Training in Organic Farming: Participants will receive hands-on training in seed selection, composting, natural pest management, and sustainable farming practices.

• Greenhouse Construction: Protective tunnels will be constructed to enable year-round vegetable production, regardless of the season.

• Provision of Resources: We will provide all necessary resources, including seeds, tools, compost, and irrigation support, to ensure a successful and efficient start.

• Vegetable Supply & Market Linkages: The primary harvest will supply the school’s mid-day meal program. Any surplus produce will be sold in local markets, generating vital income for the women.

• Community & Technical Support: We are collaborating closely with the Agriculture Division of Dakshinkali Municipality and the local Ward Office to ensure expert technical guidance and foster strong community ownership.

The Harvest of Change: Expected Outcomes

We expect this project to yield a bounty of positive outcomes:

• Economic Empowerment: Women will gain practical, income-generating farming skills.

• Increased Household Income: Revenue from vegetable sales will directly support family needs.

• Improved Student Nutrition: School meals will be enhanced with fresh, organic, and locally sourced vegetables.

• Sustainable Practices: The use of greenhouses and efficient irrigation will ensure consistent production.

• Community Engagement: The project strengthens collaboration between women, schools, and local authorities.

• Skill Development & Leadership: Participants will become role models and leaders within their community.

• Caption for photo 3: Students enjoy a nutritious meal at Setidevi Secondary School. The new farming project will ensure a steady supply of fresh, organic produce for the mid-day meal program.

A Sustainable Future

The Rukmini Foundation is committed to the long-term success of this project. We will provide ongoing mentorship, help establish stable market linkages, and ensure the project continues to thrive for years to come. Setidevi School has committed to regularly procuring vegetables from the women’s group, creating a sustainable cycle that benefits everyone.

Empowering Women, Nourishing Communities

This initiative embodies our core belief: by investing in women, we invest in the entire community. With continued support from APBH, we are not just teaching farming; we are cultivating change. We are equipping women with the skills and resources to build self-reliance, strengthening household incomes, and enhancing community resilience.

Simultaneously, Setidevi Secondary School in Talku gains a reliable source of healthy food for its students. Together, we are demonstrating how a single, collaborative project can foster sustainable growth and create a healthier, more self-reliant future for all.