Ongoing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Training for Winter Vegetables Across Seven Locations
12 Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Farmers Field Schools (FFS) are currently in session for winter season vegetables (cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, onion, tomato) at seven locations of the NLPR II. Participants are actively learning IPM practices, preparing biopesticides and biofertilizers, and studying the lifecycle of key insects and pests for each crop through an insect zoo. The farmers are also monitoring the growth of their crops on a weekly basis, recording data in the AESA format.
Additionally, the groups have received seeds for summer season vegetables (cucurbits) to adopt the practices and grow them in nurseries. Farmers’ knowledge is being assessed through the Ballot Box Test (BBT). While most FFS are midway through their learning process, some are approaching the conclusion of their sessions.
43 Students Enrolled in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program at CNRM, Pokhara
Forty-three undergraduate students are currently enrolled in the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Student Farmers Field School (SFFS) at the College of Natural Resource Management (CNRM) in Pokhara-19, under Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU). The SFFS is a season-long program designed to teach students IPM practices specifically for potato cultivation. The students are gaining knowledge on both harmful and beneficial insects of the crop, the impact of different varieties and spacing in potato farming, and the biocontrol methods for managing pests in cauliflower.
Animal Health Camp Held in Rupa Rural Municipality, Kaski, Benefiting 57 Livestock Farmers
An animal health camp was successfully conducted in Rupa Rural Municipality, Ward No. 3, Polyang, Kaski, with the participation of 57 livestock farmers. The event received technical support from a veterinary doctor and two staff members from the Livestock Department of Rupa Rural Municipality. During the camp, 114 dung samples from cattle and buffalo were collected for testing. Based on the results, animal health consultations were provided, and medications for various ecto- and endo-parasites, diseases, bloating, and other conditions were distributed as recommended by the veterinary doctor. Additionally, consultations were offered on various animal health and management issues affecting buffalo, cows, bulls, goats, pigs, and dogs.
Handover Program of Honey Processing Unit at Kaski to Boost Local Production
NLRP II, in collaboration with Rupa Rural Municipality in Kaski, Nepal, has launched a significant initiative to boost local honey production with the establishment of a new Honey Processing Unit in Kaure, Rupa, Kaski. This project, part of the NLRP-II initiative, equips local beekeepers with the tools and training necessary to enhance both their honey production and income.
Caritas Nepal has contributed a 200 kg capacity double-heating honey processing machine, along with filling and sealing machines and a water tank, while Rupa Rural Municipality renovated and prepared the installation space for the unit. During its inauguration, 15 farmers processed 84 kilograms of honey, gaining valuable experience in modern honey processing techniques.
The center aims to process over 2,000 kilograms of honey this year, providing a significant boost to the local economy and offering consumers high-quality, locally sourced honey. This initiative reflects a strong commitment to supporting rural communities and promoting sustainable livelihoods through beekeeping.
Empowering Farmers and Promoting Entrepreneurship: NLRP-II Project’s Skill Development Initiatives
The NLRP-II project has been instrumental in fostering economic growth and entrepreneurship through various skill development programs aimed at empowering farmers. In Banke’s Baijanath Rural Municipality, 19 women successfully completed training on producing low-cost handmade incense. During the ceremony, Ward Chairperson Rup Bahadur Malla awarded certificates to the participants and encouraged them to explore group entrepreneurship to enhance market access.
Meanwhile, in Kanchanpur, 18 farmers, and in Nawalpur, 20 farmers were trained in goat rearing techniques. The training sessions were led by Dr. Shyam Krishna Tiwari, Livestock Development Officer of Devchuli Municipality, Nawalpur. In addition to practical skills in animal husbandry, the farmers were also provided with business plan development training, empowering them to create and manage their own businesses.
These initiatives are part of a broader effort to stimulate local economies and improve livelihoods by equipping individuals with practical skills and supporting their entrepreneurial ambitions.
Promoting Inclusivity and Equality: GESDI Module Classes Begin Across Multiple Districts
A 15-week Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GESDI) module has commenced in schools across Lalitpur, Bardia, Kanchanpur, and Kaski districts, with 133 children participating in the program. The classes are being led by teachers from the respective schools who have completed the Training of Trainers (TOT) course on GESDI sensitization.
This module aims to raise awareness and foster a deeper understanding of GESDI principles among students, promoting a more inclusive and equitable learning environment. The 15-week duration provides ample time for in-depth exploration of these important topics, encouraging critical thinking and positive behavioral changes among young learners. Through this initiative, the project seeks to create a more inclusive society by equipping children with the knowledge to recognize and embrace diversity and equality.
Capacity Building for Local Mediators: Training and Meeting Held in Dailekh and Kaski
A meeting of judicial and mediation center members, including social protection volunteers, was held in Bhagatiwatimai Rural Municipality, Dailekh, with 14 participants. The meeting focused on coordinating the resolution of local issues and improving access to social protection services.
Additionally, a two-day refresher training was conducted in Kaski to build the capacity of mediators at rural municipality and ward office mediation centers. The session was led by Advocate Hari Prasad Pandit and Bhuvan Parajuli, with 45 participants in attendance. The training aimed to enhance the skills and knowledge of mediators, ensuring they are well-equipped to resolve disputes effectively within their communities.
Strengthening Local Cooperatives: NLRP-II Program Enhances Leadership and Governance Skills
The NLRP-II program is strengthening 11 local cooperatives across 10 districts through capacity-building support for leaders and staff. A three-day leadership training in Dailekh equipped 27 participants with skills in effective management, governance, and member participation.
An inter-cooperative workshop in Jhapa brought together 30 members from the cooperatives to share knowledge, network, and collaborate. Additionally, support for Bhumikot Consumer Cooperative’s AGM ensured a transparent process, fostering trust and sustainability.
Cooperative management training further improved the skills of board members and staff in financial management, loan processing, and business planning, key to the cooperatives’ long-term success.
Building Leadership and Creativity: NLRP II Enhances Child Clubs in 10 Districts
NLRP II is partnering with 11 schools across 10 districts to develop children’s leadership skills and strengthen child clubs. Weekly extracurricular activities are being organized to foster creativity, active engagement, and collaboration among students.
Recently, a one-day wall magazine writing training was held for members of the Srijanshil Shanti Child Club in Panchapuri, Surkhet, and the Janchetana Child Club in Bardiya. A total of 51 students participated, gaining valuable skills in communication and teamwork through this creative initiative.
