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Location: Asia

As a fast growing region with increasing challenges for smallholder farmers, Asia is a key target region for CIMMYT. CIMMYT’s work stretches from Central Asia to southern China and incorporates system-wide approaches to improve wheat and maize productivity and deliver quality seed to areas with high rates of child malnutrition. Activities involve national and regional local organizations to facilitate greater adoption of new technologies by farmers and benefit from close partnerships with farmer associations and agricultural extension agents.

Building a sustainable hybrid seed market system in Nepal to enhance food security and farmers’ profitability: transforming the seed sector through local capacity development

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

Hybrid maize seed production field at Kailali district in Nepal (Photo:AbduRahman Beshir/CIMMYT)

Nepal, a Himalayan nation with substantial agricultural potential, has a maize seed market valued at over $100 million. Yet in 2023, only 15% of the national demand for quality maize seed was met. Historically, the country has relied heavily on imports to supply hybrid maize seeds, which account for approximately 15–20% of the cultivated maize area.

To address this challenge, CIMMYT, in collaboration with the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC) and local private seed companies, has embarked on a transformative journey to strengthen domestic hybrid maize seed production and marketing systems. The results have been impressive: winter-season hybrid seed production has increased from just 4.5 metric tons in 2018 — when local hybrid seed efforts began — to 200 metric tons by 2023/24. This growth has been fueled by hybrid maize varieties developed by CIMMYT and released by NARC, which continue to drive this upward trend.

Manesh Patel, President of Asia and Pacific Seed Association (APSA), reflected on his experience on Nepal’s evolving seed industry during the recent International Seed Conference in Kathmandu: “About 10 or 12 years ago, I had the opportunity to interact with the seed stakeholders in Nepal. At that time, the seed sector was not viable, and the role of the private sector was minimal. Now, I am impressed to see such transformative initiatives in Nepal’s seed sector.”

Patel acknowledged the vital role of CIMMYT and other stakeholders, particularly under the Nepal Seed and Fertilizer Project (NSAF) in driving this transformation. The local seed companies have been instrumental in scaling hybrid seed production, by leveraging the technical, human, and institutional capacity development support provided by CIMMYT and partners.

Hybrid seed production hubs — a model to foster agile seed business

Under the NSAF project, CIMMYT partnered with ten Nepalese seed companies and farmers’ cooperatives to establish hybrid seed production hubs. Previously, companies operated in a fragmented and inefficient manner, resulting in elevated production costs. To address this, the project identified strategic production hubs where farmers could pool their land and produce seeds in an adjacent, coordinated seed production. The districts of Dang, Kapilvastu, and Kailali emerged as key hubs, now hosting at least six seed companies working collaboratively to streamline hybrid maize seed production.

Spearheaded by collaborative efforts between public and private stakeholders, these hubs are contributing to Nepal’s seed sector by centralizing resources, technology, and expertise. Since 2020/21, these hubs have served as key focal points for the production of quality hybrid seeds and for advancing improvements across the seed value chain. Notable outcomes of the model include:

  • Bringing breeders, agronomists, and technical experts together for knowledge transfer and streamlined seed multiplication which enhances efficiency.
  • Enhancing seed quality through centralized facilities, and land pooling, which reduces cross-contamination of the seed field and ensures rigorous quality control.
  • Reducing costs through centralized operations, which lowers production cost and makes hybrid seeds more affordable and accessible.
  • Strengthening the supply chain helps to enhance timely seed availability.

The Dang hub stands as a testament to the success of Nepal’s emerging hybrid seed production model. Between 2020/21 and 2023/24, the production area expanded by more than 300%, seed production rose by an impressive 1,450%, and farmer participation increased by 290%.

This extraordinary growth was made possible through a strong public-private ecosystem, including support from the Prime Minister Agriculture Modernization Project (PMAMP), which facilitated mechanization as seed companies scaled their operations. In 2023/24 alone, the hub produced enough hybrid maize seed to plant 10,000 hectares — yielding nearly $25 million in grain value that would otherwise have been met through costly imports.

Tripling farmers’ incomes and creating rural job opportunities

Nepal faces significant rural outmigration, as economic pressures and shifting aspirations drive many men and youth to seek opportunities elsewhere leading to depopulation and increasing abandonment of farmland. In their absence, women now comprise an estimated 60–70% of the rural workforce, often balancing farm labor with household responsibilities. Amid these challenges, the hybrid seed business model is proving transformative. By enabling farmers to generate higher returns from smaller plots and creating rural employment opportunities for both women and men, it offers a path to revitalizing rural livelihoods and strengthening local economies.

A women farmer engaged in detasseling operation of hybrid maize seed field at Kapilvastu district in Nepal (Photo: CIMMYT/Nepal)

Farmers like Ganesh Choudhary and Yuvraj Chaudhary exemplify this success. Ganesh transitioned from wheat farming to hybrid maize seed production at the Kailali hub under a contract with Unique Seed Company. In just one season, his income tripled, earning $1,980 compared to $660 from wheat on the same plot of land. Similarly, Yuvraj, working with Gorkha Seed Company at the Dang hub, earned $2,400 in his second year, three times more than his previous income—after receiving targeted training and technical support.

Additionally, key operations in hybrid seed production, such as detasseling and roughing, have created employment opportunities for rural women, who manage over 60% of these tasks. The financial security offered by buyback guarantees from the seed companies, combined with the efficiency of clustered land management, has provided farmers with a more sustainable pathway to improved livelihoods. This approach not only addresses economic challenges but also helps curb migration and empowers rural communities.

Maintaining the momentum

The modest beginnings of hybrid seed production are ushering in a new era for Nepal’s seed sector and represent a beacon of hope for its broader agricultural transformation. By effectively integrating seed companies, public research institutions, cooperatives, and government support, Nepal is poised to build a resilient seed market system — one that enhances farmer livelihoods and bolsters the national economy.

To sustain and consolidate these gains, continued collaboration and partnership among stakeholders is essential. Building on the strong foundation laid and maintaining momentum will require, among other efforts:

  • Policy support by the government to encourage hybrid seed production and provide necessary resources, particularly to hybrid seed startups.
  • Foster private sector engagement and strengthen partnerships with seed companies to ensure long-term market viability.
  • Institutional capacity building and investment in training programs for farmers, agronomists, and technical staff to maintain and enhance the quality of hybrid seeds.
  • Strengthening research and development, particularly to develop and deploy new hybrid varieties suited to diverse agro-ecological zones and market segments.
  • Enhance financial access to credit and insurance for seed companies, seed growers to mitigate risks and encourage investment.

The remarkable progress in hybrid seed production driven by coordinated public-private efforts marks a pivotal shift for Nepal’s agricultural future. Beyond reducing dependence on costly imports, this momentum is laying the foundation for a resilient, self-sufficient seed sector. It holds the promise of greater food security, increased farmer incomes, and long-term sustainability. With continued investment and collaboration, Nepal is not only transforming its seed systems but also empowering its rural communities and securing a more prosperous agricultural economy for generations to come.

From CGIAR Research to Action: Strengthening Science-Policy Linkages

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

CGIAR is the world’s largest agricultural innovation network and a global leader in research for development. Over the past five decades, its investments have delivered tenfold returns—yielding more abundant and affordable food while reducing hunger, poverty, and land use (1). Today’s food systems face multiple, interconnected challenges – ranging from production inefficiencies and nutritional disparities to social exclusion and environmental degradation. These issues are further intensified by climate change, geopolitical instability, and systemic inequality. Tackling them demands coordinated, multisectoral responses and stronger collaboration with the public sector, particularly policymakers (2). There is a well-recognized gap between science and policy, driven in part by the technical complexity of research outputs. Policymakers often face challenges in interpreting and applying scientific findings, which hinders the uptake of evidence-based solutions. Therefore, there is a need for simplified and tailored research communication to broader audiences, particularly for policymakers in target countries.

“To truly make a difference, research must speak the language of policy: Science without policy is just academia; policy without science is just guesswork.”

For research and innovation to effectively influence and inform policy, researchers must go beyond simply presenting evidence and engage deeply with the policy-making context. By understanding the multiple factors policymakers consider and by building genuine and trust-based partnerships, researchers can significantly improve the chances that their work will shape and inform effective, actionable policy (3).

What a researcher should know for effective science-policy communication

To communicate effectively with policymakers, researchers must understand the broader policymaking context and constraints faced by decision-makers responsible for crafting and implementing policy in a target country. Policymakers weigh multiple dimensions – political, economic, social, and logistical – before adopting innovations. Successful research-to-policy translation hinges on addressing these dimensions holistically.

Key dimensions policymakers consider

Political Acceptability: Innovations must align with current political agendas and priorities to secure regulatory and financial support. Political will and leadership are often decisive enablers – without them, even the most technically sound innovations may stall.

Social Desirability: Policies are more likely to succeed when they address pressing societal needs, resonate with public values, and enhance quality of life. Public support and broad adoption are essential for long-term sustained impact.

Technical Feasibility: Innovations should be practical, scalable, and implementable with available technologies and systems. If an innovation is too complex, unreliable, or difficult to implement, it risks being unsustainable or rejected.

Financial Viability: Policymakers assess whether innovations are economically feasible, offer a clear return on investment, and align with existing budgetary constraints. Financial sustainability encourages both public and private sector participation.

Administrative Doability: For policy innovations to succeed, they must be implementable within current administrative systems. Clear procedures for implementation and monitoring are essential. Administrative complexity can be a significant barrier.

Judicial Tenability: Innovations must comply with existing legal frameworks. If legal adaptation is required, there must be a strong, evidence-based justification to support such changes and ensure alignment with constitutional or regulatory standards.

Emotional Relatability: Innovations that resonate emotionally by addressing people’s concerns, fears, and aspirations are more likely to gain public acceptance.

Environmental Sustainability: Minimizing environmental impact and promoting resource efficiency are increasingly important, as policymakers face mounting pressure to support long-term ecological balance.

Challenges in Research-Policy Engagement

  • Limited interactions and weak personal engagement between researchers and policymakers result in infrequent use of empirical evidence in policymaking.
  • Significant differences exist in decision-making processes, norms, and cultures between researchers and policymakers.
  • Additional barriers include differing institutional cultures, and a lack of incentives or training for effective policy engagement.

Effective Strategies for Bridging the Gap

  • Training researchers to understand the policymaking process, improve communication, and build relationships with policymakers.
  • Combining direct instruction (didactic training) and experiential learning (hands-on engagement) to reinforce both knowledge and practical engagement is most effective.
  • A structured approach designed to build researchers’ policy competencies and support policy engagement through iterative phases, including policy priority identification, network development, training, and ongoing collaboration.
  • Prioritize continuous feedback, relationship building, and responsiveness to current policy needs.
  • Research institutions should adjust incentive structures (such as tenure and promotion criteria) to recognize and encourage policy engagement.
  • Institutions should support research activities that directly align with policy priorities and opportunities.
  • Effectively translating research into policy is an interactive and collaborative process. Building trust, keeping communication open, and forming strong relationships with policymakers are key to success. Engaging early, particularly during the agenda-setting stage, helps ensure that research tackles relevant policy issues and anticipates potential implementation challenges.
  • Involving policymakers and stakeholders through co-design enhances the relevance and utility of research findings. This approach helps identify potential barriers, align expectations, and build shared ownership of both the research and the resulting policies.
  • Researchers must tailor their communication for policy audiences by turning complex evidence into clear, practical messages. Using data alongside compelling stories can build trust and encourage engagement, making the case for innovation more convincing.
  • Understanding the broader policy environment is critical. Researchers should understand the institutional, legal, and administrative context in which policy decisions occur. Identifying key policy actors and knowing their roles, motivations, and limitations is essential for effective engagement.

Practical Strategies for Researchers

  • Engage policymakers early and regularly to co-create research agendas and ensure the work remains relevant.
  • Build long-term relationships grounded in trust and mutual understanding.
  • Communicate findings clearly in policy-relevant terms, combining data with compelling narratives.
  • Show how the innovation tackles pressing local issues and has the potential to scale effectively.
  • Identify and address possible barriers – political, financial, administrative, legal, and social – before recommending policy adoption.

CIMMYT in Bangladesh is actively engaging with policymakers. As part of the ongoing research project Transforming Smallholder Food Systems in South Asia (RUPANTAR), we explored the political economy of policies for sustainable agriculture in Bangladesh. The findings were published in an international peer-reviewed journal to share insights with policymakers. The article attracted only around 80 readers – mostly researchers. In contrast, a simplified policy brief based on the same findings reached over 1,800 readers in a few months, the majority of whom were based in Bangladesh. This highlights the importance of making research more accessible and actionable.

CGIAR is well-positioned to address these challenges. In response, CGIAR has launched its unique Scaling for Impact (S4I) program to better align research with real-world needs (4). It emphasizes demand signaling, building partnerships, understanding the policy landscape, and supporting structured scaling. In particular, S4I’s focus areas include identifying stakeholder needs and shaping enabling policies that support CGIAR’s broader impact goals.

  1. Thornton P, Dijkman J, Herrero M, Szilagyi L, Cramer L. Aligning vision and reality in publicly funded agricultural research for development: A case study of CGIAR. Food Policy. 2022 [cited 2025 May 11];107:102196. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodpol.2021.102196 
  2. UNEP. Strengthening the Science-Policy Interface: a Gap Analysis. United Nations Environment Programme Nairobi; 2017.
  3. Ruhl JB, Posner SM, Ricketts TH. Engaging policy in science writing: Patterns and strategies. Plos One.2019 [cited 2025 May 11];14(8):e0220497. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0220497
  4. CGIAR. 2024. Scaling for Impact Program: Full design document. Agenda item SC21-05a, 21st CGIAR System Council meeting, Berlin, Germany, 11-12 December 2024. Montpellier: CGIAR

Rita Devi’s Small Farmers Large Field model revives agriculture in Bihar

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

Above: Farmers carrying potatoes harvested from the field (Photo: TAFSSA)

Bihar’s economy is driven by agriculture, which employs more than half of the workforce. With a yield of 27,654 kg per hectare from 330,000 hectares of land, Bihar accounts for 17% of India’s total potato production, behind only Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. But the agricultural land is fraught with challenges: small and marginal farmers, who on average own less than 2 hectares of land, account for 97% of the landholdings. This creates less-than-ideal conditions for productive agriculture.

In Bihar’s largest potato-producing belt, a plethora of challenges make farming unprofitable: bottlenecks in getting good quality seeds, unaffordability of pesticides and fertilizers, the prevalence of crop pests and diseases, poor market prices at harvest time, and inadequate knowledge of good agronomic practices—all lead to lower net returns. Nalanda’s farmers are finding ways to make farming more profitable, productive, sustainable, and rewarding.

If this does not happen, farming will soon cease to be a lucrative—or even viable—livelihood.

Rita Devi, a 47-year-old farmer from Bihar, is one of 103 innovative farmers demonstrating new ways to tackle agricultural challenges through the Small Farmers Large Fields (SFLF) project, implemented by Transforming Agrifood Systems in South Asia (TAFSSA) in partnership with the International Potato Center (CIP).

Rita Devi inherited an acre of land after her husband’s prolonged illness and demise during the COVID-19 pandemic three years ago.

But she can’t imagine a world in which farming is a sustainable livelihood for her or future generations. “It’s hard to see profits in agriculture,” she sighs. “As long as the land size is small, how can the profits increase? The profits remain tiny, too.” For small farmers like Rita Devi, who are financially precarious, farming is neither a lucrative livelihood nor an aspirational lifestyle.

Rita Devi saw a glimmer of hope in the form of the SFLF program when she saw some people touring the village in September 2022, talking about farming in a new light.

Aggregation as a solution to farmers’ woes

In the field, TAFSSA staff at the International Potato Center (CIP), with support from the NGO Jeevika, mobilized farmers to pilot the SFLF collective action farming model.

Under the SFLF model, participating farmers organize themselves into groups to increase their collective bargaining power.

They buy inputs and secure farm services collectively from providers and achieve significant savings through bulk purchases; they improve their production practices and use quality seeds. Ultimately, their crops receive a premium for quality and volume.

The TAFSSA team planned to spread knowledge about improved farming practices among farmers and then use their collective bargaining power to procure better resources and prices. They started the initiative with training sessions.

Rajiv Ranjan, TAFSSA’s field coordinator and a farmer, said, “Varietal knowledge of seeds and crops was inadequate among farmers. They had no idea about the new varieties or how the different varieties performed.”

The training sessions combined presentations and interactive discussions with farmers, using visual aids such as photos and diagrams to enhance understanding. Key topics included field and seed preparation, high-yielding and disease-resistant crop varieties, irrigation optimization, and precision fertilizer application. Farmers also learned about preventive and reactive approaches to weed and disease management, and post-harvest handling and storage techniques.

Better seed quality means better yields. Better bargaining power helped farmers get a better price for their crop (Photo: TAFFSA)

Connecting with farmers through the Small Farmers Large Fields pilot

Rita Devi decided to attend the training sessions in December 2022 to learn more about farming and explore how this new knowledge would help her reduce the costs of farming. Her main motivation was to improve her crop yield, which would be financially rewarding.

When TAFSSA staff first entered the villages and interacted with the farmers, many of them had their doubts about the interventions. International Potato Center (CIP) staff continued to meet with farmers in the villages and explain the benefits of collective farming. In the beginning, a few large farmers joined the program, and this led to the adoption of the practices by other small farmers. Trust was built over time.

The International Potato Center (CIP) developed a comprehensive Package of Practice (PoP) with illustrations of key field operations, major pests, and diseases. Accompanied by concise guidelines on input application methods, fertilizer and pesticide dosages, and timing during the crop cycle, the PoP was translated into Hindi, printed as a leaflet, and distributed to farmers in both pilot sites. Designed as a quick reference guide, the leaflet helps farmers with all aspects of potato and seed production, including efficient pest and disease identification and management.

Rita Devi recalls receiving information on water conservation, optimizing fertilizer dosage, and pest control, all of which led to monitored and restricted input use and financial savings.

“Now we know the correct amount of fertilizer dosage, and could save money,” said Rita Devi, who joined the pilot program in the rabi season of 2023–24 and implemented lessons she learned in the training and demonstrations. The financial savings were tangible and motivated her to move forward.

One of the lessons learned by her community is how to optimize irrigation for rabi potato, which requires five to six irrigation cycles in the region. The CIP team gave clear instructions on when these cycles should take place: first light irrigation 5–10 days after planting to cover one-third of the ridge, on-demand irrigation covering half of the ridge in subsequent cycles, stopping irrigation 8–10 days before harvest, and avoiding waterlogging at all times.

Farmers engaged in growing and harvesting potatoes (Photo: TAFFSA)

Harnessing collective strengths

The SFLF initiative aimed to strengthen farmers’ bargaining power by improving supply chain integration. A key focus was to help farmers collectively procure quality inputs such as seeds and fertilizers from reliable and affordable sources. High-quality seeds were sourced directly from Punjab, replacing expensive, substandard local options. Negotiated prices and proper storage ensured that farmers in Nalanda had seamless access to these resources. Similar arrangements were made for fertilizers and pesticides.

Rita Devi is a passionate supporter of the initiative for its financial and operational benefits. “Even if no one else makes the provision, we will form a farmer group to procure seeds from Punjab,” she asserts, reflecting the project’s effectiveness. Her determination shows how collective action and better linkages can empower smallholder farmers and optimize their farming practices.

In another exercise, Rita Devi tested crop diversification. After harvesting potatoes, she planted maize and moong beans on her farm to increase her farm income.

Farmer engaged in growing and harvesting potatoes (Photo: TAFFSA)

SFLF’s tangible and intangible impact

Ranjan attests to a noticeable change in farmers’ confidence: “SFLF has helped farmers by increasing knowledge and income. Information from local experts in the village and neighbouring villages also helped the farmers. Earlier, farmers were afraid of the quality of seeds they bought from the market. With the CIP linkages, they get assured quality and variety of seeds.”

With better seed quality and improved farming practices, Rita’s income from crops has improved. However, her profit is limited to the small plot. She is resourceful in her income generation: she plans to sell the surplus seed she has acquired to farmers during the rabi season in 2024.

Most farmers in the SFLF program have roughly doubled their incomes and net returns, after adjusting for production costs, compared to non-SFLF farmers.

Rita Devi hopes that as word spreads about the positive impact on yields and market values, more farmers will join the SFLF model. Additionally, subsequent seasons of the pilot will help refine the model to address all the prevalent issues they face.

Double the Harvest, Double the Income: Intercropping for Yield, Income and Security

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

In the quiet villages of eastern India, a transformation is unfolding—led by smallholder farmers and powered by the science of intercropping.

“I got a good price for the cabbages, and I’m hopeful maize will do just as well. Look at it—it’s healthy and thriving,” says Nirmala Devi with a proud smile. At 45, Nirmala tends her small farm in Butijhari village, Kishanganj, Bihar.

She is one of 20 women in her village redefining farming through knowledge-sharing, new skills, and small-scale entrepreneurship.

In her maize field, Nirmala Devi proudly displays the remaining cabbages from her intercrop harvest, now set aside for livestock fodder after sale and household consumption (Photo: Nima Chodon/CIMMYT)

“For the past two rabi (winter) seasons, we’ve been practicing intercropping with maize, Nirmala says, gesturing toward her fields. “We not only sell what we grow – cabbage, garden pea, beans, spinach, etc – but also exchange it among ourselves, depending on what we need at home.”

This approach has brought more than just additional income. It’s improving household nutrition, providing animal fodder, and increasing land productivity by growing two crops in the same plot during the rabi season.

Growing Together

Not only in villages of Kishanganj, into the villages of Coochbehar and Malda in West Bengal, farmers are seeing similar results. Now in their second year with the CIMMYT-led intercropping project, they are seeing substantial benefits—improved yields, additional income, and greater resilience against climate and or the failure of any single crop.

While intercropping isn’t new, this approach is different. CIMMYT and its partners, supported by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), are promoting additive intercropping in wide-row staple crops like maize across India, Bangladesh and Bhutan.

Swaraj Dutta from Dr. Kalam Agriculture College under Bihar Agriculture University, working on the project, explains how this works: “We help farmers adjust the way they plant maize—either 60-60 cm spacing in single rows or a paired-row system at 30-90 cm. Between these rows, short-duration vegetables like cabbage, spinach, or legumes thrive early in the season.”

Maize and More

“The intensive cultivation of rice and maize (and previously wheat) is placing significant stress on natural resources and is becoming increasingly unsustainable in the face of growing climate change challenges. Yet, many farmers continue with these practices, even as returns diminish, due to a fear of diversifying,” explains Biplab Mitra of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya (UBKV), the university is supporting the intercropping project in Coochbehar and Malda districts of West Bengal.

“Traditionally, maize has been grown densely and often as a monocrop following rice in these regions. However, maize’s adaptability to both kharif and rabi seasons presents an opportunity to shift away from this unsustainable pattern”, added Mitra.  Through intercropping maize with vegetables during the rabi season farmers are now exploring more diversified and resilient farming systems that reduce pressure on resources and improve income potential.

“We used to grow only maize after rice,” says Santos Deb from Dinhata village, Coochbehar, standing proudly beside his wife Sochirani Deb. “But now, following the advice of scientists from UBKV, we intercrop. Two different crops, one cereal and one vegetable from the same field in the same season—that’s something we never attempted.”

On just 800 square meters, Barman adopted paired-row planting and added vegetables between maize rows. After covering input costs, he earned an additional ₹15,000–17,000 (US$180–200) for the vegetables, gained fresh food for the family, and produced fodder for their livestock. “This has been very rewarding for us. I have started growing in all my plots now,” he beams. “We’ll keep intercropping every rabi season throughout our lives.”

Intercropping offers a crucial buffer against climate-related risks by providing farmers a valuable source of additional income during the rabi season. Adverse weather events such as high winds, untimely late-season rains or storms often cause maize to lodge, resulting in significant yield losses and reduced income. By adopting intercropping, farmers can cover production costs earlier in the season and minimize exposure to climate-related economic losses.

 

Farmer Santos Deb and his wife Sochirani stand on their intercropped farm, where they grew vegetables alongside maize to boost both income and household consumption (Photo: Nima Chodon/CIMMYT)

Some farmers, like Kamal Ganesh from Chapati village in Kishanganj, see intercropping as a form of security against unpredictable harvests. “I grew cabbage and cauliflower under the project. Due to unavoidable circumstances, I was delayed in applying fertilizer and irrigating my maize crop, so the maize yield may be poor this harvest. But I’ve already earned a profit from the vegetables. Having a second crop in the same field acts as a safety net—if one fails, the other can still bring returns,” he explains.

Looking Ahead

Researchers assert that the project’s introduction of vegetable intercropping with maize offers new opportunities for diversification and resilience in the agriculture sector already stressed by climate change.

For many farmers, this is just the beginning. Alison Laing, leading the intercropping project at CIMMYT, shares her optimism: “This is only our second harvest across India, Bangladesh, and Bhutan, and already we’re seeing encouraging results. More and more farmers want to try it next season.”

Intercropping with sugarcane, on-station research trial fields at the Indian Institute for Farming Systems Research (ICAR-IIFSR), Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India (Photo: Nima Chodon /CIMMYT)

Laing noted that further adjustments, including crop selection based on management needs, market value, and nutritional benefits, as well as efficient fertilizer use and market linkages, are being explored by researchers to enhance sustainability and broader adoption. “Apart from maize, we’ve also introduced intercropping in sugarcane fields in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, in collaboration with the Indian Institute for Farming Systems Research (ICAR-IIFSR). We will review and analyse the results from the past two years in both maize and sugarcane practices to better understand farmers’ needs and support wider adoption,” she added.

Wide Row, Additive INTERCROPPING Project, led by CIMMYT and funded by ACIAR, is a 5-year initiative (launched in 2023) bringing together research institutions and agriculture scientists from India, Bangladesh and Bhutan to help smallholder farmers boost yields, increase their resilience to climate change and improve nutrition.  

Gul Erginbas-Orakci

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Research Associate at the Soil Borne Diseases Program at CIMMYT, Turkey. Gul got her PhD degree from the University of Osmangazi, Eskisehir-Turkey, in 2009. Her PhD thesis was entitled as: ‘The Identification of resistance and genetic control of Fusarium crown rot in wheat’. She joined CIMMYT International Soil Borne Pathogens (SBPs) Program in Turkey to conduct work on SBPs especially the Dryland Root Rot disease (Crown Rot) caused by Fusarium culmorum on wheat in 2006 as well as screening wheat germplasm against cereal nematodes i.e., the Cereal Cyst Nematodes (Heterodera spp) and the Root Lesion Nematodes (Pratylenchus spp). She is highly involved in writing peer reviewed articles, capacity building activities, international meetings, co-supervising national and international students, training researchers from many countries.

Emrah Koc

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Emrah Koç is an Assistant Research Associate at the International Winter Wheat Improvement Program (IWWIP) at CIMMYT-Turkey, where he has been working since 2011. He has over a decade of experience in winter wheat breeding, field evaluation, and international research collaboration. His current responsibilities include germplasm development, data analysis, and coordination of regional international nursery distribution. From 2018 to 2019, Emrah served as a Training and Monitoring Officer for the Regional Wheat Landraces Project, which aimed to improve food security by enhancing wheat production and its resilience to climate change through the conservation of currently cultivated landrace diversity. He got his master’s degree in 2020 from Eskişehir Osmangazi University, with a thesis titled “Agronomic Performance of Modern Wheat Germplasm and Landraces Recently Collected in Turkey, Iran, and Afghanistan.” He is currently pursuing a PhD in Plant Breeding and Genetics at Ege University in İzmir, Turkey. His research interests include wheat landrace diversity, rust resistance, and speed breeding techniques. Emrah has participated in numerous international workshops and has contributed to several peer-reviewed scientific publications.

Seeds of Change: Transforming agriculture in Koraput, Odisha

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Nestled amidst the enchanting Eastern Ghats in southern Odisha lies Koraput district, where agriculture is more than just a livelihood — it is a vital part of cultural identity. For Ranti Golari, a 58-year-old farmer from Jantaput village, this bond with the land runs deep. Yet, like many women farmers in her community, she faces numerous challenges. As she explains, “Reaching the marketplace is time-consuming,” she says, “and often, I return home empty-handed because there are no seeds available.”

Ranti Galori portrait (Photo: TAFFSA)

A Deep-Rooted Farming Heritage

Koraput’s agricultural heritage is as unique as its landscape. For centuries, tribal communities have cultivated this land using practices passed down through generations. Their traditional methods received global recognition in 2012 when the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) designated Koraput as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System. This accolade celebrates their sustainable practices, which preserve native biodiversity, ensure food security, and protect the environment.

Local farmers possess an intrinsic understanding of their land, knowing precisely which crops will thrive in each season and how to maintain soil health. However, behind this legacy lies a complex web of challenges that threaten the region’s agricultural sustainability.

Better seed quality means better yields. (Photo: TAFFSA)

Challenges Beneath the Surface

Although agriculture employs 44% of Odisha’s workforce, it contributes only 24% to the state’s economy, reflecting low productivity and incomes.

Land fragmentation is a critical issue — 93% of farmers own less than two hectares, with the average size shrinking to just 0.95 hectares. These scattered plots reduce bargaining power and limit access to quality inputs and advanced farming technologies. Koraput’s remote location exacerbates these problems, leaving farmers disconnected from market trends and newer farming practices.

Women farmers, who make up 57% of Odisha’s agricultural workforce, face additional barriers. Weekly markets, known as padwas, are often 10 kilometers away, requiring arduous travel through rugged terrain. Limited transport and safety concerns compound their struggles. The unreliable quality of seed, often untreated or mixed with inferior varieties, further undermines their efforts.

Women farmers with their potato harvest (Photo: TAFFSA)

Economic constraints further compound the problem. High seed costs, limited credit access, and weak market bargaining power trap farmers in a cycle of low productivity and profitability. As Ranti poignantly puts it, “Sometimes, the harvest barely matches the seeds we sow. Five bags sown and five bags harvested — how can farming be beneficial?”

A Solution Through Smallholder Aggregation

The Transforming Agrifood Systems in South Asia (TAFSSA) initiative introduced the innovative Small Farmers Large Field (SFLF) model to address these challenges. This approach aggregates fragmented land holdings and promotes collaboration among smallholder farmers.

Potatoes, with their rapid growth and soil-building properties, proved to be an ideal crop for the region. Rich in nutrients and widely accepted in the local diet, potatoes offer consistent market demand and opportunities for value-added processing.

In Kharif 2023, 54 farmers participated in the SFLF pilot, which focused on four key pillars:

  1. Access to quality seed: Farmers received standardized potato seed tubers, rigorously graded and sorted for quality.
  2. Streamlined seed delivery: Seeds were distributed directly to villages, saving time and transportation costs, especially for women farmers.
  3. Knowledge enhancement: Workshops and trainings, conducted in partnership with the local NGO Pragati, empowered farmers with improved agricultural practices.
  4. Market integration: By linking farmers to Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), the initiative strengthened their collective bargaining power, enabling them to obtain better prices for quality produce.
Women farmers showcase proudly showcase their potato harvest (Photo: TAFFSA)

Economic Opportunities and Impact

As the world’s second-largest producer of potatoes, India offers immense potential for the crop. The introduction of rainy season potato production in Koraput allows farmers to supply fresh produce when market demand peaks, ensuring higher profits.

The impact of the SFLF initiative goes beyond economic gains. Reduced input costs, increased yields, and diversified incomes have improved financial stability, allowing families to invest in education and healthcare. Socially, the program fosters community bonds and empowers farmers through collective action and resource sharing.

Looking Ahead

The success of the SFLF model underscores the importance of targeted interventions that address seed quality, market access, and knowledge gaps. For farmers like Ranti, these changes mean more than agricultural improvement — they represent hope for preserving their heritage while building a sustainable future.

Koraput’s journey illustrates that agricultural transformation thrives when economic progress aligns with cultural preservation. As these farmers innovate and adapt, their experiences offer valuable lessons for similar regions across India.

Farmers carrying potatoes harvested from the field (Photo: TAFSSA)

Rising from adversity: The inspiring success of Asma and Tasin’s engineering workshop

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

Asma Akter and her daughter, Tasin Fahariya, have emerged as inspiring examples of resilient agriculture-based light engineering (ABLE) entrepreneurs in Bangladesh. Their journey began in the face of tragedy when Asma, at 38, lost her husband to COVID-19. As the proprietor of Belal Engineering Workshop, a family business started by her late husband 32 years ago, Asma took on the responsibility of running the manufacturing enterprise.

The initial challenges were daunting. Customers lost trust in the company’s ability to deliver quality products on time under the leadership of a woman. Even their experienced workshop staff felt insecure about their job prospects under the new management. Financial institutions were hesitant to provide loans to a woman-led business, making it difficult to purchase raw materials for production.

However, their fortunes changed with the connections they made. Tasin received training in Financial Management, Digital Marketing, and Technical Drawing and Design. These courses enhanced her professional skills and boosted her confidence to lead the business effectively. They secured a loan of over US$4,300 from Gram Unnayan Kendra (GUK), addressing their capital needs.

They connected with dealers across Bangladesh, significantly expanding their customer base. They branded their products through smart packaging and organizational branding with logos, which helped them compete more effectively in the market.

As a result of these interventions, Asma and Tasin’s business has seen remarkable growth. They’ve expanded from 10 dealer points to 14, adding new geographical regions to their network. Their order volume and sales have increased tremendously. The mother-daughter duo’s achievements go beyond financial gains—their success underscores the importance of diverse viewpoints in enhancing and optimizing manufacturing processes.

Asma Akter at Belal Engineering Workshop in Bogura

(Photos: CIMMYT)

Sonia Jannat: defying odds, reaping success as a combine harvester MSP

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

In the male-dominated realm of agricultural machinery services, Sonia Jannat, a 28-year-old from Jhenaidah, Bangladesh, has inscribed her name as a successful Machinery Solution Provider (MSP). Her determination—and the transformative power of new technologies—has launched her on an extraordinary journey of empowerment and financial independence.

Growing up in a farming household, Sonia was already familiar with cultivation. Rooted in agriculture, she harbored a longstanding ambition to make a meaningful impact in this field. To realize her vision, she consistently stayed abreast of the latest technologies and machinery designed to boost production while minimizing labor and time. However, life took an unexpected turn when her father fell ill with heart disease, forcing Sonia to shoulder the responsibility of financially supporting her family while pursuing her honors degree. This phase of hardship proved to be a turning point in her life.

Sonia Jannat operates one of her combine harvesters in Jhenaidah, Bangladesh. (Photo: CIMMYT)

During this challenging period, Sonia came across a YouTube video showcasing a combine harvester—a cutting-edge machine that could revolutionize harvesting. She immediately recognized its potential to transform farming practices and offer a reliable income stream. The first major hurdle was overcoming her family’s financial constraints and convincing them to invest in a machine without any tangible proof of its benefits.

In October 2020, Sonia and her family attended a live demonstration organized by the private sector, where she successfully persuaded her father to invest in a combine harvester. With the support of a machinery subsidy, she selected the best model suited to her business needs.

Sonia took part in business expansion meetings, built linkages with spare parts shop owners, dealers, and commission agents, and received operational and maintenance training—for both herself and her machine operators.

In the first season of 2021, Sonia’s combine harvester generated an impressive income of approximately US$10,000 (excluding operational and labor costs). This early success fueled her ambition, and with her family’s support, she invested in a second combine harvester, expanding the business.

Today, Sonia Jannat proudly owns three combine harvesters, generating an annual income of BDT 30 lakh (approximately US$33,000). Her customer base has grown to span around ten geographical divisions across Bangladesh. Sonia’s achievements have not only reshaped her own financial future but have also broken deep-rooted societal stereotypes. Once ridiculed for her unconventional path as an unmarried woman, she now commands respect and admiration from the very community that once doubted her.

Sonia shares with pride:

“The same society that once criticized me with comments like, ‘Why is an unmarried girl traveling around to earn money? Why is she breaking social norms?’ is now praising me. After witnessing my talent, social contributions, and support for my family, they now see me as one in a thousand girls!”

With academic credentials that include honors and a master’s degree in Bangla, Sonia’s aspirations continue to grow. She now envisions launching a new entrepreneurial venture offering a wider range of agricultural machinery services. She is committed to empowering women by actively engaging them in her business model—aiming to be an inspirational entrepreneur for many others.

Bridging borders: A South-South exchange between Ethiopia and Nepal to tackle soil health challenges

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

CIMMYT and Nepalese delegation and Debre Zeit Agricultural Research Center research team in the field (Photo: CIMMYT)

Soil health is fundamental to agricultural productivity, food security, and climate resilience. In Ethiopia and Nepal, deteriorating soil conditions—driven by acidity, nutrient depletion, and land degradation—pose a significant challenge to farmers and policymakers alike. Addressing these issues is not just a technical necessity but a pathway to ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability and economic stability.

Recognizing these shared challenges, CIMMYT facilitated a South-South exchange between Ethiopia and Nepal to foster collaboration, exchange knowledge, and explore innovative solutions for improving soil health.

Shared challenges, shared solutions

Both Ethiopia and Nepal face persistent soil health challenges that hinder agricultural productivity. In Ethiopia, soil degradation—stemming from issues like soil acidity, salinity, and nutrient depletion—has become a barrier to achieving higher agricultural productivity. Similarly, Nepal is navigating soil health concerns amidst small landholdings, urban migration, and climate impacts.

For both nations, sustainable soil management is critical to strengthening their agricultural sectors. This exchange provided an opportunity for researchers, policymakers, and agricultural experts to learn from each other’s experiences, leveraging successful approaches to improve soil quality and boost productivity.

CIMMYT and Nepalese delegation listening to explanations by Experts and technicians about the various activities taking place at the soil and plan analysis laboratory
(Photo: CIMMYT)

A unique exchange of knowledge

From November 25–28, a Nepalese delegation—including CIMMYT scientists and representatives from Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MoALD) and the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC)—visited Ethiopia to gain insights into its soil health initiatives.

Ethiopia has made significant progress in soil management through collaborations between government agencies, research institutions, and international partners. With CIMMYT’s support, the country has developed a National Soil Information System (NSIS), a comprehensive data-driven approach that guides interventions to improve soil health, increase productivity, and enhance food security.

During the visit, the Nepalese delegation met with leading Ethiopian institutions, including:

  • The Ministry of Agriculture (MoA)
  • The Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR)
  • The Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI)
  • The Holeta Agricultural Research Center
  • The National Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center

Through site visits and discussions, the delegation explored Ethiopia’s Vertisol management strategies, sub-soil acidity solutions, and data-driven soil health policies—areas that could be adapted to Nepal’s agricultural landscape.

A shared commitment to agricultural innovation

Beyond knowledge exchange, the visit served as a catalyst for long-term collaboration between the two countries. CIMMYT has been working in Ethiopia for over three decades, supporting research and technology development to enhance soil health and food security. In Nepal, CIMMYT scientists collaborate with national partners to strengthen agricultural commercialization and climate resilience.

During their visit, Nepalese delegates expressed particular interest in Ethiopia’s Geo-Nutrition approach, which connects soil quality to human health by analyzing how soil nutrients influence the nutritional value of crops. Nepal sees great potential in adopting this model to enhance both agricultural and public health outcomes.

Shanta Karki, Joint Secretary at Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (Photo: CIMMYT)

Shanta Karki, Joint Secretary at Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, reflected on the visit: “The insights we gained in Ethiopia will be instrumental in improving our soil health strategies.

We see great potential for collaboration between Ethiopia and Nepal in tackling common challenges like soil acidity and water management.” She added that another key area of learning was Geo-Nutrition, an innovative field that connects soil health to human health.

The concept, which Ethiopia has been actively exploring, looks at how soil quality influences the nutritional value of crops and ultimately the health of the populations that depend on them. The Nepalese delegation saw this as an opportunity to further develop their own approach to improving soil and human health simultaneously.

Looking Ahead: Building stronger partnerships

Shanta Karki, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MoA), presents a token of appreciation to Dr. Samuel Gameda, Senior Soil Scientist at CIMMYT-Ethiopia, in recognition of his efforts to strengthen partnerships between Nepal and Ethiopia in the framework of improving soil health (Photo: Desalegne Tadesse/CIMMYT)

As CIMMYT continues to facilitate South-South exchanges, the goal is to adapt successful models from Ethiopia to Nepal while drawing lessons from Nepal’s unique agricultural landscape. The delegation left Ethiopia with renewed motivation to enhance soil health, not just for the benefit of farmers but for broader food security and economic resilience.

Narayan Prasad Khanal, Business Development Manager at CIMMYT Nepal, emphasized the importance of such exchanges. “The lessons learned here, particularly on sub-soil acidity management and Geo-Nutrition, will be crucial for enhancing our regulatory systems and addressing challenges in Nepal’s agriculture. This experience has shown us how important it is to adapt successful models from other countries and incorporate them into our own agricultural practices.

Dr. Shree Prasad Vista, Senior Scientist at the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC), shares his reflections and lessons learned during the experience-sharing visit (Photo: Desalegne Tadesse/CIMMYT)

Shree Prasad Vista, Senior Scientist at the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC), was particularly fascinated by Ethiopia’s innovative work on Vertisol management and soil acidity. He remarked, “The insights we gained from CIMMYT, particularly on Geo-Nutrition and soil acidity, will help enhance our agricultural practices and regulatory systems in Nepal.”

A Path toward collaborative solutions

As Ethiopia and Nepal continue to navigate similar agricultural challenges, the knowledge gained from this exchange will play a crucial role in shaping future soil health strategies. By learning from each other’s successes, both countries are positioning themselves to implement sustainable, climate-resilient soil management practices tailored to their unique context.

This exchange stands as a powerful example of how international collaboration fosters innovation, resilience, and food security. Through shared expertise and collective action, Ethiopia and Nepal are laying the foundation for stronger agricultural systems that will benefit future generations.

Advanced Training in Conservation Agriculture: Fostering Sustainable Agronomic Systems

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

Participants attended the opening ceremony at NAS Complex in New Delhi (Photo: CIMMYT)

CIMMYT, the Borlaug Institute for South Asia (BISA), and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) jointly organized a three-week training course on conservation agriculture (CA) and regenerative agriculture (RA). The program focused on the potential of sustainable farming methods as vital tools for managing risks in agrifood systems in both irrigated and rainfed areas.

Held from December 3–23, 2024, the training brought together farmers, scientists, and stakeholders to explore innovative solutions to agrifood challenges. Sessions were held at the ICAR Indian Institute of Maize Research and BISA in Ludhiana, Punjab; the ICAR-Central Soil Salinity Research Institute in Karnal, Haryana; and the ICAR-Indian Institute of Farming Systems Research in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Building Resilient Agrifood Systems

Conservation agriculture (CA) and regenerative agriculture (RA) are approaches to land management that prioritize ecosystem health. These practices are based on three core principles: minimal soil disturbance, continuous soil cover, and crop diversification. Together, they improve yields, restore natural resources, reduce farming costs, and develop resilient agricultural systems that protect the environment, enhance climate resilience, and improve rural livelihoods, particularly in the Global South.

In South Asia, where rural communities rely heavily on natural resources, farmers face significant challenges, including loss of soil fertility, water scarcity, pollution, and the effects of climate change. These pressures are straining agricultural systems, particularly in irrigated and dryland farming areas.

Despite the clear benefits of CA, adoption remains limited due to barriers such as lack of knowledge on how to implement CA in different agro-ecologies, limited access to appropriate tools, insufficient policy support, and low awareness of the long-term benefits of CA. To address these challenges, training and capacity development are essential for scaling up CA technologies among smallholder farmers and ensuring their long-term impact.

The Advanced Course on CA/RA in Asia was launched in 2010 by CIMMYT in partnership with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to address the challenges of sustainable agriculture. Since its inception, advanced training workshops have been held annually, and this is the 13th edition.

The training bridges cutting-edge scientific research and multidisciplinary strategies, equipping participants with skills in sustainable intensification, diversification of production systems, resilience-building, and natural resource conservation. To date, CA training has benefited more than 220 researchers, policymakers, and development practitioners from 20 countries.

The 13th edition, held in India, welcomed mid-career researchers from Uzbekistan, Morocco, and India. The course was coordinated by Mahesh Gathala, Cropping Systems Agronomist, and Alison Laing, Agroecology Specialist, both from CIMMYT; Madhu Choudhary, Senior Scientist at ICAR-CSSRI; and Raj Kumar Jat, Senior Scientist at BISA.

Key Highlights of the Advanced Conservation Agriculture Training Course

The Advanced Conservation Agriculture (CA) course was inaugurated on December 4, 2024, at the NASC Complex in New Delhi. The inaugural address was delivered by S.K. Chaudhari, Deputy Director General for Natural Resource Management at ICAR, who highlighted the importance of CA in addressing climate challenges and managing agronomic risks. Chaudhari emphasized CIMMYT’s leadership in promoting CA in India and reflected on the impact of the program, saying, “I have been watching this course for many years. Many young scientists have benefited from this course.” He also fondly recalled the inaugural training session held 13 years ago and extended his best wishes to all the participants. Watch his complete statement here.

Participants experiencing hands-on training at the BISA farm in Ludhiana.

During the course, participants explored a wide range of topics related to conservation agriculture (CA) and regenerative agriculture (RA) in different agro-ecologies. Key areas of focus included the role of emerging technologies such as drones, carbon credits, soil fertility, nutrient management, crop modeling, and soil testing in informing policy. Experts from various scientific disciplines provided valuable insights into cutting-edge research for both irrigated and dryland systems.

At BISA’s research station in Ludhiana, participants gained practical experience through hands-on training sessions conducted under the expert guidance of H.S. Sidhu and Manpreet Singh (both from Punjab Agricultural University), with the support of Pardeep Sangwal (BISA).

Participants learning new techniques at CSSRI, Karnal (Photo: CIMMYT)

The training included field visits to ICAR-CSSRI in Karnal, where Director R.K. Yadav, Madhu Choudhary, and Kailash Prajapat presented the Institute’s long-term conservation agriculture (CA) experiments. They also conducted hands-on demonstrations on soil biology and its role in generating evidence for policy decisions.

In addition, Mahesh Gathala conducted hands-on training in basic soil physical and chemical analysis techniques at joint ICAR-CIMMYT field plots in Karnal.

Special visits were organized to innovative agricultural machinery manufacturers, including Landforce and National Agroindustry, where participants observed advanced manufacturing techniques and explored the latest agricultural equipment.

Participants also interacted with the manufacturers’ association at the 5th India International Agri Expo in Ludhiana, gaining insights into emerging trends in agricultural machinery.

Participants visited the National Agro manufacturing unit in Ludhiana, Punjab (Photo: CIMMYT)

In addition, a village visit outside Karnal gave participants the opportunity to interact with farmers practicing conservation agriculture (CA). Farmers shared their experiences, giving participants a first-hand look at the practical benefits and real-world impact of CA on farming communities.

A visit to Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab (Photo: CIMMYT)

The success of the program underscores the importance of continued collaboration and training in advancing sustainable agricultural practices. By equipping participants with practical skills, cutting-edge knowledge, and opportunities to connect with peers across regions, the training was instrumental in advancing conservation agriculture (CA) and regenerative agriculture (RA).

Participants left the program with enhanced technical expertise, greater confidence in applying CA practices, and valuable insights into emerging areas such as carbon credit schemes and innovative agricultural technologies. These results underscore the critical role of capacity development in strengthening food security, building climate resilience, and promoting sustainable development in the Global South.

Sowing a Seed of Hope: Transforming Lives through Mixed Farming in Nepal

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

Birma Sunar Tending (Photo: Lokendra Chalise/CIMMYT)

In Nepal, hope is slowly taking root in the mid-hills as communities and farmers transform traditional systems into productive, diversified, nutritious and market-oriented farming systems. Through the CGIAR Mixed Farming Systems (MFS) Initiative, farmers like Ms. Birma Sunar and communities like Gurbhakot in Surkhet are building a transformative pathway. Since 2022, CIMMYT and IWMI have been supporting communities in planning and engaging stakeholders in identifying organizational and technical solutions. The initiative aims to increase milk production through improved forages, improve nutrition and income diversification through high-value fruit trees, and improve water efficiency in vegetable production through micro-irrigation.   

Birma’s Journey: Overcoming Challenges, Cultivating Dreams

Birma Sunar, 49, a determined farmer from Surkhet, represents the aspirations of countless smallholder farmers struggling to survive on limited means. A Dalit woman and an amputee, her small plot of land was once dedicated to subsistence farming, leaving her family struggling to make ends meet. The maize and wheat she grew barely lasted a year, and her family of seven was struggling for food. With her husband earning meager wages as a day laborer, the family often faced food insecurity.  

Her perspective on farming began to change when she became involved with the Mixed Farming Initiative. Birma received training in the cultivation of high-value fruit trees and the planting of Napier grass to feed dairy cattle, as well as micro-irrigation techniques. With her new skills and the eight mango saplings and one lychee tree she received from the Initiative as part of  action research, she hopes to increase her family’s income..   

“I was unaware of commercial farming,” says Birma. “I have a lime tree and a banana tree in my field however, it used to be for home consumption. But now, once my mango and lychee trees start giving fruits, I hope to sell the produce in local markets and earn enough to buy essential household items and feed my family.”  

Last year, she planted high-value fruit saplings that are now growing into healthy plants, giving her hope for stability and food security in the future.   

Birma Sunar intercultivating a mango plant (Photo: Lokendra Chalise/CIMMYT)
Youthful Aspirations: Santosh’s Agricultural Renaissance

After working abroad for a few years in the hope of a brighter future, Santosh KC, 25, returned home, disheartened yet determined. Equipped with the knowledge gained from his agricultural education and a passion for change, he started a nursery for high value fruit trees and improved forages and ventured into dairy farming with Napier grass.  

The journey was not easy. In the first year, Santosh faced losses, and his family doubted the viability of his efforts. But with unwavering dedication, he turned his fortunes around. Today, Santosh cultivates 45 ropanis (2.29 hectares) of land, raises 22 goats, and earns a steady income. He also participates in the Mixed Farming Initiative training organized jointly with the Gurbhakot municipality and mentors farmers on the benefits of mixed farming.   

“For many youths, farming doesn’t seem like a viable option. However, with support for modern agricultural techniques and market integration, we can build livelihoods that are not just sustainable but rewarding,” shares Santosh.  

A Municipal Vision: Building Resilient Communities

The Initiative has been jointly implemented by CIMMYT and IWMI in the local municipality of the working district. With the support of the initiative, the Gurbhakot municipality is playing a critical role in scaling up the benefits of mixed farming. Recognizing the value of the crops, the municipality has embraced Napier grass and high-value fruits as key components of its agricultural strategy. By prioritizing mangoes, lychees, oranges, and lemons, the municipality aims to improve household nutrition and create commercial opportunities for farmers.  

“We distributed high-value fruit trees to farmers last year under the theme ‘One Home, Two Fruit Plants’. This year, we’re planning a study to identify the best topography for different fruits. This knowledge will allow us to scale our goal to integrate these practices into larger public programs, creating decent livelihoods for farmers,” said Mr. Hasta Pun, Mayor of Gurbhakot Municipality.   

Mayor Hasta Pun (Photo: Lokendra Chalise/CIMMYT)
A Vision for the Future  

The Mixed Farming Initiative has been critical in identifying solutions to bring tangible improvements to smallholder farmers like Birma and Santosh, but it has also strengthened local governance and resilience. In the three years of implementation, the pilot program in Gurbhakot in Surkhet and Halesi-Tuwachung in Khotang has set the stage for scaling up these efforts in more municipalities. By 2030, the initiative aims to impact 13 million people and ensure equitable opportunities for women, youth, and marginalized communities.  

By nurturing the saplings of high-value fruits and integrating forages, local leaders and farmers in the mid-hills of Nepal remain motivated and committed to rewriting their story —One of hope, resilience, and the promise of a food-secure future.   

CIMMYT-ICAR Workshop on Long-Term Agricultural Experiments

Written by Nima Chodon on . Posted in News.

CIMMYT-ICAR Workshop on Long-Term Agricultural Experiments (Photo: CIMMYT)

CIMMYT and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi, co-hosted a one-day workshop on Long-Term Experiments (LTEs) in agriculture, focusing on Conservation Agriculture (CA) and Regenerative Agriculture (RA) practices. The workshop aimed to explore strategies for researchers from the national systems to come together with CIMMYT colleagues and identify ways to increase productivity, improve food security, strengthen climate resilience of agricultural systems, and enable Indian farmers and researchers to take advantage of innovations and new research in LTEs. 

The event brought together leaders from ICAR’s research divisions and institutes – including Natural Resource Management (NRM), Indian Agriculture Research Institute (IARI), Central Soil Salinity Research Institute (CSSRI) and the Research Complex for the Eastern Region (RCER) – with partner CGIAR centres CIMMYT, ICRISAT and IRRI, and others from donor agencies, private agricultural research organizations and the Borlaug Institute for South Asia (BISA). 

The event was chaired by Dr Suresh Kumar Chaudhari, Deputy Director General for Natural Resource Management at ICAR. In his remarks, Dr Chaudhari highlighted the critical role of LTEs in understanding evolving agri-food systems. He emphasized the value of revisiting past research with fresh perspectives, taking into account new knowledge, and taking a long-term, strategic view of our agricultural research portfolios.   

Dr. Prasanna Boddupalli, Regional Director for South Asia – CIMMYT, highlighted the importance of LTEs in generating knowledge for sustainable practices. He expressed hope that the workshop would inspire innovative ideas, such as the use of climate-resilient crop varieties like drought- and heat-tolerant maize, and the use of predictive analytics and machine learning to identify emerging trends  

Dr Alison Laing chaired the workshop. She outlined the objectives of the workshop and emphasize the importance of collaborative discussions in formulating guidelines and recommendations for ongoing and future experiments on CA and RA. She also highlighted the need for resource mobilization and contributions from the participating institutions.  

The opening session featured presentations by senior scientists, including Dr M.L. Jat (ICRISAT), Dr Rajbir Singh (ICAR-NRM ADG), Dr Rakesh Kumar (ICAR-RCER), Dr Madhu Choudhary (ICAR-CSSRI), Dr H.S. Jat (ICAR-IIMR) and Dr C.M. Parihar (ICAR-IARI). They provided insights into ongoing LTEs on CA and RA at their research institutions, including key research foci, discussed challenges and opportunities, and stressed the importance of ensuring the continuity of LTEs in the face of shifting priorities and donor fatigue. 

All participants then engaged in group discussions to address emerging priorities, funding challenges and barriers to implementation, and to identify ways in which LTEs can generate data to demonstrate the long-term impacts of agricultural practices and the performance of different cropping systems. These breakout sessions culminated in a plenary session where participants consolidated key issues and reached consensus on actionable recommendations. 

Dr Laing concluded the workshop by announcing that the recommendations would be compiled into a joint document to be submitted to ICAR-NRM, providing a roadmap for strengthening LTEs in India. 

In his vote of thanks, Dr Mahesh Gathala (CIMMYT) commended the participants for their valuable contributions to the objectives of the workshop’s. He expressed confidence in the collective commitment of scientists and institutions – public and private – to the advancement of LTEs and their critical role in strengthening agricultural and food system science and research.