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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.

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.  

Seeds of Change: Transforming agriculture in Koraput, Odisha

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Features.

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. 

Sustaining Health and Soil: Sundhani Tharu’s 4Rs Approach to Farming

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Features.

Sundhani Tharu, a 44-year-old farmer from Pattharbojhi, Madhuwan-1 in the Bardiya district, in the mid-west of Kathmandu, is a leading example of how sustainable agricultural practices not only enhance crop production but also contribute to human and environmental health. Her dedication to a balanced approach to farming, which includes crop-livestock integration and the principles of the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship, has had a significant impact on her farm and the wider community.

Sundhani lives in a joint family of 58 members, with farming as the primary source of income. On their 8.13 hectares of land, they grow staple crops like rice, maize, mustard, and lentils, while also raising 26 cows, 17 buffaloes, and 45 sheep. Through this integration of crop production and livestock, Sundhani has built a closed-loop farming system where farmyard manure (FYM) from the livestock nourishes the crops, and crop residues feed the animals, ensuring minimal waste and promoting a natural balance between animals, crops, and soil health.

Sundhani with her family (Photo: Sirish Shrestha)

Central to her success is her application of the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship, which involves applying the right source of nutrients at the right rate, at the right time, and in the right place. This approach ensures that her crops receive the essential nutrients they need while minimizing environmental impact. With support from the USAID-supported Nepal Seed and Fertilizer (NSAF) Project, implemented by CIMMYT, Sundhani has been trained in nutrient management techniques, including the 4R principles. These practices have helped her optimize fertilizer use and significantly improve her crop yields, doubling her maize production from 30 to 60 quintals per hectare.

Sundhani also prioritizes the use of farmyard manure, which plays a vital role in her farming system. The manure from her livestock is carefully composted and used as a natural fertilizer, enriching the soil with organic matter and nutrients. This reduces her reliance on synthetic fertilizers, which can harm the environment and deplete soil health over time. By using farmyard manure, Sundhani is not only improving soil fertility but also promoting a healthier ecosystem for future generations.

Similarly, the importance of a healthy diet is another key focus of Sundhani’s farming journey. Her farm provides her family with a diverse range of crops, including rice, maize, mustard, and vegetables like cauliflower, tomatoes, and potatoes. These crops contribute to a balanced, nutrient-rich diet for her large family, ensuring that they receive essential nutrients from fresh, organic produce. Sundhani’s vegetable farming is further enhanced through climate-smart practices like intercropping and mulching, which protect the soil, conserve water, and increase the variety of crops she can grow.

In addition to her focus on nutrient management and healthy diets, Sundhani has embraced Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM), a holistic approach to soil health. ISFM combines organic and inorganic fertilizers, along with improved crop varieties and efficient nutrient management techniques, to enhance soil fertility and ensure long-term agricultural productivity. Through ISFM, Sundhani has achieved sustainable growth in her farming operations while safeguarding the environment for future generations.

Sundhani Tharu (Photo: Sirish Shrestha)

Though Sundhani can hardly read or write, she is contributing to the “One Health” movement—a global initiative that connects the health of people, animals, and the environment through best management practices in agriculture. By integrating crops and livestock, using farmyard manure, and applying the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship, she promotes a sustainable, eco-friendly system that enhances food security, improves soil health, and protects natural resources.

Looking ahead, Sundhani is determined to expand her farming ventures. She plans to venture into seed production for rice and mustard and hopes to increase her earnings from NPR 5 lakh (USD 3,740) to NPR 8 lakh (USD 5,987). By continuing to inspire her community and advocate for local vegetable markets, Sundhani envisions a future where farming is not only a source of livelihood but a cornerstone for a healthy, thriving ecosystem.

Sundhani Tharu’s story highlights the power of nutrient stewardship and sustainable farming to create healthier soils, crops, and communities. Through her dedication to the 4Rs, ISFM, and promoting farmyard manure use, she is paving the way for a future where agriculture is in harmony with nature—benefiting both people and the planet.

Sundhani’s father-in-law (Photo: Sirish Shrestha)

Strengthening the roots of an agri-carbon market

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

CIMMYT’s economists Adeeth Cariappa and Vijesh Krishna examine the potential of agricultural carbon markets to boost sustainable farming in India while addressing climate change. Their study, published in Climate Policy, reviewed seven carbon farming projects in Haryana and Madhya Pradesh, finding limited participation from smallholders and marginalized communities, with women making up just 4% of participants.

Although new sustainable practices such as zero tillage and intercropping were adopted, key challenges remain, including poor communication, insufficient training, and delayed payments—resulting in nearly 28% of farmers abandoning these practices. To improve outcomes, the authors recommend offering better financial incentives, ensuring timely payments, and improving project implementation through partnerships with research institutions. Digital technologies like remote sensing and satellite imagery are expected to play a critical role in improving carbon credit monitoring and farmer participation going forward.

Read the full story.

Strengthen the soil, strengthen the future of agri-food systems: The Economics of Healthy Soils for Sustainable Food Systems

Written by mcallejas on . Posted in Blogs.

Soil health is not just a medium for healthy crop production; it’s also a vital pillar to support sustainable food production and ultimately a nation’s economy. In India, where over 45% of the population works in agriculture, soil health underpins household and national food security, rural incomes and the economy at large. Despite this dependence, the ratio of agricultural production to the national income, i.e. GDP has fallen from 35% in 1990 to 15% in 2023, a decline driven by low productivity, shrinking farm incomes, and environmental degradation (Government of India, 2023).

A tractor operates in an agricultural field in India (Photo: CIMMYT).

India faces an annual economic loss of  ₹2.54 trillion annually—about 2% of its GDP—due to land degradation and unsustainable land-use practices (TERI, 2018). For smallholder farmers, soil degradation is a silent economic burden that reduces yields and increases input costs. In Bihar, studies by the Cereal Systems Initiative for South Asia (CSISA) show that droughts have a lasting impact on soil quality and agricultural productivity, with increasing frequency and severity exacerbating vulnerabilities in states like of Bihar and its neighboring states (Nageswararao et al., 2016; Singh et al., 2022).

The frequency of these drought conditions pushes farmers into a vicious cycle of low productivity, high costs for irrigation, and a growing dependence on non-farm income sources exacerbating the state’s vulnerability to drought (Kishore et al., 2014).

“CIMMYT India scientists greatly value the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues from ICAR and other NARES partners in supporting farmers to enhance soil health and achieve sustainable productivity”, said Alison Laing, CSISA project lead in India. “We are proud of the contribution we make alongside the Indian national systems to improving farmers’ livelihoods”, she added

Investing in solutions for soil resilience

Addressing soil degradation and climate challenges requires investment in climate-resilient agricultural technologies, and robust agronomic research. Evidence-based policies are critical to sustain agriculture, improve farmer well-being and ensure food and economic security.

A promising innovation is the Soil Intelligence System (SIS), launched in 2019 under CSISA. Initially operational in Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, and Odisha, SIS generates high-quality soil data and digital maps to provide farmers with precise agronomic recommendations. These recommendations help reduce fertilizer and water overuse, improving efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By empowering smallholder farmers with data-driven decision-making, SIS exemplifies how technology can enhance productivity and sustainability.

SIS’s success extends beyond the farm. Data-driven insights have influenced policies like the Andhra Pradesh State Fertilizer and Micronutrient Policy, demonstrating the potential of soil health management to drive systemic agricultural reforms.

Working in Andhra Pradesh, Bihar and Odisha, SIS uses soil spectroscopy and digital mapping to improve sustainable soil management, reduce costs and increase productivity for smallholder farmers. (Photo: CIMMYT)

The 3M Framework: measure, monitor and manage

This year’s World Soil Day theme, “Caring for Soils: Measure, Monitor, Manage,” highlights the importance of data driven soil management. By measuring key indicators like organic carbon levels and erosion rates, and monitoring changes overtime, policymakers can develop sustainable strategies for soil restoration.

Scaling initiatives like SIS is crucial. Robust soil monitoring programs can inform better alignment between subsidies and sustainable practices. Together with state and central governments, NGOs, and other research organizations, CIMMYT is actively collaborating with farmers to measure, monitor and manage soil health for long-term sustainability and resilience.

 

References:

  1. Government of India (2023). Contribution of agriculture in GDP. Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. Accessed online.
  2. TERI (2018). Economics of Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought in India, Vol I. The Energy and Resources Institute. Accessed online.
  3. Nageswararao, M.M., Dhekale, B.S., & Mohanty, U.C. (2016). Impact of climate variability on various Rabi crops over Northwest India. Theoretical and Applied Climatology, 131(503–521). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00704-016-1991-7.
  4. Singh, A. & Akhtar, Md. P. (2022). Drought-like situation in Bihar: Study and thought of sustainable strategy. IWRA (India) Journal, 11(1). Accessed online.
  5. Kishore, A., Joshi, P.K., & Pandey, D. (2014). Droughts, Distress, and Policies for Drought Proofing Agriculture in Bihar, India. IFPRI Discussion Paper 01398. https://ssrn.com/abstract=2545463.

Climate Change Threatens Agriculture In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Farmers Struggle To Cope

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

CIMMYT is at the forefront of addressing climate change challenges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) by introducing drought-tolerant wheat varieties and hybrid seeds for vegetables, tailored to withstand water scarcity, heat stress, and erratic rainfall. Through collaborations with local research institutions, CIMMYT equips farmers with innovative solutions to sustain crop productivity in the face of extreme weather. These efforts directly support smallholder farmers in building resilience and securing their livelihoods amidst the growing threats posed by climate change.

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Agro fair in Kailali rejuvenates farmers

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

In May, CIMMYT, in collaboration with the local government, organized an Agriculture Fair in Janaki Rural Municipality, Kailali district, Nepal, introducing farmers to modern farming techniques and machinery. The event inspired farmers like Ramfal Badayak, chairman of Biz Briddhi Krishak Cooperative, to adopt advanced tools, leading his cooperative to purchase two plant cultivators that now save time and labor for all members. With over 40 stalls and more than 4,000 daily visitors, the fair also benefited local suppliers by enabling direct sales to farmers, reducing costs by eliminating middlemen. This transformative event exemplified the potential of such platforms to modernize agriculture and support local communities.

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