Role of agriculture in livelihood of people of Nepal: A study of Ghyanglekh Rural Municipality, Sindhuli

Abstract

This study explores the “Role of agriculture in livelihood of people of Nepal: A field study of Ghyanglekh Rural Municipality, Sindhuli”. Agriculture is one of the oldest human activities and is critical to global economies and food security. It is a crucial sector in Nepal, employing a significant portion of the population and contributing to its economy. However, it faces several challenges that hinder productivity and sustainability. Due to the weakness in so many aspects, agricultural practices are becoming more challenging and subsistence, which affect directly or indirectly on livelihood of people in socio socio-economic sector. The specific objectives of the study were to identify the existing agricultural practices, roles in livelihood of people, and challenges in modernization and sustainability in the study area. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines qualitative data collected through household surveys with qualitative insights obtained from key informant interviews. More than 95% of household survey respondents were farmers. Due to the insufficient production of crops, 73% were unsatisfied with their farming systems. Study shows that almost 99% of farmers lack access to modern tools, technology and ideas. Where about 90% of the people used oxen as a plowing technology of the field. And 98.3% of farmers have no irrigation facilities. Due to the excessive and unscientific use of different pesticides, insecticides, and chemical fertilizers in crops, land productivity is decreasing by about 71% day by day. But different invasive species, pests, and insects were increasing on farms. The study reported that they had been experiencing crop failure due to inappropriate policies too. Income from agriculture is so poor that only 43% is enough to survive. They haven’t found enough crop production which is disruptive conditions to go abroad for employment. So, people are separating from their traditional occupations and way of life, and they are seeking alternative professions. It is concluded that there is no sustainable and commercial farming system to sustain the livelihood of rural people. Due to the different barriers factors of commercial farming people are leaving their agricultural practices. So, for the sustainability of this occupation, we should use modern tools and machinery, the Provision of improved seed varieties, advanced irrigation methods, and scientific methods should be accessible to all farmers.