Rojina Bishwakarma’s Journey to Sustainable Farming

Rojina Bishwakarma, 42, from Purveli Tole, Ward 16, Hetauda Sub-Metropolitan City, Makwanpur, is a shining example of how knowledge, support, and determination can transform lives. Farming on her 9 Kathha (0.304 ha) of land for years, Rojina struggled with high costs and declining soil fertility while using chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and hybrid seeds.

Six years ago, she joined the Sachetana Women Farmer Group under the Women Empowerment Project implemented by Srijanshil Nepal with support from KZE/MISEREOR, Germany, and Caritas Nepal. Through the project, Rojina received training in agro-ecological farming, organic fertilizer preparation, leadership, and income-generating activities, along with a cash grant of NPR 14,985, which she matched with her own investment.

Using eco-friendly farming methods, she now cultivates mustard, buckwheat, finger millet, soybean, and vegetables such as garlic, tomato, onion, and cauliflower, while also conserving local seeds. She has already earned NPR 5,700 from finger millet and NPR 7,200 from soybean, while retaining portions for household use. Beyond income, Rojina grows a variety of fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants, producing pesticide-free food and selling surplus seeds to other farmers.

Rojina credits the project for teaching her self-reliance, sustainable farming practices, and the importance of nutritious food. She now fully follows agro-ecological methods and is committed to promoting indigenous crops and healthy farming in her community, inspiring others to adopt sustainable agriculture.