Promoting Large Cardamom Cultivation in Post-Earthquake Nepal Results and knowledge gained

The document discusses the promotion of large cardamom cultivation in the Gorkha district of Nepal following the 2015 earthquake, focusing on empowering smallholder and women farmers. The initiative aimed to enhance livelihoods by introducing large cardamom as a cash crop, which is perceived as more profitable compared to traditional crops like cereals and vegetables. Despite challenges such as limited access to suitable land and the need for sustained crop maintenance, the project has shown promise in increasing farmers' income and resilience.

Key interventions included capacity-building activities, particularly exposure visits that allowed farmers, especially women, to learn from successful communities. These visits provided practical insights into critical production aspects such as site selection, weeding, and harvesting, fostering a sense of community and shared learning among participants. The project also emphasized the importance of local resource persons in mentoring farmers and enhancing their skills.

The pilot project yielded mixed results, with initial harvests lower than expected due to factors like wildlife damage and lack of experience in crop maintenance. However, the initiative generated significant awareness and interest in large cardamom cultivation, leading to plans for scaling up the project in collaboration with local municipalities. Overall, the project has laid a foundation for sustainable agricultural practices and economic growth in the region.