Kathmandu: FAO Nepal officially launched The Four Betters Model Village, bringing together the Government of Nepal, local authorities, cooperatives, and community members in a shared commitment to sustainable agrifood systems and resilient livelihoods.
Ken Shimizu, FAO Representative for Bhutan and Nepal, emphasized the broader vision of the initiative, noting that it “connects agriculture with improved nutrition, environmental priorities and dignified livelihoods for rural communities.”
Dinesh Panthi, Minister for Agriculture, Land Management and Cooperatives, Lumbini Province stressed the role of agriculture and targeted investments in reducing inequality and strengthening rural economies.
Himalaya Tripathi, Chairperson Badhaiyatal Rural Municipality reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to agriculture-led development for vulnerable communities while Ms Laxmi Kumari Adhikari, Vice-Chairperson of Badhaiyataal Rural Municipality highlighted the importance of women’s participation and community ownership for sustainable outcomes. Featuring the inauguration, Mr Ekraj Upreti, Chairperson of NACCFL, emphasized the role of cooperatives in linking farmers to inputs, services and markets.
Guided by FAO’s vision of Better Production, Better Nutrition, a Better Environment and a Better Life, the initiative sets a pathway for empowering vulnerable communities through climate-resilient agriculture, improved food security and diversified livelihoods.
The organization stated that with this launch signals a strong partnership and a collective commitment to advancing inclusive and sustainable development in rural Nepal.
