COVID-19 challenges among farmers in Nepal
Published on: 12 Aug 2019

VIN supports community farmers to do organic farming

VIN is a renowned organization in Jitpurphedi community. It has been working in this community since 2007 in different development areas. VIN has different programs for community development. Among those, the women’s empowerment program is one of the key programs of the organization. Under this program, the agro-farming project is one of the important sectors for empowering women because most of the women are farmers in this area. The main objective of this project is to make women successful in organic farming. According to objective, VIN mobilized two national and international volunteers (Sagar Dhital and Tangi from France) for agro-farming work in halo farm of Jitpurphedi where the farmer has a tomato farm. They first interviewed her about the present condition of farming and found out about some of the problems she faced. They supported her to reduce labor cost by pruning the leaves of affected tomato plant due to late blight. The main problem of this farm was Whitefly.

In the end, they suggested some of the solutions to the problems. They are;

Physical method: –

– Pruning of affected body parts of tomato with properly sterilized blades (use Dettol to sterilize)

Biological methods: –

1) Encarsiaformosa (insect which feeds on Whitefly)

2) Yellow sticky trap

3) Neem oil: – Make a solution of 50gm of neem powder into 1L                                                         of water and keep for 24 hours. Filter the solution and spray all over the plant body.

Other methods: –

1) Soap water treatment: – Make a solution of soap and water and spray in every part of the plant.

-Use 1 tablespoon soap powder into 4L of water

-Use 1 spoon liquid detergent in 2L of water

2) Sanitation practices like proper weed management avoid yellow dress inside farm; wash the leaves of the tomato plant with water if Whitefly has laid any eggs.

These above-mentioned methods are more useful for organic farming so farmers are happy from this support. They are thankful for the support from VIN on different farming techniques in the future as well.

agro farming

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Your Experience/Setting

On arrival you will be greeted at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) and transported to your hotel / hostel (alternative arrangements can be made for those already in Nepal prior to the start of their placement). You will then receive a comprehensive a two to three-day induction, during that time you will be provided with information about your particular project as well as general information, including basic Nepalese language and culture, health and safety. This is also a good time to mix with other volunteers or interns who may be great sight-seeing companions and a source of support during your volunteer placement.

During the induction you will be accommodated in a budget hotel or hostel at VIN. However, a large part of the VIN experience comes from the immersion of a

home stay with a Nepalese host family. While this is an essential part of the experience we also recognize that it can be a challenging one, becoming part of a new culture and becoming accustomed to facilities that will be more basic than those you are used to. However, all our host families are experienced in accommodating volunteers – although their ability to speak English will vary – and you will have 24 hours’ access to contact and support from our staff members during your placement.

Volunteers will be placed in one of VIN’s working areas namely Tarakeshor Municipality of Kathmandu, Taluwa, Thulachhap and Bhadaure of Okhaldhunga, and Okharpouwa, Kaule of Nuwakot district. While at the working site the volunteers are requested to bring their own lunch, water bottle, safety gears, face mask and other essential belongings. As a volunteer you are advised to be in a comfortable and modest attire with preferably long sleeves. If you wish to raise project funds or collect project specific resources, you may contact us.

Requirements

  • Gender: Female / Male
  • Minimum Age: 18+ years (16-17 years old person can volunteer but need to present parents’ consent letter)
  • Language: English (Intermediate)
  • Educational: High School Graduate

Schedule and Commitment

You will work five to six days a week, up to six hours per day. You may propose your preferred time and hours; however, the working time period will be dependent on the institution you have been placed. A minimum of 2 weeks’ time commitment is expected of a volunteer. The longer you commit, the better impact you can make. You should be willing to commit a certain amount of your free time and energy, show a lot of commitment and be a good listener. You are expected to work constructively and co-operatively maintaining good reputation and standards at all times. Volunteer should abide by relevant security concerns and access procedures. Moreover, you should be receptive and positive to performance appraisal, advice and feedback. Throughout your placement you will have the full support of VIN. Your safety is our highest priority.

Mentoring and Support System

You will receive a clear and concise on-the-job instructions, course of action, context of work and policies/strategies before your placement begins. You will be

provided with ample of guidance and support throughout the placement with trainings / onboarding sessions incase necessary. You will be in a constant communication and regular check-in with the VIN volunteer coordinator. VIN aims to maintain a culture of continuous feedback between the volunteer supervisor at the placement to monitor the performance of the volunteer and ensure the project delivers desired outcomes.

In case of an emergency, you may contact one of our Volunteer Coordinators who will be available anytime for your assistance and support.

Time and Fees

Mid and Long Term Volunteers:
  • 2 weeks minimum stay- € 385
  • 3 weeks – 470€
  • 4 weeks – 555€ (after 4 weeks for each additional week we charge €75)
University Internships:
  • 4 weeks minimum stay- € 615 (for each additional week we charge €85)

What VIN offers you in return?

  • On Arrival orientation (two to three days)
  • Food and Accommodation during on arrival orientation at VIN’s hostel / budget hotel on sharing basis
  • Food and Accommodation during Placement: Nepali Standard local host family – 3 meals a day
  • Transportation: Airport pick up; one time transport to and from the project site
  • Local volunteers’ support cost (optional)
  • VIN T-shirt
  • Certificate of participation
  • 24 hours emergency support
  • VIN admin cost.

What is excluded? Airfare, VISA (http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/page/tourist-visa), vaccinations, travel & medical insurance, return airport transfer, personal travel and weekend activities expenses etc.

Desirable/ Common Skills 

  • Excellent communicator with good interpersonal skills
  • A team player with good work ethics
  • Time management and leadership qualities
  • Adaptable, flexible and able to work under pressure
  • Accepting of different ideas and culture
  • Problem solving: always be part of solutions than part of a problem
  • Creative