CeCRED believes that poverty is a major cause of conflict in Nepal, and strives to decrease the likelihood of future conflict by addressing extreme poverty amongst marginalised groups. Although almost 90% of Nepal’s population depends on agriculture, and much farming still relies upon old-fashioned methods. CeCRED therefore aims to improve living conditions for the most vulnerable people in society by introducing new farming techniques, which require less labour and produce higher yields. Their focus is on working with women, people living in poverty, and those who are illiterate or from dalit (‘untouchable’ caste) groups.

Agricultural Support Programme

This initiative works with poor rural communities, with a special focus on women, people from dalit (‘untouchable’ caste) or Jananjati ('indigenous') groups, and other vulnerable people. It offers training for farmers in planting new crop varieties, and provides and preserves seeds between seasons. CeCRED formed 40 groups of around 20 people, and conducted needs assessments with them. Training and orientation into modern farming techniques were provided based on these assessments. Finally, the groups share their experiences and findings with each other.