Nestled in the remote village of Yangma in Nepal’s Bhojpur district, 51-year-old Ram Kumari Rai’s life has blossomed in ways she never imagined. Today, she is a respected community leader and the President of the Dungkhulu Zorankha Farmers Group. However, just a few years ago, her connection to agriculture was limited and uninspired, restricted to growing mustard greens during a single season with little exposure to year-round farming or kitchen gardening. That all changed in 2019.
Ram Kumari’s transformation began when she joined the agricultural program run by the dZi Foundation, marking a turning point in both her mindset and her livelihood. Through comprehensive training, hands-on experiences, and ongoing support, she learned about modern, sustainable farming techniques. For the first time, she was introduced to organic farming practices, kitchen gardening, and the cultivation of diverse vegetables, fruits, and cash crops.
With guidance from dZi, Ram Kumari mastered essential skills such as composting, pest and disease management, pruning, and irrigation techniques. She received seeds and saplings for crops she had never grown before like cabbage, cauliflower, onions, kidney beans, and even kiwi. She was also equipped with tools including sprinklers, watering cans, pipes, and agricultural sprayers.
Ram Kumari embraced her new knowledge with passion. Her hard work soon bore fruit—literally and figuratively. Her family now enjoys fresh, nutritious vegetables throughout the year, and she also started selling her surplus produce. “I sold 10-15 kilos of tomatoes this season. I had sold cauliflower, cabbage, and radishes earlier. I earned approximately $110 this year just by selling the surplus,” she shared with pride.
This new income stream empowered Ram Kumari and boosted her confidence. In 2024, her dedication was formally recognized when she received the Best Woman Farmer award at the Agriculture Fair organized by dZi. Her farmers’ group was also honored with the Best Farmers Group award, a tangible affirmation of the incredible progress they had made.
Ram Kumari’s journey, however, goes beyond agriculture. In 2021, dZi addressed the pressing issue of water scarcity in her community. By installing water taps, they provided consistent and climate-resilient access to clean water. This ensured that the unpredictability of seasonal water shortages no longer hindered their farming efforts. Her husband also benefited, having received beekeeping training through dZi. He now manages 10 beehives, adding another source of income for the family.
Today, Ram Kumari is not just a farmer—she is a symbol of transformation, resilience, and possibility. Her journey from a one-season grower to an award-winning agricultural leader shows what’s possible when rural communities are equipped with knowledge, tools, and opportunities.
Her story is a powerful reminder that with the right support, even the most remote villages can cultivate not only crops but hope, prosperity, and lasting change.