Abstract and Figures
Engagement of youth and women in agricultural value chain development is the major issue for economic development and sustainable food system in the developing economies. Despite tremendous efforts made in the past, the performance of agriculture sector has remained inadequate in Nepal. A larger proportion of population employed in agriculture adopting subsistence farming system with traditional technology, higher level of biotic and abiotic risks, low profitability, and irregular markets made this sector less attractive to the youth and women. This triggered the youth male out-migration leaving women in agriculture in rural areas. Policy and program interventions could contribute to revitalize the rural youth and women in agriculture and rural resource based economic development. Agricultural development should be backed up with value addition, processing, branding and packaging along with strong market linkages. Increased investments in research and development, tie-up with practical education system, capacity building of value chain actors, and assurance of markets for the farmers’ product could encourage youth and women in this sector. Meanwhile, an integrated efforts should be made by all line ministries, stakeholders and private sectors for the development of agriculture sector in Nepal.