Nepal, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and unwavering resilience, actively promotes the integration of rural and urban areas. A prime example of this integration can be seen in the Darche Rural Municipality, located in the Gorkha district. This municipality not only showcases the economic potential of rural regions but also highlights their landscapes and historical significance. In order to delve deeper into this phenomenon, a comprehensive case study has been conducted, focusing on the implementation of traditional potato storage houses in the villages of Lapu and Gumda within the municipality. This study sheds light on the pivotal role played by these storage houses in transforming the potato value chain and strengthening the connection between rural and urban areas.

Potato farming serves as a vital source of livelihood for the farmers residing in Lapu and Gumda villages. Thanks to the fertile land and favorable climate conditions, potatoes thrive as a lucrative cash crop for numerous households. However, the traditional storage methods employed, which involve the use of bamboo baskets, present several challenges. These challenges include weight loss, shrinkage of tubers, extended sprouting times, and low emergence rates.

To address these challenges, the Shree Swanra Integrated Community Development Center (SSICDC) collaborated with the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) to implement the Gorkha Earthquake recovery and resilience program. As part of this initiative, traditional storage houses were constructed in Lapu village as a means of enhancing livelihoods. These structures were meticulously designed to maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels, thereby significantly prolonging the shelf life of stored potatoes.

Enhancing Potato Value Chain

The incorporation of traditional storage facilities into the potato value chain has led to improved efficiency in logistics and enhanced operations within the supply chain. This advancement allows farmers to conveniently store their produce in close proximity to production areas, optimizing the timing of potato sales, especially during the off-season. By adopting this strategic approach, farmers can take advantage of higher market prices, particularly during the rainy season, and benefit from selling potatoes for seed purposes, resulting in increased profits. Farmer groups such as Namuna Farmers Group, Chungtangdanda Farmers Group, and Mankrang Devi Farmers Group play a crucial role in the collection and distribution of potatoes, providing economic benefits to farmers while promoting community development and empowerment.

This allows farmers to optimize their profits and invest in enhancing their farming methods. Additionally, improved product quality contributes to the expansion of the market, attracting more buyers and strengthening the connection between rural and urban areas. Furthermore, the involvement of farmer groups in the value chain fosters community bonds and facilitates collective decision-making.

Analyzing from a critical perspective and considering governance, climate variability poses a significant threat to traditional potato storage methods, emphasizing the importance of sustainable solutions that incorporate climate-resilient infrastructure. Collaborating with organizations such as SSICDC and CRS provides farmers with essential resources and guidance to adopt new storage techniques. However, sustained government involvement is crucial for long-term success, ensuring technical assistance, financial resources, and policy support for community-led initiatives.

Although the introduction of rustic potato storage houses has yielded positive outcomes, it is crucial to address concerns regarding performance and maintenance to ensure their effectiveness. Regular inspections and repairs are necessary to prevent deterioration and guarantee long-term functionality. Establishing governance structures is essential to manage operational challenges and ensure fair access to storage facilities. Transparent systems are vital for the equitable distribution and utilization of resources, ensuring that all farmers equally benefit from improved storage capabilities.

Conclusion

The establishment of traditional potato storage facilities in Darche Rural Municipality showcases collaborative efforts to strengthen the rural-urban connection in Nepal. With the backing of the local government, these projects aim to improve quality, food security, and local economic development. Through the provision of technical knowledge and financial aid, farmers have been empowered to implement traditional storage methods, resulting in increased storage capacity and higher product standards. This assistance has also led to more efficient supply chains and improved productivity in the potato industry.

Suva BC is currently pursuing a Master's in Development Studies at Kathmandu University while actively engaging in various organizations and volunteering opportunities. As a research student, Suva is committed to deepening her understanding in the field of development and making impactful contributions, with a focus on promoting inclusivity, multicultural diversity, and addressing global issues. She can be reached at suvabc1341@gmail.com