A Case Study of Economic Empowerment of Forest-Dependent Women in Nepal

Women involved in carpet weaving in Padampur
Women involved in carpet weaving in Padampur
Forest minister observing carpet weaving process after the opening ceremony

Challenges and Objectives

In Padampur, Kalika Rural Municipality, Chitwan, Nepal, an empowering initiative for forest-dependent women took shape through the establishment and support of BM Hastakala Prasikshan Udhyog (BM Handicraft Enterprise and Training Center). This project, which started in 2018 and concluded in 2021, aimed to uplift marginalized women through income-generating activities while promoting their role in biodiversity conservation and sustainable forest management.

The project was born out of the need to address the challenges faced by a settlement relocated from Chitwan National Park. The main objective was to provide these women with livelihood opportunities, thereby reducing their dependency on forest resources and empowering them in biodiversity conservation and sustainable forest management.

Collaboration Partners and Roles

BM Hastakala Prasikshan Udhyog acted as the primary facilitator, connecting the local women with external support systems. The Thangkhola Community Forest Users Group played a crucial role in aligning the project's goals with the larger objective of restoring the local community and promoting biodiversity conservation. External organizations like the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), USAID-Hariyo Ban Program, Kingdom Investment (KI) Nepal, and Kalika Municipality of Chitwan lent their support in various forms, including technical expertise and financial backing. This collaborative effort was pivotal in ensuring the project’s viability and effectiveness, demonstrating the power of partnership in addressing complex social and environmental challenges.

Revitalisation Activities

The project’s revitalization efforts were multifaceted, focusing primarily on upscaling the wool-weaving enterprise. This initiative targeted forest-dependent women, aiming to reduce their dependency on forest resources by providing them with an alternative source of income. Training sessions in spinning wheels and the distribution of wool weaving machines were critical components of this effort. By offering these skills and tools, the project not only promoted financial autonomy among women but also contributed to biodiversity conservation by providing sustainable livelihood alternatives.

Revitalisation Outcome

The results of this initiative were profound and far-reaching. Economically, the wool-weaving enterprise successfully engaged over 400 women in alternative income-generating activities. This shift not only enhanced their financial stability but also reduced the pressure on forest resources, aligning with the project's environmental goals. The environmental impact was significant, as sustainable practices were promoted, contributing to the conservation of forest resources and wildlife. The use of wool as a naturally renewable resource has a lower ecological footprint and fosters a more sustainable approach to economic development. Socially, the initiative had a transformative effect on the participants. The women involved in the enterprise gained economic independence, bolstered self-confidence, and a stronger presence in community affairs. This socio-economic empowerment had ripple effects throughout the community, fostering a sense of pride and collective achievement.


This is the abridged version of a case prepared by AIRI Associate Fellow Sikshya Adhikary Rana. For further information, please email Dr. Thi Phuoc Lai Nguyen at phuoclai@ait.asia.

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