An Alternative Source of Livelihood: Socio-Economic Analysis of Organic Vegetable Growing in Nepal: A Case Study

A study was conducted among 48 respondents in Dadhikot VDC, ward No 7, Gamcha village in Bhaktapur District, Nepal to evaluate the effects of organic vegetable farming done by farmers. Socio-economic condition of farmers involved in organic farming had been analysed based on market value and cost of production of winter vegetables. Descriptive and analytical research design were used which involves questionnaire and interview method. Trend of Land holding of organic vegetable farmers had shown increase of 52.085 %. Age groups of 20-24 and 50 above were found to be productive groups involved in farming. A total of 66.66 % of respondents were having 0.5-1.0 ropani land. Organic vegetable production had increased the total production to 60.42 % and is expected to increase more. Percentage of farmers having income per month increase to 37.5 % of R 5000 whereas those with income of Rs.3000-3500 were 31.25 %. Income from vegetables was utilized in various aspects like food, land purchase, house construction, health and sanitation, social function and education. Among the various sources of income, vegetable production constituted to 79.17 % of total share. Cost of production with regard to seed, fertilizer, agricultural tools and human resources was mostly less than Rs.500. Accessibility to market was 100 % for them which made them more convenient to sell their purchase. Produce was being marketed to cooperatives who used to purchase their produce throughout the year.