value chain/ market analysis of the orthodox tea sub ... - Nepal Trade

5. STRATEGIC AREAS FOR NEAT INTERVENTIONThe strategic interventions for this project are divided as short term and long term. Theeffects of the short-term strategies will be seen as outcomes of the NEAT project. Thesuggested interventions are categorized in five parts: input supply, production/productivity,processing, marketing, and policy. Long-term strategies are also suggested which will behelpful to uplift the orthodox sector of Nepal and whose outcomes can be evaluated beyondthe project period.5.1 Short term strategy5.1.1 Production and Productivity· Pilot plucking machines: Plucking machines are available in markets for teaharvesting. It has been used in plains in CTC plantation area; however the machine isstill needed to be piloted in orthodox plantation because of the sloped landscape andextra care required. These machines can be provided to farmers through FBOs andcooperatives in certain production pockets for piloting.· Training to Agrovets on pesticides: This would be beneficial in raising awarenessand educate the agrovets and mobilize them to spread words to farmers.· Conduct interactive meetings between input suppliers and farmers: This will helpto build trust among agrovets and farmers and provide an opportunity for beinginformed on the quality inputs and proper methods of application· Support for easy access to organic inputs: Partnership can be done with inputsuppliers to provide easy access to organic manures, bio-fertilizers, bio-pesticides andinsecticides. Facilitation should be provided to introduce alternative input supplyingcompany.· Establishment of composting plants: Support can be provided for the establishmentof biogas plants and vermi-composting at farmers level. In addition, cattle can beprovided and shed made in the field that will provide raw material for the plants andalso help in increasing soil fertility due to direct seepage of the excreta.· Support in packaging materials to farmers: Packaging materials such as nets canbe provided in subsidized rates for farmers to maintain freshness of the leaf.· Study and piloting of irrigation system: Tea plantation in Nepal is totally dependenton rainfall that makes it difficult for the year round quality leaf production. Due tosloppy landscape, the usual irrigation method is not possible. However, from theconsultation with experts and tea garden owner, it is understood that the (drip fornursery and young tea/sprinkler for mature gardens) irrigation can be a useful mediumof irrigation but the initial cost is comparatively high. Another alternative forirrigation can be rain water harvesting. A detail study should be conducted on thefeasibility of the both irrigation types in the production pockets and if found feasible,a piloting should be done as per the findings of the study.· Facilitate for establishment of nurseries and quality clone development: Sincethere is lack of commercial nurseries for tea, NEAT can provide initial support toFBOs , cooperatives or private entrepreneur for establishment of such nurseriesprovided that the long term sustainability is assured and proper benefits are sharedamong farmers. Normally, the nurseries can be developed and its trade activity atlocal level initated within 16 months.· Conduction of trainings to farmers for improved quality production andincreased productivity: Quality begins from the farm level. In order to achieveproducts that are of international standards, increased productivity, and are alsoValue Chain/Market Analysis-Orthodox Tea 35