Strengthening capacity on agroecology and indigenous food systems

About the Event 

Under the Promoting Resilient Agroecological Systems (PRAS) Project, ICIMOD as a knowledge partner of the Resilient High Value Agricultural Programme (R-HVAP), is organising a three-day exposure visit to Meghalaya, India, in collaboration with the North-East Society for Agroecology Support (NESFAS) for selected stakeholders from Nepal.

The visit is designed as a learning exchange enabling government officials and development practitioners to engage directly with community-led agroecological initiatives. Participants will observe field practices, interact with Indigenous knowledge holders, and explore innovative approaches that integrate biodiversity conservation, nutrition, and sustainable livelihoods. The exchange will also create space for Nepal delegates to share their own field experiences and foster regional dialogue on climate-resilient and culturally rooted food systems.

Objectives 

• To learn about ongoing agroecology, agrobiodiversity and Indigenous food systems initiatives in Meghalaya, particularly through NESFAS and IFAD-supported interventions.
• To exchange field-based experiences and successful agroecological practices between Nepal and Meghalaya and identify adaptable approaches and policy insights for scaling agroecology in mountain contexts.

The visit will focus on field-based learning, community-led agroecological models, agrobiodiversity conservation, and value chain approaches. Participants include government officials and development practitioners from Nepal.

Expected outputs 

• Enhanced understanding of community-led agroecological practices implemented by NESFAS and IFAD.
• Strengthened knowledge exchange and learning platform between Nepal and Meghalaya on practical agroecology innovations.

Background

The PRAS project, supported by the Climate Action for a Resilient Asia (CARA) a UK Government initiative, promotes agroecological transition to resilient and commercially viable agroecological farming systems. It focuses on building the capacity of diverse stakeholders in agroecological policy, planning and practice in Nepal’s western provinces, while supporting cross-border knowledge exchange with partners in India.

Meghalaya offers a compelling learning landscape. Despite being one of India’s biodiversity hotspots, many communities in Meghalaya face nutrition and livelihood challenges. NESFAS has responded by revitalising Indigenous Peoples’ Food Systems, positioning communities, especially women and youth, as custodians of biodiversity and agents of change. Rooted in values of sharing, consensus, and food sovereignty, NESFAS bridges traditional knowledge with contemporary sustainability frameworks, addressing food security, nutrition, and green livelihoods through community-driven action.

This exposure visit will enable participants to witness practical, community-based solutions that demonstrate how agroecology can simultaneously strengthen ecological integrity, cultural identity, and local economies.