Market-led partnerships for resilient agri-food systems in the Terai Region of Nepal

This solution track addresses fragmented access to inputs, irrigation, mechanisation and markets among smallholder farmers in Nepal’s Terai by scaling a market-led bundle of quality seed, integrated soil fertility management, irrigation and mechanisation. Building on the Maize Commercial Model, the approach connects farmers with input suppliers, service providers, cooperatives, government institutions and output buyers through public-private-community partnerships. Earlier implementation recorded yield gains of 20–40% in several crops, approximately 100% in maize, a 50% reduction in mechanised sowing costs and substantial expansion of spring maize production. By 2030, the track aims to reach approximately 1.2 million farmers while strengthening input and output markets, irrigation access, institutional coordination and commercially sustainable service delivery.