“SCLC, in partnership with ONGD-FNEL, has launched a vital support initiative for flood-affected farmers in Fulchowk village, Ward No. 6 of Dakshinkali Municipality. This project was inspired by students from Windesheim Honors College, Netherlands, who visited Fulchowk to study local farming systems. Following the devastating flash flood that washed away many farms, these students raised funds through GoFundMe. ONGD-FNEL contributed unspent 2024 funds, and generous well-wishers added support, enabling SCLC to create a targeted relief project.
With the strong collaboration of the Ward No. 6 Office and the Tole Bikash Sanstha of Fulchowk, 12 farmers received assistance to rebuild their livelihoods—marking a hopeful new beginning for the community.” – Niroj Shrestha, Director, SCLC
“Rabina’s Revival: A Flash Flood Survivor Cultivates Hope Through Floriculture”
Condition Before Flood
Rabina Balami, 29, is a hardworking farmer from Fulchowk, Ward 6 of Dakshinkali Municipality. Originally from Makwanpur and educated up to Grade 12, she lives with her husband—also a farmer—and their six-year-old daughter. Together, they cultivated seasonal and off-season vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, gourds, and bitter gourd, earning a good income.
In September 2024, a sudden flood devastated their farm—submerging some crops and sweeping others away. “Seeing the flash flood, I was terrified. Our house is on fragile land, and I couldn’t sleep all night. I prayed to Dakshinkali Mata that if lives are saved, we can start again,” Rabina recalls.
The Turning Point: selection from Shikharapur and local government
After the flood washed away many farms, the local government and Shikharapur Community Learning Center (SCLC) worked together to support affected farmers. With financial help from SCLC’s partner ONGD-FNEL, 12 farmers were selected through the Tole Bikash Committee and Ward Office to receive agricultural plastic tunnels. Rabina Balami was one of them, and hope returned to her life.
From Vegetables to Floriculture
With SCLC’s support, Rabina built a 20-meter plastic tunnel. Inspired by the growing floriculture trend near Dakshinkali Temple, she shifted from vegetable farming to cultivating marigold flowers. Last year’s harvest brought her a good income, and she expects similar success this year.
Field Reporting:
Sarita Nagarkoti, Agriculture Technician
Report by: Lalita Lamichhane, Field Coordinator