Under the cooperation agreement, girls and women associated with Maiti Nepal will be given priority in hiring at the Krishi Kendra. Nimbus plans to open 200 of such specialized agri input centres across the country in the next two years. “Girls will be provided training to equip them with the expertise needed to run Nimbus Krishi Kendras,” said the company in a statement. “This is a step forward to uplift the under-privileged women of the country and provide them with the right base for a better life.”

Nimbus Krishi Kendras are being established with a commitment to uplift the agricultural system. The products sold at the centres will range from seeds, crop protection, fertilizers and plant nutrients to veterinary medicines, feed supplements, agricultural equipment, machinery and tools.

These stores will also act as a direct linkage between producers, processors and retailers. “This is a major attempt towards enhancing the capacity of farmers and strengthening the role of women in the economic development of the nation,” said Nimbus.