The Future of Agrarian Mountain Livelihoods (FAML): Youth Aspirations and Irrigation Modernisation in Nepal

Sustainable and efficient irrigation for increased agricultural productivity is considered crucial to global food security.

However, these agendas often prioritize technocratic and one-sided economic growth visions that do not meet changing rural livelihoods aspirations turning away from farming.

Despite investments by governments and international organisations in irrigation modernisation projects, food insecurity, out-migration and growing alienation of youth from agriculture remain a challenge.This project aims to generate a new understanding of how water resource governance can become more youth-inclusive.

We use a National Pride Irrigation Project in Nepal as a case study.

The Himalayas provide an excellent study context due to high investments in irrigation projects, high rates of male youth out-migration, feminisation of agricultural labor and socio-economic inequalities.Through a transdisciplinary mixed methods approach, we ask (1) how modernization agendas of irrigation systems and enhanced agriculture productivity impact livelihood aspirations of youth from diverse gender, class and caste, and (2) how youth’ changing aspirations (especially female youth) can be integrated into irrigation governance, policies and programs.The way resources are managed will impact youth and future generations.

This study will provide valuable insights into the ways in which youth can participate in decision-making processes on water resource governance to ensure just agrarian futures.