Pabitra Khatri, from the village of Dharapani in Ilam district, Nepal, is a remarkable woman who has not only succeeded in organic tea farming but has also become a leader and role model for women in her community. As a board member of the Barboteli Tea Producer Cooperative Society Ltd., Pabitra has played a vital role in empowering women and driving social and economic progress.
Beginning with Social Engagement
Pabitra lives with her family of five — herself, her husband, two daughters, and one son. They also own a cow and a calf. In 2011, after connecting with board members and other members of the Barboteli Tea Producer Cooperative Society Ltd., Pabitra became a member of the cooperative. With a lifelong passion for learning, her primary motivation to join was to become socially active and to contribute meaningfully to her community.
Gaining Strength through Training and Knowledge
Through participation in programs, training, and workshops conducted by the Central Tea Cooperative Federation Ltd (CTCF), Pabitra acquired extensive knowledge about cooperative management, organic tea farming techniques, tea plucking, and occupational health and safety. This training not only improved her farming practices but also led to better economic outcomes and a healthier lifestyle.
Historically, women were confined mainly to household duties, but now women like Pabitra are actively participating in cooperatives and contributing equally to their families’ and communities’ development. They have grown into active leaders, sharing economic responsibilities alongside men.
Increased Productivity and Leadership Role
With increased productivity, Pabitra expanded her tea plantation and is recognized as a tea farmer producing high-quality and high-quantity tea leaves on relatively small land through good agricultural practices and organic farming.
As a board member of her cooperative, she now facilitates and empowers other members, especially women, helping them enhance their skills and leadership abilities. Since joining the cooperative, Pabitra has seen the price of green tea leaves increase by 3 NPR per kilogram due to improved collective bargaining power. This has benefited not just her but the entire cooperative community economically.
A New Identity for Women in Society
Pabitra’s story demonstrates that women can successfully manage farming, cooperative work, and leadership roles. Women in her cooperative balance household responsibilities with economic contributions through qualitative and sustainable tea farming.
Participation in occupational safety and health training has equipped members to minimize hazards and maintain safety at the workplace. The cooperative’s own tea processing factory also creates employment opportunities and raises awareness about tea processing technology.
The most significant social change has been the growing belief in the community that “women can do this too” — a major milestone in a country like Nepal.
Pabitra’s Message
I became a member of the cooperative to connect with people, learn more about cooperatives and tea, and to empower women. My participation has made me stronger. I feel I can overcome any difficulty — whether in farming, cooperative work, or family responsibilities
Conclusion
Pabitra Khatri’s journey is a shining example of women’s empowerment through education, training, and community engagement. Her story shows how women can be powerful agents of change in agriculture and social development when given the right knowledge and opportunities.
If you are inspired by Pabitra’s story and want to make a difference in farming or women’s empowerment, remember that continuous learning and taking initiative are key.
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