The Central Tea Cooperative Federation (CTCF) Nepal is dedicated to promoting sustainable agriculture within the country's tea sector. As the national umbrella organization for tea cooperatives, CTCF supports over 100 member cooperatives and more than 7,500 smallholder tea farming households across various districts . Key Initiatives by CTCF:
- Organic Farming: CTCF encourages the cultivation of tea without harmful chemicals, promoting the use of organic manure made from local materials . Integrated Pest Management (IPM): They train farmers to manage pests using natural methods, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides .
- Agroforestry: By integrating trees with tea cultivation, CTCF helps maintain soil health and biodiversity .
- Certifications: CTCF assists cooperatives in obtaining certifications like Organic and Rainforest Alliance, enhancing market access and ensuring sustainable practices .
- Training and Capacity Building: They provide education on leadership, cooperative management, and sustainable farming techniques to empower farmers .
Through these efforts, CTCF aims to create resilient tea farming communities that are environmentally responsible and economically viable.