Introduction
Sagarmatha Organic Tea Producer and Processing Cooperative is based in Bikhupike Rural Municipality-5, Solukhumbu. It was officially registered at the Division Cooperative Office in Udayapur, Gaighat, on Ashoj 5, 2071 B.S. (2014 A.D.), with registration number 18/2071/72. The cooperative was formed to bring together small tea farmers, helping them improve their incomes and practice sustainable farming. With 34 share members, it focuses on growing high-quality organic tea while protecting the natural environment of Solukhumbu.
Since organic tea is becoming more popular, the cooperative promotes eco-friendly farming by avoiding chemical fertilizers and pesticides. This not only improves the quality of the tea but also keeps the soil healthy for a long time, making tea farming more sustainable. By following organic methods, the cooperative meets global trends in sustainable agriculture, making its tea more valuable in both local and international markets. Members receive training, financial support, and guidance on organic certification, helping them grow tea that meets high standards.
Besides growing tea, the cooperative also processes the leaves harvested by its members. Having its own processing facilities allows farmers to add value to their tea, helping them earn better prices. This reduces their dependence on outside processors and middlemen, ensuring they get fair profits. The cooperative also helps members find buyers and sell their products directly, giving them stable income opportunities.
Sagarmatha Organic Tea Producer and Processing Cooperative shows how farmers can succeed by working together. By promoting organic farming, supporting farmers, and investing in tea processing, it is helping to develop the organic tea industry in Solukhumbu. The cooperative plans to expand its market, increase production, and encourage more farmers to switch to organic tea. Through teamwork and sustainable practices, it continues to improve farmers’ lives while protecting the environment and local farming traditions.