Agricultural biodiversity and its contribution to food security

On farm agricultural biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of agricultural crops. This study used structured and semi-structured interview at households (HH) and community levels to garner the data on socio-economy, on-farm agricultural practices, crop productions, production areas, knowledge on food security, balanced diet and sources of income. It also included field based observations. The crops that were grown on farm included cereals, oil seeds, legumes, vegetables, fruits and spices. The literacy rate, the influences of neighbors, inclusion of kitchen garden, production areas and the accessibility to cities increased the diversification and quantification of agricultural products in Tharu communities. In addition, the organic matter incorporation into the soil through biodiversity richness improved the soil health for higher productivity. Thus, this study shows the contribution of on farm agricultural biodiversity on food security of Tharu communities in Chitwan, Nepal.