There are around 140 households in Talfī, Ward No. 2 of Patarasi Rural Municipality. With the facilitation of Sarvodaya Nepal, hundreds of local residents have had the opportunity to learn many things about nutrition and sanitation. As a result, the nutritional and health conditions of the area have been improving in recent times. Through the Himali Community Organization formed there, monthly meetings are held to discuss various issues. It was found that women in remote areas were frequently falling ill mainly due to poor nutrition, health security, and sanitation. To address this, Sarvodaya Nepal’s Livelihood Project distributed improved seeds, creating awareness about income generation as well as the importance of consuming vegetables. Special emphasis was also given to personal, family, and environmental sanitation.

Previously, homes and surroundings such as courtyards, kitchen gardens, paths, and public spaces were not clean or well managed. The use of toilets was poor, and most households did not even have toilets. Utensils were not properly managed, and food was often left uncovered. People used to eat raw fruits without washing them and consumed vegetables without proper cleaning. Due to lack of nutritious food, poor sanitation, child marriage, and other factors, maternal and infant mortality rates were high.

Sanitation and Nutrition Improvement

After the formation of the Sundar Samuh (Beautiful Group) related to livelihood support and awareness, women have now become more conscious about sanitation. From food habits to menstrual hygiene, covering food, proper management of utensils, and using toilets for defecation and urination have become common practices. The habit of washing hands with soap and water after using the toilet has also developed. Likewise, Talfī village of Patarasi Ward No. 2 has now become a model village in terms of sanitation. The village, with around 50 households, is now very clean. Previously, the area was visibly dirty everywhere, but today Talfī village is being recognized as an attractive settlement near the Patarasi Himal.

This change has been possible through various awareness programs, livelihood support, and nutrition-related activities conducted through the Himali Community Organization. Elderly people, children, youths, and women have all become increasingly aware of nutrition and sanitation. Women who earlier paid little attention to diet are now more careful about consuming pulses, meat, fish, and liquid foods. Men have also started supporting women during pregnancy and the postnatal period. As a result, the health, sanitation, and nutritional status of elderly people, children, and women—who previously suffered from malnutrition—have been improving steadily. The overall situation has significantly improved in recent times.