Alternative options of land consolidation in the mountains of Nepal: An analysis based on stakeholders’ opinions

In view of the adverse impact of land fragmentation on the mountain agriculture development in Nepal, this study begins with the intergenerational land fragmentation trend analysis and its causes. This is followed by an evaluation of alternative options of land consolidation from the perspectives of stakeholders surveyed. Required information was collected from the farmers, local elites, parliamentarians, top-level bureaucrats, and researchers through structured and semi-structured interviews, and group discussions. Findings of the study revealed a trend of steadily decreasing landholding size and increasing number of land parcels caused by the tradition of paternal property subdivision among household heirs, steadily growing population, scarcity of non-farming employment opportunities, and sentimental attachment with the paternal property. Farmers are well aware of the adverse economic consequences of land fragmentation and, therefore, they see the need for consolidation of fragmented land parcels. Their most preferred options of land consolidation are those that facilitate the spontaneous process of consolidation and that do not force them to restructure the landholdings in their possession. With some exceptions, majority of other stakeholders have similar views. Policies for land consolidation have been suggested in line with the stakeholders’ preferences.