Mukhiyadada, a small village of Dailekh Mahabu RM, surrounded by the hills nestled the golden fields of grains like wheat and rice. The farmers had always struggled with the tedious task of separating the grain from the unwanted chaff. Every harvest season, especially women’s would spend long hours tossing the mixture of grains, husk, and chaff into the air, hoping the wind would carry away the chaff. It was exhausting and time-consuming work, leaving them tired and drained. With all this, they have to manage the household chores, feed to the livestock, and do other care work activities. Upon on all this, the effect of climate change has hit hard, mostly raining on the harvest seasons which will make more difficulties in post-harvest activity.

With the introduction of winnowing fan, the women of the Mukhiyadada had some relief and a big smile. Now they can complete the task of separating the grain from the chaff more efficiently and with less physical strain. The winnowing fan was a simple but ingenious device that revolutionized the lives of these hardworking women. The women couldn't contain their excitement as they took turns using the winnowing fan. They were amazed at how quickly and easily it separated the grains. Not only women, now the men are also interested in work and help women. They no longer had to rely on unpredictable wind or spend hours tossing the mixture in the air. With the winnowing fan, they could finish the task much faster, giving them more energy for other important activities.

Remembering the past, Dila Kumari Gurung (32) said that to winnow around 1000 kg of wheat, three people have to spend the entire day but with the winnowing fan, the same quantity can be winnowed in just two hours with only two people. She further added with eyes filled with tears, and voice filled with gratitude, I remember the days when we would work from dawn till dusk, working tirelessly to separate the grains. It was physically and mentally exhausting.

But now, thanks to the winnowing fan, we have gained precious hours in our day. "With the winnowing fan," Dila Kumari Gurung concluded, her voice steadying with determination, "we have transformed not just our daily routines, but our entire lives. We are no longer bound by the limitations imposed by nature. We have become agents of change, shaping our own destinies." The women of Mukhiyadada wasted no time in putting the winnowing fan to use. They organized themselves into small groups and established a rotational schedule.

Each group would take turns using the fan, ensuring that everyone had access to this valuable tool. Along with the women, Mahabu RM chairperson had thanked SAHAS Nepal for the support towards drudgery reducing of women and the newfound efficiency which has allowed women to finish their work quickly, giving them more time to tend to their families and livestock.

Written by: Roshani Ghimire

Reviewed by: Rumi Maharjan