Cultural Survival, with English VO

Indigenous Women with Disabilities Fight to Preserve Livelihoods Amid Government Restrictions in Nepal
In rural communities, where gas stoves are scarce, Indigenous women with disabilities rely on traditional practices like firewood collection, agriculture, and liquor-making to sustain their livelihoods. However, state policies that restrict access to community forests and criminalize Indigenous practices are pushing these women into deeper economic hardship. "These days most of the Indigenous people’s land and forests are encroached by the state and turned into community forest," says Rashmi Gurung. "We are not allowed to collect firewood from the community forest. We have to buy it, which is expensive so, it impacts our economic condition." With limited opportunities and persistent challenges, they call on the government to recognize and support their traditional knowledge and skills, ensuring a more accessible and dignified life for all.
Click here for audio descriptions and an interactive transcript: disabilityjust...