A Field experiment using two determinate hybrid varieties of okra (Venus and Nitya) was conducted at Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur, Chitwan during summer of 2021 to examine the impact of different fertilizer combinations on the dietary fiber content and vegetative characteristics of okra. This study was laid out in a split-plot design and comprised three replications; there were two main plots of Okra varieties, and each main plot contained four sub-plots of fertilizer combinations (Inorganic fertilizer + Poultry manure, Inorganic fertilizer + Vermicompost, Inorganic fertilizer + FYM, and Inorganic fertilizer alone). The experimental results revealed that the Venus variety had a higher dietary fiber content (3.52%) than the Nitya variety (2.98%). Venus variety (6.6 t/ha) had a higher yield as compared to the Nitya variety (5.3t/ha). It was observed that Inorganic fertilizer + Poultry manure (3.80%) followed by Inorganic fertilizer + Vermicompost (3.46 %) had a superior effect on the dietary fiber content of fruit. Inorganic fertilizer + Poultry manure produced the highest plant height (1.13 m), average canopy diameter (1.10 m), and yield (6.8 t/ha), while Inorganic fertilizer + FYM produced the highest pod length (11.81 cm). The results suggest that combined application of a recommended dose of inorganic fertilizer with organic fertilizer (Poultry manure) improves dietary fiber content and vegetative characteristics of the Okra plant .

Malnutrition, hunger, and rural poverty in Nepal are prevalent issues that have been exacerbated by the negative impacts of climate change on crop production. To create a more sustainable and resilient food system, it is crucial to explore alternative options beyond the small number of input-intensive crops that the country currently relies on. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive investigation of six underutilized food crops—amaranth, buckwheat, finger millet, foxtail millet, naked barley, and proso millet—in four mountainous districts of the Karnali province, Nepal. Using several approaches that included a literature review, key informant surveys, focus group discussions, and direct observations, we explored the production and utilization aspects of these crops, as well as their potential for improving nutrition and food security. Our findings indicate that these underutilized crops continue to be a vital element of the diets of people residing in Karnali and play an important role in their livelihoods. This study also highlights the diversity and potential of these underutilized crop landraces, and their significance in addressing nutrition and food insecurity, as well as in improving livelihoods in regions with marginal lands and inadequate food supply. Thus, promoting the cultivation and consumption of underutilized crops can create a more sustainable and diverse food system that is resilient to climate change. However, further investigation is needed to fully understand the socioeconomic importance and other potential benefits of these crops.