Subsistence farming remains the main source of income for families in rural areas

2,228 farmers trained in 15 districts on improved rice cultivation and animal care techniques. In addition, 483 farmers from poor families were prioritized to receive improved rice seeds. Assistance was providing for construction of small irrigation facilities in 189 villages so that there is sufficient water for crops during the dry season. As a result, farmers in the irrigation areas were able to harvest up to 2.5 tons of rice per hectare. This increased yields by 25 per cent and enabled poor families to sell their surplus for additional income.