In the high-altitude village of Nanmu, nestled near Lhasa, a quiet revolution is unfolding as women take charge of economic transformation. Ngodrup Wangmo, a local entrepreneur, has become a beacon of empowerment by leading 16 women from her community in cultivating a sprawling 16-acre vineyard—a first for the region.
Drawing on grape-growing techniques from Qamdo, Wangmo and her team have turned rocky terrain into fertile ground, producing harvests that are revitalizing the village economy. The project not only provides stable income but also challenges traditional gender roles in agriculture.
"When we first suggested farming grapes, people doubted us," Wangmo recalls. "Now they see how teamwork can turn soil into gold."
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to promote sustainable livelihoods in Xizang. With annual yields increasing by 12% since 2022, the vineyard has become a case study for balancing ecological preservation with economic growth. Analysts suggest such grassroots projects could attract interest from businesses exploring climate-resilient farming models in Asia.
As autumn approaches, the women prepare for their third harvest—a symbol of perseverance on the "roof of the world" that continues to inspire neighboring communities.
