The contributions of scale-appropriate farm mechanization to hunger and poverty reduction: evidence from smallholder systems in Nepal

Purpose This study examines the adoption drivers of scale-appropriate mechanization in Nepal's maize-based farming systems. The authors also assess contribution to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) zero hunger (SDG2) and no poverty (SDG1). Design/methodology/approach Propensity score matching doubly robust inverse probability-weighted regression adjusted methods were applied estimate effects mini-tiller adoption. These control biases that arise from observed heterogeneities between mini-tillers users nonusers. Findings findings show farm size, labor shortages, draft animal scarcity, market proximity, household assets heads' educational level influence Nepal. Mechanized farms exhibited enhanced maize productivity, profits food self-sufficiency. Reduced depth severity observed. Nevertheless, these not uniform; very small (≤0.41 ha) facing acute shortages benefited most. Research limitations/implications results suggest policymakers developing nations like Nepal may wish expand their emphasis on improve productivity security, reduce contribute SDGs. Originality/value first-of-its-kind establishes causal SDG1 (no poverty) SDG2 (zero hunger) a nation.