Short-Term Technical Consultant for Study on Private Sector Seed Inspector Model

Short-Term Technical Consultant

FEED THE FUTURE NEPAL USAID AGRICULTURAL INPUTS

Terms of Reference

To Conduct a Study on Private Sector Seed Inspector Model

BACKGROUND

Feed the Future Nepal USAID Agricultural Inputs (USAID Agricultural Inputs) will increase the availability, accessibility, and use of agricultural inputs and technology to improve Nepal’s agricultural productivity. The focus on seed, fertilizer, irrigation, and mechanization market systems will improve resilience, competitiveness, and inclusion in the agriculture sector. USAID Agricultural Inputs will help more than 200 lead firms, agrovets, input suppliers, local machinery service providers, and Government of Nepal to catalyze agricultural productivity, efficient input supply chains, competitive market systems, and a stronger enabling environment that will benefit 200,000 farmers in Sudurpaschim, Lumbini, Karnali, Bagmati, and Madhesh provinces. USAID Agricultural Inputs will contribute to the following objectives:

Objective 1: Demand and supply responsive and financially viable seed system improved.

Objective 2: Soil fertility management and fertilizer distribution system improved.

Objective 3: Climate adaptive and sustainable irrigation management system improved.

Objective 4: Agricultural mechanization enhanced.

As envisioned by Seed Quality Control Center (SQCC), seed inspectors are critical actors in the seed value chain. The major responsibility of seed inspectors is to inspect and ensure that the quality of the seed is maintained throughout the seed supply chain; for example, seed inspectors can inspect standing field crops, warehouses of seed companies, and agrovet shops/stores. If the inspector finds that there is disease or pests and/or lack of technical compliance, they have the authority to reject the seed field. Similarly, if there are improper storage conditions such as exposure to moisture or pests, along with any other improper practices, they can reject the stock. It is mandatory for the seed inspector to visit the field at least twice during the crop cycle to certify the seeds; however, private and independent seed inspectors are not currently being hired to conduct this task. This task is done by the agriculture officers of SQCC or provincial seed labs and in some cases, employees of the seed company themselves.

Furthermore, seed inspectors have the authority to seize unregulated seeds and punish the individuals involved in its distribution. Presently this task is conducted by agriculture officers under SQCC, or the provincial seed labs. However, due to limited human resources, they are not able to expand their reach. Therefore, the mobilization of more independent seed inspectors in the seed chain is crucial.

To be a seed inspector, applicants must have a bachelor's in agriculture, pass an exam administered by SQCC, and complete subsequent training to become licensed. In the absence of individuals meeting the criteria set above, federal, and provincial governments may assign their agriculture officers with the specified qualifications to work as seed inspectors. Seed Regulation 2069 B.S has outlined the tasks to be carried out by seed inspectors:

• Inspect the process of seed field inspection and seed sample collection.
• Monitor the seed market focusing on the licensing of seed entrepreneurs and the transactions of registered or unregistered seeds.
• Monitor containers and labels and collect seed samples if needed.
• Seize and destroy illegal stocks and file cases of fraud accordingly.

There are more than 200 seed inspectors who have graduated and 90 are certified for fieldwork. These 90 inspectors have completed all the stipulated requirements of SQCC. Currently, there is no mobilization plan in place with SQCC, and private sector inspectors remain without assigned tasks. Further, there is very little demand for these services which raises questions about the utility of the time and resources spent to license seed inspectors. This study will investigate and propose a business model to mobilize seed inspectors so that they can be utilized by SQCC, Provincial Seed Labs, and private companies in order to enhance the efficiency of the seed quality control system.

OBJECTIVES

This study's overall objective is to prepare a feasibility report with a viable business model to mobilize private seed inspectors. Before the model is developed, the consultant must: 

1. Analyze the present status of seed inspectors. 
2. Analyze why seed inspectors have not been absorbed by the market or mobilized via GoN service.
3. Propose a business model to mobilize seed inspectors so that they can be utilized by SQCC, Provincial Seed Labs, and private companies in order to enhance the efficiency of the seed quality control system.

SCOPE OF WORK

The Offeror is expected to: 

• Conduct a desk literature review and develop assessment methodology and field plan, for comments and approval by USAID Agricultural Inputs.
• Interview at least 30 out of the more than 200 eligible private inspectors (Focus will be on seed inspectors who are not presently holding full-time jobs; however, inspectors who are employed may also be interviewed to gather insights and perspectives).
• Conduct interviews with relevant stakeholders such as seed companies (at least 10), SQCC and provincial seed labs (at least three in USAID Agricultural Inputs working area).
• Prepare a detailed study on the status of private seed inspectors and the reasons why seed inspectors are not being mobilized by seed companies.
• Develop at least one business model to mobilize seed inspectors with clear incentive plans for both inspector and client. 
• Develop a presentation for relevant stakeholders summarizing the findings of the assessment and the recommendations.

METHODOLOGY 

The following methodology should be adopted while conducting this study:

• The methodology will involve an in-depth desk review that includes literature review of any existing documents or reports. Assessment of any international or regional case studies on seed inspectors should also be done. Based on the literature review, a methodology to conduct the study, along with a field plan should be developed. 
• The offeror is expected to conduct a detailed study of the constraints and issues.  She/he must meet most of the respondents in person. Some meetings may be conducted virtually if there are scheduling challenges or due to the stakeholders' time constraints. 
• A draft report with a two-page summary for review and comments must be submitted with a clear outline of the bottlenecks for the utilization of seed inspectors and the roadmap for their effective mobilization. 
  • After incorporating the comments and suggestions of the USAID Agricultural Inputs technical team, a final report (maximum 10 pages), a power point presentation summarizing the findings and a two-page summary must be submitted.

LEVEL OF EFFORT AND PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

The proposed level of effort (LOE) for this assignment is 35 days. The timeframe performance period for this work will be two months from the date of contract signing. The offeror is allowed to work for a maximum of 6 days a week. The anticipated start date is May 7, 2024

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

• The proposed consultant will have the following qualifications: 
  • Minimum master’s degree in agriculture or agronomy or seed technology or plant breeding 
  • Minimum 8 years’ working experience in the seed subsector.
• Published reports and documents in a similar field. 
• Good report writing skills.

DELIVERABLES AND TIMELINES

The consultant will prepare and submit the following deliverables: 

• Inception report within 10 days of signing the agreement. The report will include a Gantt work plan that illustrates completion within the 2-month timeframe. 
• Draft report of assessment findings and a proposed business model to mobilize seed inspectors so that they can be utilized by SQCC, Provincial Seed Labs, and private companies in order to enhance the efficiency of the seed quality.  Draft report must be submitted within 35 days after submitting the inception report.
• Final report incorporating feedback from reviewers, within 10 days of submitting the draft report.

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

• 25 percent payment upon submission and acceptance of the inception report, including a detailed work plan for the assignment (Deliverable 1). 
• 40 percent payment upon submission of first draft report (Deliverable 2). 
• 35 percent payment after incorporating the feedback and acceptance of the final report (Deliverable 3).

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

Applicant should forward the following: 

• A Cover letter stating why the applicant is suitable for the assignment and how the applicant plans to accomplish the task. 
• An updated CV. 
• Proof of published reports, documents, policies in a similar field.
• Propose a gross daily rate. The selected consultant shall submit a copy of the contract/agreement, or other proof of two latest assignments verifying the proposed daily rate upon selection.
• PAN registration certificate (copy of VAT certificate is must if the total consultancy value exceeds or equal to NRs. 500,000). Note - Tax will be deducted at source as per Nepal government tax rule and regulation.
• For official travel outside of Kathmandu Valley, the Consultant's travel cost will be reimbursed as per USAID Agricultural Inputs norms.

LOCATION OF THE ASSIGNMENT AND REPORTING

The assignment can be undertaken from any location in Nepal and meetings can be conducted virtually. However, the offeror will be expected to travel to hold discussions with relevant stakeholders in the field.

TECHNICAL DIRECTION

The vendor will work under the technical direction and overall guidance of USAID Agricultural Inputs’ Seed Specialist.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION AND ACCESSIBILITY (DEIA)

Winrock International seeks to cultivate an environment where all candidates relish equal employment opportunities devoid of discrimination, misconduct, fraud, and abuse. Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) and Localization guides our practices not just in hiring, but also in staff retention, growth, and policy implementation. This commitment signifies that we value diversity in all its forms including age, race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability status, and cultural background. We welcome and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, recognizing the rich tapestry of the communities in which we live and work.

DISCLAIMER

Issuance of this notice does not obligate USAID Agricultural Inputs to award a consultancy service, nor will pay any costs associated with the preparation or submission of application. Furthermore, USAID Agricultural Inputs reserves the right to reject any and all applications, if such an action is considered to be in the best interest of the project.