The Athpare Rai are primarily rice farmers, but the men do have a tradition of migrating to the cities for work. As farmers, the Athpare Rai have been limited by insufficient knowledge of technology, causing a poor yield in crops. They grow rice in the low-lying areas and potatoes, maize, wheat, and barley at higher altitudes. A beverage made from the barley and potatoes is used on all festive occasions. It is the men's job to plow the fields, while the women plant the seeds.
Families often unite to help each other at harvest time.
Farmers trade any surplus crops they may have for needed items such as kerosene and salt. Others supplement their often meager incomes through craftwork and tailoring. Collectively, the Rai are known as very courageous, daring, and fearless people. This means that they are considered to be among the finest soldiers in the world. Joining the army brings respect and a way out of economic hardship.