Blog

Educated and Empowered

-By Shahira Thapa

Name: Shobha Kumari Bhandari 

Family Members: 4 

Address: Gaiyatar, Kamalamai, Sindhuli 

Photo: Shobha Kumari Bhandari standing in front of her farm

Summary: 

Shobha Kumari Bhandari, a passionate dairy farmer from Sindhuli, has seamlessly combined her education with hands-on experience to excel in dairy farming. Initially overwhelmed by the challenges, her enthusiasm grew as she embraced modern techniques from Heifer. Her commitment not only improved her cows’ health and milk production but also led to financial independence. Today, Shobha is a role model in her village, inspiring others to elevate their farming practices and demonstrating that agriculture can be both a rewarding and respected profession. 

“Farming isn’t just for the uneducated, educated individuals can also excel through innovation, record-keeping, profit calculation, and maintaining high standards of cattle care and biosafety. I want to encourage young women to be independent, proactive, and share this knowledge with others.”   – Shobha Kumari Bhandari

Background:  

Shobha Kumari Bhandari, a dedicated dairy farmer from Gaiyatar, Kamalamai, Sindhuli, is in her final year of diploma studies as a Junior Technical Assistant (JTA). Blending academic knowledge with hands-on experience, she challenges the notion that farming is only for the uneducated. After taking over cow care from her mother-in-law two years ago, Shobha has shown that education can elevate agricultural practices and turn farming into a respected and successful profession. 

Shobha’s Journey:  

Initially uninterested in dairy farming, Shobha’s outlook changed as she began working with the cows daily. She acquired modern knowledge on raising both Holstein and local breeds, focusing on heat cycles, balanced diets, medication, and maintaining cleanliness and biosafety. Her local cow’s milk production increased from 14 to 20 liters daily through improved techniques learned from Heifer’s veterinary technicians. With her Korean Holstein due in August, Shobha is eager to pass on a heifer calf to deserving members of her self-help group. 

Heifer Intervention:  

With Heifer’s support, Shobha adopted modern techniques that improved her cows’ health and milk production. She also implemented a biogas system, using cow waste to produce biogas and fertilize her fields, boosting food production. These advancements led to her financial independence and made her a role model in her community, inspiring others to elevate their farming practices. Shobha’s success reflects a broader movement toward sustainable agriculture in her community. 

Future Aspirations:  

Shobha dreams of expanding her dairy farming business, improving milk production and quality, and building a thriving enterprise that supports her family and benefits her community. She encourages young women to pursue their passions, affirming that farming is a valuable opportunity for educated individuals. Additionally, she motivates local youth to stay and contribute to their country, highlighting that dedicated work in dairy farming can offer earnings comparable to opportunities abroad.  

Final Thoughts:  

Shobha Kumari Bhandari’s journey from a novice to a successful dairy farming entrepreneur illustrates the power of education and determination. Her story shows that embracing new opportunities with commitment and an open heart can lead to remarkable personal and professional growth.