-By Dolma Ghale
“Anyone can work in agriculture. Educated individuals, in particular, can excel in raising cows by introducing innovative solutions to existing problems. They are more capable of maintaining records on cattle feeding, personal income and expenses, and the quality of milk produced. Moreover, they are more likely to question and improve upon old practices and techniques.”
– Samjhana Dahal
Photo: Samjhana Dahal and her Holstein cow.
Background:
Samjhana Dahal, a cow farmer from Gaiyatar, Kamalamai Municipality 5, Sindhuli, has a story that most people have not heard of. With a Bachelor’s in Education and a Junior Technical Assistant program under her belt, Samjhana was on her way to becoming a teacher when the pandemic hit in 2020, sending the world into lockdown and turning her entire career plan upside down.
Samjhana’s Journey from Lockdown to Cow Farming:
During the lockdown, Samjhana faced the challenge of managing her family’s needs without a steady income. Observing her neighbors thriving with cow farming, she realized it could be a promising opportunity. She started with one cow, producing 8 liters of milk a day, and as her passion grew, she purchased another, marking a new chapter in her life. In Sindhuli, it’s uncommon for educated people to run cow farms, and many questioned Samjhana’s choice. But she believed in following her true interests. As she continued to care for her cows, her love for the work deepened, and with wholehearted effort, success soon followed. Her education gave her the confidence to innovate and refine traditional practices. Samjhana believes that agriculture isn’t confined to any specific group; with interest and commitment, anyone can succeed.
Future Aspirations:
Looking ahead, Samjhana dreams of expanding her cow farming operation. She hopes to grow her herd, improve milk production and quality, and build a thriving business that supports her family and positively impacts her community.
