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Generation Moo: Kamalamai’s Path to Prosperity

by Balgopal Sigdel and Regeena Regmi

The excitement in Kamalamai, Sindhuli is reaching new heights as the countdown to the arrival of 59 long-awaited calves continues. In a remarkable achievement, the heifers have not only adapted to their new home but have become the harbinger of change for the local farming community.   

A year ago, the collaboration between the Governments and Heifer teams of Nepal and Korea made it possible for these heifers to find a new home in Sindhuli under the Milky Way initiative. Since then, the farmers have dedicated considerable time and effort to transition from traditional animal raising methods to a more scientific approach with support from veterinary experts from Korea and Nepal signaling the dawn of a new era of prosperity through sustainable livelihoods. 

Worshipped as Laxmi, the Goddess of prosperity in Hindu traditions, these heifers are not merely livestock; they embody a promise of a better future for farmers who have long struggled with poverty and limited opportunities. As the heifers prepare to give birth, the anticipation is palpable among the farmers. Guna Kumari Ghimire, beaming with excitement, shares her journey with her heifer, Mali. “Mali flew on an airplane to our house, and I have taken care of her throughout the year. The Korean dairy farmer who gifted Mali to us, named her Tosilee in Korean which means ‘Be Healthy’, wishing her to be healthy and multiply in Nepal. She will be the first to give birth in our community, and I am confident that good things will follow after she delivers safely.”  

Nepal faces a significant gap between dairy production and consumption, heavily relying on imports. The female calves born from these heifers are expected to play a crucial role in bridging this gap. Following Heifer’s Passing on the Gift (POG) model, these calves will be passed on to other farming communities, creating a ripple effect of prosperity.  

Eight POGs have already been formed, signifying the expansion of this transformative initiative. To support dairy farming, essential tools such as chaff cutters, wheelbarrows, grooming brushes, cow mats, insect nets, and scrapers have been provided to farmers. 51 households that received heifers now have open paddocks, ensuring a secure and healthy environment for the animals.  

Monthly farmers field schools have been instrumental in educating farmers on various topics over the past seven months, ranging from the operation of chaff cutters to hygienic milk production practices.  In addition to these efforts, 15 new biogas installations have reduced the reliance on LPG and firewood for cooking in 109 households. The program’s continuous impact on behavioral changes is evident as farmers, now accustomed to the convenience of model dairy sheds, willingly maintain cleanliness, a marked departure from the past. The door-to-door services for cattle health, technical assistance, and suggestions further contribute to the success of this holistic initiative. 

As the community eagerly awaits the arrival of the calves, Kamalamai, Sindhuli stands as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration, education, and sustainable practices in shaping a brighter future for farmers and their families.