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Hem Kumari’s Dedication To Dairy Farming and Giving Back 

-By Shahira Thapa

Name: Hem Kumari Devkota 
Address: Kamalamai, Sindhuli
Family Members: 5 

Summary: 
Hem Kumari Devkota, a resilient dairy farmer from Tallo Rajpani, Sindhuli has turned her life around with the help of two Korean Holstein cows from the Milky Way Project. Amid her family’s financial struggles, Hem Kumari’s relentless care for her cows; day and night has not only increased milk production but also ignited a spark of hope. With dreams of expanding her dairy business, she is determined to uplift her family and strengthen her community, showcasing how resilience and hard work can create remarkable change. 

“I’m grateful for Heifer’s support and plan to gift the first-born calves to the Sister Self-Help Group to help them succeed in selling milk and supporting their livelihoods. They are a newly formed group, and we want them to succeed like we have. We want to continue the cycle of generosity and support.” – Hem Kumari Devkota.

Background:
Hem Kumari Devkota, a resilient and hardworking woman from Tallo Rajpani, Kamalamai, Sindhuli, has always been deeply involved in dairy farming. With years of experience raising buffaloes, oxes, and cows, Hem Kumari’s life took a significant turn when she received two Korean Holstein cows through the Milky Way Project.   

Hem Kumari’s Journey:
Hem Kumari has faced many challenges, but with her husband and son earning minimal wages, she has taken on the responsibility of supporting her family through dairy farming. As the sole caregiver for the cows, she’s dedicated to maintaining their health by ensuring a balanced diet, cleanliness, and disease prevention. “I make sure my cows are healthy by keeping them clean, bathing them for clean milk, and preventing mastitis and other diseases, “she says. Her commitment is so deep that she even sleeps in the cowshed to care for a sick cow that has just given birth and another that’s expecting soon. 

Heifer Intervention:  
Hem Kumari Devkota’s story showcases the impact of Heifer’s support and the Milky Way Project’s goal of reaching five million households by 2030. She deeply values the effort that went into bringing the Holstein cows from Korea and acknowledges the significant positive changes the project has brought to her life. “These cows have changed our lives; they have been a blessing. My Holstein gives 22 liters of milk daily, and with a recent birth, I expect even more.” Her experience underscores the power of support and resilience, demonstrating the profound difference the project has made in her life. 

Future Aspirations and Final Thoughts:
Hem Kumari Devkota dreams of transforming her area into a hub for milk production. She hopes to add another Holstein cow, expand her dairy farm, improve milk quality, and establish a business that supports her family and benefits her community. “If my cows continue to produce well, I will improve my family’s income” says Hem Kumari with hope in her eyes. She also plans to gift the first-born calves from her Holstein cows to the Sister Self-Help Group, reflecting her commitment to fostering generosity within her community. Hem Kumari’s journey from farming to flourishing with dairy showcases the power of resilience, community support, and her dedication to creating lasting change, not just for herself but for her entire community.