From Bahrain to Myagdi: A Migrant Worker's Journey to Self-Reliance Through Goat Farming

Myagdi. Bhim Bhandari, a 39-year-old from Phaliyagaun, Dhaulagiri Rural Municipality-3, was forced to return home from Bahrain after four years due to health issues. Despite the burden of supporting his three children, elderly parents, and siblings, Bhim did not lose hope.

After returning, Bhim turned to goat farming. Starting eight years ago, his migratory goat farming business has now made him self-employed and self-reliant. Bhim says that while he was initially worried about how to manage household expenses, he now realizes that one does not need to go abroad for employment.

He has modernized and continued the goat farming profession practiced by his father, Lal Bahadur Bhandari, for generations. Starting with 50, his herd now consists of 150 local Khari breed goats. His wife, Bipana, assists him in the business.

The couple sells 15 to 20 goats annually and is satisfied with the venture. Bipana shared that if one puts in the same effort at home that they do in a foreign land, they can become self-reliant.

Khari is a local breed known for its height and weight. Bipana notes that a goat raised for two years can sell for 20,000 rupees. Due to the difficulty of providing fodder in large quantities, farmers in rural areas practice migratory goat farming.

The Bhandari couple, who moved to the lowlands in Kartik, currently have their shed in Huchin at the base of Phaliyagaun. They plan to move their herd to Dhorpatan for grazing in the last week of Baisakh. Their routine involves grazing in Gurjaghat during Jestha, Asar, and Saun, and reaching the higher pastures of Bukki Aner in Bhadau-Asoj.

Living in a tent, they keep five dogs to protect the goats. Bipana explained that the dogs monitor for wild animals like leopards and help keep the goats safe.

Although they could not register the business due to not owning land in their own names, they have made this their livelihood. The Veterinary Hospital and Livestock Service Expert Center and the rural municipality have provided support such as vaccines, technical services, and solar equipment. The Bhandari couple has requested the state to provide free medical treatment for the goats and facilitate livestock insurance.