In recent years, many Nepali youths have aspired to go abroad in search of better opportunities, aiming to support their families or pursue higher education. However, while migration remains a trend, a group of young individuals in Gulmi district is charting a different path—choosing agriculture and animal husbandry as their future.
Gorkan Nepali from Isma Rural Municipality-3, Bishal Thapa of Gulmidurbar Rural Municipality-6, and Meghnath Aryal of Dhurkot Rural Municipality-6, Sistung, have committed themselves to farming and livestock, becoming notable examples of youth who believe in building their future within Nepal.
These three were recently honored as ‘Excellent Farmers’ by the Veterinary Hospital and Animal Expert Center in Gulmi. According to the Center, the recognition was part of an annual program under the fiscal year 2024/25.
Dron Bahadur Khatri, Chief of the District Coordination Committee, Gulmi, presented the awards, which included cash prizes and certificates. Gorkan Nepali received Rs 10,000 and a certificate as the Best Farmer, while Thapa and Aryal each received Rs 5,000 and certificates. The awards followed a competitive process, with only seven applications submitted from across the district. Based on established criteria, three were selected as outstanding farmers.
Gorkan Nepali is cultivating improved grass varieties on over 120 ropanis of land. Through his Galaxy Agriculture and Livestock Farm, he distributes grass seedlings to more than 53 districts across Nepal. He expects to generate a turnover of around Rs 4 million this fiscal year. Alongside grass cultivation, he is also rearing 50 breeds of goats. His efforts have earned him recognition for leading an agricultural revolution in his community through long-term planning, research, and professionalism.
Bishal Thapa runs the Resunga Agro and Research Farm, which currently houses about 150 goats. Thapa plans to expand the farm into a resource and research center focused on goat breeding. “We are engaged in research-based commercial animal husbandry,” he said. “Support from the government has encouraged farmers like us to continue our work with more enthusiasm.”
Meghnath Aryal has been involved in agriculture and livestock since 2020. He operates a large-scale farm with over 30 buffaloes, producing approximately 100 liters of milk daily, which is sold locally. With support from Dhurkot Rural Municipality and Heifer Project Nepal, Aryal has also started a food processing and packaging unit. He is now marketing local Dhurkote rice, which has seen rising demand in cities like Butwal due to its organic nature. “I left a lucrative job abroad to start an agricultural industry in the village,” Aryal said. “Our goal is to process local products and bring them to urban markets.”
Khatri emphasized the need for farmers to move beyond short-term profit motives and focus on long-term, research-driven practices. “Technicians should be in direct contact with farmers to identify and address problems effectively,” he added.
