Bhoj Raj Tamang, 33, once worked in hotels, not only in Nepal but also in Kuwait, as a waiter. He flew overseas seeking better opportunities but found life abroad unfulfilling.
“I returned to Nepal within 10 months,” Tamang shared with New Business Age while working on his farm a few weeks ago.
Now, Tamang has a message for young Nepalis who aspire to go abroad in search of higher earnings: choose agriculture over foreign employment.
“Many go to the Gulf hoping for better income, but with hard work, you can earn a handsome living in Nepal and lead a fulfilling life,” he says.
The Turning Point: Agriculture as a New Beginning
Inspired by the success of his brother-in-law in tunnel farming, Tamang decided to try his luck in agriculture. He started by leasing land in Ghale Gaun, Lamjung, to grow vegetables in eight tunnels.
However, his initial efforts faced setbacks when neighbors’ livestock destroyed his crops. Undeterred, Tamang relocated his operations and expanded to 23 tunnels. He now leases 104 ropani of land in Lahachowk, Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality-4, Kaski district, at an altitude of 1,700 meters.
His enterprise, ‘Rural Home Organic Agriculture and Livestock Farm’, dedicates 60 percent of its land to growing grass for livestock and the remainder to vegetable farming.
Diversified Farming for Steady Growth
Tamang’s efforts extend beyond vegetable farming. He has ventured into organic goat farming and specialises in off-season vegetables, boosting his market presence and income.
“I farm for six months, hiring workers during the season,” he explains. “During this time, I sell 2 to 3 tonnes of vegetables daily.”
In the past year, Tamang sold 50 goats and currently has 58 more in his pen. His farm has also created employment for locals, employing four workers year-round and up to 20 during peak seasons.
After covering all expenses, Tamang reports an annual profit of up to Rs 1.8 million.
Support and Training: Keys to Success
A farmers’ cooperative has played a vital role in supporting Tamang’s agricultural journey.
Tamang credits much of his success to the Lahachowk Sana Kisan Agricultural Cooperative, through which he secured a Rs 3.2 million rural enterprise loan. This loan was part of a program funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and facilitated by Sana Kisan Bikas Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Ltd. (SKBBL) via the government.
Another transformative experience for Tamang was Israel’s ‘Learn and Earn’ program, an 11-month initiative that taught him essential skills for succeeding as an agricultural entrepreneur.
Upon returning to Nepal, he further enhanced his expertise by completing an 18-month course at the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT), earning a Junior Agricultural Technician (JTA) certificate.
“Obtaining the JTA license boosted my enthusiasm to expand my agricultural business,” he says.
A Thriving Farm and Future Aspirations
Today, Tamang’s farm is a testament to perseverance. Once lacking basic infrastructure such as roads, water, and electricity, it is now linked via a dirt road, regular electricity, and traders who pick up produce directly from his fields.
Living with his wife, daughter, and elderly mother in the scenic rural area is a source of pride for Tamang. His efforts earned him the ‘Best Farmer of the Year 2080’ award from the Gandaki provincial government.
Looking ahead, Tamang plans to expand his business by establishing an agricultural collection center in Pokhara and sending his daughter to Kathmandu for a better education.
“Farming has not only provided me with financial stability but also a life filled with purpose and happiness,” he says, inspiring others to consider agriculture as a viable and fulfilling career.
