Every morning, Mahendra Ghimire of Lumde, Ward No. 5 of Fakphokthum Rural Municipality, begins his day at his poultry farm. Cleaning the sheds, managing feed and water, preparing fresh chicken meat, and dispatching products to the market have become part of his daily routine.
Once employed abroad, Ghimire is now recognized as a successful poultry entrepreneur in his hometown. His business, Navami Poultry Farm and Fresh House, has become a reliable local source of chicken meat production and sales.
Ghimire first left for foreign employment in 2067 B.S. and returned home in 2071 B.S. after five years. Upon returning, he was uncertain about his future but determined to start a business in his village.
“After returning from abroad, I wanted to do something in my own village, but I wasn’t sure which business to choose,” Ghimire said. “Eventually, I decided to start poultry farming in 2072 B.S.”
The early days were challenging. At the time, regular electricity service was unavailable in the village. He relied on solar panels to raise chicks, but maintaining the required temperature proved difficult, resulting in losses. Undeterred, he gradually gained experience by raising and selling chicks before expanding the business.
Today, his farm houses around 200 market-ready chickens and 250 chicks. Live chickens are sold at NRs 400 per kilogram, while processed chicken meat is sold at NRs 500 per kilogram. Wholesale prices can go as low as NRs 300 per kilogram. His products reach markets as far as Ravi in Panchthar and Damak in Jhapa.
“Initially, there were many challenges, but I never gave up,” Ghimire said. “Poultry farming involves direct cash transactions, allowing farmers to see income within a relatively short period.”
Despite the business’s growth, transportation remains a major challenge. Due to Lumde’s remote location, transporting chicks to the farm and delivering products to markets increases production costs.
Government support has also played an important role in his success. The Koshi Province Ministry of Industry, Agriculture and Cooperatives, in partnership with Fakphokthum Rural Municipality and other organizations, has been implementing the Growth Entrepreneurship and Employment Project.
Through the program, Ghimire received business planning training, financial grants, and essential equipment. The grant enabled him to purchase a refrigerator, water supply pipes, and other poultry farming materials.
“The program gave entrepreneurs opportunities to meet, exchange experiences, and improve business planning,” he said. “I am now preparing to construct a new building with the support I received.”
The farm currently provides direct employment to two family members while also creating work opportunities for local residents through farm maintenance and related activities.
According to Fakphokthum Rural Municipality Chairperson Dipendra Khanal, the business generates an annual income of approximately NRs 800,000 and serves as an inspiring example of how individuals can become self-reliant by creating opportunities within their own communities.
“Despite limited resources, transportation difficulties, and initial setbacks, Mahendra’s perseverance sends a strong message to young people who aspire to become entrepreneurs in their villages,” Khanal said. “We continue to connect aspiring entrepreneurs with programs that encourage and support enterprise development.”
