Karna Maya Pun and Jag Bahadur Paija
Migration Workers to Local Triumphs: How Two Entrepreneurs Returned to Build a Sustainable Farming Business
Entrepreneurs Jag Bahadur and Karna Maya had the option of becoming migrant workers in Korea or the UK, but they chose to stay in Nepal and invest in their land.
Jag Bahadur's journey took him from dropping out of the Indian Army to working in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, while Karna Maya faced numerous challenges in Myagdi and Korea. Despite the hardships, they returned to Nepal with a vision of building a sustainable farming business.
Their initial investment of Rs. 1 Million in farming was fraught with challenges, including managing logistics and overcoming initial setbacks in fish farming. However, their resilience paid off as they gradually expanded their operations to include pig farming and constructed modern facilities for cleaner and healthier livestock management.
Karna Maya's journey through Daayitwa's Rural Entrepreneurship Acceleration Program (REAP) stands as a testament to the transformative power of targeted support and training. Through REAP, she acquired essential skills and strategies that have been pivotal in sustaining and growing their farming and livestock business. The program provided comprehensive training sessions, workshops, and mentorship opportunities that equipped Karna Maya with knowledge of modern farming techniques, financial management, and strategic planning.
One of the most significant forms of support came in the form of financial assistance. Daayitwa facilitated access to grants and low-interest loans, enabling Karna Maya and her husband, Jag Bahadur, to make initial investments in their farm. These resources were crucial in setting up their fish ponds and modern pigsty, which are now the backbone of their agricultural enterprise
Today, their farm generates an impressive monthly income of Rs. 70,000 from fish sales alone, with an annual income of Rs. 500,000 expected once their pig farming operations are fully established. This significant financial turnaround has not only improved their standard of living but has also enabled them to provide employment opportunities for six individuals from their community, further contributing to local economic development.
Karna Maya's participation in REAP not only benefited her immediate family but also had a ripple effect on the wider community. The skills and knowledge she gained through the program fostered a spirit of cooperation and mutual support among local farmers. By sharing her experiences and insights, she encouraged others to explore innovative agricultural practices, thereby enhancing the collective social capital of the community.
One notable example of this enhanced cooperation is the collaborative effort to create a local farmers' cooperative. Through this initiative, farmers in the area pool resources, share knowledge, and collectively market their produce, leading to better prices and reduced costs. This cooperation has contributed significantly to the sustainability and success of their farming initiatives.
Looking beyond their current agricultural activities, Karna Maya and Jag Bahadur have ambitious plans for the future. They are exploring biogas projects that utilize pig slurry, aiming to create a sustainable source of energy for their farm and reduce environmental impact. Additionally, they are investing in vehicles to improve the transportation of their produce to the market, which will help increase their reach and profitability.
Their long-term vision includes expanding their agricultural ventures into related sectors, such as organic vegetable farming and agro-tourism. These plans underscore their commitment to long-term sustainability and growth, driven by a desire to create a stable and prosperous future for their family and community.
Karna Maya and Jag Bahadur's story is a powerful illustration of the impact of Daayitwa's REAP program. Through targeted support, essential training, and fostering community cooperation, they have built a thriving farming business that not only sustains their family but also inspires others in their community. Their long-term vision and unwavering determination highlight the potential for sustainable growth and development in Nepal's rural areas. As they continue to expand and diversify their agricultural ventures, they remain committed to teaching their children about the numerous opportunities waiting to be explored in their homeland.