Transforming Lives: Ishwor Prasad Bagale’s Journey in Veterinary Care and Farming

Ishwor Prasad Bagale, a dedicated and passionate individual from Barpak Sulikot Rural Municipality (RM) in Gorkha, has transformed his life along with the lives of many animals in his community. His remarkable journey began five years ago when he enrolled in the Village Animal Health Worker (VAHW) Training, an initiative conducted by the Animal Health Training and Consultancy Service in Pokhara-13, Amalachaur, Arba. This training has not only shaped his professional career but also empowered him to uplift his own financial situation while making a positive impact on his local community.

The Beginning of a New Chapter

After completing the VAHW training, Ishwor returned to his home in Barpak Sulikot RM, with the skills and knowledge to provide veterinary services in his area. At first, he focused on providing basic veterinary care, including distributing medicines to local farmers and animal owners. This was a crucial step, as many rural communities often face challenges in accessing veterinary services. By offering these services, Ishwor became a trusted figure in the region, contributing to the overall health and well-being of the livestock that many families depend on for their livelihood.

A Step Towards Financial Empowerment

While providing veterinary services was deeply fulfilling, Ishwor was also determined to improve his own financial stability. With this goal in mind, he took a bold step and invested into livestock farming by starting his own commercial goat farm. This decision proved to be a turning point in his life. Not only did it provide him with an additional source of income, but it also allowed him to gain firsthand experience in animal husbandry, which enhanced the quality of the veterinary services he offered to others.

Today, Ishwor’s farm is home to 40-45 goats. He is earning a significant income from both his veterinary services and goat farming. He provides essential services like castration of goats and first aid treatment to animals like cattle and buffalo, which generates a monthly income of about NPR 25,000 to 30,000. In addition to this, his goat farming business is bringing in around NPR 35,000 to 40,000 per month from the sale of goats. This combination of farming and veterinary services has not only improved his financial condition but also empowered him to contribute to the economic growth of his community.

A Deep Emotional Connection with Animals

Ishwor’s journey is not just about financial success; it is deeply rooted in his love and emotional connection with animals. From a young age, he has always felt a strong bond with animals, and this emotional attachment has been a driving force behind his dedication to animal welfare. “I feel proud to work for animal welfare,” he shared, emphasizing the importance of treating animals with respect and care. His work has allowed him to make a meaningful impact in his community, improving the health of livestock and the livelihoods of many families who rely on their animals.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future

As Ishwor continues to expand his goat farming business and veterinary services, he remains focused on furthering his education and skills. He dreams of increasing his goat herd and diversifying his services to meet the increasing needs of his community. He hopes to inspire more young people in his area to pursue careers in animal health and farming, contributing to the sustainable development of the rural economy. Ishwor’s story is a powerful reminder that success is not just about financial gain but also about making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Here is the link of interview taken by AHTCS’s staff (Mr. Bharat Pokharel, Assistant Training Officer) with Ishwor Prasad Bagale (VAHW): Success Story