Surya Bikram Sapkota’s Story
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When Surya Bikram Sapkota returned to his village in Madi in the Kaski district of Nepal after ten long years working abroad, he carried more than just his belongings—he carried hope. At 46, he dreamed of building a future at home, where his family could thrive without having to leave their community behind.

He started small, with just five indigenous goats and a determination to make it work. But like so many rural farmers, the challenges were real: limited resources, traditional practices, and uncertainty about how to grow.

Everything began to change when he joined the Community Livestock Production Strengthening Project, delivered by Vets Without Borders Ireland and our Nepalese partners Animal Health Training and Consultancy Service. Through regular group meetings and hands-on training, Surya gained not just knowledge—but confidence.
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After a two-day goat farming training, he transformed the way he worked. He improved how he cared for his animals, grew better fodder, and managed his small farm with new skills and renewed belief. With continued support, his herd grew from five goats to twenty. That growth changed everything.

For the first time, Surya could fully support his household through farming alone. No more leaving home in search of work. No more uncertainty about providing for his family. By staying in his village, he is not only securing his family’s future—he is helping to protect something even more precious. His work keeps traditional farming knowledge alive, preserves local goat breeds, and supports sustainable land use that respects the surrounding environment. In a world where rural communities are increasingly forced to leave, Surya’s choice to stay helps safeguard his village’s culture, identity, and natural resources for the next generation.

Today, he stands as a leader in his community—a “lead farmer” who shares his knowledge, encourages his neighbours, and proves that change is possible.

Surya’s story is about dignity, opportunity and resilience—and the power of staying rooted, protecting what matters most, while building a better future.