Naogaon:Shuklema Khatun, an entrepreneur from Khalishakuri Dangapara in the district town, has achieved financial stability through sheep farming. Her venture has become an example of how rural women can overcome poverty through small-scale livestock projects.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Shuklema, who once struggled financially, has transformed her family's economic situation through dedication and hard work. Her success has inspired many in the area, with several locals showing interest in starting their own sheep farms.
Shuklema's family faced financial difficulties as her husband had no regular job and earned a modest income by selling fruits from a van. She began sheep farming about one and a half years ago with just six sheep. Realizing the challenges of small-scale farming, she expanded by taking loans amounting to Taka 2.30 lakh to purchase 42 more sheep and decided to personally supervise them.
By feeding the sheep on grass in the fields, she minimized feed costs. She sold 18 male sheep for Taka 1.75 lakh during the last Eid-ul-Azha and currently has 70 sheep. She plans to sell 25 sheep for around Taka 3 lakh at the next Eid market. Shuklema expects a net profit of Taka 2.45 lakh after expenses and has repaid all her loans.
Shuklema maintains a male Garol sheep for breeding, anticipating that future sheep will have desirable Garol traits, boosting farm profitability. Her routine includes taking the sheep to graze daily, and her success is well recognized locally.
Residents like Hakim Mondal, Moktar Hossain, and Monir Hossain noted that sheep farming has transformed Shuklema's family's life, making them financially comfortable. The family has even purchased a pickup van for additional income.
Additional District Livestock Officer Dr. Gouranga Kumar Talukder acknowledged Shuklema's farm as one of the district's largest and described sheep rearing as profitable. The Department of Livestock Services monitors her farm, providing vaccinations, deworming, and technical advice to ensure its success.
Source Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha