Challenges and Prospects of Dairy Farming in Nepal
Yadav, Ashok (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025122938990
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025122938990
Tiivistelmä
The dairy sector plays a vital role in Nepal’s agricultural economy. It is one of the major income sources for a lot of people, especially in rural places. Despite this sector’s importance, it faces a lot of challenges, ranging from institutional to infrastructural. This study examines the production challenges, market dynamics and growth opportunities for Nepal’s dairy sector through the perspectives of people involved in various dairy-related professions.
The study used a semi-structured interview approach with eight smallholder dairy farmers, owners and entrepreneurs from Madhesh Province, Kathmandu Valley and Butwal. The study used a qualitative research methodology. Secondary sources data were obtained through academic literature, government publications and sectoral statistics for analytical support. Thematic analysis was implemented to find recurring patterns about production challenges, institutional challenges and possible opportunities.
The findings revealed that stakeholders face a lot of challenges, such as production challenges, inadequate extension services, rising input costs, fragmented value chains, and price instability. Seasonal fluctuations affect feed and fodder supply, negatively affecting milk quality, and weak cold storage and transportation infrastructure, and delayed payment further add to already existing issues. Lack of proper policies and supportive initiatives also contributes to the challenges faced by the stakeholders. However, the study also identified prospects for improvement in the sector through improved feeding practices, better animal health services, value addition, strengthened cooperatives, and supportive policy interventions.
The study concluded that Nepal’s dairy sector may be riddled with major challenges, but still has potential for growth. Addressing structural problems and improving institutional support are necessary for development in this sector.
The study used a semi-structured interview approach with eight smallholder dairy farmers, owners and entrepreneurs from Madhesh Province, Kathmandu Valley and Butwal. The study used a qualitative research methodology. Secondary sources data were obtained through academic literature, government publications and sectoral statistics for analytical support. Thematic analysis was implemented to find recurring patterns about production challenges, institutional challenges and possible opportunities.
The findings revealed that stakeholders face a lot of challenges, such as production challenges, inadequate extension services, rising input costs, fragmented value chains, and price instability. Seasonal fluctuations affect feed and fodder supply, negatively affecting milk quality, and weak cold storage and transportation infrastructure, and delayed payment further add to already existing issues. Lack of proper policies and supportive initiatives also contributes to the challenges faced by the stakeholders. However, the study also identified prospects for improvement in the sector through improved feeding practices, better animal health services, value addition, strengthened cooperatives, and supportive policy interventions.
The study concluded that Nepal’s dairy sector may be riddled with major challenges, but still has potential for growth. Addressing structural problems and improving institutional support are necessary for development in this sector.