Summary:
Yak and chauri farmers in Nepal’s Himalayan regions, especially in Taplejung, are facing severe challenges due to ongoing border restrictions with China. Despite the formal reopening of border points in May 2024, the livestock trade remains banned, cutting off farmers from their main market in Tibet and Sikkim. This has left thousands of yaks and chauris unsold and overcrowding the highland pastures, increasing costs for grazing and feeding.

Farmers like Nupu Sherpa, who has inherited yak and chauri herding from his ancestors, have not earned income from sales in four years. Many animals die from disease, age, or wild animal attacks, while calves continue to be born, adding to the overstock problem. The outbreak of lumpy skin disease worsened the situation in 2023.

The total value of unsold livestock in Taplejung alone is estimated at around Rs 400 million. Similar struggles are seen in other districts such as Panchthar, Sankhuwasabha, Solukhumbu, Terhathum, and Ilam. Farmers are calling for government intervention to negotiate with Chinese authorities to reopen livestock trade under quarantine conditions.

Meanwhile, in Jumla’s Chotra village, there is a more positive outlook. With government support and local efforts, yak and chauri farming remains viable there, with some farmers successfully selling animals and producing dairy products like ghee and chhurpi for additional income.

The region’s future depends on resolving trade restrictions and managing overstocked pastures. Officials suggest developing yak-breeding centers to ease pressure on grazing lands. Until the border trade resumes officially, farmers continue to struggle with unsold livestock and financial uncertainty.

Archive: https://archive.md/K5MKQ