March 2025
Namaskar! I am Dudhi Maya, and I hope you are enjoying my stories.
I had the opportunity to participate in a four-day training on livestock, which turned out to be incredibly meaningful and eye-opening for me. The training went beyond just learning about fodder and animal care – it also focused on expanding our livestock business, a topic we had previously touched upon during our business training. Revisiting this aspect made the learning even more impactful.
Before this training, I had very little knowledge about goat farming. I didn’t realize how many benefits it offers. Now, I understand that goat farming can be a stable source of income and sustainability. I also learned about different goat species and which ones are most beneficial for us. One of the most valuable lessons was how to choose a strong and healthy “Mother Goat” and “He-Goat” to ensure the production of good-quality kids. Additionally, I discovered a local method for measuring the weight of goats before selling them, which will help me get a fair price for my livestock.
The most significant learning for me was about shed management. I never knew that the structure of a goat shed plays such a crucial role in their health and growth. Previously, I used to keep two or three goats in a small, improper shed, not realizing how it affected their well-being. But through this training, I learned about the ideal shed conditions – what size it should be, how to maintain cleanliness, and why ventilation is so important. Now, I am determined to build a proper goat shed exactly as the trainer taught us.
Another important lesson was about goat nutrition. I learned about different types of grasses and easily available local foods that are best for goats. The trainer also taught us how to make a mineral block, which is an extremely nutritious supplement for goats. I tried making one at home, and to my delight, it has become my goats’ favorite food!
Beyond goat farming, the training also covered key agricultural techniques. We learned how to prepare soil before planting, the right amount of water needed for crops, and how to make manure from waste materials. I also learned how to care for vegetables and protect them if any issues arise.
These four days of livestock training have been life-changing for me and all the members of my group. It has helped me take meaningful steps toward my dream of running a successful goat farm. Before this, I was unaware of so many crucial aspects of livestock and farming. But now, I am applying my learning in my daily life – and I even share my knowledge with others who are not part of the WAWCAS Program, so they too can benefit.
I am deeply grateful to WAWCAS for empowering me with this knowledge. This program has transformed not just my economic situation but also my confidence and social standing.
Thank you, WAWCAS, for bringing such positive change into my life!