Resilience Turns Ruin into Riches for Kandhamal Goat Farmer
Proving that sheer determination can carve a path out of hopelessness, Jitendra Kanhara has transformed his life through sustainable agriculture. A resident of Pabingia village in the Phiringia block of Kandhamal district, Jitendra faced severe financial distress before finding success. His journey from a debt-ridden shopkeeper to a prosperous goat farmer is now inspiring youths across the tribal-dominated region.
From Financial Crisis to New Beginnings
Jitendra, an educated 46-year-old, initially tried to support his family through traditional farming and a small grocery business. Unfortunately, the shop failed, leaving him drowning in credit and debt. In 2018, facing a bleak future, his wife Saindri Kanhara encouraged him to pivot to livestock. With a meager capital of just 3,000 rupees, they purchased two goats and acquired a few others on a share basis. This small, desperate step marked the beginning of a remarkable turnaround.
Business Growth and Economic Impact
Today, that modest investment has multiplied exponentially. Jitendra currently manages a herd of over 80 mature goats of various breeds, along with more than 25 kids. His annual income has surpassed three lakh rupees, a significant sum for the rural area. He sells the livestock by weight, charging 500 rupees per kilogram, with prime animals weighing between 40 to 50 kilograms. This financial stability has allowed him to fund his daughters' education, with the elder studying General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) in Phulbani and the younger currently in the 10th grade.
Innovation Amidst Infrastructure Struggles
Despite his success, Jitendra operates under challenging conditions. He lacks a proper concrete shelter for the animals and has no government electricity connection. To cope, he houses the herd in a small hut covered with plastic tarpaulin. He has also installed a solar power system at his own expense to light the area, deterring theft and protecting the flock from wild animals like foxes.
Jitendra has also become self-reliant in veterinary care. He consults with local livestock officers but personally administers vaccines and medicines to keep his herd healthy. Furthermore, he cultivates three different types of fodder grass to ensure quality nutrition for his animals.
Community Recognition and Call for Support
Local leaders have taken note of his enterprising spirit. Sarpanch Lalmohan Kanhara praised Jitendra as a role model for the community but highlighted the need for state intervention. He noted that with proper government facilities—specifically better housing and fencing for the animals—Jitendra could expand his operations further. Currently, buyers travel from across Kandhamal to purchase his stock, proving the high demand for his produce. Jitendra remains hopeful that government assistance will eventually help him secure his farm and increase his capacity to employ others.
Massive ROI: Jitendra Kanhar turned a 3,000 rupee initial investment into an annual income exceeding 3 lakh rupees.
Family Enterprise: The business was sparked by his wife's idea and successfully funded their daughters' higher education.
Self-Sufficiency: Despite lacking electricity, Jitendra uses solar power and administers his own veterinary care to maintain the herd.
Government Aid Needed: Local leaders advocate for state support to upgrade the farm's infrastructure, specifically regarding shelter and fencing.
