Pokhara Gaushala

 The Pokhara Goshala, located in Ward No. 15 of Pokhara Metropolitan City, Kaski District, Nepal, was established with the goal of providing shelter to local breed cows and bulls. It started its operation from Magh 29, 2078 (January 12, 2022) and is registered with the District Administration Office, Kaski. The initiative is led by Narendra Kunwar, who has a background in computer engineering and has worked for Tata Company for ten years, including two years in the United Kingdom.Previously, Narendra Kunwar operated Amritadhara Agro Organic Solution Pvt. Ltd. for about three and a half years after returning to Nepal. The company was involved in producing medicines, manure, and incense from cow dung. However, due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the company had to shut down. Following this, the same infrastructure is now being utilized for the operation of Pokhara Goshala.

Currently, the Goshala houses more than three dozen local breed cows and bulls. It has the capacity to accommodate up to 50 cattle. The facility is equipped with the necessary infrastructure for proper functioning.

The report mentions that Kunwar, who initially worked as a computer engineer at Tata Company, later returned to Nepal with a strong desire to contribute to the conservation of the local breed of cows known as Achhami Gai (Nau Muthe). According to information from a campaigner for the conservation of Achhami Gai, Surendra Wagle, whose details are published on his website, Kunwar expresses a keen interest in raising these cows upon his return to Nepal.

Kunwar mentions that the Gaigoru (a cow-bull hybrid) has religious significance and useful qualities according to Hinduism, and it is disheartening to see them being neglected, facing starvation and mistreatment at Kanji House. He points out that despite the budget allocation by the Pokhara Metropolitan City for the conservation of Gaigorukas, proper management is essential. If not managed appropriately, these animals are at risk of suffering and death due to starvation. Kunwar expresses concern and suggests that the government should responsibly allocate budget and ensure effective conservation efforts through well-organized management by Pokhara Goushala (cow shelter) to prevent the unfortunate conditions faced by these animals.

Kunwar shares that although there are two employees for the management of the Goushala (cow shelter), they themselves face financial difficulties. Currently, the Goushala has acquired 100 ropanis of land on lease, and a monthly rent of 20,000 Nepalese Rupees must be paid. Despite the desire to care for the Gaigorukas in distress, Kunwar expresses his sorrow over the financial constraints hindering effective conservation efforts. He discloses that more than 30 lakhs have been spent on Goushala management, and negotiations with the local government for support have been challenging. Although some individuals have provided financial assistance, it has not been sufficient to adequately care for the distressed Gaigorukas. Kunwar emphasizes the need for collective efforts and financial support from the community to ensure the well-being and protection of these animals.