Koki Lal, a 74-year-old dairy farmer from Viria, Naitasiri, has dedicated his life to animal husbandry, a vocation he began at just 18 years old. In 1970, he started his journey working on his uncle’s farm, where he spent 19 years mastering the intricacies of dairy farming.
Reflecting on his early days, Mr. Lal shared, “It was back-breaking physical labour, but it was necessary for my survival.” His commitment to the craft was soon recognized, leading his uncle to entrust him with managing a 10-acre plot of land.
After gaining valuable experience, Mr. Lal transitioned to a private chicken farm, overseeing the care of up to 50,000 birds, which significantly improved his financial situation. As the costs of living continued to rise, he felt the pressure of providing for his family, which motivated him to seek better opportunities.
Mr. Lal’s circumstances improved when he moved to the chicken farm, where he earned $95 weekly—substantially higher than his previous earnings of around $80 a month from dairy farming. Now, he manages his own dairy farm, looking after 70 cattle, including 16 milking maidens, and milking them once daily at dawn with help from his daughter.
His commitment to farming is unwavering, as he explains, “When you have a farm, you can’t retire. You have to work every day because there’s always something to do.” He finds value in this continuous work, emphasizing that it keeps him physically active and healthy.
Despite the challenges he faced throughout his life, including fluctuating wages and the pressure of supporting a family, Mr. Lal’s story highlights his resilience and dedication. Now, at the age of 74, he continues to rise before dawn, steadfast in the belief that hard work leads to a stable and fulfilling lifestyle. His journey exemplifies the profound connection between dedication in farming and personal well-being.