Goat sales surge in Kathmandu

Floods and landslides have blocked most of the roads connecting the capital, making it difficult for people to return home during Dashain. Despite these challenges, valley residents have been able to easily purchase goats, including Himalayan goats. The Food Management and Trading Company Limited (FMTC), Bagmati Province, is facilitating the distribution of these goats to consumers.

Nabin Chaulagain from Budhanilkantha was surprised to be able to buy a goat, as he has been purchasing from the company for the last 10 years. On Monday, he traveled 15 kilometers to the FMTC office to purchase one. “I’m happy the food company provides healthy goats and Himalayan goats for the festival every year,” he said.

Sudhir Sharma from New Baneshwar, who lives in Australia, returned home to celebrate Dashain after 11 years. On Monday, he purchased a goat priced at Rs 22,000 and expressed his happiness at being able to celebrate Dashain with his family. He appreciated the ease of purchasing the goat at a reasonable price. Similarly, Sundar Fuyal from Sundarijal bought 20 kilograms of goat meat, expressing his satisfaction with the quality.

The demand for goats and Himalayan goats in the valley is 1,700. FMTC Bagmati Province aims to bring 1,400 goats and 300 Himalayan goats for Dashain. By Monday, they had brought in 1,200 goats and Himalayan goats, with 300 goats and 50 Himalayan goats already sold. Assistant Departmental Manager Gyanu Thapa noted that consumer demand typically increases during Phoolpati, Saptami, and Ashtami, and they anticipate a rush of buyers.

“There’s a high demand for healthy goats and Himalayan goats, and consumers are satisfied without having to stand in long lines,” said Thapa. Veterinarians mark healthy goats with green-colored horns, and only these goats are sold to consumers.

Prices are slightly lower this year, with a reduction of Rs 10 per kilogram for goats and Rs 30 for Himalayan goats. “The relationship between demand and supply affects the selling price, but as a government-owned company, our focus is on serving consumers during the festival rather than making a profit,” said Thapa. She added that despite floods and landslides, they managed to transport the goats to Kathmandu after a challenging 10-day journey, ensuring the valley residents would have their supply in time for Ashtami and Nawami.