Parbat: At a time when many youths in the country are seeking opportunities abroad, Bikash Timilsina, a retired policeman and former people’s representative, is demonstrating that substantial income can be generated through self-employment at home. Timilsina, hailing from Deupur of Modi rural municipality-2 in Parbat district, operates a fish farm specializing in rainbow trout, bringing in a significant annual income from his venture.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Timilsina, who dedicated 21 years to the police service and served five years as a ward Chairperson of Modi-2 Deupur, has established a successful enterprise that earns him Rs 30 million annually. The Modi Rainbow Trout Firm, which he operates in partnership with four other local investors, covers 30 ropani (1.52 hectares) at Timure, Modi-5, near the source of Pati Khola. The farm houses 37 ponds of varying sizes and has a production capacity of 30 tonnes of fish.
Timilsina reported that the current market price for a kilogram of rainbo
w trout is Rs 1,000. He acknowledged the technical support from the Agriculture Knowledge Centre in Parbat and financial assistance from the Fishery Development Centre in the district, which have been crucial in constructing ponds and upgrading the farm facilities.
Following his retirement as an Assistant Police Inspector, Timilsina began focusing full-time on his enterprise, which supplies fish to local markets in Kushma, as well as in Pokhara and Kathmandu. Established in 2071 BS, the firm has become a popular study destination for students from colleges, schools, and clubs interested in fishery.
Initially, Timilsina’s business faced setbacks, including significant financial losses due to a massive flood. However, he relocated the farm and increased investment with the help of local partners Yam Prasad Sharma, Prem Poudel, Rajesh Shahi, and Raju Khadka. Since overcoming these challenges, Timilsina has not looked back, providing employment to five other youths and saving Rs 1.5 million from his gross incom
e annually.
In an effort to diversify and expand his business, he has recently begun producing fish eggs (roe) on his farm. Timilsina’s success story is a compelling example of the potential for self-employment within the country, offering inspiration to those considering similar entrepreneurial endeavors.