Kathmandu. The Abukhaireni Rural Municipality of Tanahun has started a grant distribution program to encourage farmers to rear oxen. According to the policies and programs of the rural municipality, in the first phase, 46 farmers of Ward No. 1 have been given a grant of Rs 7,000 each.

Ward chair Prem Gurung said Rs 322,000 was distributed to farmers under the Plough Cattle Nutrition Grant Distribution Programme.

Although the use of modern technology is increasing in agriculture, the importance of plough bulls is still relevant in rural areas, so ploughbull rearing has been encouraged. From tilling the fields to continuing the traditional agricultural system, the plough has played an important role.

The grant program has been launched with the objective of preserving the traditional culture of ploughing oxen and encouraging farmers to engage in animal husbandry.

The assistance is expected to further motivate farmers to rear oxen amid rising costs and challenges in animal husbandry. It is believed that this program of the rural municipality will help preserve the traditional agricultural system, continuity of the local agricultural culture and boost the morale of the farmers.

According to ward chair Gurung, the programme has been launched with the objective of honouring and encouraging farmers who keep oxen.