Deepen Raj Ghalley: Crafting Success in Ornamental Fish Farming, Marking Bhutan’s Premier Commercial Ventur
Deepen Raj Ghalley, a dedicated BBA graduate who has ventured into the realm of ornamental fish farming, in Samtse – pioneering Bhutan’s very first commercial venture of this kind.
A Humble Beginning
Deepen Raj Ghalley’s journey in the world of ornamental fish farming commenced modestly in 2019. With just 30 goldfish, he embarked on his entrepreneurial odyssey. Little did he know that this humble beginning would soon evolve into a thriving enterprise. As the world grappled with the Covid-19 pandemic, Deepen saw an opportunity. During lockdowns, he created a small pond outside his house, and the number of goldfish quickly multiplied, reaching 800.
Recognizing the potential, Deepen embarked on the journey to obtain a license, a process that took approximately four months. In January 2022, he transformed his passion into a commercial enterprise. What sets Deepen’s approach apart is his unique logic for goldfish farming – if a female goldfish is white, he ensures the males are of a different color to create a diverse palette of offspring.
A Journey Fueled by Passion and Knowledge
Deepen’s enthusiasm for his pet goldfish, an attempt to find a suitable mate for them, led to a growing interest in ornamental fish farming. With the aid of YouTube, Deepen acquired knowledge, and today he operates a sustainable ornamental fish farm from his home. Ponds are scattered around the premises, and inside the house, aquariums house various goldfish.
Deepen’s expertise extends beyond fish breeding to encompass the realm of ornamental fish, from goldfish to Indian koi. He not only breeds fish but also sells assembled aquariums, fish tanks, filtration systems, fish food, and other essentials for fish raising. His ultimate goal is to establish an aquarium store in Samtse.
A Vision for Rural Empowerment
Deepen Raj Ghalley has a broader vision for his venture. He aims to use ornamental fish farming to elevate the socio-economic status of rural youth and farmers working in agriculture-related fields. This venture promotes self-sufficiency, aligns with environmental sustainability, and opens doors for income generation.
Despite his vision, Deepen faces challenges, including frequent power outages that disrupt filtration systems, delays in importing necessary supplies, and the presence of observant neighborhood cats. Disease outbreaks in ornamental fish farming are a significant concern, leading to substantial economic losses. Deepen’s commitment to addressing these challenges is commendable.
A Promising Future
Deepen Raj Ghalley’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by resilience and determination. His home-based venture, which started at a small scale, has already sold fish and accessories worth over Nu 70,000 since the beginning of the year. Markets in Thimphu and Phuentsholing await, and although the summer season poses challenges due to poor road conditions and travel reluctance, Deepen’s commitment remains unwavering.
Deepen Raj’s path exemplifies the essence of entrepreneurship, where both challenges and triumphs are integral. Money remains a primary concern, but opportunities like a Nu 250,000 loan from the Tarayana Foundation offer a glimmer of hope. The absence of entrepreneurial programs in Samtse is a notable challenge, yet it underscores the immense potential among the youth in the region.
As Deepen Raj’s vision expands, he plans to lease land and scale up the farm, eventually transforming it into an educational and tourist center. Collaborating with three enthusiasts in Samtse, Deepen is already mentoring and guiding them in ornamental fish farming, fostering growth in this promising sector.
Deepen Raj Ghalley’s story is a testament to the power of determination, passion, and a vision for progress. His pioneering efforts in ornamental fish farming herald a brighter future for this burgeoning industry in Bhutan.
By Rinzin Dema – Content Writer
