The problem of human-wildlife conflict in rural Bhutan, where farming is the main occupation of villagers is further aggravated by the lack of adequate compensation schemes from the Government.
However, for a group of farmers in remote Norbugang-Rinchenzor Chiwog under Norbugang Gewog in Pema Gatshel, compensation for crops destroyed by wild animals has been made possible through an initiative started by the Royal Manas National Park in 2011. The area of Norboogang-Rinchhenzor chiwog falls under National Manas Park in Panbang.
The Park initiated the “Crop Insurance Group” with a total seed money funding of Nu 500,000 to safeguard animals as well as to minimise losses incurred by farmers during wildlife crop damage.
According to the Chairman of the Group, Mangjay they have a fund reserve of Nu 450,000. He said they collect Nu 200 per household and also provide loans on interests to members so that the fund can be sustained.
Villagers said that the initiative has benefited them as they receive 50 percent compensation for crops damaged by wild animals. The maximum claims are made for maize crop, as it is grown in large quantities in the village. Villagers are compensated Nu 5 per kg. This compensation amount has been in place for almost a decade.
The Chairperson said it was not possible to compensate 100 percent as the funds will not be enough. However, he said he is looking at possibilities of increasing the compensation amount and trying to get more funds for the group.
The group has 54 members.
Thinley Dorji
