For the first time, farmers in Pema Gatshel will venture into mass vegetable cultivation in a mega greenhouse. This is expected to boost domestic agricultural productions to meet local demands and enhance food self-sufficiency. The initiative is part of the government’s National Economic Contingency Plan for agriculture.
The mega greenhouse is constructed in Chhimoong village. It is spread across a 60-decimal land which is equivalent to half the size of a football ground. The construction was completed in February this year.
“We are privileged to have received such a precious gift from His Majesty and the government. We are thankful because the gift comes at a time when the government is going through a difficult time amid the pandemic. We are encouraged to work harder than ever,” said Bumchu Wangdi, a farmer in Chhimoong village.
“The mega greenhouse has good ventilation and it’s not suffocating compared to our normal greenhouse. Otherwise, it’s challenging to work during the daytime in a normal greenhouse due to the heat. But this greenhouse allows us to walk and work freely and conveniently,” said Norbu Chojay, another farmer.
The greenhouse will benefit more than 30 households in the village. The farmers will start growing vegetables beginning next month.
“We don’t want to keep it idle. We cannot return the money to the government. The least we can do now is try to improve our livelihood by making the best use of it and becoming self-sufficient,” added Bumchu Wangdi.
“When the government is supporting us with such a facility, we have to work harder now. We can make the best use of everything that has been provided to us,” added Norbu Chojay.
The government spent more than Nu 3.2 M for greenhouse construction as part of the Economic Contingency Plan for agriculture.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Sonam Pem
