Nowadays, farming has become convenient, thanks to farm machinery such as power tillers. However, the majority of farmers in Maedtakha and Dungna Gewogs in Chhukha still practice the age-old method of using oxen. But this is difficult, especially for female farmers who don’t have men in the family. However, these problems are expected to be eased because of the Food Security and Agriculture Productivity Project which provides mini power tillers to women farmers at cheaper costs.
Nearly 300 households of Maedtakha and Dungna Gewogs depend on agriculture. They grow cereals, cardamom and vegetables.
During land tillage, many farmers still use oxen. And this has been a challenge for single women as they have to hire men.
“It is difficult for us to hire labourers, oxen and other farm tools for ploughing,” said Kinley Om, a farmer from Dungna Gewog.
However, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forests distributed mini power tillers to five women farmers in two Gewogs. The women can now plough their fields by themselves. The machines can be operated by women as it is lighter than power tillers. For now, only a few farmers own power tillers.
“We are now motivated to work harder. Even other women can learn to use this mini power tiller. With this, I feel that women and their children will get a good opportunity here on,” said Lhap Gyem, a farmer from Maedtakha Gewog.
“I am happy to receive one as I cannot afford to buy it by myself,” said Kinley Om.
The mini power tillers cost nearly Nu 60,000 but the women have to pay only 20 per cent of the actual cost which is about Nu 11,500. The remaining cost is borne by the government.
“We are handing over the mini power tillers to those single women who own large arable land. We are hoping that it will benefit them. We will see how well they make use of it. We also plan to support them,” said Sonam Phuntsho, Assistant District Agriculture Officer.
Female farmers of four other Gewogs of Chhukha also received the mini power tillers.
The Food Security and Agriculture Productivity project under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forests also supports farmers in Samtse, Sarpang, Haa and Dagana Dzongkhags.
Sonam Penjor, Chhukha
Edited by Tshering Zam
