Farmers of Yalang-Phuyang chiwog of Yalang Gewog in Trashi Yangtse cultivate chilli on a large scale. The spice is one of the main sources of income for them. The chilli from the area hit the market at this time of year. This year, farmers said, the production is good but they are not able to fetch a good price.
Farmers of Bayfushod sow chilli seeds in November and the spice is ready for harvest in spring. The first batch was harvested on Wednesday.
They said the production is good this year as they received timely rainfall.
“The production is better this year. So, we are hoping that we will be able to earn more compared to last year,” said Yeshi Choden, a farmer.
“People of Bayfushod cultivate chilli on around 100 acres of land. The number of villagers growing chilli has decreased as some people have migrated to Thimphu and other towns,” said Sonam, Yalang Gup.
But the farmers are not able to earn as expected. This year, a kilogram of chilli is sold at Nu 150. They used to earn about Nu 300 in the previous years.
The chiwog Tshogpa says they are not able to fetch a good price as imported chilli is are easily available in the market.
According to the Tshogpa, if at all they face a dearth of customers, the villagers are asked to dry the chilli so that it will fetch a better price later.
Last year, the farmers sold about 14 metric tons of chilli.
There are more than 40 households who grow chilli in Yalang-Phuyang chiwog.
Ngawang Tenzin, Trashi Yangtse
Edited by Tshering Zam
