The Urka Bangla chilli is one of the main sources of income for farmers in Trashi Yangtse’s Bumdeling Gewog. But this year, the farmers are worried as the chilli is fetching a low price compared to previous years. Moreover, the farmers say that production has also decreased due to pest infestation and poor weather conditions.
For some farmers in Betsamang village under Bumdeling Gewog, the chillies have just become ready for harvest. As for the others, they have already started selling it.
Villagers said the sudden change in weather has damaged the crop.
“I don’t know whether it is because of the soil nutrient or not. The chilli plants grew tall in the past but now, there is stunted growth. I have not sold any chilli yet, not even a kilogramme,” said Ugyen Choden, a farmer.
“During sunny days, the heat was unbearable and when it rained, there was heavy downpour. This affects the production. Moreover, the price is not good this year compared to last year. This time, from the first harvest, we were able to fetch only Nu 60 per kilogramme,” said Wangchuk Dema, another farmer.
“Compared to last year, the price has dropped. The price is not good this time. Even the chilli plants and the fruits are rotting. This year, I think I can earn around Nu 20,000 to 25,000 ngultrum. Last year, I got around Nu 50,000 to 60,000 ngultrum,” said Sangay Wangmo, who is also a farmer.
Other villagers in Bumdeling Gewog started selling the chilli a few months ago.
This year, they are selling it for around Nu 50 to 80 for a kilogramme. Last year, a kilogramme of the Urka Bangla chilli cost Nu 60 to 150.
Farmers sell it in the nearby towns and districts. The remaining unsold ones are dried and made into pickles.
Farmers in Yangtse Gewog are also experiencing the same problem.
The Bumdeling Gewog Agriculture Extension Supervisor said sudden changes in weather conditions also resulted in the growth of pests such as chilli pod borers and armyworms. The official added that they provided pesticides and the farmers were also trained in plant protection and pest management.
Last year, Bumdeling Gewog produced 2,800 metric tons of Urka Bangla chilli. This year, they are expecting around 2,300 metric tons.
In Bumdeling, around 300 farmers cultivate the Urka Bangla chilli in about 230 acres of land.
Sonam Darjay, Trashi Yangtse
Edited by Tshering Zam
