Farmers in Chhukha are already enjoying the benefits from the earlier phases of the Million Fruit Tree Plantation Project. This was shared during the closing of the project’s third phase, which was held at Yagang in Darla Gewog. The project, a joint initiative of the DeSuung National Service and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock was launched in 2022 under the Royal Command of His Majesty The King to bring youths closer to rural Bhutan, foster food security and support farmers.
This year, in its third phase, more than 1.2 million fruit trees were successfully planted. In temperate regions, fruit trees like almond, walnut, pecan nut, apple and kiwi were planted. In the sub-tropical region, Irwin mango, mandarin, bear limes, macadamia nut, avocado and agarwood were planted.
People, especially those who participated in earlier phases shared their excitement.
“It has only been about three years since we have planted the fruit trees, so we have not started selling yet. However, people have enough fruit for their consumption. This is helpful because eventually, it can become a source of income for the farmers,” said Nima Gyeltshen, Gamanang-Kalzangri Tshogpa, Darla Gewog.
“The trees planted in the first phase have started bearing fruits and we are receiving reports that people benefited out of that because they not only get to consume nutritious fruits but also market the extra produce,” said Yonten Gyamtsho, the director of the Department of Agriculture.
Younten Phuntsho, Agriculture and Livestock Minister said the project is a gift from His Majesty and it is the people’s responsibility to ensure its success.
“We have been provided free saplings and DeSuups have done everything they can to help and support our farmers. When they volunteer to help people, it’s important that you also should take the responsibility to take care of the saplings.”
In the third phase of the project, more than 600 DeSuups worked in the temperate region for two months while more than 1,000 DeSuups were deployed for plantation in the sub-tropical region.
Kinley Dem, Chhukha
Edited by Sonam Pem
