Farmers of Lumang Gewog’s Kharphu-Kurchilu Chiwog in Trashigang continue to cultivate garlic despite challenges in marketing and curing it. Many farmers earn between Nu 15,000 and 80,000 annually from garlic sales. Garlic has been one of the cash crops for the people of the villages.
In Kharphu-Kurchilu Chiwog, garlic cultivation typically begins in September, with the harvest done around February.
Farmers sell their produce locally in their villages, while some also transport it to Samdrup Jongkhar.
A kilogramme of garlic is sold for Nu 100 to 200.
It has been around a decade since the farmers cultivated the spice.
Tenjay, a farmer said “I cultivate other vegetables but I focus more on garlic cultivation as we can earn better. Sometimes it gets rotten and there are no buyers. But there are times when we do not face marketing problems.”
Wangchuk, another farmer said “Last year, I earned around Nu 55,000 and this year, I expect to make Nu 100,000. Other farmers are also earning over Nu 60,000.”
However, farmers face challenges during the curing process.
Tenjay said “It will be helpful if we have equipment to dry garlic and if our agriculture officials can help in creating market opportunities.”
Wangchuk also said “After harvesting, it would often rain in the evening, causing the garlic to rot. We have to dry it over an earthen oven. Having a machine would make this process much more convenient.”
Lumang Gewog’s agriculture extension supervisor said they have plans to provide two curing sheds to dry garlic in Kharphu – Kurchilu Chiwog in the 13th Five Year Plan.
The official added that the Tarayana Foundation is also coming up with a shed to provide a marketing platform.
Lumang Gewog produced nearly 27 metric tonnes of garlic last year.
Sonam Darjay, Trashigang
Edited by Tshering Zam
