Kidney bean is becoming one of the most favoured cash crops among Bhutanese farmers. Last year, the country produced more than 350 metric tonnes of kidney beans or rajma beans. Known for its easy cultivation, most villagers in the east are cultivating the crop. In Samdrup Jongkhar, a growing number of farmers in Gomdar Gewog are cultivating kidney beans as a reliable and profitable source of income.
These days, villagers are busy harvesting and separating the dust and impurities from the kidney beans.
They say cultivation of kidney beans requires minimal labour.
Unlike other crops that face the uncertainty of fluctuating market prices or spoilage, kidney beans offer farmers the advantage of long shelf life and consistent demand.
As a result, farmers are finding it easier to sell their harvest, ensuring a steady income.
Cheni Wangmo, a farmer said “Compared to other vegetables, cultivating beans is easier since it does not require weeding and watering. Last year, I cultivated a little and the production was about 30-40 kilogrammes. This year, I expanded the cultivation and expect about 200 kilogrammes.”
Sonam Choden, another farmer said “I cultivated beans this year only. Most of the villagers cultivated them before. I have cultivated kidney beans on around two acres of land and expect around Nu 100,000.”
Gyeltshen Lhamo, who is also a farmer said “Cultivating kidney beans is profitable compared to other vegetables as we get Nu 70 to 80 easily for a kilogramme. Last year, the price reached Nu 100. We have to do weeding occasionally only, it is not difficult like maize. I have cultivated kidney beans on over 90 decimals of land.”
The market has never been a problem as local traders buy kidney beans directly from farmers. The produce is then exported to nearby towns in India.
With promising returns, kidney bean farming is helping villagers in Gomdar Gewog sustain their livelihoods.
Kinley Wangchuk, Samdrup Jongkhar
Edited by Tshering Zam
