Farmers of six gewogs in Dagana have become self-sufficient. Thanks to the support from the Food Security and Agriculture Productivity Project for the last five years. The project supplied farmers with tools, machinery, and materials to increase productivity and income. The five-year project in the district concludes this month.
The sound of portable power tillers now fills the fields in Dagana, marking a shift in farming methods.
Greenhouses are now part of the farmland, provided on a cost-sharing basis.
Farmers can now grow crops and vegetables throughout the year.
The project also provided materials for cardamom dryers, water harvesting facilities, and drip irrigation systems.
These additions have changed farming in the villages.
It has changed the way farmers work their land.
Drujeygang Gewog is one of the beneficiaries.
Tshering Tashi, a farmer said “In the past, we relied on oxen for ploughing, making farming labor-intensive. Thanks to the project, we now benefit greatly. We received power tillers and greenhouses on a cost-sharing basis, paying just 50% and 20%, respectively”
Karchung, another farmer said “Previously, we had to buy vegetables due to shortages, and the high market prices made it difficult. Now, we grow our own vegetables and are self-reliant. With power tillers, we can plough a field in just 20 minutes, compared to an hour with oxen.”
Jigme Lhamo, who is also a farmer said “Greenhouses enable us to grow vegetables year-round, while the water harvesting facility is a lifeline in areas with scarce water. Cardamom dryers also help us dry the spice immediately, improving efficiency.”
Tshering Dendup, Sr. Gewog Agriculture Extension Supervisor said “We supply vegetables like potatoes, cabbages, chilies, and onions to three schools in the gewog through our farmers’ group. This initiative meets local demand and reduces dependence on imported vegetables.”
The project also funded the construction of a sales outlet in Dagapela in 2022 improving market access. It costs more than Nu 4 M.
Though the project ends this month, its impact is likely to remain for years to come.
Pema Tshewang, Dagana
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
