A group of farmers in Yangnyer Gewog, Trashigang, is breathing new life into the nine-acre Tshowoong Poktor integrated farming land. The site, previously managed by a youth group under a Land Use Certificate in 2018, was abandoned due to several challenges.
The new group has now introduced high-yield cattle breeds such as Holstein Friesian and Jersey cows, while also cultivating maize, vegetables, and high-value fruits. Additionally, an individual farmer has established a poultry farm on the site.
The previous project failed due to water shortages, poor road access, and management issues among the members.
The Trashigang Dzongda, Lam Neten, and other officials officially inaugurated the revamped farmland yesterday.
“If we don’t earn from cattle, we have vegetables or fruits as backup. We cultivate a variety of crops such as nuts, maize, and vegetables, so if one fails, others compensate. At the Sunday market in Trashigang, customers prefer a variety of products,” said Thinley Rinzin, a farmer.
“We aim to supply over 100 litres of milk daily. We are also planning to improve cattle breeds through artificial insemination and expand supply to other areas since it is difficult to source quality cattle,” Gyeltshen, a farmer.
“I have around 1,000 hens, with 900 currently laying eggs. Another batch of 900 hens includes 600 layers. Altogether, about 1,500 hens are laying eggs at the moment,” said Kintu, a farmer.
The Commercial Agriculture and Resilient Livelihoods Enhancement Programme or CARLEP, has invested approximately 3.6 million ngultrum in cost-sharing support for high-breed cattle, infrastructure development, and water supply restoration. Additionally, the Government of India funded nearly Nu 5 M for 1.3-kilometre chain-link fencing.
Meanwhile, the district administration is seeking additional funding to improve road access to the farm.
Through the project, the farmers are not only revitalising the land but also securing a sustainable future for themselves and their community.
Sonam Darjay, Trashigang
Edited by Kipchu
