Chhukha is one of the 14 districts identified for quinoa cultivation. Last year, heavy rainfall affected the crop yield in the district. However, with collective efforts, officials aim to scale up production. To promote the nutrient-dense crop, the gewog administration and the National Centre for Organic Agriculture recently organised a farmer’s field day in Samphelling Gewog, where people showed interest in growing quinoa.
Quinoa has been identified as Bhutan’s priority crop for the “One Country, One Priority Product” initiative due to its nutritional benefits and market potential. It offers farmers good income prospects and export opportunities.
Quinoa is considered a superfood and is a great source of plant-based protein, fibre and several key vitamins and minerals.
“Quinoa is a climate resilient crop. Also, the crop is very nutritious. This is the reason why we are urging people to take up cultivation. It is essential for our food and nutrition security,” said TP Katwal, Agriculture Specialist, National Centre for Organic Agriculture, Thimphu.
Its climate-resilient properties make it crucial for mitigating the effects of climate change on agriculture in the country. Relevant authorities have taken initiatives to promote the crop.
“We are creating awareness among the people about the crop. As they understand the benefits of the crop, people are taking an interest in growing this crop. We are supporting them as much as we can by providing farm machinery and with market opportunities. The market opportunity is also huge because FMCL is going to buy,” said TP Katwal, Agriculture Specialist, National Centre for Organic Agriculture.
“We have learnt that it has high nutritional value. Also, we will not have market issues. Before, the market was a bit challenging. We are now planning to cultivate in huge quantities,” said Sachit Kumar Tamang, a resident of Sonamthang, Samphelling Gewog.
“I feel many are unaware of the crop. If we can cultivate this crop, it has high nutrition and also good market value with support from the government. So, we should work hard to promote the crop in our country,” said Padam Bdr. Ghalay, a resident of Chimithang, Samphelling Gewog.
In Samphelling Gewog, quinoa is grown as a winter crop. Quinoa was first introduced in the country in 2015 from Peru to enhance food and nutrition security.
The crop was then promoted across all 20 districts following His Majesty’s command during a Royal Visit to the National Centre for Organic Agriculture at Yusipang in Thimphu.
Kinley Dem, Phuentshogling
Edited by Sonam Pem
