As wild animals continue to threaten crops and vegetables, many farmers in Pema Gatshel are turning to dairy farming as a more sustainable source of livelihood. Dairy farmers in the district are now earning better income, supported by improved facilities, including milk processing units. The Shumar Cheden Tshephel Detshen is the most recent group to receive such a unit.
For around one year, members of the Shumar Cheden Tshephel Detshen have been supplying milk to nearby cooperatives as they did not have a milk processing unit themselves.
Often, they faced challenges with transportation and spoilage. But that is now a thing of the past.
Now, with a new milk processing unit worth over Nu 3.4 M funded by the government in place, the group has become self-reliant in processing its dairy products.
The processing unit has brought more than just convenience, it has preserved product quality and improved income for the members
Sonam, a member said, “We were provided a processing unit, and that’s where we began. Year by year, we are improving. Within just two years, we have even managed to save a good amount.”
Pema Cheki, the treasurer said, “The government constructed a processing unit in our village, solving the transportation problem. Earlier, our milk used to get spoilt on the way due to long distances. Now, we don’t face such issues anymore.”
Today, the group collects around 300 litres of milk every day. From this, they produce butter, cheese and yoghurt.
The 61-member group now plans to collect milk from three neighbouring chiwogs, aiming to boost production and benefit even more farmers.
With modern facilities, ambitious plans, and strong community involvement, the cooperative is improving livelihoods and also leading the way in rural innovation.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Tshering Zam
