Land development projects are playing an important role in reviving farmland and boosting agricultural productivity, especially in remote areas. In Pema Gatshel’s Norbugang Gewog, 13 acres of dry land in Tshelshingzor Chiwog’s Kerong Balay have recently been converted into terraces. This transformation has brought new hope to farmers, many of whom have already begun cultivation.
This is Kerong Balay in Tshelshingzor Chiwog, Norbugang Gewog, where land development was carried out earlier this year. For many years, this fertile plain remained uncultivated due to its distance from the village and steep terrain.
But after the recent terracing works, farmers have returned to the land. Some have started growing maize while others are planting paddy.
“We are very happy and motivated. Many are coming forward with new ideas and plans to grow a variety of crops here,” said Dorji Kundrup, Tshelshingzor Tshogpa, Norbugang Gewog, Pema Gatshel.
“If we had to dig manually, it would take an entire day just to complete one terrace. Thanks to the government support, we were able to plant paddy today itself. We are very grateful,” said Sangay Choden, Resident, Tshelshingzor, Norbugang Gewog, Pema Gatshel.
“Now that our land has been developed, we are excited to make the most of it. Although half of the area couldn’t be developed earlier due to budget constraints, we are already cultivating in the hope that the remaining land will be terraced soon,” said Kinzang Wangdi, Resident, Tshelshingzor, Norbugang Gewog, Pema Gatshel.
To safeguard their crops, landowners have started building small huts on their plots.
Many farmers say that if things continue to go well, they are thinking of moving closer and settling near their fields.
“We’ve long relied on imported rice. With His Majesty’s support, we’re determined to achieve self-sufficiency. We will give our best effort,” said Kinzang Wangdi, Resident, Tshelshingzor, Norbugang Gewog, Pema Gatshel.
“One person can easily operate a mini power tiller, making land preparation more convenient. Once irrigation is available, we’re ready to plant paddy,” said Sangay Choden, Resident, Tshelshingzor, Norbugang Gewog, Pema Gatshel.
“We never imagined we’d receive such generous support. Now that the government has invested so much in us, we’re committed to making the most of it,” said Pema Rinzin, Resident, shelshingzor, Norbugang Gewog, Pema Gatshel.
About half of the land remains uncultivated. Encouraged by the success of the land development project, the gewog administration is planning to expand the initiative.
“There are about 26 acres in total. So far, 13 acres have been developed. We plan to develop the remaining land in the 2025–2026 fiscal year,” said Kinley Dorji, Norbugang Gup, Pema Gatshel.
More than 50 landowners are expected to benefit from the land development project, which marks a fresh start for agriculture in Norbugang Gewog.
While the terracing work is complete, farmers are still awaiting an irrigation channel. The gup said that it will be provided based on urgency and community demand.
The project, worth Nu 800,000, was funded by the Commercial Agriculture and Resilient Livelihoods Enhancement Programme or CARLEP.
So far, five gewogs have benefited from the land development project, helping boost farm production for both self-sufficiency and commercial purposes.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Sonam Pem
