Agricultural produce from Tsirang is highly sought after for its organic and pure quality. Recognising consumers’ preferences, farmers in the district have been showing interest in producing organic crops using organic manure. The Tsirang district administration has also been actively supporting and encouraging farmers to minimise the use of chemical fertilisers. The district inaugurated its seventh vermicompost plant recently.
The vermicompost plant is located in Tashiyangjong Chiwog in Kilkhorthang Gewog. Vermicompost is a fertiliser made by earthworms from waste.
The plant also has a vermiculture unit to breed and raise earthworms for sale.
A farmer in the chiwog is managing the project. It is expected to produce around 10 metric tonnes, or roughly a truckload, of organic manure annually.
“Using 600 kilograms of vermicompost in paddy fields has a greater impact than using 2,000 kilograms of cow dung. In terms of crop quality, crops grown with vermicompost are superior and more appealing. Consumers also prefer products grown using vermicompost,” said Birkha Bdr. Kharel, Owner, Khina Vermicompost, Kilkhorthang Gewog, Tsirang.
The district administration plans to produce 50 metric tonnes of vermicompost annually by 2028. This is expected to boost the production of organic agricultural products in the district amid growing demand from the upcoming Gelephu Mindfulness City.
“Many of us produce different types of organic manure, but we consider vermicompost the best among them. It not only boosts crop productivity but also enriches soil nutrients,” said Kinzang Chophel, Assistant District Agriculture Officer, Tsirang.
The project was established on a cost-sharing basis, with 70 per cent funding from the Green Climate Fund or GCF. The GCF is supporting similar initiatives in eight districts across the country.
“Rapid changes in temperature cause all the worms and insects which are vital for soil fertility to die. During heavy rainfall, whatever manure we have in the fields is washed away. So, such support in terms of preparing the manure like vermicompost, bio-digesters and regular composting is to ensure the productivity in this climate era,” said Sherub Gyeltshen, Project Manager, Green Climate Fund.
The Tsirang Dzongda urged farmers to produce high-quality organic agricultural products and to make the best use of their available farmlands by increasing agricultural activities. He said these efforts will strengthen Tsirang’s reputation as a leading organic farming district.
Pema Tshewang, Tsirang
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
