An extra source of income does not stretch the purse, it rather fills it. In Pema Gatshel’s Khar Gewog, farmers already involved in vegetable farming are now turning to commercial pineapple cultivation. It’s proving to be a rewarding bonus. Pineapple production is increasing every year, and so will the farmers’ income.
More than a hundred households in Khar have cultivated pineapples across several acres of land. While pineapples are not new to these farmers, growing them on a commercial scale is.
While most farmers received pineapple saplings through a cost-sharing scheme, others were supported by the Tarayana Foundation.
Tshewang Choden, like many other farmers in the gewog, began large-scale pineapple cultivation two years ago.
Today, as she walks through her orchard and sees the fruits thriving, she feels hopeful that it will bring her some additional income.
She said, “We used to grow just a few plants for our use. But with government support through the cost-sharing scheme, we started growing more. We were encouraged to earn income from this fruit, and we’re doing that. The plants are fruiting, and we’re hopeful. I’ve already earned around two thousand ngultrums.”
Kinzang Wangchuk recently harvested his first batch of pineapples, around 100 in total. He says some of them weigh over a kilogramme.
Now that his plants have started fruiting again, he plans to explore potential markets for his produce.
“I planted more, thinking it would be better. The plants are already fruiting again. Production will increase in winter. If the government continues to support us as agreed, we plan to cultivate pineapples on every piece of land we own,” said Kinzang Wangchuk.
Farmers have formed a group and will soon begin supplying their produce to Bhutan Agro Industries in Monggar.
With growing support and visible success, many are expanding their plantations.
Khar-Yajur Tshogpa Tsheltrim Lhundup said, “We expect good returns from this crop in the future. Once a pineapple matures, it keeps producing. We’re optimistic it’ll bring income very soon.”
“The government gave us support free of cost. They’re also helping protect the crop from wild animals. It’s been beneficial, so I plan to grow even more,” said Sonam Chedon, a farmer.
With growing interest and success, many farmers are now considering switching to pineapple as their main cash crop.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Sangay Chezom
