Commercial farming is gradually becoming part of rural life across Bhutan. Even in remote areas, farmers are diversifying their crops to earn a better income. In Pema Gatshel’s Chhiphung Chiwog, villagers are now venturing into high-value crops such as dragon fruit and avocados, thanks to improved road connectivity.
In the past, Chhiphung Chiwog under Chhimung Gewog solely relied on orange cultivation.
Now, farmers grow other fruit trees in mass, due to market value and good climatic condition.
Sangay Norbu, a farmer said, “If we can take our products to the market, selling is not an issue. It has been three years since we started cultivating dragon fruit, and there is demand.”
Kinzang Gyeltshen, another farmer said, “With the support from the government, we can truly feel that our village is developing compared to the past.”
Likewise, Leki Wangpo said “We are happy to see that valuable fruits can grow well here. Things are so different from how they used to be in the past.”
Due to good business, farmers plan to expand cultivation.
Kinzang Gyeltshen added that “I am planning to expand my cultivation.”
Sangay Norbu said, “I have received a training. So, I will guide others in planting as well. Many of us are planning to extend our farms and plant more fruit trees.”
With high-value crops taking root, farmers see a future where their village is no longer defined by isolation, but by opportunity and growth.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
