Rural-urban migration continues to affect many villages, leading to a shortage of manpower for farm work. However, technology has not left the elderly farmers behind. In Pema Gatshel, farmers have purchased mini power tillers through a cost-sharing scheme, which has eased their workload and improved farming efficiency.
These mini power tillers were recently distributed to farmers in Pema Gatshel. With support from the CARLEP project, the district administration provided 80 power tillers.
The machines have proven to be highly efficient, particularly for farmers living in hilly areas. Compact and easy to operate, they are well-suited for working on slopes. Farmers say the tillers have made their work significantly easier and more manageable.
Tshering Wangchuk, a farmer from Chhimung Gewog said, “In the past, we used to plough our fields with oxen. But now, it has become much easier with the mini power tiller provided by the government. Those who have not received one yet are eagerly waiting for their turn.”
“We had access to a government power tiller before, but it was difficult to use since there were many users. Now that we have our own machine, we believe it will solve our problem. As farmers, we cannot afford much, so we are grateful for this kind of support,” said Yonten Jamtsho, a farmer from Khar Gewog.
Kinzang Wangchuk, another farmer from Chhimung Gewog said, “This is beneficial for us. The mini tiller can plough a field in just an hour, which used to take a whole day with oxen. It also reduces the need for manual labour.”
They say such support should continue to strengthen agricultural practices in rural areas.
The district has allocated three million ngultrum to support farmers in acquiring mini power tillers through the cost-sharing scheme.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Sangay Chezom
