The rapid growth of Gelephu Mindfulness City is beginning to reshape rural livelihoods beyond the town’s boundaries. In Shompangkha Gewog, farmers say the city’s rising population and economic activity are giving them something they once struggled for, a dependable market.
The day begins early for the members of the Norbugang Vegetable Farmers’ group in Shompangkha.
Rows of red chillies stretch across the fields. The Norbugang Vegetable Farmers’ Group now cultivates 15 acres of land, with chilli covering nearly 11 acres. Today’s harvest is being sorted and packed for immediate transport to Gelephu.
Just a few years ago, selling produce meant transporting it to distant districts. Now, buyers are much closer.
“We are getting good rates for chilli this time. Currently, we get about Nu 110 per kilogram. Last year, we could only get around Nu 80 per kilogram. Now, we are selling all our chillies to GMC and do not have to send them to other districts like Wangdue Phodrang and Punakha as we did before,” said Anita Gurung, Member, Norbugang Vegetable Farmer’s Group, Shompangkha, Sarpang.
“All our chillies today are being taken to GMC. In a week, we send our vegetables two to three times,” said Sanja Tamang, Member, Norbugang Vegetable Farmer’s Group, Shompangkha, Sarpang.
The group also grows tomatoes on about one acre of land, along with beans and cabbage on the remaining area. These vegetables are supplied to Gelephu as well as nearby schools and hospitals. Encouraged by steady demand, members are now looking ahead.
“Currently, we are growing chilli, tomatoes, beans, and cabbage. But we are exploring ideas to grow other vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli. We are also looking at the possibility of acquiring more land for large-scale cultivation,” said Mon Kumar Rai, Member, Norbugang Vegetable Farmer’s Group, Shompangkha, Sarpang.
Local leaders say support for modern farming practices will be important as the group continues to grow.
“With more people showing interest in the group, it is important that we provide technical support and look for funding. As per national goals, we are planning to support them with smart agriculture technologies and promote the use of modern tools,” said Ash Man Rai, Shompangkha Mangmi, Sarpang.
What began modestly in 2020 with six members cultivating five acres has grown into a 19-member enterprise. Last year, the group generated roughly Nu 1.6 M in income, a significant milestone for farmers who once faced uncertainty over prices and buyers.
Karma Wangdi/Passang Dorji, Gelephu
