It was limited awareness until now. But it looks like the problem is beyond that. Four months after the launch of the Crop and Livestock Insurance Scheme, some farmers say it is expensive even after the government agreed to bear 50 per cent of the cost.
Lingzhi is a remote high-altitude region in northern Bhutan. It is known for stunning high-altitude landscapes, pristine alpine meadows and yaks. Hundreds of them. It is more than just an animal. It represents livelihood, survival, and culture. However, numbers do not always give an advantage.
Highlanders or yak herding communities say it is difficult to pay the insurance for their animals. Each yak costs about four thousand ngultrum a year, with the government covering only half.
Representatives from Dagala and Lingzhi gewogs raised the issue at the Thimphu Dzongkhag Tshogdu recently.
Lingzhi Gup Wangdi said, “In the highlands, some households own more than 150 yaks, while others have around 60 to 70, with a minimum of about 40. Insuring around 100 yaks at current rates would cost over Nu 200,000, which is higher than the potential return. Paying such a large amount at once is difficult for yak herders, making it a major challenge.”
“People are grateful to the government for providing the opportunity to insure their yaks. However, since many highlanders own more than 100 yaks, it is difficult to insure them all at once. They suggest a more affordable option of paying Nu 500 per yak and receiving benefits accordingly,” said Gado, the chairperson of Thimphu Dzongkhag Tshogdu.
Local government leaders also say that horses, which are crucial for transportation in places where there is no road connectivity, are not included in the scheme. The scheme covers cattle, poultry, and piggery.
An insurance official says the horse was not part of the list provided and prioritised by the government. He adds that similar suggestions were made during public consultations in other districts as well.
Following a thorough discussion, the house unanimously decided to request relevant authorities review the scheme.
That might take time. Highlanders say they don’t mind, as it could mean paying far less for their yaks.
Kelzang Chhophyel/Namgay Wangdi
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
