Wheat is a major cash crop for farmers in Bumthang. However, farmers there are often unable to harvest their crop on time due to delays caused by harvester machine failure. Local leaders raised the concern during the recent Dzongkhag Tshogdu, saying poor maintenance and frequent breakdowns during the harvesting season are affecting farmers.
As wheat harvesting begins across Bumthang, many farmers are facing delays due to repeated breakdowns of wheat harvester machines deployed in the fields.
During the recent Dzongkhag Tshogdu session, members said the machines often stop working in the middle of harvesting because they are not properly maintained before the season begins.
They added that some farmers also keep the machines waiting in their fields or those with vehicles transport the machines to their fields, delaying services for others without vehicles.
According to the members, such practices leave small-scale farmers at a disadvantage, forcing some to wait for days while their crops remain ready for harvest.
Farm Machinery Corporation Limited has deployed eight machines for the four gewogs in the district to harvest wheat.
“People always keep following the machine hoping their turn will come,” said Chhoekhor Gup Sangla.
“The machine breaks down when the weather is favourable for harvest. By the time it is restored, it is already rainy season. When these machines keep failing, farmers have to look for labourers to harvest their wheat. So, much of what remains after losing to wild animals is also lost when the harvest gets delayed.”
Chhumey Mangmi Kezang Dorji said, “When a machine breaks down in the field, they bring in a replacement, which also ends up breaking down. As a result, harvesting one field alone takes two to three days. We say it is a service to the people but when the machines don’t work properly in the field, it’s really frustrating.”
Responding to the concerns, the Regional Manager of the Farm Machinery Corporation Limited, or FMCL, said the corporation is aware of the recurring issues and is taking steps to improve the service.
“Before the harvesting season begins, we will make sure to visit gewogs and conduct consultation meetings regarding where to start and end the harvesting. About the breakdown, we will attend immediately and try to fix it in the field itself if possible. If not, we will replace the spare parts to ensure uninterrupted workflow,” said Sonam Wangchuk, the regional manager of FMCL, Bumthang.
Local leaders said wheat cultivation has expanded over the past few years and has become an important source of income for many farming households.
Last year, the district produced around 100 metric tons of wheat, which is approximately 10 truckloads.
The machine is also used for harvesting other cereals such as buckwheat, barley, and paddy.
Thinley Dorji, Bumthang
Edited by Phub Gyem
