The Prime Minister, Tshering Tobgay rejected Tsirang Dzongkhag’s proposal to drop potato production from the 11th Five Year Plan.
Their target was to produce 16 metric tons of potatoes annually but could produce only about six metric tons, last year.
“We were not able to grow potatoes well because of red ants attacking the crop. And farmers are discouraged,” said Tsirang’s Dzongda, Ngawang Pem. She said the interest of the farmers have shifted to growing other vegetables.
Ngawang Pem said farmers are now growing cardamom which earns them a huge income.
However, Lyonchhen said instead of doing away with the production altogether, they will reduce the target. “Before doing that, the dzongkhag should discuss the issue with the agricultural ministry and see by how much the target can be reduced.”
