Bhutan takes a step forward in its organic agriculture journey with the opening of a new Organic Sales Outlet at Kaja Throm in Thimphu. The initiative took years in the making through efforts from the 11th and 12th Five-Year Plans. This marks a strategic effort to promote and institutionalise organic farming and marketing across the country.
Organic vegetables now have a new space at Kaja Throm. Currently, over 30 farmers and groups from the six nearby districts are expected to benefit from this outlet.
“Our consumers will also understand that organic means it is healthy. If we get sustained support, it is our interest and it is going to be our endeavour to really improve our production processes,” said Deo Kumar Biswa, Secretary, Jadingkha Organic Farmers’ Group, Maedwang Gewog, Thimphu.
“Even after large investments, there was no specific area to sell organic products. So, our main aim is to provide a platform for the farmers to sell their produce,” said Ugyen, Chief Executive Officer, Bio Bhutan Pvt. Limited.
And all the products here at the outlet have to be certified,
“Those who are interested and who are already into organic agriculture need to first register with the National Centre for Organic Agriculture. After registering, there are standards and guidelines. Accordingly, they can start working,” said Kencho Namgyel, Sr. Agriculture Supervisor, NCOA, MoAL.
It is part of a larger national initiative to promote and institutionalise organic agriculture and marketing across Bhutan.
“If it goes well, we have plans to open similar outlets in the other districts. Individual farmers and groups who are into producing organic products and those who are certified organic will only be allowed to sell at the current outlet in the Kaja Throm,” said Sangay Thinley, Chief Economic Development and Marketing Officer, MoAL.
A Japanese company is supporting both this outlet and the Chanachen organic village initiative in Chhukha.
“This kind of organic agriculture is one of the opportunities for the citizens in Thimphu and their neighbours to come to the organic outlet and also feel its attractiveness. We will also try to continue our support, especially, the processing and marketing of the agricultural products,” said Yoichiro Kimata, Chief Representative, JICA Bhutan Office.
This outlet might be an answer to the issue of some vendors selling cheaper imported products as expensive local ones.
Kelzang Chhophyel
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
