The National Council expressed concerns over slow and delayed implementation of some resolutions adopted during its previous session, particularly on key economic sectors and the healthcare system. Members questioned the lack of progress in creating alternative markets for Bhutanese agricultural products beyond the Food Corporation of Bhutan’s auction system.
The Special Committee for Business Plus reported that several recommendations submitted to relevant agencies either did not receive adequate responses or remain under implementation.
Phuntsho Rapten, the chairperson of Special Committee for Business Plus said, “We, the special committee, reviewed and submitted 14 resolutions to the government last year. After receiving the responses within three months and reviewing them, we found that some resolutions did not receive adequate responses. Some required joint responses from two ministries, but the matter was not properly addressed by one or both ministries.”
Jamyang Namgyal (PhD), Pema Gatshel MP, NC said, “Every year, we submit resolutions and receive lengthy written responses, which can sometimes be inconvenient. It would be better if the House could form a special committee or a house committee to study the issues further and present clearer recommendations in the next session.”
In a written response, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock said that the government has established export linkages with markets in Malaysia and Australia and is exploring opportunities in Singapore, Thailand and other countries. Trial shipments, certification, product testing and branding initiatives are also underway to promote Bhutanese products internationally.
However, members said many of these initiatives remain at the discussion or pilot stage, with farmers continuing to depend heavily on the existing auction system.
Phub Dorji, Wangdue Phodrang MP, NC said, “FCB in Phuentshogling has been working for the benefit of farmers. However, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock also needs to work closely with FCB. FCB alone cannot solve the issue of potato prices. Every year during the auction season, the same two or three buyers from Jaigaon participate. When the same buyers come every year, prices remain unchanged and do not improve.”
Sonam Tobgyel, Trashigang MP, NC said, “FCB has been working hard for the welfare of farmers and has introduced various measures. Since we depend on another country, resolving such issues immediately can be challenging. However, Bhutan and India share strong friendship ties, and we have successfully resolved many matters through discussion. I believe that even issues related to agricultural product prices can be resolved through continued engagement.”
A motion would be held on the follow-up report on markets for agricultural products beyond the FCB’s auction system.
Similarly, the National Council will revisit four unresolved recommendations related to key economic sectors in the next session.
Karma Wangdi
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