Residents of Domkhar Chiwog under Chhumey Gewog in Bumthang are elated with the installation of a new buckwheat and wheat flour processing machine. The machine is expected to reduce post-harvest challenges, add value to local produce, and improve incomes for about 60 households.
Buckwheat cultivation has long been a part of the livelihood and culture of the people of Domkhar Chiwog in Chhumey Gewog, Bumthang.
However, despite producing quality buckwheat and wheat, farmers faced difficulties in processing their harvest.
For years, they had to transport their produce to a processing unit located in a neighbouring chiwog. But access to the facility was often limited as the operator remained occupied with a large number of users and his work.
As a result, many farmers were left with no option but to sell their produce in raw form at lower market prices, reducing their earnings.
“The quantity is too large for us to process using the water mill, so there is a risk of spoilage. Now that we have a flour processing machine here, we can process it anytime and sell it in the market to increase our income,” said Dechen Dema, a resident of Domkhar.
Chairperson of Domkhar Post Harvest Processing Group, Tashi Dorji, said, “The group is now looking at leasing state land or using fallow land that is not properly fenced. We are planning to expand cultivation to increase income for the group as well.”
To address these challenges, residents approached the Druk Nyo Foundation for support.
Following consultations and assessments, the foundation provided machinery capable of processing both buckwheat and wheat flour within the chiwog. The machinery is worth more than Nu 700,000.
The facility is expected to improve efficiency, reduce transport costs, and encourage farmers to increase production.
It is also expected to strengthen local food processing and create new opportunities for rural income generation through value addition.
“Farmers need a reliable source of income. If they can harvest buckwheat, it must reach the market. Otherwise, they may gradually stop farming,” said Sonam Nyendra, the Executive Director of Druk Nyo Foundation.
The new processing facility has now been formally inaugurated and handed over to the Domkhar Post-Harvest Processing Group, which will manage maintenance costs and operations model.
Farmers in Domkhar Chiwog are hopeful that the unit will help them expand production and access better markets through value-added buckwheat and wheat products.
Thinley Dorji, Bumthang
Edited by Sangay Chezom
