In Samtse, local leaders are requesting the government to revise existing regulations that limit wetland cultivation to paddy and a few other crops. They argue that permitting farmers to grow cash crops such as betel nut and oranges on wetland could significantly boost farmers’ incomes and make use of the land. They said currently many land are left fallow due to water shortages.
At the recent Dzongkhag Tshogdu in Samtse, Dophuchen Gup Phuntsho said that with the restrictions on wetland use, many farmers are unable to cultivate their land due to insufficient irrigation water.
“Under the million-fruit tree plantation project, we have been receiving fruit tree saplings, but farmers are finding it difficult to plant them on their limited dry land. We urge the government to allow farmers to grow more viable cash crops such as betel nut and oranges in their wetland, which remain fallow for much of the year.”
Several other local leaders echoed this appeal, saying that the move will have positive impact on farmers in the region.
Tashi Jamtsho, Yoeseltse Gup said “It would be very helpful if the wetland that are left fallow are reviewed and allowed to be cultivated with betel nuts and other cash crops.”
Phata Singh Ghalley, Sang-Ngag-Choeling Gup said “60 per cent of the wetland in my gewog remains uncultivated due to water shortages, which prevent paddy farming. The current rule of growing only limited crops on wetland discourages farmers, limiting their ability to earn a better income.”
In response, the district agriculture officer acknowledged the issue and informed the meeting that the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock has already set up a high-level committee to review the regulations.
Chogyal Norbu, District Agriculture Officer said “A committee has been formed in the head office and is currently reviewing these rules, starting with Paro as part of a flagship programme. The committee’s findings are expected to lead to new guidelines for wetland use, balancing protection with the cultivation of alternative crops.”
Despite the ongoing review, the Samtse DT has decided to formally write to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, outlining the hardships farmers are facing under the current policy.
With over 7,000 acres of wetland across its 15 gewogs, Samtse hopes that a policy revision will unlock the agricultural potential of these land, helping farmers diversify their crops and improve their livelihoods.
Passang Dorji, Samtse
