Farmers in Changchey and Pangsho villages can finally rest easy
After years of enduring relentless wildlife intrusions that devastated their crops, farmers in Changchey and Pangsho villages in Wangdue Dzongkhag can now finally sleep in peace. The completion of a chain-link fencing project has ended their sleepless nights, ensuring better protection for their crops and paving the way for increased agricultural yield and enhanced livelihoods.
With the fence now completed, the local government and the community of Changchey and Pangsho have committed to fully utilizing their land. They have collectively decided to make land use mandatory, ensuring that no field remains fallow.
According to the assistant agriculture officer of the gewog, commercial cultivation of Durum wheat has begun on 50 acres of land, benefiting 44 households with funding from the Agriculture Research and Development Center (ARDC) in Bajo. However, the plan to expand cultivation to 100 acres was hindered by budgetary constraints. The officer also highlighted that Durum wheat, which was introduced to Bhutan by ARDC in its second year of cultivation, is highly valued for its high glutamine contentโmaking it ideal for pasta production. Efforts are underway to establish a supply chain with Gensum Pasta in Gyenekha, Thimphu, to provide local farmers with market access.
Yeshi Tenzin, a 43-year-old farmer from the villages, shared how their agricultural practices have transformed. “We only grew paddy before because crops like wheat were often destroyed by wild boars,” he said. “But with the government’s support in providing the chain-link fencing, we’re now able to plant wheat and mustard spinach without fear of wild animals destroying them.”
Aum Khando Om also expressed her gratitude for the chain-link fence, which has proven invaluable to farmers. However, she pointed out that the mandatory fieldwork requirement has posed challenges for those living outside the village, as fewer family members are available to tend the land.
Pema Dorji, 61, shared his relief at how farming has become easier. “In the past, we had to sleep in the paddy fields to guard our crops. But now, thanks to the fence, things are much better,” he said. “The community has agreed not to leave any fields unused, with fines for neglect. So far, everyone has been dedicated to working their land.”
Passang Om, 57, expressed deep gratitude for the government’s provision of both the chain-link fencing and the wheat seeds. She is hopeful that Durum wheat will thrive in the market, further boosting the community’s agricultural prospects.
The assistant agriculture officer also revealed plans for the future, including support for mass vegetable cultivation, and the cultivation of onions and garlic. “With financial backing from relevant sectors and the farmersโ willingness to adopt and cooperate, our next step will be market linkage with Gyalsung Academy in Khotokha,” he stated.
In conclusion, the introduction of chain-link fencing in Changchey and Pangsho villages has marked a turning point for local farmers, offering much-needed protection for their crops and enabling them to cultivate new crops like Durum wheat. With continued government support and community cooperation, agricultural productivity is set to rise, and market opportunities are expanding. As the villages move forward with further crop diversification and strengthened market linkages, the future of farming in these communities looks promising, driving economic growth and improving livelihoods.
Sonam Wangmo from Thimphu
