Smallholder farmers in Samdrup Jongkhar district play a crucial role in local food security. However, water scarcity, labor shortages, and insufficient modern farming equipment hinder agriculture productivity and growth.
To address the pressing issue of labor shortages, the Bhutan Foundation, in collaboration with the Samdrup Jongkhar Initiative, supported ten mini tillers on a cost-sharing basis to lead farmers of nine villages from five gewogs. The initiative aims to reduce labor shortages, improve efficiency, and enhance agricultural productivity in the district. The mini tillers will benefit at least 150 smallholder farmers in the district, contributing to increased agriculture productivity and sustainable farming efforts.
The inaugural ceremony and handing-over of mini tillers were graced by Dasho Dzongda (District Governor), officials of the Dzongkhag Agriculture Sector, a local leader, and farmers of Samdrup Jongkhar District. Dasho highlighted the significance of ownership, responsibility, and collaboration as key drivers of positive community change.
“I have been hiring oxen to plow the agriculture field, which takes days to complete and costs us more than Nu. 900 per day, but this mini tiller will significantly reduce my time and labor during farming,” said Rinchen Nima, 22 years old, lead farmer from Langchenphu village.
This collaborative effort between stakeholders provides a sustainable path for agricultural growth, supporting the district’s food self-sufficiency goals while empowering local farmers to build more secure and prosperous livelihoods.
