In response to the challenges of rural-urban migration and the collapse of local cardamom orchards, over 30 members of the Guengaling Community Cooperative (GCC) in Norgaygang Gewog, Samtse, have come together to reshape their community’s future. Led by Mr. Mer Man Gurung, a former lecturer at the College of Natural Resources under the Royal University of Bhutan, the cooperative is laying the foundation for a self-sustaining community that strengthens social bonds, retains residents, and creates new opportunities for those who have migrated to urban areas.
The establishment of GCC marks a pivotal moment in addressing the limited livelihood options that have driven rural-urban migration in recent years. By focusing on cooperative development and economic diversification, the group aims to restore the vitality of village life and offer viable income sources for villagers and youth alike.
The cooperative’s first initiative, supported by the Bhutan Foundation’s Small Grants Program, began on September 19th with a four-day Small scale and backyard Beekeeping Training. In collaboration with the Samtse Dzongkhag Livestock Sector and the Norgaygang Gewog Livestock Extension, the training brought together 37 participants, including 13 youth and 24 farmers. The program covers essential skills for modern beekeeping, such as hive management, colony health monitoring, eco-friendly queen rearing methods, pest control, and seasonal adjustments.
In addition to the technical aspects of beekeeping, participants are learning sustainable honey harvesting techniques and product branding and marketing strategies to connect their honey production to larger markets. Following the training, over 35 households will be provided with beehives, marking the beginning of their new ventures in apiculture.
Mr. Mer Man Gurung, chairman of the cooperative and a participant in the training, shared his optimism about the project:
“Beekeeping training will transform our village by creating valuable opportunities at home. With good-paying jobs in honey production, our youth and villagers will no longer need to move to cities for work. Both villagers and youth will gain essential skills in beekeeping, empowering us to start our businesses and thrive locally. I strongly believe this project will also strengthen our community bonds, making the village a more appealing place to live and encouraging those who left to return.”
Looking ahead, the next phase of the project will focus on entrepreneurship and business development training. This training will empower cooperative members, youth, and villagers to start and manage successful businesses, not only within apiculture but also by exploring other opportunities utilizing local resources.
Through the Bhutan Foundation’s Small Grants Program, the Guengaling Community Cooperative is fostering economic diversification, building a stronger sense of community, and reversing migration trends. This initiative is more than just a livelihood project—it is the restoration of village life, resilience, and opportunity after adversity.
Stay tuned as we continue to follow the progress of the GCC and the inspiring work they are doing to create a brighter future for their community!
