February 10, 2022

During this lockdown, 25 urban farmers in Samdrup Jongkhar were able to enjoy fresh vegetables from their backyard gardens and reduce the stress on the food system. In addition, over the last 20 days, the urban farmers sold 520 kgs of assorted vegetables in the local market.

“In this lockdown, I did not have to buy any vegetables from the market. Instead, I have also been able to share it with my neighbors and also offer it to a few front-line workers, ” said Ugyen Tashi, an urban farmer from Samdrup Jongkhar at the old NHDCL colony.

Similarly, the commercial farming group which comprises five members at Dungkarcholing village in Dewathang Gewog sold 3.2 metric tons worth Nu. 145,205 of assorted vegetables in the local market during this lockdown.

“This season records our highest production and sales despite some being damaged by the recent hailstone. Thanks to the SJI and Gewog Agriculture Extension Office for their support in production inputs, training, marketing, and motivation. We are further planning to expand the cultivation area,” said Sangay Choden, coordinator of the group.

The Bhutan Foundation supported three commercial farms in Dewathang Gewog and 30 urban farmers in Samdrup Jongkhar Thromde since 2021. The project is implemented by SJI in collaboration with the Gewog administration and district agriculture sector.