Farmers from across Bhutan were lauded for their exceptional contributions to the nation’s agricultural landscape at the prestigious Hazelnut Growers Awards held yesterday in Mongar. The event, a collaborative effort between Mountain Hazelnuts and the Department of Agricultural Marketing and Cooperatives (DAMC), honored those who have significantly enhanced hazelnut production and quality, thereby propelling the industry forward.
The ceremony spotlighted achievements in the quantity-based category of hazelnut farming, recognizing the hard work and dedication of local growers. Among the distinguished recipients, 45-year-old Tashi Lhamo of Trashiyangtse took home the top accolade, producing an impressive 537 kilograms of hazelnuts this season. “This award is not just for me but for all the growers committed to sustainable hazelnut farming. Together, we can make Bhutan a leader in quality hazelnut production,” Lhamo remarked. She expressed her ambition to expand her hazelnut orchards and boost future yields, noting a growing confidence among farmers in the viability of hazelnut cultivation.
Securing second place was Karma, a 73-year-old farmer from Metsho gewog in Lhuentse, who harvested 394 kilograms of hazelnuts. “There are many challenges in growing hazelnuts, but I believe management and patience are key to increasing production. This award motivates me to continue exploring new ways to improve our farming practices,” Karma stated. He plans to utilize his remaining eight-acre fallow land to plant additional hazelnut trees and encourage fellow farmers to embrace hazelnut farming, citing strong market demand.
The third prize was awarded to Tashi Norbu, 51, from Tang gewog in Bumthang, who yielded 227 kilograms of hazelnuts. “Farming is not just about growing crops; it’s about growing communities. I am honored to receive this award and will continue to work towards making our community self-sufficient and prosperous,” Norbu said.
In total, Mountain Hazelnuts recognized 13 outstanding growers during the event. Kinley Tshering, Advocacy Officer for Mountain Hazelnuts, commended the farmers’ resilience and dedication. “The efforts of our hazelnut growers are vital to the company as well as the economy. Their dedication ensures that we maintain high standards and contribute to the global market,” Tshering affirmed.
DAMC Director Tashi Dorji pledged ongoing support to the farmers, emphasizing collaborative marketing efforts to enhance their incomes. “To enhance the income of farmers, we are ready to help with marketing in collaboration with Mountain Hazelnuts,” Dorji stated.
Mongar Dzongdag Lungten Jamtsho underscored the importance of product diversification. “The success stories of these awardees serve as an inspiration, proving that farming can be both rewarding and forward-thinking,” he noted.
The hazelnut sector in Bhutan has witnessed remarkable growth, with current statistics indicating that 8,298 households cultivate hazelnuts across 4,780 acres in 19 dzongkhags. Mountain Hazelnuts reported a significant increase in harvests, collecting 10.4 metric tonnes last year compared to 5.5 metric tonnes in 2023. Additionally, exports reached USD 10,000, positioning hazelnuts as a leading agricultural export for Bhutan.
In an effort to ensure fair compensation and discourage unauthorized sales, Mountain Hazelnuts has raised the price of hazelnuts to Nu 150 per kilogram this year. The company is also exploring new international markets, including Australia, Singapore, and India, to further expand its reach.
As Bhutan’s hazelnut industry continues to flourish, the recognition of its dedicated growers serves as a testament to the country’s agricultural resilience and ambition on the global stage.
