In a heartwarming story from Pema Gatshel, farmers of Nyingshingborang in Norbugang Gewog are enjoying a bountiful harvest of their first paddy cultivation. They started cultivating paddy at Gongribalay after developing their abandoned land two years ago. And farmers have their local leaders and the agriculture and livestock ministry to thank for making the first paddy cultivation season a success.
The hard work of the landowners at Gongribalay has finally paid off as paddy fields turn gold, indicating a successful harvest.
This year, 15 households have cultivated Bhur Kamja and Khamtey varieties on about 15 acres of land. The lands were terraced for paddy cultivation under the land development project.
“Currently, I am preparing for my annual ritual, and I am overjoyed at the thought of adding red rice to the menu. I am excited about using fresh, locally harvested rice, which is the product of our own diligent efforts. It will serve as a special offering, a reflection of our hard work and dedication,” said Kezang Tashi, a farmer.
“Learning from our current experience on achieving a satisfactory yield, we are optimistic and anticipate even better results in the future as we continue to expand our cultivation efforts,” said Dorji, another farmer.
Due to the need to segregate stones and pebbles, the farmers were unable to utilize the entirety of the land that had been terraced under the land development project.
Nevertheless, they are determined not to let that land go into waste and plan to cultivate paddy the next season. 26 acres of land were developed under the land development project.
“This year, we have cultivated half of the developed land. Now, we are also considering utilizing the remaining land to cultivate paddy for the upcoming season. We are hopeful that we can sell our produce to those who do not have the opportunity to cultivate paddy,” said Dorji.
“I have close to three acres of land but have cultivated only one acre so far. If I were to cultivate on all three acres, it would be more than enough for just the two of us. Therefore, I can sell the surplus produce and generate income from it,” said Sonam Phuntsho, a farmer.
The farmers there see this development as a promising indication of progress in food security and self-sufficiency within the community.
