In the picturesque town of Dawakha, Paro, a remarkable agri-business is brewing a sweet success story. Enter Chimi Dema, the visionary behind ‘Bhutan Druna Ghu’, a beacon of resilience and dedication in a time of agricultural challenges.
It all started with a curious encounter at a local shop, where a blonde-haired tourist stumbled upon a packet of cookies, spellbound by the mysterious words ‘druna ghu’. Little did she know, she was about to embark on a journey into the heart of Bhutanese tradition and innovation.
As she savored the delightful treats, her curiosity piqued, leading her to inquire about their origins. And thus, she discovered the tale of Chimi Dema and her mission to revive Bhutanese grains and flavors.
In a landscape overshadowed by declining agricultural production and the allure of imported goods, Chimi Dema’s venture stands tall, championing indigenous grains and empowering women in agri-business. Despite facing challenges like limited skills, market support, and financial assistance, women entrepreneurs are making their mark, one cookie at a time.
Druna Ghu, meaning ‘traditional grains’ in Bhutanese, incorporates nine indigenous grains into its recipes, paying homage to centuries-old agricultural practices. From rice to millets, each bite is a celebration of Bhutan’s rich culinary heritage.
For Chimi Dema, the journey wasn’t without hurdles. Inspired by her father’s wisdom and fueled by a passion for her country’s traditions, she set out to create a business that would not only thrive but also make a meaningful impact on the community.
With the support of organizations like the Loden Foundation and the CSI startup center, Chimi Dema’s dream became a reality. From humble beginnings to widespread recognition, Druna Ghu has conquered Bhutanese markets and beyond, reaching as far as India, Australia, and Singapore.
But the road to success is not without its challenges. Gender barriers persist, hindering the progress of women entrepreneurs in agriculture. Chimi Dema emphasizes the urgent need for support in areas such as nutrition, food security, and skill development.
In a world dominated by cash crops and imported goods, the battle to source locally grown cereals is an ongoing struggle. Certification processes and accreditation agreements remain elusive, posing obstacles to expansion and profitability.
Yet, amidst these challenges, Chimi Dema remains undeterred. She sees potential in collaboration, training, and innovation, identifying the packaging industry as a key area for improvement.
