Group of 12 women in Soobdrang Chiwog have made significant progress in agricultural development by forming a cooperative aimed at cultivating cardamom. The cooperative has not only become a key source of income for the women but has also empowered them to lead the charge in promoting sustainable livelihoods and gender equality within their community. The cooperative has successfully transformed cardamom into a valuable cash crop, enhancing local agricultural production and promoting unity and collaboration among women, thereby empowering them economically. Dzongkhag Agriculture Officer Tashi Phuntsho plans to provide farm machinery and essential farming equipment to local farmers, promoting sustainable and long-term benefits. The cooperative, Soobdrang Chiwog, has successfully generated an annual income of Nu. 500,000 to Nu. 60,000 for its members, despite challenges like lack of modern farming equipment.
According to Dechen Wangmo, modern tools will increase cardamom cultivation, productivity, and income, which will motivate women to increase their agricultural endeavors for the benefit of the local economy. The women of Soobdrang Chiwog have demonstrated that prosperity can be attained on a personal and community level through perseverance, hard work, and teamwork. Their project is a powerful illustration of how grassroots initiatives can result in long-lasting change, empowering women and advancing the more general objectives of self-sufficiency and sustainable agricultural development in rural areas. The women of Soobdrang Chiwog are a shining example of how local communities can take charge of their own economic future through inclusive and sustainable agricultural practices, as they continue to grow and expand their cardamom cultivation.
