According to Pema Wangchuk, the tendency toward agricultural marketing and cooperatives is a sign of youth involvement in the sector, which is crucial for guaranteeing the long-term viability of farming methods in Bhutan. In 2023, there were 806 Farmer Groups and Co-ops registered with DAMC. MoAL intends to give high-tech farming top priority in the 13th Plan in order to increase the agriculture sector’s GDP contribution. Due to a number of obstacles, such as landholding concerns, restricted access to funding for agricultural endeavors, the negative consequences of climate change, a lack of water for irrigation, and challenges with post-harvest management, Bhutan’s agricultural output has decreased over time.
Throughout the value chain, the Ministry is developing capacity, engaging adults and youth, and encouraging high-tech farming. By assisting FGs and co-ops, the DAMC enhances market opportunities, product quality, and production capacity. Support for equipment and packaging is given via a cost-sharing arrangement. The government’s ambitions for Hi-Tech Chirub farms are in line with the general objectives of rural prosperity and agricultural growth. In order to ensure that the farms’ goals are fulfilled through full value chain involvement, cooperatives and farmer groups play a critical role in this effort. They are positioned to be actively involved in cultivation, production, processing, and marketing.
