#PotatoProduction #AgriculturalInnovation #SustainableFarming #BhutanAgriculture #ClimateResilientCrops #FarmersCommunity #OrganicFarming #FoodSecurity #BiofortifiedPotatoes #AgriculturalRevitalization
Bhutan, renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, is also a land where agriculture forms the backbone of its economy. However, recent years have witnessed a concerning trend: a sharp decline in potato production, a staple crop crucial to the country’s agricultural sector. According to the National Centre for Organic Agriculture (NCOA) annual report for 2022-2023, Bhutan produced 31,146 metric tonnes of potatoes in 2022, marking a significant decrease of 7,427 metric tonnes compared to the previous year—a staggering 19 percent decline.
The Challenges Faced
Several factors contribute to this decline, with the ageing of potato seeds and their declining quality being a prominent issue. Regions like Wangdue, Paro, and Mongar, once prolific in potato production, reported lower harvests in 2022, raising concerns among farmers and agricultural experts alike. Lobzang, the potato programme officer at NCOA, emphasized the pivotal role of potato crops in the livelihoods of farmers across various dzongkhags. Despite these challenges, Bhutan’s agricultural sector continues to thrive, generating substantial revenue from potato exports, with potatoes remaining one of the highest cash crops exported to India, contributing significantly to the income of farming communities.
Innovative Solutions and Initiatives
In response to these challenges, Bhutan has embarked on a series of innovative initiatives to rejuvenate its potato industry. The country has imported climate-resilient potato clones from the International Potato Centre (IPC) in Peru and introduced new potato varieties like Yusi Maap-2. Additionally, Bhutan is evaluating biofortified (tetraploid) clones in multiple locations, ensuring long-term sustainability and food security. The Department of Agriculture Marketing and Cooperatives (DAMC) reports a successful revenue generation of ngultrum 511.40 million through the export of 24,439 metric tonnes of potatoes, showcasing the economic significance of these efforts.
Sustainable Practices and Future Prospects
Bhutan’s agricultural landscape benefits from a collection of approximately 40 biofortified germplasm and 20 climate-resilient potato clones imported from IPC. Currently, the assessment of four climate-resilient and seven biofortified potato clones is underway, promising a brighter future for Bhutan’s potato industry. Moreover, efforts have been made to ensure the quality of produce through the local organic assurance system, certifying 111.77 acres of land and 25 households, primarily occurring within the altitude range of 2,000 to 3,500 meters above sea level.
While Bhutan has faced challenges in its potato production, the nation’s proactive approach and innovative solutions are paving the way for a sustainable agricultural future. By embracing climate-resilient clones, diversifying potato varieties, and promoting organic farming practices, Bhutan is not only revitalizing its potato industry but also ensuring the livelihoods of its farmers. As Bhutan continues to focus on sustainable agricultural practices and innovations, the future of its potato industry appears promising.
