Fruit Farming Boom in Monggar

The scenic hills of Monggar, Bhutan, are witnessing a vibrant transformation as fruit farming takes center stage in the region's agricultural landscape. 🍍🌳 This shift from traditional crops like maize to fruit cultivation is driven by a reliable market and growing demand for processed products.

The Rise of Fruit Farming in Monggar

Farmers in Monggar are increasingly turning to fruit cultivation, with a particular focus on pineapple and mango. This trend is largely due to the assured market provided by Bhutan Agro Industries Limited, which buys the entire fruit harvest to produce juice and pickles. This reliable partnership has seen a significant increase in fruit production over the past two years.

A Lucrative Partnership

The Bhutan Agro Industries processing plant in Lingmithang is bustling with activity, especially during the peak harvest season for mango, pineapple, and passion fruit. The company offers competitive rates, paying around 44 ngultrum per kilogram of pineapple, with an additional incentive for organic produce. This setup allows farmers to avoid the risks of unsold produce and the hassles of finding buyers.

Pineapple Production Soars

Pineapple farming, centered in the Gewogs of Gongdue and Thangrong, has grown from 14 metric tonnes in 2024 to over 60 metric tonnes last year. Farmers like Norbu Wangdi from the Yangbari Pineapple Group appreciate the seamless sales process provided by Bhutan Agro Industries. "Since partnering with them, selling our produce has been hassle-free," he shares.

Expanding Mango Cultivation

Mango cultivation in Monggar has also seen remarkable growth, with production increasing from 87 metric tonnes in 2024 to over 110 metric tonnes last year. The district agriculture sector's initiative to distribute over 20,000 mango saplings across 17 gewogs has significantly contributed to this boom.

Mango farmers, like Lhawang Norbu from Khalangzi, find the processing plant a reliable market despite lower prices compared to local markets. "Selling in bulk helps us manage the challenges of manpower during harvest," Lhawang explains.

Bhutan Agro's Role in the Boom

Since its establishment in 2019, Bhutan Agro Industries has partnered with 200 farmers' groups, covering approximately 200 acres of farmland. The company not only purchases fruits but also provides technical support and assistance to improve farming practices and boost production.

Future Prospects and Developments

Looking ahead, Bhutan Agro Industries is focused on developing premium products for both domestic and export markets. The company aims to expand its range of offerings, including juice, jams, pickles, and water products, while continuing to support local farmers.

Supporting Initiatives

The government's Million Fruits Tree Plantation Initiative and support from the Agriculture Research and Development Centre have been instrumental in this agricultural shift. Farmers receive technical guidance from gewog extension officers to manage orchards and enhance production.

Conclusion: A Promising Future

The assured market and collaborative efforts between Bhutan Agro Industries and local farmers have sparked a fruit farming boom in Monggar. As more farmers embrace this shift, the region is poised for further growth and development, promising a fruitful future for all stakeholders involved. 🌟