In the serene and lush landscapes of Samarchu, nestled within the Tsendagang Gewog in Dagana Dzongkhag, a young and enterprising soul, Bimal Subba has scripted a compelling narrative of dedication
and devotion to his homeland. At just 26 years old, Bimal emerges as a beacon of innovation and entrepreneurship, driven by a profound love for his country.
Bimal’s journey commenced with a decision to contribute to his village’s prosperity following his completion of class ten. He opted to stay in the village and began working on his father’s fallow lands, sowing the seeds of ambition and dedication. Driven by an aspiration to make a meaningful impact in his community, he ventured abroad to study for a diploma in marketing business for eight months in Singapore.
Upon his return, Bimal was resolute in his determination to fulfill his vision of contributing to Bhutan’s agricultural landscape. He embarked on a significant endeavor, clearing 1.5 acres of land to kickstart mass chili cultivation. Despite the toil and challenges that come with agricultural pursuits, he remained teadfast, laboring tirelessly to yield a bountiful vegetable harvest.
The decision to transition into commercial farming was not just a personal choice but a testament to Bimal’s deep-seated desire to return to his roots and contribute to his village’s growth and prosperity. His
parents’ unwavering support and belief in his dreams have been instrumental in his journey back to the village he has longed to return to, to engage in agriculture on a commercial scale.
Bimal’s story stands as an inspiration, illuminating the potential for agricultural innovation and progress in Bhutan. Through his persistent efforts and unwavering dedication to commercial farming, he exemplifies the spirit of youthful entrepreneurship, determined to make a significant impact within his local community and beyond. His commitment not only embodies a personal quest but also aligns with Bhutan’s broader ambition to strengthen its agricultural sector, transforming it into a vibrant and self-sustaining industry.
Bimal Subba’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to contributing positively to the nation’s economic growth and agricultural development. As he continues on this path, his journey serves as an inspiration for other young individuals, encouraging them to embrace entrepreneurship and contribute meaningfully to Bhutan’s agricultural sector. With this project, he hopes to provide opportunities for the majority of farmers, villagers, and youths and set an example for future generations.
He also hopes to increase productive employment opportunities for the poor, women, differently abled groups, and youth. His goal is to reduce chemical-laden vegetables imported from our neighbors. With this initiative, he hopes to produce an abundance of organic vegetables. Bimal Subba said “I had the interest to start farming when I was in the school itself. But I studied till class ten because qualification matters a lot even in farming. We can do farming diligently if we are literate.”
In addition to Tsendagang Gewog and the Dzongkhag administration providing him with farm equipment and other resources, he received funds to launch his business from the Loden Foundation. He even got support from the Food Security and Agriculture Productivity Project and the Royal society for the protection of nature by providing seeds every year.
From his first harvest, he earned a good amount to pay off his debts and he was even determined to increase his output. He was joined by his two younger brothers Novin Subba and Santaman Subba. Three brothers, who are forward-thinking young people from Samarchu Chiwog, leased a five-acre plot of land from the government in 2022 under the name “Brothers’ Sustainable and Natural Delight.” Their farm is now considered a model farm by Dagana Dzongkhag and the Chiwog. It features five greenhouses, a harvesting shed, rain-gathering capabilities, and electric fencing. Instead of using fertilizers, they cultivate organic vegetables by using fertilizers from the poultry farm.
Everyone at Bimal’s farm is working very hard to achieve their dreams to produce self-sufficient organic vegetables in the country. The role has been distributed among the three brothers. As the general manager, Bimal is crucial in introducing new concepts by participating in training both within and outside the country. The Product is marketed in neighboring Dzongkhags and transported to markets by the two brothers alternately.
Extreme weather, pests and diseases, and marketing were major obstacles for Dagana’s chili growers like Bimal. He reports that poor transportation facilities, pricing fluctuations, and competition from other farmers are common obstacles. In addition, marketing has grown more difficult, and the chili’s farm gate price has decreased. The competition from low-cost imports of chilies continues to be their biggest obstacle.
Bimal also struggles with a lack of water for his five-acre vegetable plot, but the Gewog administration quickly assisted them in creating water-harvesting ponds. He no longer has to battle with irrigating his fiveacre plot thanks to the Gewog administration, which has transformed his farming methods. Gone are the days when Bimal Subba had to laboriously draw water from a nearby stream using pipes. For Bimal and his family, the procedure was difficult and time-consuming.
These days, all that’s needed to guarantee ideal watering is overseeing the sprinkler system on his property. For Mr. Bimal in particular, the installation of water-harvesting ponds has brought in a new era
of agricultural prosperity in Dagana. “The promise of sustainable growth and financial well-being for its enterprising farmers flows with the water.” He added. “Agriculture and livestock production are the lifeblood of the local economy, providing the primary source of income for residents. On average, households in the Dzongkhag earn Nu 73,040 annually from agricultural pursuits,” he added. In addition to farming, he and his team are preparing to launch an ecotourism project in Bara Gumti, Dagana, he said.
They are done with hiking trails, viewpoints, bird watching, and picnic spots. They are now building the campsite, and by the end of 2023, it will be finished. Recently, the location was recognized as having potential for ecotourism. The Royal Society for Protection of Nature has provided training and financial support to the team in order to launch this eco-tourism venture, as the Punatsangchhu site serves as a breeding place for the endangered White-bellied Heron.
On the final note, Bimal says that they are hopeful. Being decisive doesn’t always mean being correct. Entrepreneurs need the confidence to make challenging decisions and see them through to the end. If the outcome turns out to be less than favorable, making the choice to take corrective action is as crucial.
By Rinzin Dema
