Empowering Rural Women Through Agribusiness

A group of women united by a shared vision embarked on a remarkable journey of empowerment and transformation. The Sherchok Women’s Group, comprising 8 core members and collaborating with 360 farmers and cooperatives, emerged as a beacon of hope for rural women seeking to improve their lives and uplift their communities.
The Sherchok Women’s Group was established in 2013 from a dream to enhance the lives of women living in remote areas. These women recognized the potential of agribusiness as a means to not only generate income but also instill self-awareness and resilience among women who had long been marginalized. Their goal was to build a sustainable supply chain for raw materials, fostering economic growth while promoting the inherent talents of women.

However, fate had its twists. In 2020, the group faced adversity when the organization was taken over by an NGO and eventually closed down. Yet, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Chhimi Dema, 54-year-old with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a profound commitment to her community, breathed new life into the Sherchok Women’s Group in 2021.
Chhimi’s determination led to the establishment of a food processing unit, a venture aimed at promoting locally grown produce and creating a synergy between farmers and innovators. The project’s core objective was to tap into the potential of crops, uniting farmers and women in rural areas under a common vision. The Sherchok Women’s Group took charge of this unit, offering employment opportunities to rural women while enhancing the value chain for both producers and consumers.
In addition to providing meaningful employment, the group embarked on a journey of education and skill-building. Comprehensive training on various aspects of food production – from cultivation and harvesting to processing, packaging, and marketing – was at the heart of their approach. This not only ensured high-quality products but also equipped women with the skills needed to navigate the competitive market.

Of course, no success story is without its challenges. The Sherchok Women’s Group grappled with two major obstacles: securing raw materials during the off-season and conquering the complexities of marketing. Chhimi Dema shared the difficulties they encountered in promoting their products domestically. However, the group’s unyielding spirit, dedication, and focus on essential tasks enabled them to navigate these hurdles. They placed a premium on product quality, customer relationships, and maintaining consistency in the face of challenges.
Chhimi Dema expressed her gratitude for the support received from Asian Women Export, the Department of Industry, and the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI). Government assistance and expert guidance played a pivotal role in enabling the Sherchok Women’s Group to operate efficiently and effectively.

Presently, the Sherchok Women’s Group boasts a diverse portfolio, ranging from semi-candy creations that add value to post-harvest crops, to innovative marketing and branding solutions, and delectable pickled items such as Dalley Paste. Their offerings also include Dry fish ezzay, zoethey ezzay, fermented green leaf, fermented radish, and an array of spices.
Chhimi Dema’s journey and the success of the Sherchok Women’s Group encapsulate lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. She emphasizes strategic thinking, calculated risks, and a deep understanding of one’s business idea. Her guidance underscores the importance of meticulous planning, diligent execution, hard work, and embracing challenges as opportunities that propel businesses forward in the competitive world of entrepreneurship.
The Sherchok Women’s Group stands not only as a testament to the power of collective effort but as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, resilience, innovation, and determination can give rise to transformative change. Their journey continues to inspire and uplift, reflecting the indomitable spirit of women striving for a brighter future.
By Tendrel Zangmo