𝐀 𝐌𝐚𝐧’𝐬 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐭𝐡 𝐢𝐧 𝐙𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐠 – 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐎𝐢𝐥 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

…𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒍𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏𝒏𝒐𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏, 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒂𝒄𝒕 𝒊𝒏 𝑩𝒉𝒖𝒕𝒂𝒏’𝒔 𝒄𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓 𝒐𝒊𝒍 𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆

By Tenzin Euden

In a pioneering endeavor, Guru Tshewang, a 69-year-old native of Trashiyangtse now residing in Zhemgang, has embarked on an ambitious venture into castor cultivation. Taking the initiative, he leased 5 acres of government land to kick-start his endeavor. Initially, Guru Tshewang, a former hermit (Tsampa), sought to utilize castor oil for traditional purposes, such as making butter lamps. However, upon further exploration, he discovered the versatile applications of castor oil in industries ranging from uses in medicine, industry, and pharmaceuticals. It is found in food, medication, and skin care and is also used as an industrial lubricant and biodiesel component.

Castor cultivation, involving the meticulous process of growing castor (Ricinus communis) to extract valuable oil from Ricinus communis plant’s seeds, marks a significant milestone in the region’s agricultural landscape.

Despite his enthusiasm and determination, Guru Tshewang faces significant challenges in establishing his business. Moreover, his business encountered instability with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This period forced him to halt operations and face challenges in managing finances and procuring costly machinery.

According to the Dzongkhag Administration Officer (DAO) of Zhemgang, during his visit to the field, he observed that there was no complete setup and insufficient machinery. Additionally, he mentioned that Guru Tshewang was still unsure about the market, which is crucial.

Guru Tshewang expressed his aspirations to fulfill his objectives and goals centered on castor cultivation and aimed at benefiting the country and its people. Furthermore, a teacher suggested that governments support Guru Tshewang’s endeavor, noting its potential for economic growth.

“It was during my leisure trip to India (Gujarat) that I encountered this unique agricultural practice being undertaken by farmers. Intrigued by its potential, I resolved to learn and introduce something new. I faced challenges and doubts from various corners, but I remained steadfast in my belief,” Guru Tshewang shared.

Singye Wangchuk, the Nangkhor Gup, voiced his belief in the transformative potential of castor oil cultivation, asserting that its benefits could extend far beyond the village level. He emphasized the necessity of building a robust network of support and resources to ensure the success and sustainability of such business ventures. He also outlined some strategies, including facilitating connections with buyers or markets, ensuring access to financing or subsidies, and raising awareness about the benefits of castor oil and its products through targeted marketing campaigns or partnerships with relevant stakeholders.

Castor cultivation not only benefits Guru Tshewang personally but also holds numerous advantages for the country. Choden, a local farmer, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “I find the idea of castor cultivation meaningful and beneficial for us. I am eager to learn more about it, and I believe once it stabilizes, it will greatly benefit farmers like us and contribute new knowledge to our community. It can also create job opportunities for our children who struggle to find jobs.”

Guru Tshewang’s journey stands as an inspiration for aspiring agriculturalists and entrepreneurs, illustrating the profound impact that one individual’s vision and determination can have on an entire community. “I am eager about the prospects of castor cultivation and future evolution,” remarked Guru Tshewang.

Despite setbacks, Guru Tshewang remains determined to succeed. He affirmed, “If my business goes according to plan, there is no turning back. There will be many opportunities for youth and the community.” He plans to expand to other dzongkhags if feasible. Tshewang Tenzin, a farmer from the village, said, “I didn’t have the opportunity to witness the production in person. Upon Google search, I found that Guru Tshewang’s venture is fascinating and promising. I believe it’s a noble idea worth following up on, as it could significantly benefit our community’s economic growth.” He emphasized his overall endorsement of the idea, expressing eagerness to support and learn from its implementation.

Guru Tshewang’s innovative venture not only highlights his entrepreneurial spirit but also emphasizes the importance of sustainable agricultural practices in rural communities. Despite his financial burden, when the project unfolds, it is expected to create employment opportunities and bolster the agricultural sector’s resilience. The journey towards castor oil production reflects the community’s commitment to embrace innovative solutions for sustainable development. Guru Tshewang’s vision and dedication serve as an inspiration for others to explore new avenues in agriculture, paving the way for a brighter future in Zhemgang and beyond. However, he seeks support and assistance for the procurement of machinery to kick-start his production.