𝐘𝐢𝐝-𝐙𝐡𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐈𝐧𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐚, 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐦𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐲𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭

By Tashi Tshewang

Trongsa’s Yid-Zhin Throm was officially inaugurated on March 26, marking a significant milestone in the region’s development. The facility is designed to serve as a vibrant economic and social hub, offering essential services such as a vegetable market, a community hall, a sales counter for indigenous and highland products, and a milk processing unit.

The initiative aims to boost local businesses by providing a platform for farmers and entrepreneurs to sell their goods, thereby improving livelihoods and enhancing the quality of life for residents. Additionally, Yid-Zhin Throm features a Desuung Café, the Garuda Bar, and a recycled product unit, fostering sustainability while generating new economic opportunities.

One of the most impactful aspects of Yid-Zhin Throm is its potential to tackle youth unemployment. With new businesses and services in place, the facility is expected to create much-needed job opportunities, particularly for local youth. By offering skill development, training, and work experience, it aims to equip young people with the necessary tools to succeed while contributing to the local economy.

The project was made possible through financial support from the Royal Government of Bhutan and the Bhutan Rural Economy and Climate Resilience Adaptation Project (BRECSA), which focuses on strengthening rural communities’ resilience to climate change while promoting economic growth and sustainability.

Dzongkhag Agriculture Officer (DAO) emphasized the market’s role in supporting local farmers, especially highlanders, and promoting diverse products. Karma Wangchuk, Chief Agriculture Officer, stated, “This market provides a platform for farmers, including highlanders, to sell a variety of products. It’s not just about agricultural goods—different types of products, such as various rice varieties, highlander goods, and items from other dzongkhags, are available here. This initiative supports local businesses and promotes diverse products.”

The market is divided into two sections: a permanent vendor section, where goods are sourced from India and other dzongkhags, and a day vendor section, where local residents of Trongsa can sell their products. Vendors are charged Nu. 30 per day for a sales space, while permanent vendors pay based on stall size. Awareness programs are conducted annually to encourage year-round vegetable cultivation and improve packaging and product presentation.

The facility also houses a milk processing unit for the Nubi Gewog Milk Group, offering clean and well-equipped spaces for dairy production. Additionally, a conference hall with a capacity of 40–50 people is available for Throm meetings and official gatherings.

The Yid-Zhin Throm market follows a holistic approach to community and economic development. While most vendors pay for their stalls, Desuups and women entrepreneurs engaged in recycling initiatives are exempt from stall fees for a specific period, with policies reviewed annually. A dedicated room has also been allocated for young entrepreneurs to start and expand their businesses.

The market is closed every Tuesday for cleaning and maintenance, ensuring hygiene and proper upkeep of the facility.
Langthil Gup Rinzin Wangchuk highlighted the positive impact of the market, stating, “Most of the local community has given positive feedback. It provides an opportunity for them to sell their products and earn a livelihood. This marketplace ensures that villagers have a reliable space to do business and expand their economic opportunities.”

Dechen Wangmo, a waste management entrepreneur from Nubi Gewog, shared how Yid-Zhin Throm has provided a much-needed platform for sustainable businesses. “We have been making bags from waste plastics collected from dustbins for the past two years. Before, we lacked a proper marketplace to display and sell our products, which limited our ability to reach customers. With this new market, we finally have a designated space to showcase our work, earn a livelihood, and support our families.”

She emphasized that having structured workspaces enhances both production and public awareness of recycling and sustainability.
Jigme Dorji from Drakten Gewog expressed gratitude to the government for improving market conditions. “Previously, we had to sit in open spaces to sell our products, which was inconvenient. The market was unhygienic, and there was no proper infrastructure. Now, with this new facility, we have a well-organized marketplace where we can display and sell a variety of products.”

Similarly, Tshering, a businesswoman from Trongsa, noted significant improvements in vendor conditions. “Before Yid-Zhin Throm, we faced many challenges, including inadequate space, a lack of proper toilets, and water shortages. This new facility has resolved those issues, making it a more comfortable and efficient space for business.”

The inauguration ceremony was attended by key government officials, including representatives from the Ministry of Home Affairs, who expressed appreciation for the efforts of all stakeholders involved. The event marks a new chapter for Trongsa, showcasing successful collaboration between the government, local stakeholders, and development agencies.

With its emphasis on economic empowerment, sustainability, and community development, Yid-Zhin Throm is poised to become a driving force for future growth in Trongsa, ensuring long-term benefits for both current and future generations.