𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐫𝐮𝐢𝐭 𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐬 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐕𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐮𝐦𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠

…𝒑𝒉𝒂𝒔𝒆 𝑰𝑽 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒐𝒚𝒂𝒍 𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒔 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒅𝒖𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒅𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒈𝒆𝒐-𝒄𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈

By Tashi Tshewang

Over 2,700 high-value fruit tree saplings were planted across four Gewogs in Bumthang as part of Phase IV of the Million Fruit Trees Plantation (MFTP), a Royal Initiative aimed at transforming rural livelihoods and promoting sustainable agriculture.

The fourth phase of the initiative introduced apple, kiwi, and almond trees, along with pecan saplings for the first time in Bumthang. Pecan trees were planted on 6.78 acres of fallow land. The project was implemented by the Department of Agriculture under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, in coordination with the Dzongkhag Agriculture Sector, Gewog administrations, and the De-suung Office.

To enhance the survival and productivity of the trees, farmers were trained in modern agricultural techniques such as triangular planting layouts, irrigation methods, and fencing systems to protect saplings from cattle. A notable feature of this phase was the introduction of geo-coding, with trained De-suups mapping 2,712 trees and identifying 241 beneficiaries to improve tracking and monitoring.

Now in its fourth phase, the MFTP has cumulatively planted more than 23,000 fruit trees across Bhutan. The initiative reflects His Majesty The King’s vision of fostering a self-reliant and resilient farming community. The growing integration of technology and strong collaboration among stakeholders has contributed to the project’s expanding reach in all 20 Dzongkhags.

Jambay Ugyen, the Dzongkhag Agriculture Officer, emphasized that the long-term success of the plantation depends not only on the planting itself but also on sustained management and follow-up support.

“It’s not just about planting the trees. We have to monitor their performance and provide timely guidance to the farmers. Follow-up support is essential,” he said.

He added that Bumthang is well-positioned to market its produce, with existing demand from high-end hotels, guesthouses, and local business centers. Agro-processing units and dry fruit enterprises also offer added market opportunities.

“Market won’t be a major issue. Apart from hotels and local businesses, our produce will also be absorbed by agro-processing units and dry fruit enterprises. We are well connected to key markets like Thimphu, Gelephu, and Phuentsholing,” he said.

Reflecting on earlier phases of the project, he noted that survival rates of the saplings were low due to poor planting techniques and the use of substandard seedlings. Lessons learned have shaped a new approach that emphasizes quality planting materials and hands-on farmer training. Certified saplings are now prioritized, and training includes instruction on spacing, planting depth, mulching, and drip irrigation to address water shortages during dry seasons.
Changa Om, Gewog Agriculture Supervisor, said participation in Phase IV differed from earlier phases due to land constraints, as most arable land had already been used in the previous phases.

“In Phase I, II, and III, we had more land to work with, but by Phase IV, most of the suitable land was already occupied. That’s why the number of plantations went down,” she said.

She also noted that timing was a challenge, as the plantation period coincided with the busy spring farming season, especially potato sowing. “Spring is a crucial season for sowing crops like potatoes. So, it’s hard for farmers to prioritize fruit tree plantation at the same time,” she said.

Communication gaps between recipients and actual planters also led to planting delays or improper techniques. The shortage of extension officers in each Gewog further limited access to technical guidance. Despite these constraints, the agriculture sector is striving to provide services as widely as possible.

To improve coordination, annual virtual MFTP meetings are held to streamline plantation plans and share progress updates among stakeholders.

Lham Tshering, a De-suup involved in Phase IV, served as a key link between traditional practices and modern innovations. He received hands-on training in geo-coding and plantation techniques, which he applied in the field.
“The hands-on training we received was really impactful. The quality of the training and the practical sessions helped us grasp things like geo-coding households and planting saplings properly. When you practice with guidance, it builds real confidence,” he said.

He acknowledged challenges in implementing geo-coding, including weak GPS signals and the unavailability of household members during tagging.

“There were definitely some challenges. Sometimes the GPS signal was weak, and in other cases, we couldn’t find the house owners at the time of tagging. I think it would really help to use more accurate GPS tools and inform households in advance about our visit dates,” he said. “Personally, I have gained valuable agricultural skills and practical experience with digital tools. Geo-coding has potential for future community initiatives, from resource mapping to project planning.”

Farmers also shared their experiences under Phase IV. Tshering Dorji from Tang had previously planted apple and almond trees, most of which did not survive. However, the support provided in the new phase revived his enthusiasm.
“I have also planted 10 to 11 apple and almond trees earlier, but most of them died. Only a few are growing now,” he said. “In this fourth phase, I received 48 saplings- 30 apple, 10 kiwi, and 8 almond trees.”

Sonam Phuntsho, a farmer from Chumey Gewog, expressed optimism about the future benefits of the orchard he recently planted. “I planted these fruit trees just recently, so right now they are still very young and need a lot of care. I water them regularly, check for pests, and protect them from animals. If all goes well, they could become a reliable source of income,” he said.

Sonam participated in the training and said it helped him improve planting methods. “We were taught how to dig proper pits, space the saplings, mulch around the roots, and even set up simple fences. These may seem like small things, but they make a big difference,” he added. “My only concern now is the market. Even those with good produce often struggle to sell it at a fair price. If the government helps us connect to proper markets, this project could truly transform lives.”

He also received pecan saplings for the first time this year and is closely observing how well they adapt to the local climate.

Damcho Tenzin from Chhoekhor Gewog noted that fruits such as kiwi, pecan, and almond were unfamiliar to the community until the project introduced them.

“In my own garden, I already had walnut and plum trees. Now, I have planted kiwi, almond, apple, and pecan. I am hopeful these trees will support my livelihood,” he said.

While large-scale orchards are yet to be established in his village, some farmers are already consuming the produce domestically. Damcho sees potential for expansion if proper support is provided.

He emphasized the need for chain-link fencing to prevent wildlife damage, which remains a major deterrent for farmers. “Wild boars and bears often destroy our crops and trees. If the government could support us with fencing, it would make a big difference. I also have over five acres of land with good potential for expansion,” he said.

Damcho also mentioned the effects of climate change, observing that warming temperatures have improved the growth of crops like chilies, which were previously difficult to grow in Bumthang. This gives him hope that pecan trees may adapt successfully in the future.

Phase IV of the Million Fruit Trees Plantation was conducted from March 10 to April 7, 2025. As the initiative continues to expand, farmers and stakeholders alike remain optimistic that the project will not only boost income but also strengthen rural resilience and food security in the long run.