Thinley Namgay
Achieving a sustainable food system in the country requires collective responsibility from people across all walks of life.
Many still believe that agricultural work is solely for farmers, but not everyone realises how individual roles contribute to the food system.
These were some of the messages shared at the Bhutan Food Dialogue, held on the final day of Druk Tshongrig Gatoen in Thimphu on October 29.
The Bhutan Food Dialogue brought together policymakers, entrepreneurs, farmers, researchers, and development partners to discuss the future of Bhutan’s food systems.
Through keynotes, insights, and an engaging panel, the forum explored sustainable approaches to building a resilient, self-sustaining food ecosystem aligned with the country’s GNH values.
National agri-food system expert Dechen Choki said all are involved in the food system. She defines the agri-food system as a complex system involving various processes such as cultivation, harvesting, processing, packaging, transportation, consumption, and the disposal of food in the form of waste or food loss.
She highlighted the important role youth can play in transforming the food system by staying curious, developing entrepreneurial skills, and embracing social responsibility.
Ken Shimizu, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) representative for Bhutan and Nepal, emphasised the need to increase food production, as agriculture systems are challenged by climate change, loss of biodiversity, environmental pollution, plant and animal diseases, global economic shocks, and regional conflicts.
Shimizu stressed the importance of building an agricultural food system that is inclusive, sustainable, and resilient. He expressed optimism that Bhutan, known for its environmental stewardship, carbon negativity, and commitment to GNH, mindfulness, and wellbeing, can be a model of balancing environmental sustainability with increased food production and productivity.
He noted that Bhutanese youth have immense potential in entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership, and should leverage new digital tools and technology to revitalise the agricultural sector.
The FAO has committed to assisting the government in the 13th Plan.
The Bhutan Food Dialogue also highlighted the need for changes in personal habits. Sangay Tshering, President of the Loden Foundation, advised that consumers should be mindful of what they consume, and entrepreneurs should aim to make a positive impact on society through their work.
In the 13th Plan, the government has pledged to improve the agriculture sector by fostering capacity building, promoting chain link fencing, providing high-quality seeds, and offering low-interest loans to farmers.
Broader issues in the agriculture sector include inadequate market access, limited cold storage facilities, minimal ICT knowledge among farmers, and an underdeveloped transport system, among others.
Sherab Dorji, founder of Khemdro Dairy, called for an education system that imparts the right knowledge, skills, and mindset to youth interested in pursuing agriculture as a profession.