Bulb onion is a key crop grown across all Dzongkhags and has been prioritized for large-scale cultivation. Despite year-round demand, local production remains insufficient. To address this, ARDC Wengkhar released a new variety, Pink-1358, in 2022. Compared to the commonly grown Pune Red, Pink-1358 matures faster (90–120 DAT), is sown earlier (August–September), and is better suited for off-season production, avoiding monsoon-related storage losses. The variety produces compact, flattish, round pink bulbs with a milder taste, averaging 180g in weight.

During the 2024–2025 fiscal year, 1,495 seed packets were distributed to 359 households over 14.9 acres under a cost-sharing scheme supported by CARLEP IFAD and gewog agriculture offices. Following seed distribution in November–December, transplanting took place in January–February, with harvesting from mid-May to early June. A total of 59.99 MT of onion was harvested from 14 villages, averaging 4 MT/acre, with Kalapang achieving the highest yield (8.97 MT/acre).

Farmers reported high germination, shorter maturity, extended shelf life, and good yields even in nutrient-poor soils. Wider spacing produced larger bulbs favoured by institutions, while closer spacing yielded medium-sized bulbs preferred by households. No bolting was observed. Most produce was sold to nearby schools and Gyalsung Academy at Nu. 50–60/kg. However, Fusarium basal rot was noted in high-moisture fields, indicating the need for improved drainage in future cultivation.

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