ARDC Wengkhar successfully conducted a week-long Training of Trainers (ToT) program on automated efficient irrigation systems from 13th to 19th April 2025. The training focused on hands-on, practical field sessions and involved 12 Agriculture Extension Officers from the six eastern Dzongkhags: Lhuntse, Mongar, Pemagatshel, Trashigang, Trashiyangtse, and Samdrupjongkhar.

The primary objective of the training was to enhance the technical capacity of field-level agriculture professionals and to encourage the adoption of advanced irrigation technologies. This effort is part of a broader initiative to promote sustainable agriculture and improve water use efficiency across Bhutan.

As an immediate outcome of the program, a 5.5-acre citrus orchard in Obi village under Maedtsho Gewog, Lhuntse, previously lacking proper irrigation, has been equipped with a solar-powered automated drip irrigation and fertigation system. The system ensures consistent and timely water delivery, improving crop health and productivity while significantly reducing water usage.

The total cost of irrigation materials for this installation was Nu. 0.196 Million, implemented under a 70:30 cost-sharing model between the government and the beneficiary farmer, with funding support from CARLEP. Of this, Nu. 0.137 Million was contributed by CARLEP, while the beneficiary farmer contributed Nu. 0.058 Million.

Drip irrigation, known for its water-saving potential, delivers water directly to plant roots, minimizing losses through evaporation and runoff. Compared to traditional methods, it can reduce water wastage by up to 70%, making it an ideal technology for sustainable agriculture and improved resource management.

The training covered various aspects such as system design, installation procedures, automation, and maintenance. Participants were trained on critical factors including water pressure, flow rate, emitter spacing, and strategic placement of drip lines to ensure maximum efficiency.

Overall, the program represents a significant step towards climate-smart agriculture in Bhutan. It not only promotes efficient water management at the field level but also empowers agriculture professionals to replicate and scale up such innovative irrigation solutions in their respective regions.

Reported by Tenzin Rabgay (Research Communication  ARDC-Wengkhar)