Bhutanese Farmers Perspectives on Climate Events and Agrometeorological Advisory Services
Chimi Rinzin, Tirtha Bdr Katwal, Tshering Wangchen & Ngawang
Bhutan’s agriculture sector is predominantly subsistence-based and highly vulnerable to extreme weather and climate events. As a result, Agrometeorological Advisory Services (AAS) have become increasingly important for helping farmers adapt to these challenges. In recognition of this, the 13th Five Year Plan of the Department of Agriculture prioritizes the development and delivery of effective AAS to build resilience among smallholder farmers. To assess the reliability, usefulness, and accessibility of AAS, a national survey was conducted. The findings show that while 48.1% of respondents were aware of AAS, only 45.7% of them actively used the information for making farming decisions. Awareness varied across Dzongkhags, with Punakha showing the highest awareness (90.6%), and 48.3% of those aware reported using the service. Farmers reported seven types of extreme climate events affecting their agriculture, with pests and diseases being the most common, mentioned by 77.6% of respondents. These events led to the highest reported crop loss of 204,966 kilograms. Cold waves and frost were the next most reported issues (18.7%). Awareness of AAS was highest among poultry farmers, and the service was rated as the most useful for cereal, vegetable, and fruit production. The most common sources of AAS were Bhutan Broadcasting Service (48.8%) and social media (23.4%). Among the services provided, the 24-hour and 3-day weather forecasts were considered the most useful, showing a strong demand for short-term forecasts. These findings will help guide the improvement and expansion of AAS to better support Bhutanese farmers in adapting to climate risks.
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