Chumey Mill Project

• Focus areaAgriculture
• StatusPresent projects

The project implemented by Druk Nyo Foundation in partnership with ASIA Italy and co-financed by Tides Foundation aims to improve the livelihoods and economic resilience of 90 smallholder farming households by introducing mechanized post-harvest processing facilities for buckwheat and millet.

Situated in Bumthang’s agricultural heartland, Domkhar farmers, many of whom are women and the elderly, have long relied on labor-intensive manual methods for milling and processing.

This project installs a community-managed set of milling machines, including a flour mill, wheat plan sifter, oil starter, and mab-3 motor, to enhance efficiency, reduce physical strain, and ensure better-quality produce for market access.

The intervention aligns with Bhutan’s national vision for rural transformation, food self-sufficiency, and sustainable livelihoods under the philosophy of Gross National Happiness.

To ensure successful implementation, the Domkhar Farmers Group is managing the project’s operations, training, and maintenance systems. Groundwork and extension of the existing group house have already begun to accommodate the machines, creating a secure and accessible processing center for all 90 households.

It will also generate employment for local youth, empower women through participation in machine operation and management, and significantly reduce post-harvest losses. This community-driven initiative represents a vital step toward enhancing rural productivity, promoting self-reliance, and preserving Bhutan’s agricultural heritage through innovation and cooperation.