Drakteng Gewog
Image courtesy : https://bca.clcs.edu.bt
Drakteng Gewog, located in the southern part of Trongsa District, spans an area of approximately 84.59 square kilometers, making it the smallest gewog in terms of size within the district. It has a population of 6,200, according to the Population and Housing Census of Bhutan (PHCB) 2017, distributed across 994 households. The demographic composition includes 3,563 males and 2,637 females. The gewog benefits from a warm climate and sandy loam soil, suitable for agriculture, with altitudes ranging from 1,100 to 2,000 meters above sea level. The main economic activities include the cultivation of green tea, paddy, maize, mustard, rice, wheat, and a variety of vegetables. The proximity to the highway facilitates the participation of many villagers in the Trongsa market, where they sell their surplus produce.
Despite its agricultural potential, Drakteng Gewog faces significant challenges that impact its economic stability and scalability. The limited land area and relatively small population restrict the scope of agricultural activities, constraining both production and income generation. Furthermore, the gewog is part of a region experiencing human-wildlife conflicts, notably with tigers from neighboring Nubi Gewog attacking livestock, which results in financial losses for farmers. These challenges underscore the need for alternative and sustainable income-generating activities that require minimal land use and can be managed effectively within the constraints faced by the community.
