26 August 2025:
Hon’ble Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, accompanied by officials, visited the Yarjugang OAP Commercial Farm at Hebisa Chiwog, Gasetsho Wom Geog, Wangdue Phodrang Dzongkhag. The project covers 435 acres and is an innovative initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, The PEMA Secretariat, and the Royal Bhutan Police, with technical support and agricultural component funding supported by the Ministry.
The project’s main objectives are to:
- Decongest Chamgang Prison and meaningful engagement
- Provide inmates with opportunities to develop valuable knowledge and skills.
iii. Engage inmates in commercial agriculture farming for reintegration into society.
- Sustain and supplement the internal food demand of inmates and RBP institutions.
Since its start in September 2024, the project has achieved remarkable progress in just 10 months. Land development works are ongoing, a 7 km chain-link fence is nearing completion, and designated areas for agriculture, livestock production, and marketing facilities have been earmarked. The team also highlighted key challenges that will require continued government support.
Hon’ble Minister commended the project team for their commendable progress in a short span of time. He emphasized that, in addition to the stated objectives, the Ministry aims to:
- Build the skills of inmates and prepare them for productive futures;
- Contribute to the country’s broader food and nutrition security.
During the site visit, Hon’ble Minister noted that this innovative model can serve as an exemplary initiative for Bhutan and beyond—demonstrating how open-air prisoners can contribute to modern commercial farming, while benefitting prisoners, communities, and the nation. He assured the Ministry’s full support, facilitation, and coordination with other agencies to ensure the project’s successful implementation and long-term sustainability.
