Background

At an altitude of 2000 meters on the  west side of Kuri Chhu valley, Yungkhutoed is one of the most remote regions under Lhuentse Dzongkhag (District) in Bhutan. The total population is estimated at 1,300 comprising about 168 households with an average family size of 8. A majority of the population are farmers. Development facilities in the area include a community school, an agricultural extension center, animal husbandry and an upgraded BHU (Basic Health Unit). All these are located at Gorsum.

The local economy of Yungkhutoed is primarily based on agriculture. The livelihoods of almost all households depend on subsistence agriculture and livestock rearing. Farm work consists of maize, rice and wheat cultivation. Most of the households (approximately 65%) have access to wetland. In addition dryland is cultivated. Income from Renewable Natural Resources sector is limited. There is no major cash crop. Although cash crops like potato, chilli and soybean are also grown, they are not cultivated extensively due to transport and marketing problems. The nearest motorable road, where villagers can buy necessities like salt and soap is at Gorgan, and is about a 7 hour hike. Livestock comprise mainly of cattle, pigs and poultry. Livestock products are not marketed, but consumed to supplement the dietary requirements of the people.

Yungtoed Development Association (YDA)

YDA is a non-profit,  community based organization with 24 household members, established in the valley of Yungtoed under Metsho Block, Lhuentse District to collaboratively uplift rural Yungtoed  socio-economic conditions. 

The five committee members chaired by Metsho Gup manages the association and a president, who is a founder heads the association.

The primary objectives of the association are to:  

1. Provide quality consumer items and services at more equitable rates to  the local community, whenever possible;

2. Promote livelihood programs;  

3. Facilitate marketing of agricultural products;  

4. Generate funds and extend credit facilities at reasonable interests for investment in productive farm and non-farm activities;  

5. Encourage savings among communities;

6. Mobilize external assistance and services;  

7. Educate the community about the economic, social and cultural needs and other values inherent in organizing community services;  

8. Arrange and facilitate expeditious transfer of appropriate farming, storing and marketing technology at the lowest possible costs;  

9. Undertake such other economic or social activities, as may be necessary or incidental in the pursuit of these objectives.

Projects

We believe that helping the rural communities to help themselves is the most effective and sustainable approach to releasing human potential and achieving better economic equity. It is also aimed at generating employment opportunities, expand the economic capabilities of the society and improve the quality of life of the people inhabiting the Yungtoed valley.

At present we have the on-going project:  The Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Livelihoods in Lhuentse Dzongkhag funded by UNDP/GEF/SGP & PDP, Thimphu, Bhutan

Activities

The activities in the following fields are on-going under UNDP/GEF/SGP & PDP, Thimphu, Bhutan and YDA's financing: