1.8 A Directorate was set up in 1961 for introducing modern techniques and practices in Agriculture. The
main emphasis was laid on increasing food production by regional specialization of crops, provision of
improved seeds, implements and fertilizers, introduction of new and improved varieties, popular station of
fruit and vegetable cultivation and research in new fields like apples, stone fruits etc. During the last
decade, a large number of Agricultural Farms, Seed Multiplication Farms and Agricultural Research
Stations in various agro-climatic conditions of the country have been set up. There are at present fifteen
extension centres, nine demonstration-cum-seed multiplication farms, three agricultural research and
extension stations, four orchards and one sericulture research station in the country. These research
stations and extension farms have provided training to a sizeable number of farmers in modern methods
of farming. Besides the conventional crops, Bhutan has taken to horticulture in a big way. For the first
time, production of apples of delicious taste and varieties both at the Government and private farms has
started. Foundations have thus been laid for an accelerated development of agriculture and horticulture
and the country has good prospects of becoming self-sufficient in foodgrain and developing cash crops
like apple, orange, potato and cardamom in a big way.