The Department of Forests and Park Services, Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, Royal Government of Bhutan has initiated a trial plantation programme of Chilgoza pine (Pinus gerardiana Wall. ex. D. Don), “Champion of the Rocky Mountains”, in Bhutan as part of its efforts to introduce high-value tree species and assess their suitability under different ecological conditions.
Chilgoza pine is a valuable coniferous species native to the northwestern Himalayas, naturally occurring in dry temperate regions at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 3,350 metres above sea level. The species is renowned for producing highly nutritious edible pine nuts that command premium market value and provide important livelihood opportunities for mountain communities. In addition to its economic significance, the species contributes to soil conservation and ecological stability in fragile mountain ecosystems.
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To support this initiative, the Department procured 50 kilograms of Chilgoza pine seeds for nursery propagation. The seeds were distributed to six suitable nurseries located across four Dzongkhags and managed by various agencies, including the Department of Forests and Park Services, Royal Project, Natural Resources Development Corporation Limited (NRDCL), and Green Bhutan Corporation Limited (GBCL).
Currently, the seeds have germinated successfully across all nursery sites, exhibiting promising growth under close technical supervision. The nursery-raised seedlings will serve as planting stock for future plantation programmes in suitable locations if the current plantation thrives.
In addition, the Government of Himachal Pradesh, India, generously gifted 5,000 live seedlings to Bhutan as a gesture of goodwill and cooperation. These seedlings were planted across five pilot sites covering approximately 5 hectares in Thimphu, Paro, Trongsa, and Wangdue Phodrang Dzongkhags. Planting operations were successfully completed in May 2026, with approximately 1,000 seedlings established at each site.
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The pilot plantation sites were selected to evaluate the growth performance and adaptability of Chilgoza pine under varying environmental conditions. The concerned forest divisions are undertaking regular monitoring to ensure successful establishment of the plantations. The maintenance interventions, including protection, weeding, and survival assessments, will continue for at least five years to enhance plantation success and generate reliable data on species performance.
The Department remains optimistic that, with proper silvicultural care and adaptive management, Chilgoza pine will establish successfully in Bhutan and contribute both to ecological restoration and future livelihood opportunities through sustainable production of edible pine nuts and related value chains.The Royal Government of Bhutan extends its sincere appreciation to the Chief Minister, Government of Himachal Pradesh and the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department for their generous support in providing 5,000 Chilgoza pine seedlings for free of cost.
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The gratitude also goes to the Embassy of India in Bhutan for its invaluable support and facilitation throughout the process.
This thoughtful gesture exemplifies the strong bonds of friendship, goodwill, and cooperation that continue to characterize the enduring relationship between Bhutan and India. The successful implementation of this initiative stands as a testament to the shared commitment of both countries towards environmental conservation, sustainable forestry, and mountain ecosystem restoration.
