Demographic and Socio-Economic Profile of Barshong Gewog

Barshong Gewog, located 28 kilometers away from the Dzongkhag Administration, presents a well-balanced demographic structure and developing socio-economic landscape. The Gewog comprises five Chiwogs: Barshong Maed, Barshong Toed, Chunniykhang, Gangtokha, and Toedsang. The Gewog is situated at an elevation ranging from 700 to 1,500 meters above sea level, spans a total area of approximately 21.2 square kilometers (or 5,460 acres).

1. Population and Household Overview

Barshong Gewog has a total population of 2,383 individuals, of which 1,239 (52%) are male and 1,144 (48%) are female. This indicates a fairly balanced gender distribution, with a slightly higher male population. Among the Chiwogs, Gangtokha is the most populous, with 583 residents, while Barshong Toed has the smallest population at 354 individuals.

In terms of household distribution, the Gewog has a total of 330 households, of which 204 (62%) are residing households and 126 (38%) are non-residing. Gangtokha again records the highest number of households (74), whereas Toedsang has the lowest at 54.

2. Infrastructure and Basic Amenities

Roads:
Barshong Gewog has made significant progress in road connectivity with a total of 22 farm roads spanning 83.2 kilometers. Most of these roads were constructed by the Gewog Administration, with a few built privately. Notably, 33.3 kilometers of the total road network have been improved with Granular Sub-Base (GSB), enhancing accessibility for residents.

Electricity and Water Supply:
All households in the Gewog have access to electricity, contributing to improved quality of life and socio-economic activities. For water, the Gewog maintains 31 Rural Water Supply Schemes (RWSS) aimed primarily at drinking and sanitation. Additionally, 24 irrigation schemes have been established to support wetland farming, and they are maintained annually for the benefit of the farming community.

3. Agriculture and Livestock

Agriculture remains the backbone of Barshong Gewog’s economy. The main crop is paddy, with a total production of 338 metric tons (MT) recorded in 2024. Other cereals such as buckwheat, millet, and maize are also cultivated. The Gewog is recognized for its banana production, which is its designated “One Gewog, One Product (OGOP)”. Fruits like mandarins and lime are also grown, with a recent rise in chili production, particularly early winter Chili and dally varieties, due to favorable climatic conditions.

In the livestock sector, dairy production is a key activity. There is also a noticeable growth in piggery farming and fishery, reflecting the Gewog’s expanding engagement in diverse livestock practices.

4. Education and Health Facilities

Barshong Gewog hosts essential education and healthcare services. A primary school located in Barshong Maed Chiwog caters to the educational needs of children, complemented by an Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) center situated near the Gewog Center.

Healthcare services are delivered through a Primary Health Care (PHC) center in Chunniykhang Chiwog. Additionally, an Outreach Clinic (ORC) operates in Toedsang Chiwog, with healthcare professionals visiting monthly to ensure continued access to medical support.

5. Cultural and Religious Sites

Barshong Gewog is home to religious and cultural diversity. The Janchub Choeling Lhakhang, located in Barshong Maed Chiwog, serves as the primary Buddhist temple for the community. In the same Chiwog, the Bishnu Panchai Mandir is the only Hindu temple, reflecting the Gewog’s commitment to religious harmony and coexistence.

6. Water Resources

The Gewog is endowed with small but vital water bodies that serve both irrigation and drinking water needs. Notable among these are Baidey Khola, Sarki Khola, and Gairi Khola in Chunniykhang Chiwog. These streams are crucial for daily water requirements. In Toedsang Chiwog, Ghadey Khola serves both the Toedsang and Balwani villages. Similarly, Lautey Khola is an essential water source for Barshong Maed Chiwog and Salleri. These streams are tributaries of the Sunkosh River, which flows through three Chiwogs and separates Barshong Gewog from Dagana Dzongkhag.