The Youth Development Fund showcased a range of new eco-friendly textile products in Thimphu yesterday to mark the 70th Birth Anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo. Her Majesty Queen Mother Tseyring Pem Wangchuck graced the soft launch, along with members of the Royal Family. The products are part of an ongoing research and design project that brings together biodiversity, cultural heritage, craft innovation, and youth creativity.
A key feature of the launch was the Bioacoustics Scarf Collection. The collection aims to raise awareness of biodiversity conservation through creative craft.
Other collection is Himalayan Iris Crafts where fibre is made from the invasive Himalayan Iris clarkei plant found in Dagala. The project promotes natural dye research, sustainable craft development, and supports highland communities.
Another highlight was the Bharat-Bhutan Sari, a collaboration combining Indian weaving techniques with Bhutanese natural dyes and motifs, reflecting the artistic partnership between the two countries.
The event also featured prototypes and demonstrations of natural dyeing, fibre extraction, and design research conducted by Bhutanese artisans.
Yangka, Project Director of the Youth Development Fund said, “It is mainly to engage with the community, especially the Dagala community, where we are working to enhance their livelihoods. At the same time, we aim to support the restoration of their pastoral land. The people in Dagala depend on transhumant pastoralism for their survival, and that is where we come in, to help with rangeland restoration while also making use of invasive plants like the iris to create products that generate income.”
The initiative celebrates innovation in Bhutanese crafts while promoting sustainability, cultural heritage, and youth creativity.