Spring plowing begins in Tibetan villages

Spring plowing has begun in the Tibet autonomous region in recent weeks, an annual ritual signifying new life and renewal. The season has particular meaning now, as the coronavirus epidemic recedes across the country.

Farmers in Zayul county of Nyingchi city started plowing by late February, while those in the valleys along the Lhasa Kyichu and Yarlung Zangpo rivers began over the last two weeks.

According to the agriculture and rural affairs office of Nyingchi, plowing has begun almost everywhere now.

More than 8,760 hectares of land will be planted with various crops this year, it said, including 3,606 hectares of barley, 5,200 of wheat, 1,006 of rice, and 3,080 of corn.

The authorities said there is enough fertilizer, pesticides, seeds and agricultural tools available to ensure success.