Zayu County, nestled in the southeastern Xizang Autonomous Region, has become a symbol of progress for the Deng people, an ethnic group historically isolated in remote mountain areas. Since 1959, when democratic reforms began integrating marginalized communities into modern society, government-led initiatives have accelerated this transformation. The recent "Revitalizing Border Regions and Enriching People's Lives" program has relocated Deng families to purpose-built villages with robust infrastructure, including roads, electricity, and internet connectivity.
New settlements like Deng New Village now feature orderly rows of courtyard homes surrounded by thriving orchards and tea plantations. As of October 2025, the village had cultivated 320 mu (21.3 hectares) of high-yield kiwi fruit and 150 mu (10 hectares) of premium tea crops, establishing agriculture as a key economic driver. Residents report doubled incomes through state-supported training in crop management and market access.
Local officials emphasize that cultural preservation remains central to resettlement efforts. Traditional Deng festivals and crafts are actively promoted alongside modern education programs. "We’re building a future where prosperity and heritage coexist," said a county representative during a recent community visit.
This shift from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture reflects broader trends in Xizang’s rural development strategy, aligning with national goals to uplift border regions while maintaining ethnic diversity.
