Training on Drone Technology for Rangeland Monitoring and Yak Management Launched in Bhutan

The Department of Livestock (DoL), under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, in collaboration with the Emerging Technology Division of the GovTech Agency and with financial support from the European Union through the EU-TAAS project implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization, is conducting a week-long training on drone technology from 23–29 March 2026 in Phobjikha, Wangdue.

The training brings together 21 livestock officials from highland dzongkhags including Haa, Paro, Thimphu, Wangdue, Gasa, Trashigang, and Trashi Yangtse, along with participants from key institutions such as the National Highland Development Centre, National Yak Farm, National Livestock Research Centre, National Development Centre for Animal Nutrition, and Regional Livestock Development Centre.

The program aims to strengthen institutional capacity in the effective and responsible use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for livestock management, rangeland monitoring, and logistical support. It combines theoretical and practical components, covering drone regulations, flight principles, mission planning, aerial data collection, GIS applications, and operational safety. Participants are also engaged in hands-on exercises, including simulation, drone assembly, and real-time field operations.

The training highlights the application of drone technology in tracking yak migration, mapping rangelands, assessing pasture conditions, and supporting veterinary service delivery—enhancing precision and efficiency in managing Bhutan’s highland livestock systems.

Aligned with the designation of 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP) and the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF), led by the Food and Agriculture Organization, the initiative contributes to advancing sustainable livelihoods, climate resilience, and inclusive development in Bhutan’s highland communities.

Livestock Research & Extension Division
Department of Livestock

Loading

𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐠𝐧𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐀𝐧𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐧

The National Centre for Animal Health (NCAH) is organizing a five day national workshop to review and strengthen Laboratory Quality Management Systems (LQMS) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), with financial support from the Pandemic Fund through FAO Bhutan. This workshop brings together a wide range of participants, from national level institutions to district veterinary laboratories, ensuring representation across all tiers of the animal health system. Each participant contributes practical insights based on their field experiences, challenges, and operational realities.

This initiative is timely and aligns closely with the priorities of the 13th Five Year Plan, which emphasizes strengthening animal health systems, improving disease surveillance, and enhancing diagnostic capacities as key drivers for livestock sector development. By standardizing laboratory practices and improving quality management systems, the workshop directly contributes to building a more reliable, efficient, and responsive animal health service delivery system.

By bringing together perspectives from national, regional, and field level laboratories, the workshop creates a shared platform for learning, collaboration, and mutual understanding. The review of SOPs and LQMS will therefore not only strengthen technical standards but also ensure that these systems are applicable, user friendly, and adaptable to varying capacities and local contexts, thereby improving consistency, accuracy, and confidence in diagnostic results across the country.

Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, Royal Government of Bhutan

Loading