𝟭𝟬 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰: The Department of Livestock (DoL) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MoAL) is pleased to announce the receipt of substantial in-kind support from the Republic of Korea’s Small Grant Aid Project (SGAP), facilitated by the Korean Embassy in Dhaka in 2023. This support included critical laboratory equipment to: 1) assess the quality and safety of animal feed, 2) produce and supply bovine artificial insemination inputs for dairy breed intensification, and 3) evaluate the quality and safety of dairy products (post-production laboratory services).
With a total allocation of USD 0.5 million, the National Development Centre for Animal Nutrition (NDCAN) in Bumthang and the National Dairy Development Centre (NDDC) in Yusipang, Thimphu, received 21 different pieces of equipment. The project included the installation and demonstration of major equipment such as Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS), Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS), Computerized Automated Semen Analysis (CASA) AndroVision System, UV-Visible Spectrophotometer, and Furnace by certified service engineers.
The project was implemented through the Livestock Production Division of the DoL. The handing-over ceremony, held on June 10, 2024, at NDDC in Yusipang, was graced by the Director of the Department of Livestock, Deputy Chief of Mission, Ms. Jin Hee Baek, and delegate Ms. Hae Yeon Kim from the Korean Embassy in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade and the Department of Macro-Fiscal and Development Finance, Ministry of Finance, also attended the event.
This crucial support from the SGAP project enables NDCAN to routinely analyze feed for heavy metals and pesticides, ensuring feed quality and safety. Similarly, the equipment supplied to NDDC will enhance the production and supply of high-quality dairy inputs, improve dairy breeds, and ensure the quality and safety of dairy products.
The Department of Livestock extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Republic of Korea and the Korean Embassy in Dhaka for this vital and timely assistance.
