The 5th General Assembly of the Bhutan Yak Federation (BYF) was successfully convened in Bumthang on 23rd May 2025, bringing together key representatives of yak herding communities from across Bhutan’s highlands. The assembly aimed to address pressing challenges faced by yak herders and explore sustainable, community-driven solutions to safeguard their livelihoods and the future of highland pastoralism.
Formed on April 26, 2021, the BYF represents the collective voice of yak herders across 10 districts, with 12 registered yak cooperatives and a total membership of 445 herders to date. The Federation’s mission centers on preserving traditional yak farming knowledge and genetic resources, protecting fragile alpine rangelands, and amplifying the voices of herders in national and international policy dialogues. It also functions as a platform for herders to engage with stakeholders including government agencies, civil society, and market actors.
The 5th General Assembly was attended by 16 Chairpersons and Secretaries representing the 12 member cooperatives. The meeting was chaired by the Chairperson of the Bhutan Yak Federation, and the opening session was graced by the Director of the Department of Livestock, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MoAL). The event was coordinated by the Department of Livestock.
Key objectives of the assembly included:
- Addressing emerging challenges such as climate impacts, market access, and labor shortages in yak farming;
- Validating and strengthening the membership and leadership of BYF for improved governance and coordination;
- Equipping members with knowledge and tools to develop a common business model, under an umbrella concept of business development, to enhance income generation and sustain the operations of the Federation.
Discussions focused on identifying adoptable and implementable solutions that align with the needs of yak herders while ensuring ecological sustainability and economic viability. Presentations and participatory sessions explored innovative strategies for cooperative enterprise development, branding of yak-based products, and mechanisms for improving rangeland management and veterinary services.
As the apex body of yak cooperatives in Bhutan, BYF plays a pivotal role in uniting highland communities, advocating for their rights, and ensuring their economic empowerment and cultural continuity. The 5th General Assembly marked another important milestone in strengthening the Federation’s institutional foundation and setting a clear path forward for collaborative progress.
For further information, contact:
Department of Livestock
Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock
Thimphu, Bhutan
