DoL

The Regional Livestock Development Center (RLDC), Kanglung, has taken a significant step towards strengthening laboratory diagnostic services with the installation of real time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) machine at its laboratory.

The installation process, carried out from 16–18 April 2026, includes comprehensive validation procedures and hands-on practical training for RLDC laboratory technicians. The training is being conducted by technical experts from the National Centre for Animal Health, Thimphu.

The introduction of PCR machine, represents a major advancement in diagnostic capability at the regional level. This will significantly enhance the laboratory’s efficiency, reduce turnaround time for test results, and support timely implementation of disease control and prevention measures. For now, the machine will support the diagnosis of priority transboundary and economically important diseases such as African Swine Fever and Avian Influenza which pose significant threats to animal and public health and farmer livelihoods.

In parallel with the PCR installation, a comprehensive laboratory bio-risk assessment is being conducted. This assessment is funded by the Pandemic Fund through FAO support and aims to evaluate the laboratory’s biosafety and biosecurity systems.

The assessment will provide critical insights into infrastructure set up, operational practices, compliance with recommended standards, hazards and risk and risk mitigation strategies ensuring that the laboratory operates in a safe and secure manner while handling infectious agents. The findings will aim to support improvement of the laboratory quality systems and strengthen biosafety and biosecurity capacity.

The simultaneous implementation of advanced diagnostic technology and bio-risk assessment reflects RLDC’s commitment to strengthening laboratory systems, enhancing disease preparedness, and safeguarding both animal and public health.

A four-day training workshop on yak-based product development commenced on the 14 of April 2026, at the Dzongkhag Veterinary Hospital (DVH), Tselungkha, Haa Dzongkhag.

Organized by the National Highland Development Centre (NHDC), Wangdue, in collaboration with the Department of Livestock, the workshop is being conducted under the Competency and Professional Development (CPD) Program supported by the Royal Civil Service Commission (RCSC).

The training focuses on strengthening professional competencies in yak-based products processing such as cheese production, fibre and wool processing, and product development, with a blend of technical presentations, group discussions, and hands-on practical sessions. Participants will gain exposure to topics such as yak wool development, wool collection and grading, wool processing, market standards, milk composition, cheese making, and standardization, followed by practical sessions at the National Yak Farm, Chonaphu and the Milk Processing Unit, Tselungkha.

The workshop is expected to further enhance the capacity of livestock professionals to provide informed technical support to yak herders and contribute to the sustainable growth of yak-based livelihood opportunities in Bhutan’s highland areas.