Category: Uncategorized

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.

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