DoL

14th March 2025: The Department of Livestock (DoL), Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MoAL), conducted a Yak Artificial Insemination (AI) and Estrus Synchronization Training for livestock officials working in yak-rearing Gewogs of highland Dzongkhags. This training is one of the short-term trainings (STT) approved by the Royal Civil Service Commission (RCSC) under the Government of India Project Tied Assistance (GoI PTA) for the fiscal year 2024-2025.

A total of 10 livestock officials from highland Dzongkhags and the National Highland Development Center (NHDC) in Wangduephodrang participated in this program. The training was held at the National Dairy Development Center (NDDC) in Yusipang from March 10 to March 14 and is facilitated by resource persons from the center. The five-day program covers advanced techniques in artificial insemination (AI) and estrus synchronization for yaks, aimed at genetic improvement to enhance productivity.

Estrus synchronization and AI are key reproductive technologies used globally to enhance productivity, improve genetic traits, and manage breeding efficiency in dairy animals. This initiative aligns with MoAL’s 13^th Five-Year Plan (FYP), which prioritizes improved livestock productivity, diversification of products, and market-driven economic sustainability.

This training reflects the Department’s continued efforts to strengthen breeding technologies for highland livestock and improve the livelihoods of yak herders through enhanced genetics and productivity.

The Department of Livestock (DoL), with generous funding support from the Bhutan Foundation, successfully conducted a two-day program from 14th to 15th January 2025 at the National Yak Farm (NYF) in Haa. The initiative focused on setting up newly procured felting and spinning equipment under the Bhutan Foundation-funded project titled “Improving the Quality of Yak Hair Products for Enhanced Income Generation of Highland Communities.”

The program was attended by 12 participants from the National Highland Development Center (NHDC), National Yak Farm, and the DoL Headquarters. It was facilitated by Farm Manager of the National Sheep Farm (NSF) in Bumthang.

During the two-day event, participants received practical training and hands-on experience in wool spinning and felting. Step-by-step demonstrations of yak and sheep wool felting techniques were conducted to ensure the equipment was fully operational and the participants were proficient in its use. The program also established a strong foundation for the sustainable utilization of these machines, enabling the efficient processing of yak and sheep wool to support the income generation efforts of highland communities.

This initiative aligns with the 13th Five Year Plan (FYP) goal of achieving high-value textile products from yak and sheep wool. Moving forward, the Department of Livestock aims to brand these products and work towards their certification as Geographical Indication (GI) products, positioning them as premium offerings in the market.

The Department of Livestock remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting highland communities. Through collaborative efforts with donor agencies, such as the Bhutan Foundation, the DoL aims to enhance the value of yak and sheep wool products, creating sustainable income opportunities and improving the livelihoods of highland communities.

For further details, please contact:
Department of Livestock