DoL

𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟒, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 (𝐁𝐮𝐦𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠): As part of the farm registration guidelines consultation with the Dzongkhag Livestock Sectors in Bumthang, the Department of Livestock launched the first edition of production and extension manuals for pig and poultry farming in the country. These manuals will be sensitized to the farmers and Gewog livestock Supervisors during the introduction of registration guidelines by the Piggery and Poultry Centres under DoL in collaboration with the Dzongkhag Livestock Sectors.

The objective of this sensitization effort is to raise awareness about the critical technical parameters that pig and poultry farmers should adhere to, in order to enhance productivity and operational efficiency. The production manuals encompass vital aspects such as farm management, breeding practices, animal nutrition and feeding, biosecurity measures, farm establishment guidelines, and related topics. These resources are expected to provide essential information to farmers, enabling them to effectively implement these practices.

𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟑, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑: During a consultation meeting on piggery and poultry farm registration guidelines in Bumthang, the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA, MoH), represented by Dr. Chador, Specialist, provided comprehensive information to sensitize the senior Dzongkhag Livestock Officers from 20 Dzongkhags on the farm biosecurity standards and checklists. This initiative aimed to enhance awareness among farmers.

Emphasizing the paramount importance of biosecurity measures in preventing the introduction and spread of diseases within livestock farms, it is encouraged that farms seeking registration adhere to minimum farm biosecurity measures. These measures are vital for safeguarding the health of animals and mitigating the risk of disease outbreaks. To ensure wider understanding of biosecurity measures, a robust advocacy and awareness campaign will be undertaken through collaborative approach by the Department of Livestock, BFDA and Dzongkhag Livestock Sectors during the farm registration process which will guide farmers in implementing the essential minimum biosecurity measures.

Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, Royal Government of Bhutan