𝟒 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑: A 3-day regional livestock coordination meeting is currently underway in Trashigang, coordinated by Regional Livestock Development Centre, Kanglung. This meeting is convened with the overarching objectives of reviewing significant accomplishments within the region, streamlining work plans to optimize resource allocation and amplify impact, as well as identifying and collectively addressing gaps and challenges associated with livestock activities in the area.
The meeting is attended by the Dzongkhag Livestock Officers, Veterinary officers, Livestock Production officers of the six eastern dzongkhags, central farms namely the Regional Pig and Poultry Breeding Center (RPPBC) Lingmethang, Regional Center for Aquaculture (RCA) Phuntshothang, National Mithun Breeding Farm (NMBF) Arong, representatives from the CARLEP office, KOUFUKU international ltd. (KIL), and Regional Agriculture and Marketing Cooperative (RAMCO). In attendance are also the Program Directors from the National Center for Animal Health (NCAH), National Highland Development Center (NHDC), National Development Center on Animal Nutrition (NDCAN), and the National Dairy Development Center (NDDC).
The meeting is organized with support from CARLEP.
The Livestock Research & Extension Division, Department of Livestock, in collaboration with the National Highland Development Centre and Haa Dzongkhag Livestock Sector, is conducting a 5-day capacity development program. This initiative, taking place from August 29th to September 2nd, 2023, focuses on enhancing the skills of herders from Dagala, Soe Yaksa, Haa, and extension officials from Haa Dzongkha and Yak Farm.
The program’s main objective is to elevate the capabilities of Bhutan Yak Federation herders and staff members in producing high-value yak cheese. This move toward diversification is coupled with efforts to secure certification for the product, its inclusion in the Geographical Indication (GI) label, and recognition as a “Made in Bhutan” exportable item.
Two seasoned dairy technicians, Mr. Tashi Penden and Ms. Sangay Wangmo, both with extensive experience, are leading the training. Participants are being equipped with practical skills in processing three distinctive cheeses: Tomme, Gumdel, and Casio Cavalle. These cheeses will undergo further treatment at Yak Farm Haa to facilitate ripening and prepare them for consumption. Notably, a young attendee from Yak Farm is also partaking in the training, showing enthusiasm for future endeavors in cheese processing.
The training initiative receives support from the UNDP JSB project, signifying its importance for highland communities. Sustainability is ensured through annual cheese processing activities during the summer grazing seasons, led by trained herders and extension staff. A UNDP representative attended the training, expressing both appreciation for the program and interest in offering further support.
