World Bank RNR Jobs Project - Dairy Commodity

11/06/2026

"Artificial Insemination Refresher Training for Gewog Livestock Supervisors of Western Region"

The Artificial Insemination (AI) Refresher training for Gewog Livestock Supervisors of Western region is ongoing at Yoseltse Gewog centre, Samtse that commenced on 1st June 2026 for 14 days. The selection of training venue was based on availability of training animals, and infertility cases to be attended in and around the nearby Gewogs. The training is coordinated and conducted by the National Dairy Development Centre (NDDC), Yusipang under the Department of Livestock, in collaboration the Dzongkhag Livestock Sector, Samtse with fund support from the RNR Job Project. The training aimed to enhance knowledge and practical skills of livestock field staff and technicians, thereby improving the efficiency of AI service delivery to dairy farmers, promote improved cattle breeding practices, and boost dairy production in Bhutan.
Artificial Insemination is an important reproductive bio-technology used to improve cattle genetics, prevent spread of contagious diseases, increase milk production, and enhance farmers’ income. In line with this, the training focuses on strengthening theoretical understanding and practical competencies of participants in modern cattle breeding and reproductive management aspects.
A total of 18 livestock staffs from the project Gewogs and Dzongkhags; Thimphu, Paro, Haa, Chukha, and Samtse Dzongkhags, are attending the training. Among the trainees, seven (39%) are female participants. The training was delivered through a combination of classroom lectures, group discussions, practical demonstrations, field visits, hands-on practice, and experience-sharing sessions. Major topics covered included cattle reproductive physiology, heat detection, age at first service, breeding after calving, semen handling and AI procedures. Participants are trained on confirmation of animal in heat, timing of AI, semen thawing, AI gun preparation, cervix fixation, and proper semen deposition techniques. Emphasis was also placed on hygiene, biosecurity measures, and record-keeping practices.
The training is expected to complement the building of trusted institution for delivery of AI services in the Gewogs/Dzongkhags through enhancement of AI skills of the officials, and enhance milk production and improve livelihood of farmers in rural areas.

World Bank South Asia

07/06/2026

"Advancing Dairy Development Through Farmer Training and Baseline Milk Quality Assessment"

From 2nd to 6th June 2026, the National Dairy Development Centre (NDDC), in collaboration with the National Highland Development Centre (NHDC) and Gewog Livestock Extension Agent, Bjena, successfully conducted a five-day training program and milk quality assessment for members of the Khotokha Gonor Yargay Detshen Dairy Farmers' Group in Bjena Gewog, Wangdue Phodrang.
The program, which recorded 74% women participation, strengthened farmers’ knowledge and skills in clean milk production, quality-based milk payment systems (QBMPS), and dairy infrastructure development under the World Bank-RNR Jobs Project. Practical sessions on hygienic milking, milk quality testing, and quality-based pricing were complemented by raw milk sample collection and analysis to establish baseline data on milk composition, udder health, antibiotic residues, aflatoxin contamination, and microbiological quality. The findings will support evidence-based interventions to enhance milk quality, strengthen dairy value chains, and promote sustainable milk supply to the Gyalsung Academy.
World Bank South Asia

07/06/2026

"Strengthening Dairy Value Chain Actors through Horizontal and Vertical Integration for Resilient Farmers’ Institutions"

A three-day workshop on strengthening the capacity of dairy value chain actors through horizontal and vertical integration was successfully conducted from 3–5 June 2026 at Hotel Holiday Home, Paro. The workshop brought together Dairy Farmers’ Group (DFG) committee members, Gewog Livestock Supervisor (GLS) representatives from World Bank RNR Jobs Project areas, and technical officials from the National Dairy Development Centre (NDDC) and the Department of Livestock (DoL).
The workshop aimed to promote the development of strong and sustainable farmers’ institutions by enhancing collaboration among dairy value chain actors and strengthening linkages across production, collection, processing, and marketing functions.
The participants were selected from among those who had previously undertaken an exposure visit to Anand, Gujarat, India, where they gained valuable insights into dairy cooperative governance, farmer-owned institutions, and integrated dairy value chain management.
The specific objectives of the workshop were to:
• Share lessons and best practices learned from Anand on dairy cooperative governance, member engagement, and integrated dairy value chain management, including milk collection, processing, and marketing.
• Conduct stakeholder analyses at regional and Agro-Ecological Zone (AEZ) levels to identify opportunities for expanding and strengthening existing dairy farmers’ groups and cooperatives to achieve economies of scale and commercialization.
• Develop area-specific action plans to strengthen local dairy institutions, improve member services, and enhance the efficiency and sustainability of dairy value chains.
A total of 16 participants attended the workshop, comprising six representatives from Dairy Farmers’ Groups, four Gewog Livestock Supervisors, one representative from the Department of Livestock, and five officials from the National Dairy Development Centre.
The workshop followed a structured three-day program consisting of:
• Technical presentations and group discussions on dairy cooperative development, value chain integration, and institutional strengthening.
• A field visit to the Milk Processing Unit (MPU) to observe the dairy value chain in practice and interact with local value chain stakeholders.
• Participatory stakeholder analysis and action planning sessions focused on mapping actor networks, identifying constraints and opportunities, and formulating strategic interventions to strengthen dairy value chains.
The workshop provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of dairy value chain processes and highlighted the importance of stakeholder engagement, collective action, and institutional development in enhancing dairy production and marketing. Particular emphasis was placed on strengthening both horizontal integration among farmers and vertical integration across the value chain to improve efficiency, competitiveness, and sustainability.
The area-specific action plans developed during the workshop are expected to guide future interventions aimed at strengthening dairy farmers’ groups and cooperatives, improving service delivery to members, and building resilient and commercially viable farmers’ institutions across the project areas.
World Bank South Asia

22/05/2026

"Capacity Building Study Tour on Digital Cattle Identification and Smart Dairy Systems in the Republic of Korea (3–13 May 2026)"

A study tour was organized for 10 officials from the National Dairy Development Centre (NDDC) and the Department of Livestock (DoL) from 3–13 May 2026, under the guidance of the World Bank Country Office and financial support from the World Bank RNR Jobs Project. The visit aimed to strengthen national capacity and learn from Korea’s advanced experiences in smart dairy farming, cattle identification, traceability systems, and digital livestock management.
Objectives of the Study Visit
• Strengthen technical and institutional capacity in smart dairy farming and end-to-end cattle digitalization systems
• Enhance understanding of cattle identification, traceability, and livestock data management systems in the Republic of Korea
• Explore suitable smart dairy technologies for adaptation in Bhutan
• Promote knowledge exchange on precision dairy farming and data-driven decision-making
• Support long-term transformation of Bhutan’s dairy sector into a technology-driven, climate-resilient, and sustainable industry.

Key Institutions and Sites Visited
1. National Information Society Agency
2. BoDit
3. Dawoon Co., Ltd
4. Konkuk University and Antller Inc.
5. Dangjin Dairy Cooperative (Giga Smart Dairy Farm – Jayeon Geudaero Complex)
6. Info Valley Korea (CowGo)
7. National Institute of Animal Science
8. Hankook IoT Corp.
9. IoT-based Hanwoo Cattle Breeder Farm (Gimcheon)
10. Seoul National University – Pyeongchang Campus Dairy Farm.

Key Learning Highlights
The Republic of Korea’s dairy sector has rapidly advanced through IoT and AI-based smart farming systems. Technologies such as smart collars, bio-capsules (smart bolus), AI-enabled cameras, robotic milking systems, and big data platforms are widely used for real-time monitoring, disease detection, heat detection, reproduction management, and production optimization.
Strong collaboration between government, universities, and private companies is driving innovation and commercialization of cost-effective livestock technologies. These systems are also supporting traceability, product safety, and quality assurance in both dairy and beef value chains, including Hanwoo cattle.
Large smart dairy farms demonstrated significant improvements in efficiency, including reduced labour requirements, lower production costs, improved milk quality monitoring, and enhanced herd health management through data-driven decision-making.

Relevance to Bhutan
While most technologies observed are still emerging in Bhutan’s context, particularly for smallholder systems, they offer strong potential for phased and context-appropriate adoption. The visit highlighted the importance of gradually introducing smart livestock technologies to address labour shortages, improve productivity, and modernize the dairy sector.

Key Recommendations
• Pilot selected IoT tools (smart collars, sensors, and farm management systems) in government dairy farms
• Establish demonstration smart dairy farms and learning centres at NDDC Yusipang and Regional Cattle Breeding Centre, Wangkha
• Strengthen collaboration with Korean institutions and private technology companies for knowledge transfer and technical support
• Integrate smart livestock technologies with the National Dairy Information System (NDIS)
• Promote cost-sharing and targeted incentives for adoption of proven technologies
• Build national capacity in AI, IoT, and precision livestock management
• Develop phased national roadmaps for smart and AI-driven dairy transformation aligned with Bhutan’s AI Strategy 2025
World Bank South Asia

21/05/2026

The handing-taking of the construction site for the internal access road at the National Dairy Development Centre (NDDC) was successfully carried out on 20th May 2026 between the contractor, C Wangchuk Construction, and officials from NDDC, including the Program Director and specialists and designated two engineers of Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, in the presence of World Bank RNR Jobs Project officials. The construction works include internal access road, signage, gate and improvement of the existing road.
The construction of the internal access road is expected to improve accessibility and support the overall development of infrastructure and operational efficiency within the Centre. NDDC looks forward to the timely and successful completion of the work.

World Bank South Asia

15/04/2026

"Capacity building of Livestock Extension Officials from priority Gewog/Dzongkhag, World Bank RNR Jobs Project on strengthening of Dairy Value Chain "

A 5-day capacity building training on strengthening the Dairy Value chain for Livestock Extension officials of the World Bank RNR Jobs Project priority Dzongkhags is currently being held at the Metta Resort and Spa, Paro, from 13 to 18 April, 2026. The training brings together participants from the World Bank priority gewogs of Paro, Trongsa, Haa, Chukha, Thimphu, Samtse, and Trashigang Dzongkhag. During the training period, the participants will be trained on dairy value chain development, smart dairy farming practices, including clean milk production and a quality-based milk pricing system. Theoretical and practical sessions are included to provide hands-on training and experience sharing, enabling participants to strengthen their knowledge and skills for effective technology transfer to farmers. Besides, participants are briefed on the enhanced National Dairy Information System (NDIS), which is scheduled for rollout in July 2026 to enable online farm registration, animal identification, data-driven reporting, and decision-making.
Representatives from BFDA provided a framework for GHP and GMP, considering the importance of inculcating a food safety culture in the dairy value chain along with the Veterinary Officer, Paro, who provided knowledge and skills on the prevention and control of production-related diseases.
Additionally, recognizing that animal nutrition (feed and fodder) is a bottleneck to increase production and productivity of dairy cattle in the country, the final two days of the training program will focus on developing a comprehensive strategic action plan in collaboration with the National Development Centre for Animal Nutrition (NDCAN), Bumthang. The action plan will help to harmonize the implementation process to enhance the adoption of animal nutrition technologies and best practices at the prioritized Dzongkhags/Gewogs. With funding support from the RNR Jobs Project, this initiative aims to boost milk production and productivity, improve quality, and ensure a consistent year-round milk supply, minimizing seasonal milk yield fluctuations.
Upon completion, the trainees will serve as Trainers of Trainers (ToT) to lead advocacy and awareness programs across the dairy value chain for dairy commercialization and transformation during the 13th Five-Year Plan (FYP).
Reported by NDDC, Yusipang

World Bank South Asia

12/04/2026

"Consultative Meeting on Dairy Infrastructure Standardization"

A successful three-day consultative meeting was conducted with selected Dzongkhags under the World Bank–supported RNR Jobs Project (Dairy Commodity) and Gyalsung priority areas to strengthen Bhutan’s dairy sector through standardization, quality improvement, and knowledge sharing.

🐄 Dairy Housing Standardization
A three-day consultative meeting with selected Dzongkhags under the World Bank–supported RNR Jobs Project (Dairy Commodity) and Gyalsung priority areas was successfully conducted to develop guidelines for the standardization of dairy housing across Bhutan’s agro-ecological zones.
The meeting reviewed the current status of dairy housing practices, highlighting key challenges and gaps, and underscored the need for practical, cost-effective, and location-specific standards. A draft guideline outlining essential housing specifications—such as floor space, feeding arrangements, and resting areas—was presented, with due consideration to smallholder farming systems.
Through group work and technical discussions, participants reviewed and refined the draft, proposing improvements based on field realities across various zones. The process emphasized practicality, climate responsiveness, and adaptability to diverse farming conditions.
The meeting concluded with a consensus on a refined draft guideline for the standardization of dairy housing across Bhutan’s agro-ecological zones. The finalized draft is expected to promote improved animal welfare, hygiene, productivity, and uniformity in dairy housing practices, supporting sustainable development of the dairy sector in Bhutan.

🥛 Strengthening MCCs and MPUs

During the consultative meeting, key gaps and challenges in existing Milk Collection Centres (MCCs) and Milk Processing Units (MPUs) were critically reviewed, leading to important agreements for strengthening dairy infrastructure standards in the country. The meeting noted that many existing MCCs and MPUs do not adequately comply with Good Hygiene Practices (GHP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Participants highlighted that current construction materials and infrastructure design fall short of internationally accepted practices.
The revised guidelines therefore emphasize improved construction standards, along with the inclusion of basic laboratory facilities in MPUs to support quality assurance and control. The traditional milk collection sheds will no longer be promoted, as they do not meet required hygiene and safety standards. New MCCs and MPUs will be established primarily on government land, with alternative modalities developed where such land is unavailable. Infrastructure development for dairy farmer groups will be supported through the World Bank RNR Jobs Project, while private enterprises will be supported through PPP modalities via DAMC. To ensure regulatory compliance, the revised guidelines will be aligned with the standards of the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority prior to formal submission.
At the same time, the initiative promotes clean milk production through the introduction of a quality-based milk payment system. By rewarding milk quality rather than just quantity, farmers are incentivized to adopt better hygiene and handling practices. This integrated approach not only enhances milk safety and processing standards but also leads to higher farmer incomes and increased consumer confidence in dairy products.
The existing guidelines for dairy infrastructure have been comprehensively updated to reflect both current needs and future requirements of the sector. The newly developed guidelines aim to address these gaps, with initial implementation planned at Gyalsung Academy sites, followed by roll-out in selected Dzongkhags under the RNR Jobs Project and nationwide in near future.

📚 Extension Materials & Digital Knowledge Sharing

The meeting emphasized the development of practical, user-friendly extension materials to support MCC/MPU operations and farmer capacity building. Recommended materials include concise posters, laminated operational booklets, and visually rich standees posters for training.
A shift toward digital dissemination was strongly encouraged, with materials to be hosted on official websites rather than widely printed. Participants also recommended regularly updating online platforms with research, innovations, and sector developments, and developing a GIS-enabled web page to showcase interventions and success stories across regions.
Additionally, all existing guidelines were thoroughly reviewed and updated to enhance the effectiveness and consistency of service delivery. The revisions aim to improve clarity, standardize procedures, and ensure that services are delivered in a more efficient, transparent, and farmer-centric manner across all regions, while aligning with current best practices and the emerging needs of the dairy sector.
Overall, the meeting marks a significant step towards building a more standardized, safe, and sustainable dairy sector in Bhutan, benefiting farmers, processors, and consumers alike.

Reported by NDDC, Yusipang

World Bank South Asia

09/04/2026

"Specialized Liquid Nitrogen Plant Operation and Maintenance Training Underway at IMTEK Cryogenics, Ankara, Turkey"

Three technical personnel—two from NDDC, Yusipang and one from RLDC, Kanglung are undergoing an 8-day (6-13 April) specialized training program on the operation and maintenance of Liquid Nitrogen (LN₂) plants at IMTEK Cryogenics, Ankara, Turkey with financial support from the World Bank–funded RNR Jobs Project.
At present, the Department operates three LN₂ plants—two at NDDC, Yusipang and one at RLDC, Kanglung—which play a pivotal role in supporting the national artificial insemination (AI) programme. These plants ensure the continuous production and supply of liquid nitrogen essential for the cryopreservation of bovine semen distributed to AI centres across the country, as well as for maintaining on-station semen banks. As such, the reliability and efficiency of LN₂ production systems are critical for sustaining dairy breed improvement initiatives and enhancing livestock productivity nationwide.
The training program is designed to equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of cryogenic science and the complete liquid nitrogen production cycle. It will enable them to thoroughly understand the functions and interrelationships of key plant components, and to confidently undertake plant start-up, operation, and shutdown procedures in accordance with standard protocols. Participants will also gain practical skills in monitoring and managing critical operational parameters such as pressure, temperature, and nitrogen purity to ensure optimal plant performance.
In addition, the training emphasizes routine and preventive maintenance practices, enabling staff to detect early signs of system inefficiencies and undertake timely corrective measures. Strong focus is also placed on safety management, including risk identification and mitigation associated with cryogenic operations, thereby ensuring safe handling and operation of LN₂ systems. Furthermore, the program will build competencies in troubleshooting common technical issues, adhering to standard operating procedures, and maintaining operational records for improved system management.
Overall, this capacity-building initiative is expected to significantly strengthen in-house technical expertise within the Department. It will reduce dependence on external service providers, minimize plant downtime, and enhance operational efficiency. Most importantly, it will ensure a reliable and uninterrupted supply of liquid nitrogen to AI centres nationwide, thereby directly contributing to the success of the national dairy breeding program and supporting the broader goals of livestock sector development and rural livelihoods in Bhutan.
Reported by: NDDC Yusipang

World Bank South Asia

05/04/2026

"Development of National Standards for Milk and Yoghurt"

The National Dairy Development Centre, Department of Livestock, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock in collaboration with the Bhutan Standards Bureau, MoICE is currently carrying out a 5-day consultative workshop from the 1st – 5th of April 2026 for the development of National Standards for Raw Milk, Pasteurized Milk, and Yoghurt at Lobesa, Punakha through the Sub-Committee for Milk and Milk Products. The consultative workshop is carried out through the involvement of relevant stakeholders from the Department of Livestock (MoAL), Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (MoH), Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MoICE), National Post Harvest Centre (DAMC), Koufuku International Limited and representatives of dairy farmers groups from Thimphu, Chukha, Wangduephodrang and Trashigang.
The consultative workshop aims to gather feedback from all stakeholders and develop a comprehensive and inclusive National Standards for milk and yoghurt which will serve as the basis for quality improvement of milk and milk products. The standards will encourage the production of hygienic milk throughout the entire dairy value chain with the objective of introducing a quality based milk grading and payment system. Through the development and initiation of the required standards the dairy sector is expected to progress towards commercialization with enhanced product diversification to address import substitution and food safety.

Reported by; Dairy Post-production Sector, NDDC

04/04/2026