The Bhutanese Leading the way.
Member of Parliament (MP), Lhendup Wangdi, from Bji-Katso-Uesu Constituency raised concerns about the challenges faced by highlanders’ dependent on yak farming. In response, the Minister for Agriculture and Livestock (MoAL), Younten Phuntsho, outlined comprehensive initiatives under the 13th Five-Year Plan (FYP) to address declining yak populations, improve rangelands, and support highlanders with essential facilities. The Minister also highlighted efforts to enhance the quality and branding of yak products, such as cheese, to make them competitive in international markets.
He emphasized the vital role of highlanders in preserving culture and traditions, acknowledging their continuous contributions in this regard.
Lyonpo Younten Phuntsho said, “The decline in the yak population is adversely affecting highlanders. Several factors, including diseases like lumpy skin disease, which has been exacerbated by climate change, is leading to the spread of infections.”
“Additionally, the quality of rangelands has been deteriorating, and unpredictable weather patterns ranging from no snowfall to excessive snowfall have resulted in significant yak fatalities. Furthermore, the migration of youth to cities and towns, driven by disinterest in traditional lifestyles, has added to the challenges faced by highlanders,” he added.
To address these issues, the Minister outlined key initiatives under the 13th FYP, such as the yak breeding and health.
The Minister said that there will be rigorous artificial insemination services, and the provision of breeding bulls. Establishment of a semen processing lab, with an allocated budget of Nu 20 million (mn). Another Nu 15 mn is allocated for medicines to tackle increasing disease cases among yaks.
Nu 30 mn has been earmarked to support highlanders for provisions like essential machinery and durable tents for highlanders. Formation of groups such as the Bhutan Yak Federation and cooperatives to address low production volumes is supported by a budget of Nu 9 mn. Another Nu 30 mn is allocated to protect and improve rangelands.
Lyonpo assured that the additional support measures are in the pipeline to further address the challenges faced by highlanders and sustain their traditional way of life.
In response to MP Tashi Tenzin of Radhi-Sakteng Constituency’s question on the importance of developing and standardizing high-end niche products, such as yak cheese, to meet international market standards, Lyonpo Younten Phuntsho said, “When considering the launch of these products in the global market, we must ensure they can compete in terms of quality and taste. To achieve this, we will focus on enhancing branding efforts and improving product quality to make them more appealing and competitive internationally.”
