The Agriculture and Livestock Ministry has allocated Nu 180.5 M to enhance the country’s yak population through various strategies in the 13th Five-Year Plan. The minister outlined the plans when the Bji-Katso-Uesu MP expressed concerns about the declining yak population in the country. The MP asked about the ministry’s plans to support those who rely on yak for their livelihoods.
According to the agriculture and livestock minister, the decline in the yak population can be attributed to climate change, outbreaks of diseases such as lumpy skin disease, and declining interest among youth to rear yak.
To address these issues, the minister announced more than five initiatives.
Around Nu 20 M has been allocated for providing artificial insemination services, breeding bulls, and a semen processing laboratory.
Additionally, over Nu 45 M has been allocated to procure high-quality vaccines for yaks, as well as necessary machinery and tents.
Around Nu 9 M has been allocated to the Bhutan Yak Federation.
“In agriculture, the primary challenge is the inability to produce sufficient products, which results in lower earnings. Therefore, organisations such as the Bhutan Yak Federation will assist in providing services to our farmers,” said Younten Phuntsho, Agriculture and Livestock Minister.
Furthermore, more than Nu 30 M has been allocated for the management of pasture lands.
According to the agriculture and livestock minister, these initiatives are aimed at revitalising the yak population.
According to the National Statistics Bureau’s Livestock Census 2021, the country’s yak population stood at over 38,500.
With nearly 11,000, Thimphu has the highest yak population.
Deki Lhazom
Edited by Sonam Pem
