Non-Wood Forest Products of Bhutan
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Transitions in Seed Sovereignty in Western Bhutan
Transitions in Seed Sovereignty in Western Bhutan Mai KOBAYASHI*, Rekha CHHETRI**, Katsue FUKAMACHI***, and Shozo SHIBATA*** Abstract: This paper attempts to examine Bhutan’s transitioning agricultural sector through shedding light on the history of the government initiated seed production and distribution programs, and its influence on farming households in western Bhutan. A framework for seed system development is used, based on the recognition that there are two district seed procurement systems: formal (outsourced commercial seed production) and informal (non-commercial household, or community-based). The analysis is based on a household questionnaire survey and interviews conducted in western Bhutan and Japan in 2014 and 2015. Emphasis is placed on Japan’s influence on the formal seed system, notably through the introduction of improved vegetable seed varieties in the mid-1960s, and hybrid vegetable seeds since 2006. The household survey revealed varied but sustained coexistence between the two seed systems, with a high rate of seed saving as a common thread in all communities. Variation between districts reflected degree and maturity of market integration, and the increasing popularity of hybrid seeds. Key Words: Formal and informal seed systems, Rural development, Seed sovereignty, Vegetable production, Western Bhutan Discussions of food self-sufficiency and food INTRODUCTION security have been central to the Bhutanese government’s vision of development since the Bhutan is a nation that has been celebrated for drafting and implementation of its first five-year its progressive approach to development. Their development plan in 1961 (Daly and Thinley, announcement to become the first 100% organic 2005; Minot, 2010; RGoB 1966, 1972). -
Bhutan's Accelerating Urbanization
Document of The World Bank Public Disclosure Authorized Report No.: 62072 Public Disclosure Authorized PROJECT PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT REPORT KINGDOM OF BHUTAN URBAN DEVELOPMENT PROJECT (CREDIT 3310) June 13, 2011 Public Disclosure Authorized IEG Public Sector Evaluation Independent Evaluation Group Public Disclosure Authorized Currency Equivalents (annual averages) Currency Unit = Bhutanese Ngultrum (Nu) 1999 US$1.00 Nu 43.06 2000 US$1.00 Nu 44.94 2001 US$1.00 Nu 47.19 2002 US$1.00 Nu 48.61 2003 US$1.00 Nu 46.58 2004 US$1.00 Nu 45.32 2005 US$1.00 Nu 44.10 2006 US$1.00 Nu 45.31 2007 US$1.00 Nu 41.35 2006 US$1.00 Nu 43.51 2007 US$1.00 Nu 48.41 Abbreviations and Acronyms ADB Asian Development Bank BNUS Bhutan National Urbanization Strategy CAS Country Assistance Strategy CPS Country Partnership Strategy DANIDA Danish International Development Agency DUDES Department of Urban Development and Engineering Services (of MOWHS) GLOF Glacial Lake Outburst Flood ICR Implementation Completion Report IEG Independent Evaluation Group IEGWB Independent Evaluation Group (World Bank) MOF Ministry of Finance MOWHS Ministry of Works & Human Settlement PPAR Project Performance Assessment Report RGOB Royal Government of Bhutan TA Technical Assistance Fiscal Year Government: July 1 – June 30 Director-General, Independent Evaluation : Mr. Vinod Thomas Director, IEG Public Sector Evaluation : Ms. Monika Huppi (Acting) Manager, IEG Public Sector Evaluation : Ms. Monika Huppi Task Manager : Mr. Roy Gilbert i Contents Principal Ratings ............................................................................................................... -
Continuing Customs of Negotiation and Contestation in Bhutan
Continuing Customs of Negotiation and Contestation in Bhutan Adam Pain and Deki Pema∗∗ Introduction A concern for the maintenance of traditional values and customs in the processes of modernisation within Bhutan is evident in much of Bhutan’s official documentation. The fundamental importance given to the maintenance and fostering of Buddhism, its beliefs and associated institutions reflected in Bhutan’s rich culture, is constantly returned to and emphasized in commentary. Thus the establishment of the Special Commission for Cultural Affairs in 1985 “is seen as a reflection of the great importance placed upon the preservation of the country’s unique and distinct religious and cultural traditions and values, expressed in the customs, manners, language, dress, arts and crafts which collectively define Bhutan’s national identity” (Ministry of Planning, 1996, p.193). Equally the publication of a manual on Bhutanese Etiquette (Driglam Namzhag) by the National Library of Bhutan was hopeful that it “would serve as a significant foundation in the process of cultural preservation and cultural synthesis” (Publishers Forward, National Library, 1999). One strand of analysis that could be pursued concerns the very construct of “traditional” and what is constituted as “within” or “without” that tradition. As Hobsbawm (1983) reminds us with respect to the British Monarchy, much of the ceremonial associated with it is of recent origin. Equally national flags, national anthems and even the nation state, are, as Hobsbawm would have it, “ invented traditions” designed largely to “ inculcate certain values and norms of behaviour by repetition, which automatically implies continuity with ∗ Research Fellow, School of Development Studies, University of East Anglia & Planning Officer, Policy & Planning Division, Ministry of Agriculture, Thimphu 219 Continuing Customs of Negotiation and Contestation in Bhutan the past” (op. -
Gross National Happiness for the Global Goals
Thirteenth Round Table Meeting 15-16 March, 2017 Thimphu, Bhutan Gross National Happiness for the Global Goals Report of the 13th Round Table Meeting Between Bhutan and its Development Partners Prepared by the Joint Task Force for the 13th RTM Royal Government of Bhutan and the United Nations in Bhutan In partnership with the United Nations Development Programme 1 Photo 1: Guests and participants Photo 2: Technical sessions CONTENTS 1. Introduction .............................................................................. 3 2. Summary of Proceedings ........................................................... 5 Inaugural Address ............................................................................ 5 Introductory Remarks ....................................................................... 6 Launch of the 12th FYP Guidelines ....................................................... 7 Opening of Side Events ..................................................................... 9 Technical Sessions ......................................................................... 10 Concluding Session ........................................................................ 10 3. Main Areas of Discussion...........................................................11 (i) GNH Concept and Operationalization: Findings from the 2015 GNH Survey and Index ............................................................................. 11 History and Concept ....................................................................... 11 Developing Assessment -
6 Dzongs of Bhutan - Architecture and Significance of These Fortresses
6 Dzongs of Bhutan - Architecture and Significance of These Fortresses Nestled in the great Himalayas, Bhutan has long been the significance of happiness and peace. The first things that come to one's mind when talking about Bhutan are probably the architectures, the closeness to nature and its strong association with the Buddhist culture. And it is just to say that a huge part of the country's architecture has a strong Buddhist influence. One such distinctive architecture that you will see all around Bhutan are the Dzongs, they are beautiful and hold a very important religious position in the country. Let's talk more about the Dzongs in Bhutan. What are the Bhutanese Dzongs? Wangdue Phodrang Dzong in Bhutan (Source) Dzongs can be literally translated to fortress and they represent the majestic fortresses that adorn every corner of Bhutan. Dzong are generally a representation of victory and power when they were built in ancient times to represent the stronghold of Buddhism. They also represent the principal seat for Buddhist school responsible for propagating the ideas of the religion. Importance of Dzongs in Bhutan Rinpung Dzong in Paro, home to the government administrative offices and monastic body of the district (Source) The dzongs in Bhutan serve several purposes. The two main purposes that these dzongs serve are administrative and religious purposes. A part of the building is dedicated for the administrative purposes and a part of the building to the monks for religious purposes. Generally, this distinction is made within the same room from where both administrative and religious activities are conducted. -
Farming and Biodiversity of Pigs in Bhutan
Animal Genetic Resources, 2011, 48, 47–61. © Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, 2011 doi:10.1017/S2078633610001256 Farming and biodiversity of pigs in Bhutan K. Nidup1,2, D. Tshering3, S. Wangdi4, C. Gyeltshen5, T. Phuntsho5 and C. Moran1 1Centre for Advanced Technologies in Animal Genetics and Reproduction (REPROGEN), Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Australia; 2College of Natural Resources, Royal University of Bhutan, Lobesa, Bhutan; 3Department of Livestock, National Pig Breeding Centre, Ministry of Agriculture, Thimphu, Bhutan; 4Department of Livestock, Regional Pig and Poultry Breeding Centre, Ministry of Agriculture, Lingmithang, Bhutan; 5Department of Livestock, Regional Pig and Poultry Breeding Centre, Ministry of Agriculture, Gelephu, Bhutan Summary Pigs have socio-economic and cultural importance to the livelihood of many Bhutanese rural communities. While there is evidence of increased religious disapproval of pig raising, the consumption of pork, which is mainly met from imports, is increasing every year. Pig development activities are mainly focused on introduction of exotic germplasm. There is an evidence of a slow but steady increase in the population of improved pigs in the country. On the other hand, indigenous pigs still comprise 68 percent of the total pig population but their numbers are rapidly declining. If this trend continues, indigenous pigs will become extinct within the next 10 years. Once lost, this important genetic resource is largely irreplaceable. Therefore, Government of Bhutan must make an effort to protect, promote and utilize indigenous pig resources in a sustainable manner. In addition to the current ex situ conservation programme based on cryopre- servation of semen, which needs strengthening, in situ conservation and a nucleus farm is required to combat the enormous decline of the population of indigenous pigs and to ensure a sustainable source of swine genetic resources in the country. -
The Next Generation Bhutan Foundation Annual Report 2016
The Next Generation Bhutan Foundation Annual Report 2016 Our nation’s vision can only be fulfilled if the scope of our dreams and aspirations are matched by the reality of our commitment to nurturing our future citizens. —His Majesty the King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck Table of Contents 4 A time to invest in the Future: Letters from our Co-Chairs and President 8 Youth citizen scientists research how environment responds to climate change 10 Tiger, tiger, burning bright! 13 How solving a community problem can protect snow leopards 15 Bhutan’s history, my history: A student explains the importance of cultural heritage 16 Teaching the next generation of health-care workers 18 Young medical professionals take health care to mountains, glaciers, and beyond 21 Specialized training means better services for children with disabilities 23 How simple agricultural innovation can provide hope 24 How the young and old bring a community back to life 26 Civil society organizations play important role in youth participation 29 Our Partners 30 Bhutan Foundation Grants Fiscal Year 2016 34 Financial Overview 36 Ways to Give 38 Our Team Table of Contents 4 A time to invest in the Future: Letters from our Co-Chairs and President 8 Youth citizen scientists research how environment responds to climate change 10 Tiger, tiger, burning bright! 13 How solving a community problem can protect snow leopards 15 Bhutan’s history, my history: A student explains the importance of cultural heritage 16 Teaching the next generation of health-care workers 18 Young medical professionals take health care to mountains, glaciers, and beyond 21 Specialized training means better services for children with disabilities 23 How simple agricultural innovation can provide hope 24 How the young and old bring a community back to life 26 Civil society organizations play important role in youth participation 29 Our Partners 30 Bhutan Foundation Grants Fiscal Year 2016 34 Financial Overview 36 Ways to Give 38 Our Team A Time to Invest . -
Phuentsholing Bypass Road Resettlement Plan (As of Board
Resettlement Plan March 2014 BHU: SASEC Road Connectivity Project Phuentsholing Bypass Road 1 Prepared by the Phuentsholing Thromde for the Asian Development Bank. CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS (as of 12 March 2014) Currency unit – Bhutanese Ngultrum Nu 1.00 = $ 0.01637 $1.00 = Nu 61.0800 ABBREVIATIONS ADB – Asian Development Bank DH – Displaced household DP – Displaced person EA – Executing Agency GRC – Grievance Redressal Committee IA – Implementing Agency ROW – Right-of-way RP – Resettlement plan SPS – Safeguard Policy Statement NOTE In this report, "$" refers to US dollars. This resettlement plan is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. Your attention is directed to the “terms of use” section of this website. In preparing any country program or strategy, financing any project, or by making any designation of or reference to a particular territory or geographic area in this document, the Asian Development Bank does not intend to make any judgments as to the legal or other status of any territory or area. TABLE OF CONTENT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................ I I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................. 1 II. SCOPE OF LAND ACQUISITION .................................................................................. 2 III. SOCIOECONOMIC INFORMATION -
Moshi Landslide Hazard Risk Assessment Report and Maps
DEPARTMENT OF GEOLOGY AND MINES MINISTRY OF ECONOMIC AFFAIRS ___________________________________________________________ Integrated Geo-Hazard Risk Assessment of Critical Landslides at Moshi, Samdrupjongkhar-Trashigang Highway, Wamrong Dungkhag under Trashigang Dzongkhag Department of Geology and Mines Field Season: 2014-2015 ______________________________________________________________________ DEPARTMENT OF GEOLOGY AND MINES MINISTRY OF ECONOMIC AFFAIRS ___________________________________________________________ Integrated Geo-Hazard Risk Assessment of Critical Landslides at Moshi, Samdrupjongkhar-Trashigang Highway, Wamrong Dungkhag under Trashigang Dzongkhag Department of Geology and Mines Field Season: 2014-2015 ______________________________________________________________________ ABOUT DEPARTMENT OF GEOLOGY & MINES (DGM) Established in 1981 as Division initially and upgraded later to department, Department of Geology and Mines under Ministry of Economic Affairs is the only geo-scientific institution in the Kingdom of Bhutan mandated to carry out and manage geo-scientific and mining activities. Currently, the mandates of the department are fulfilled through four divisions namely: (1) Geological Survey Division; (2) Earthquake and Geophysics Division; (3) Mineral Development Division; and (4) Mining Division. Contact Address: Department of Geology and Mines Ministry of Economic Affairs Royal Government of Bhutan Thimphu: BHUTAN P.O. Box: 173 Telephone: +975-2-323096 Web: www.moea.gov.bt ABOUT THIS REPORT This report is in accordance -
IEE: Bhutan: Urban Infrastructure Development Project
Draft Initial Environmental Examination - Updated March 2010 Draft Initial Environmental Examination Updated August 2012 ________________________________________________________________________________________ Bhutan: Urban Infrastructure Development Project Project Number: 38049 Prepared by K.D Chamling, Environment Engineer, Project Management Consultants Department of Urban Development and Engineering Services, Ministry of Works and Human Settlement, Thimphu The initial environmental examination is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature Asian Development Bank Table of Contents _ Section Page I. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................ 1 II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT ................................................................................ 1 A. PROJECT TYPE ................................................................................................... 1 Infrastucture .......................................................................................................... 1 B. PROJECT CATEGORY ....................................................................................... 1 C. NEED FOR THE PROJECT .................................................................................. 1 D. PROJECT SCOPE ............................................................................................... 1 E. PROJECT -
Exploring the Dragon Kingdom
EXPLORING THE DRAGON KINGDOM The Essence of Bhutan 13 Nights and 14 Days No treks but plenty of good day hikes Day 1 BANGKOK TO PARO (8000 feet) Today is your flight to Bhutan. As we near Bhutan (and if the weather is clear), we can see the massive peaks of the eastern Himalaya, including Kanchenchunga (third highest mountain in the world) and Bhutan's holy mountain, Chomolhari. Once we’ve completed visa formalities we proceed through customs and immigration and meet our Bhutanese tour leader and drivers in the arrival gate. We drive for about 20 minutes to Zhiwaling Hotel where will be received with a Chipdrel Ceremony (an elaborate Traditional welcome procession). After settling into our comfortable hotel, we’ll drive a short distance up the valley to Drukyel Dzong, the ruined fortress that protected the Paro Valley from Tibetan armies during the 18th century. If the weather is clear, we might have a glimpse of the white pyramid of Chomolhari, rising over the end of the valley. Today being our first day, we will undergo this gentle 30 minutes hike around the ruined Dzong to acclimatize before we return to our hotel. By early evening we return to our hotel for a welcome dinner and a brief trip orientation session. Zhiwaling Hotel Day 2 PARO We have a full day to explore the Paro Valley. Our first stop in Paro is the Ta Dzong (National Museum), a circular fortress that once protected this valley from Tibetan invasion. The impressive watchtower can be seen above Paro Rimpung Dzong, and it commands sweeping views of the valley below. -
The Kingdom of Bhutan Health System Review
Health Sy Health Systems in Transition Vol. 7 No. 2 2017 s t ems in T r ansition Vol. 7 No. 2 2017 The Kingdom of Bhutan Health System Review The Asia Pacific Observatory on Health Systems and Policies (the APO) is a collaborative partnership of interested governments, international agencies, The Kingdom of Bhutan Health System Review foundations, and researchers that promotes evidence-informed health systems policy regionally and in all countries in the Asia Pacific region. The APO collaboratively identifies priority health system issues across the Asia Pacific region; develops and synthesizes relevant research to support and inform countries' evidence-based policy development; and builds country and regional health systems research and evidence-informed policy capacity. ISBN-13 978 92 9022 584 3 Health Systems in Transition Vol. 7 No. 2 2017 The Kingdom of Bhutan Health System Review Written by: Sangay Thinley: Ex-Health Secretary, Ex-Director, WHO Pandup Tshering: Director General, Department of Medical Services, Ministry of Health Kinzang Wangmo: Senior Planning Officer, Policy and Planning Division, Ministry of Health Namgay Wangchuk: Chief Human Resource Officer, Human Resource Division, Ministry of Health Tandin Dorji: Chief Programme Officer, Health Care and Diagnostic Division, Ministry of Health Tashi Tobgay: Director, Human Resource and Planning, Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan Jayendra Sharma: Senior Planning Officer, Policy and Planning Division, Ministry of Health Edited by: Walaiporn Patcharanarumol: International Health Policy Program, Thailand Viroj Tangcharoensathien: International Health Policy Program, Thailand Asia Pacific Observatory on Health Systems and Policies i World Health Organization, Regional Office for South-East Asia. The Kingdom of Bhutan health system review.