The Agriculture Research and Development Centre (ARDC), Bajo, is hosting a two-week Rice Breeding and Hybridization Training Programme from 17 to 31 August 2026 to strengthen the technical capacity of Bhutanese rice researchers in rice breeding and varietal development.
The opening ceremony of the training programme was graced by His Excellency Sanam Lyonpo, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, on 17 August 2026 at ARDC Bajo. The Minister was accompanied by the Director of Agriculture and the Chief of the Human Resource Division, MoAL.
The training is being conducted under the Competency and Professional Development (CPD) Programme of the Royal Civil Service Commission (RCSC), with financial support from the Government of India. A total of 15 rice researchers from Agriculture Research Centres are participating in the programme.
The field-based training focuses on strengthening participants’ practical knowledge and technical skills in rice breeding and hybridization. Through hands-on field and laboratory activities, participants are gaining experience in hybridisation, selection, and the management of early-generation breeding materials, with the objective of strengthening their capacity to develop improved rice varieties suited to Bhutanese conditions.
As the lead centre for rice research in Bhutan, ARDC Bajo is providing the field and institutional platform for the training. The programme is being supported technically by experts from the College of Natural Resources (CNR), providing an opportunity to strengthen collaboration between agricultural research and academic institutions.
Upon completion of the training, participating researchers will receive basic tools and equipment to support rice breeding activities at their respective research centres. A joint collaborative work plan will also be developed to ensure continuity of breeding activities, promote knowledge sharing, and strengthen collaboration among the participating research centres.
The training represents an important step towards strengthening Bhutan’s national capacity in rice breeding and varietal development and supporting the development of rice varieties that are productive, locally adapted, and responsive to the needs and preferences of Bhutanese farmers.