ARDC Bajo in collaboration with NCOA, Yusipang conducted a two-day Training of Trainers (ToT) program on quinoa cultivation and utilization was held from September 25-26 for Agriculture Extension Officers from Tsirang and Dagana Districts. The workshop aimed to equip the 21 officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote quinoa production in their regions, highlighting quinoa’s potential to improve nutrition and boost economic resilience in Bhutan. The program was funded by FAO/FVC.
The training covered key topics such as quinoa’s production system, value chain, and research priorities in Bhutan, along with lessons from China’s experience in quinoa cultivation. Officers also participated in product development activities, creating quinoa-based dishes like porridge, dresi, kheer, and pancakes to demonstrate how quinoa can be integrated into local diets.
Concerns regarding market access were addressed by introducing the Price Guarantee System (PGS). Quinoa was designated as an OGOP (One Gewog One Product) for Serigithang Gewog, and plans were discussed for product development and community-level processing equipment. The workshop also outlined future initiatives, including quinoa cultivation demonstrations in wetland areas, increased seed supply for Dagana and Tsirang, and farmer awareness programs in Dagana. Additionally, ongoing research into improving seed germination and exploring the potential of quinoa ratooning was discussed. This training has set the stage for broader adoption and enhanced cultivation of quinoa in Bhutan.