The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock convenes the MoAL Conference under the theme “From Policy and Strategy to Implementation: Advancing Agrifood Systems Transformation” from 25 to 27 March 2026 at the Ugyen Wangchuck Institute of Forestry Research and Training in Lamaigoempa, Bumthang.
The conference was graced by Lyonpo Younten Phuntsho, Hon’ble Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, and brought together over 130 participants from the agriculture and livestock sector, including Economic Development and Marketing Officers from across 20 Dzongkhags, policymakers, senior government officials, and extension representatives.
Over the three-day conference, participants will deliberate on key policy directions, review ongoing programmes, and identify strategic priorities to accelerate the transformation of Bhutan’s agrifood systems. The conference will also provide a platform for sharing field experiences, fostering collaboration, and promoting innovative and evidence-based approaches to achieving the 13th FYP targets.
In his keynote address, His Excellency (H.E) underscored the critical importance of strengthened collaboration, calling for closer alignment and a shared commitment to enhance food security, promote sustainable rural livelihoods, and build a resilient agrifood systems for the nation. Emphasizing unity and collective purpose as the Ministry’s greatest strength, H.E urged enhanced coordination among policymakers, departments and agencies, researchers, and local government officials, including field extension personnel, to effectively respond to emerging challenges and deliver meaningful results. Highlighting the need for tangible and impactful outcomes, H.E stressed a stronger focus on translating plans into real change on the ground. Recognizing the significant responsibility of the Ministry to enhance performance and impact in line with the 21st Century Economic Roadmap, H.E encouraged the participants to draw inspiration from His Majesty the King as the guiding North Star, embodying selfless service to the nation.
Key areas of focus include tracking and reviewing the progress of the 13th Five-Year Plan; implementation of the National Crop and Livestock Insurance Scheme, and the Cost Sharing Mechanism 2025 to build a more resilient agrifood sector during the 13th Five Year Plan period; strengthening the linkages from research to policy and action; enhancing agricultural marketing systems for improved market access; reviewing key project updates; and leveraging integrated digital systems to support data-driven decision-making. In addition, the conference will highlight success stories from the field, showcasing best practices and lessons learned.
The Conference is being organized in collaboration with the FAO Bhutan and the United Nations Food Systems Coordination Hub (https://www.facebook.com/UNFoodSystems).
