REPORT

BHUTAN TCP/BHU/3004

Virtual Extension and Research Communication Network (VERCON)1

September 19, 2006 – December 18, 2006

MR. JOSELITO A. PAYOT

FAO TCDC Consultant Agricultural Research and Extension Linkages

and Information Management

Thimphu, Bhutan December 2006

1 This mission report is submitted to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), Bhutan as part of his consultancy to the project “Virtual Extension and Research Communication Network (VERCON)”. This report may be quoted with due acknowledgement of the Consultant. Please send queries to jojopayot@yahoo.com.

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Consultant initially worked at the Ministry of Agriculture-Information and Communication Services (MOA-ICS) as VERCON’s TCDC Expert in Agricultural Research and Extension Linkages from 19 June to 18 September 2006. Before his contract ended, Ms. Pema Lhamo, the National Project Coordinator (NPC) and ICS Director, indicated her intention to extend the Consultant’s contract for another three months. The proposed extension was discussed during the FAO-ICS teleconferencing activity last 13 September 2006. After numerous consultations and negotiations between FAO, ICS and the Consultant, the extension was approved for three months effective 19 September to 18 December 2006 with agreed revised terms of reference in Agricultural Research and Extension Linkages and Information Management. The Consultant’s extension started with follow-up assessments and discussions with network stakeholders and the project team composed of NPC, Mr. Karma Dhendup (IT Consultant), and Mr. Sangay Tenzin (Content Manager) related to agricultural information management in Bhutan. The Consultant gathered baseline information on institutions that are actively doing agricultural and rural information systems before the VERCON project began in November 2005. The team then analyzed and reviewed the stakeholders’ information needs, their existing information service providers and the information and communication systems, general problems that are work-related, priority commodities in the region and technology topics, medium to access and disseminate information, ownership of communication equipment, and training needs. The outputs were important in coming-up with system design for VERCON-Bhutan. Based on analysis, the Consultant proposed to design and develop a need-based website and which will be the most visible outcome of the VERCON project. To differentiate it from the MOA website, the project team deliberated the issue with a VERCON-Bhutan Interim Group which endorsed the proposal to develop a distinct website to the National Steering Committee (NSC) for approval. The NSC approved the development of a VERCON-Bhutan website after being clarified of the difference and relevance from the MOA website. The NSC also encouraged the team to ensure that VERCON makes farming more attractive, that is, VERCON should be agriculture information base so that farmers get whatever information they need from the system (through the extension agents), thereby making farming easy and more attractive. Originally, there were 10 systems included out of 17 information needs identified to jumpstart VERCON-Bhutan pilot phase operation. As a start, the website will address the information needs for the 12 commodities, namely: rice, chili, potato, tomato, walnut, pear, dairy (cattle), poultry (chicken), piggery, feed and fodder, bamboo and Pangtse (Symplocus paniculata) – a species preferred by the farmers for its oil seed. The 10 systems, however, were further trimmed down to six systems based on deliberations with the FAO mission of Ms. Sophie Treinen and Mr. Michael Riggs. The six systems will include the following: Agri-Inputs information, Technology information, Directory services, Questions and Answers, Geog profile, and Links. Subsequent changes to the website were also suggested.

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In collaboration with the team, the Consultant provided his technical inputs in the development of functional specification design and architecture. Initially, issues were being deliberated among this Consultant, IT Consultant, and Content Manager after which suggestions were brought to NPCs attention for comments and approval. The NPC also informs the MOA Secretary Dasho Sangay Thinley (NSC Chair) via a copy of project-related communication for kind information and appropriate action. Noting that technology is a major felt need among extension agents and researchers, the Consultant coordinated the holding of a “Workshop on the Preparation of a Package of Technology for Identified Commodities and Geog Information for Web Posting”. The workshop was done at Bajo research centre in collaboration with Bajo researchers, Regional Research and Communication Officers (RRCO), and extension agents from three Geog pilot sites (Limbu, Lobesa, and Gaselo) who expressed the need to come up with technology information materials. The Consultant then coordinated a follow-up writeshop with researchers to fast-track the preparation of 12 technology information materials of priority commodities and on pest and disease management. Finally, he organized the pre-testing of these materials with extension agents, researchers, and RRCOs prior to endorsing these to the Council for RNR Research in Bhutan (CoRRB) for possible inclusion in the Digital Compendium for RNR Technologies – a web-based repository of RNR information materials from various MOA agencies. With training as another major need of stakeholders, the Consultant finalized the schedule/duration, venue, number of participants, and budget for six training programmes identified based on discussions with FAO mission, NSC, and subsequently with the project team. He also coordinated and served as resource person in the conduct of the first training on Internet Basics with extension agents held at the College of Natural Resources in Lobesa, Thimphu from 04-08 December 2006. The Consultant also made use of the opportunity to promote VERCON-Bhutan to extension agents and get their feedback as what he had done during the workshop on packaging and/or pre-testing of technologies. As part of the promotion, the Consultant discussed with RNR service providers the importance of VERCON-Bhutan and he was pleased to hear that most of them are already aware of VERCON and appreciated the relevance of the system since they have been consulted earlier starting with project proposal preparation. The Consultant also provided the Content Manager with initial questions about VERCON-Bhutan as a guide for his radio interview with BBS that was conducted in Sharchopkha language targeting eastern Bhutan. The Consultant later on submitted a Q&A about VERCON-Bhutan to the NPC for future reference. He also identified additional promotional activities such as the mass media (radio, TV, broadsheet, Newsletter), the Annual RNR Expo and Conference, upcoming trainings, meetings, and official launching of VERCON-Bhutan. The main conclusion from this mission is that the project is still half-way towards putting-up the system in place. In any case, the Consultant and the team members are pleased to see the system already shaping up and the network members’ eagerness to cooperate and improve the systems’ operation. The following recommendations are directed towards continuing the gains made so far:

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1. Continue system design with important issues followed up as appropriate and present this to NSC and network members to get their feedback. Also, carry on with the write-up of the functional specification design and architecture;

2. Conduct field-testing with network members and fine-tune the system as needed.

Also, develop the protocols of the system modules to guide network members; 3. Ensure that network members will undergo trainings as planned; 4. Promote VERCON-Bhutan based on identified mechanisms, including its planned

launching; 5. Strengthen collaboration with other agencies doing work on agricultural and rural

information systems; and 6. Consider the preparation of VERCON-Bhutan Phase 2 based on previous assessments

and learning experiences.

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ABBREVIATIONS AGORA - Access to Global Online Research in Agriculture AFD – Administrative and Finance Division AGRIS – International Information System for the Agricultural Sciences and Technology AIMS - Agricultural Information Management Standards, Also, Agricultural Information

Management Section AMC – Agricultural Machinery Centre AMS – Agricultural Marketing Services ASMEP - Application System for Monitoring and Evaluation Procedure AGFUND – Arab Gulf Programme for United Nations Development Organizations APAARI - Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions AEPO – Assistant Extension Programme Officer AV – Audio-Visual BAFRA – Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority BBS – Bhutan Broadcasting Services CD-ROM – Compact Disc-Read-Only Memory CIC – Community Information Center CIRAD - Centre de Cooperation Internationale en Recherche Agronomique pour le

Développement CNR – College of Natural Resources CGIAR - Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research CoRRB – Council for RNR Research in Bhutan DANIDA - Danish International Development Agency DOA – Department of Agriculture DOF – Department of Forestry DIT – Department of Information Technology DOL – Department of Livestock DSLR – Department of Survey and Land Records DSC – Druk Seed Corporation DVD - Digital Versatile Disc or Digital Video Disc EPO – Extension Programme Officer FAO – Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations FAOBT – FAO Bhutan FNPP - FAO-Netherlands Partnership Program Bhutan FAOPH – FAO Philippines FAORAP – FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific FYM – Farm Yard Manure FCB – Food Corporation of Bhutan FMD – Foot and Mouth Disease FIMS – Forest Information Management Section FRDD - Forest Resources Development Division FDCL - Forestry Development Corporation, Limited FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions FTP – File Transfer Protocol FYP – Five Year Plan

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GYT - Geog Yargay Tshogchung GILF – WAICENT Capacity Building and Outreach Branch GFAR - Global Forum on Agricultural Research HW – Hardware HQ – Headquarters HYV – High Yielding Varieties HORTINET – Horticulture Information Network HTML – Hyper Text Mark-up Language HTTP – Hyper Text Transfer Protocol IRR - Implementing Rules and Regulations IRRI – International Rice Research Institute ICA – Indian Council for Agricultural Research ICO – Information and Communication Officer ICS – Information and Communication Services ICT – Information and Communication Technology IEC – Information, Education and Communication IMARK – Information Management Resource Kit IMS – Information Management Section IT – Information Technology IDRC – International Development Research Center of Canada ISP – Internet Service Provider IPM – Integrated Pest Management KBPS – kilobit per second LCD – Liquid Crystal Display LIMS – Livestock Information Management Section LAN – Local Area Network MS – Microsoft Mini DV – Mini digital video MOA – Ministry of Agriculture MTI - Ministry of Trade and Industry MMTK – Multimedia Training Kit NBC - National Biodiversity Centre NCD – Nature Conservation Division NCAH – National Center for Animal Health NLBP - National Livestock Breeding Programme NPPC – National Plant Protection Centre NPHC – National Post Harvest Centre NPC – National Project Coordinator NSSC – National Soil Service Centre NSC – National Steering Committee NSB - National Statistical Bureau NRTI – Natural Resources Training Institute Nu – Ngultrum NFE – Non-formal education OSIS – One-Stop-Information-Shop POT – Package of Technology

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PC – Personal computer PPD – Policy and Planning Division PDF – Portable Document Format PAM - Production, Accessibility, and Marketing PD – Programme Director Q&A – Question and Answer RAPR – Operations Branch, Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific RRCO – Regional Research and Communication Officer RVL – Regional Veterinary Laboratory RNR – Renewable Natural Resources RGOB – Royal Government of Bhutan RNR RC – Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre R&D – Research and Development R&E – Research and Extension SMS – Short Messaging Service; Also, Subject Matter Specialist SFD - Social Forestry Division SNV – Netherlands Development Organization SW – Software SDRE – Sustainable Development Department of FAO for Extension, Education and

Communication Service TCDC – Technical Cooperation for Developing Countries TECA – Technology for Agriculture TFD – Territorial Forestry Division TOR – Terms of Reference URL – Uniform Resource Locator UNV – United Nations Volunteer USA – United States of America VERCON – Virtual Extension and Research Communication Network VCD – Video CD VHS – Vertical Helical Scan WMA – Windows Media Audio WWF – World Wide Fund

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ii ABBREVIATIONS Iv

I. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND TO THE MISSION 1 II. TERMS OF REFERENCE 3 III. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 4 IV. MAIN FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS 5 V. RECOMMENDATIONS 74 VI. ANNEXES ANNEX 1 - MAP OF VERCON-BHUTAN PILOT SITES 75 ANNEX 2 - ORGANOGRAM OF THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE 76 ANNEX 3 - BRIEF SUMMARY OF VARIOUS INFORMATION

NEEDS’ ASSESSMENTS FOR THE RNR SECTOR 77

ANNEX 4 - RESULTS OF VERCON PROJECT TEAM INFORMATION

NEEDS’ ASSESSMENT IN VERCON PILOT SITES, 2006 80

ANNEX 5 - SAMPLE FORMAT FOR A PRESENTATION OF AN

AGRI-INPUT PRODUCT (POWER TILLER) USING THE VERCON-BHUTAN SYSTEM

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ANNEX 6 - DETAILS OF THE PROPOSED FLOW FOR DISTANCE

DIAGNOSIS IN AGRICULTURAL CROPS AND LIVESTOCK USING THE VERCON-BHUTAN SYSTEM

87

ANNEX 7 - USER NEEDS’ ASSESSMENT VS. EXISTING

INFORMATION PRODUCTS IN BHUTAN, BY STAKEHOLDER’S GROUP, AS IT RELATES TO VERCON-BHUTAN SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT

89

ANNEX 8 - CONTENTS FOR THE LINKS MODULE OF VERCON-

BHUTAN WEBSITE 106

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ANNEX 9 - VERCON-BHUTAN SYSTEMS, INITIAL TEAMS’ RECOMMENDATION AND AS DISCUSSED WITH FAO MISSION, FOR INCLUSION DURING THE PILOT PHASE

114

ANNEX 10 - MINUTES OF THE NATIONAL STEERING COMMITTEE

MEETING HELD ON 24 NOVEMBER 2006 AT MOA HEADQUARTERS

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ANNEX 11 - THE VERCON-BHUTAN LEAFLET – FINAL VERSION 119 ANNEX 12 - REVISED DESCRIPTION OF THE SIX MODULES

INCLUDED IN VERCON-BHUTAN AS WELL AS HOMEPAGE AND COPYRIGHT

121

ANNEX 13 - PROPOSED TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR VERCON-

BHUTAN EDITORIAL-QUALITY CONTROL COMMITTEE/GROUP AS SUGGESTED BY MS. SOPHIE TREINEN, FAO-GILF ROME

123

ANNEX 14 - FUNCTIONAL SPECIFICATION DESIGN AND

ARCHITECTURE FOR VERCON-BHUTAN 124

ANNEX 15 - BAJO WORKSHOP OUTPUT ON THE PREPARATION OF

PACKAGE OF TECHNOLOGY AND GEOG INFORMATION FOR WEB POSTING

ANNEX 16 - TECHNOLOGY WRITE-UP AND A BRIEF DESCRIPTION

OF THE NINE COMMODITIES INCLUDED IN VERCON-BHUTAN

ANNEX 17 - EVALUATION RESULTS OF THE PRE-TESTING OF

NINE INFORMATION MATERIALS WITH EXTENSION AGENTS AS ACCOMPANIED BY BAJO RESEARCHERS

ANNEX 18 - TRAINING PROGRAMMES FOR VERCON-BHUTAN ANNEX 19 - BUDGET SUMMARY OF THE FINAL TRAINING PLAN

FOR VERCON-BHUTAN

ANNEX 20 - COURSE SCHEDULE AND MANUAL FOR TRAINING

ON INTERNET BASICS AND TROUBLESHOOTING

ANNEX 21 - RESULTS OF POST-EVALUATION SURVEY ON

TRAINING ON INTERNET BASICS, 04-08 DECEMBER 2006, COLLEGE OF NATURAL RESOURCES IN LOBESA, THIMPHU

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ANNEX 22 - SAMPLE TRAINING CERTIFICATE AND THE

TRAINING PARTICIPANTS

ANNEX 23 - PROPOSED COURSE SCHEDULE AND CURRICULUM

FOR THE FIVE OTHER PLANNED TRAINING PROGRAMMES FOR VERCON-BHUTAN

ANNEX 24 - Q&A ABOUT VERCON-BHUTAN

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I. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND TO THE MISSION 1. The Consultant came to Bhutan for a three-month mission effective 19 June 2006 as “TCDC Expert in Agricultural Research and Extension Linkages” via an FAO-funded VERCON-Bhutan project being administered by the Ministry of Agriculture-Information and Communication Services (MOA-ICS). Before the mission was completed, however, Ms. Pema Lhamo, National Project Coordinator (NPC) and ICS Programme Director, proposed to FAO for the Consultant’s extension by assuming the work of Dr. Srinivasacharyulu Attaluri, proposed Consultant on Information Management, who is supposed to come at the same time with the Consultant as part of the project team. During this mission, the NPC observed that the Consultant already started some of the tasks on information management along with other VERCON project team members – Mr. Karma Dhendup (National IT Consultant) and Mr. Sangay Tenzin (Content Manager) – which were important in coming-up with system design. 2. The proposed extension was deliberated during the FAO-VERCON project team teleconferencing activity last 13 September 2006. The NPC emphasized the importance of the Consultants’ extension by including it as one of the agendum. As agreed upon during the deliberation, the NPC sent the terms of reference (TOR) to FAO for the Consultants’ proposed extension. On 05 October 2005, the Consultant received a one-month extension contract from FAO which stipulates that the Consultant will continue to work on some of the activities related to research and extension (R&E) linkages while acting as a “bridge” between ICS and the forthcoming Consultant on Information Management. With due respect from the NPC, the Consultant referred the proposed 1-month extension contract to Ms. Pema Lhamo who recommended instead for two months extension after Dr. Attaluri failed to come on schedule. After several communication and negotiations between FAO, NPC and the Consultant, the extension was finally approved but this time for three months with agreed revised TOR on Agricultural Research and Extension Linkages and Information Management. 3. The Consultant’s extension commenced on 19 September 2006 with the arrangements and holding of a “Workshop on the Preparation of a Package of Technology for the Identified Commodities and Geog Information for Web Posting”, including the promotion of VERCON project. This was done in collaboration with researchers and Regional Research and Communication Officers (RRCOs) from the Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre (RNR RC) in Bajo as well as extension agents from the three Geog (block) pilot sites, namely: Limbu Geog from Punakha Dzongkhag (district), Lobesa Geog from Thimphu Dzongkhag, and Gaselo Geog from Wangdue Phodrang Dzongkhag (refer to Annex 1 for the map of VERCON pilot sites). A follow-up writeshop with the researchers was conducted to facilitate preparation of the package of technologies on 12 commodities and component technology on common agricultural pests and diseases. As soon as the document is available, the Consultant did technical write-up and editing following the agreed format. Finally, the Consultant coordinated the pre-testing of edited final draft documents at Bajo research centre with extension agents, researchers, and RRCOs.

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4. The Consultant also collaborated with other VERCON project team members composed of NPC, IT Consultant, and Content Manager, in the development of functional specification design and architecture based on information needs’ assessment and capacity building and promotional activities. Deliberations were initially done with IT Consultant and Content Manager after which suggestions were elevated to NPC for approval. The National Steering Committee (NSC) Chair (Secretary Dasho Sangay Thinley) was always furnished a copy of the project-related communication for kind information and appropriate action. 5. The project teams’ outputs and plans were presented to the FAO mission composed of Ms. Sophie Treinen and Mr. Michael Riggs when they visited Bhutan from 13-25 November 2006. This includes the system design and architecture, preparation of package of technologies, training and promotional activities. In turn, the FAO mission briefed the project team of their initial observation as well as FAO requirements and standards for online communities and networks. The project team also coordinated their field visits to the Geog pilot sites and Bajo research centre as well as the presentation of their recommendations to NSC last 24 November 2006 at MOA headquarters in Thimphu. It is during this mission that Mr. Riggs discussed with the Consultant on important points in the preparation of his mission report, which should include other specific tasks that were deemed completed but which FAO requires a complete description in the Consultant’s final report of what has been done to satisfy the task’s specific requirement. 6. The project team deliberated on the Committee’s recommendations with the NPC steering the discussions and subsequently making the final decision. The Consultant has been very appreciative of the team’s cooperation and lively discussion to improve the project’s expected outputs and plans. In fact, the training on Internet basics with extension agents held at the College of Natural Resources in Lobesa, Thimphu from 04-08 December 2006 was a collaborative endeavor of the project team. The Consultant coordinated and acted as resource person while the IT Consultant and the Content Manager served as trainers. The team is expected to carry on with the conduct of five other training programmes for the network members in the coming months. The Consultant also lauded the team’s participation to promote VERCON-Bhutan and has identified additional promotional activities duly approved by NPC. 7. Prior to his departure, the Consultant conducted wrap-up discussion with the project team regarding his mission. The Consultant greatly appreciated the teams’ commendation of his job; a portion of the NPC’s 15 December 2006 e-mail message to Mr. Ricardo del Castillo of FAO Rome herein is quoted: “Mr. Payot has excelled in the contribution towards the project development in terms of fulfillment of his technical outputs as well as advisory functions to the project team. We have had excellent guidance from him in every aspect. We are also appreciative of his very disciplined manner of discharging his duties and analytical capability”. As agreed upon, the Consultant submitted this mission report to the NPC for evaluation and critique as well as endorsement to FAO.

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II. Terms of Reference 8. The Terms of Reference for the 3-month extension is presented below: TCDC Expert in Agricultural Research and Extension Linkages and Information Management

Under the overall supervision of the Operations Branch of the FAO Regional Office for Asia (RAPR), the technical supervision of the Research, Extension and Training Division (SDRE) and the Library and Documentation Systems Division (GIL), and in close collaboration with the NPC and the other project consultants and staff, the expert will continue to assist with the planning, organization and coordination of project activities particularly with respect to the following tasks: Specific tasks: a) Assist with the identification of research and extension institutions currently doing

work on agricultural and rural information systems; b) Complete the review of available studies, including past and ongoing needs

assessments and existing information providers; c) Finalize assessment of existing information networks at all levels (ministry, research,

extension, farmers) to categorize sectors of beneficiaries and other project stakeholders (subsistence peasants, commercial farmers, small traders, local authorities, extension services, cooperating agencies, etc.), and examine how these sectors currently exchange information;

d) Participate in relevant activities and provide inputs to the project information and

networking activities, as requested by the supervisors. This was revised and recommended as “Collaborate with the National IT Consultant and the Content Manager in the development of functional specification design and architecture, as well as field-testing of VERCON-Bhutan system”;

e) With the assistance of the National IT Consultant, ensure the use of international

standards in information management where relevant. This was revised and recommended as “Collect, prepare, and/or revise write-up of need-based information materials, including the pre-testing of relevant materials with extension agents prior to web posting”;

f) Prepare training curriculum and resource materials, incorporating IMARK

(http://www.imarkgroup.org/) modules where appropriate, to train project stakeholders on information management based on the identified additional training needs;

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g) Act as resource person for delivery in all the pilot sites of training courses on specific subjects to be discussed with GILF;

h) Develop a detailed plan for the promotion of VERCON services to extension agents,

researchers, focal persons, and others. This was revised and recommended as “Coordinate and carry-out promotion of VERCON services to extension agents, researchers, focal persons, and others”; and

i) Submit a mission report in electronic format including findings and recommendations

within one month of leaving Bhutan and amend the report in the light of comments received.

III. Acknowledgements 9. Many thanks to the Ministry of Agriculture, especially Secretary Dasho Sangay Thinley (NSC Chair) and Ms. Pema Lhamo (NPC), for believing in the Consultant’s capacity by endorsing the 3-month extension phase of his mission. Also to FAO including Mr. Ricardo del Castillo (SDRE), Mr. Jacob Sterringa (FAORAP), Mr. Phintsho Dorji and Ms. Bindu (FAOBT) for the approval and facilitating transactions as well as administrative matters during the extension. Likewise, to Ms. Sophie Treinen and Mr. Michael Riggs for some thoughtful ideas on information management. He is also indebted to Mr. Sangay Tenzin (Content Manager), Mr. Karma Dhendup (IT Consultant), Mr. Cheku Dorji (Statistical Officer, National Statistics Bureau), Mr. Rinchen (ICT Officer, Royal Civil Service Commission), and MOA-ICS staff for the camaraderie, technical/logistical support, and cordial facilitation during the workshop/writeshop/pre-testing/meetings. 10. The Consultant also wishes to express his gratefulness to Mr. Sangay Duba (RNR RC Bajo Programme Director) who has been constantly supporting the project and Mr. Dorji Dhradhul (Chief, Research and Extension Officer) of the Council for RNR Research in Bhutan (CoRRB) for their active support in the preparation of the package of technologies. To the Bajo researchers, Regional Research and Communication Officers (RRCOs), and the Geog extension agents who actively participated during the workshop/ writeshop/pre-testing/validation, their contribution and assistance is gratefully acknowledged. Likewise, to the Sector Heads for all the support extended to the extension agents and the project. 11. Deep gratitude is also extended to the Directors/staff/Consultant of the Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Information Technology (DIT), National Statistical Bureau (NSB), and Bhutan Broadcasting Service (BBS) who are always accommodating during consultations and validation, to Mr. Dorji Wangchuk (Director of College of Natural Resources) for providing good venue and for gracing the closing ceremony during the week-long training on Internet basics, and to the National Steering Committee for the sound advice and direction.

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IV. Main Findings and Conclusion 12. The main findings and conclusion are presented according to the Consultants’ TOR as follows: 12.1 Assist with the identification of research and extension institutions currently doing work on agricultural and rural information systems 12.1.1 Based on the Consultant’s assessment and discussion with VERCON project team, there are institutions in Bhutan that are actively doing agricultural and rural information systems before the VERCON project began in November 2005. These institutions includes the following: A) The Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) – This institution is the lead agency of the Royal

Government of Bhutan (RGOB) mandated to sustainably develop, manage, and conserve the country’s renewable natural resources (RNR) and to provide crops, livestock, and forestry services to the Bhutanese people. Its headquarters is located in the capital city of Thimphu with various offices located throughout the country. The Ministry of Agriculture is headed by a Minister – the Honourable Lyonpo Sangay Ngedup and is assisted by the Secretary – Dasho Sangay Thinley. There are two deputies assisting the Secretary that are in charge for administrative and finance (AFD) and for policy and planning (PPD). The Ministry operates through the following major institutional groups (see Annex 2 for the organizational structure): a) the Non-Departments like the Information and Communication Services (ICS), Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority (BAFRA), National Biodiversity Centre (NBC), and Agricultural Marketing Services (AMS); b) the Departments consisting of the Department of Agriculture (DOA), Forest (DOF), Livestock (DOL), Council for RNR Research in Bhutan (CoRRB), and Survey and Land Records (DSLR). Each Department has various attached offices with specific mandates; and c) the Corporations consisting of Food Corporation of Bhutan (FCB), Forestry Development Corporation, Limited (FDCL), and Druk Seed Corporation (DSC). The various offices of the Ministry which may have specifically relevance to VERCON are as follows: i) Information and Communication Services (ICS) – Attached under the Non-

Departments group, ICS is the Ministry’s main communication arm, media authority, and publicity centre. The office is located within the MOA headquarters in Thimphu and is lead by a Programme Director (PD).

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ICS has the following main information and knowledge management responsibilities: a) produce information materials in support to RNR programmes; b) serve as repository of RNR information materials for client's use; c) promote RNR programmes; policies and regulations; advocacies; research outputs and extension activities; products and services; and calendar of events/activities; d) serve as the portal of RNR information and activities; and e) organize training on information and communication technology (ICT) for the RNR sector. To do this function, ICS links up with information sources within MOA and the mass media like Bhutan Broadcasting Services (BBS) (national media for radio and television) as well as Kuensel (national newspaper media) and the Department of Information Technology (DIT). The office works closely with the agency head or the authorized agency representative. Currently, ICS has the following RNR information products:

• RNR Newsletter – The official publication of the Ministry. While some RNR

agencies publish their own newsletter, the RNR Newsletter provides a consolidated and holistic overview of RNR with contents ranging from policy issues, developments, news, and breakthroughs. Contributions come from extension, research, Internet, and international newsletters. It is published bi-monthly (6 issues annually) in English and distributed within the Ministry, libraries, educational institutes, other Ministries, and abroad. An electronic version is published in the Ministry’s website;

• Farmer Newsletter – Almost similar to RNR Newsletter, this is also produced

bi-monthly but in Dzongkha (national language) and distributed to extension offices in Geogs (blocks) and to Gups’ (Geog Head) offices. It contains farming tips (about 1-4 topics) with more photos than text. There is a plan to publish the material in the Ministry’s website;

• RNR Extension Diary – This is published annually and distributed to MOA

staff especially extension agents. The booklet contains annual updateable information, events, brief profiles of the Ministry, and a quick reference for information such as the year’s price list of equipment, fertilizers, pesticides, etc. The Diary was conceived to make relevant RNR information handy, to systematize observation by writing down notes and activities in the field, and to give a semi-official status of some RNR policies;

• Leaflets/brochures – A single sheet visual (which may bear print on one or

both sides and maybe folded) that contains brief information about the agency or specific recommended practice or technology. It is distributed within the Ministry, to the 20 Dzongkhags (districts), or to interested clients;

• Posters – This contains information about specific and relevant RNR topic

such as on land management campaign, RNR Annual Expo, etc. The poster is distributed within the Ministry or to interested clients;

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• Newspaper advertisements – This contains brief information about events, management practices, new technologies, farming tips, awareness, activity calendar, etc. that are sent to Kuensel (national newspaper) as announcements and advertisements. ICS has contract with Kuensel for ¼ pages weekly;

• Video-based information materials – ICS produces an annual average of 2-3

video-based, 15-30 minute videos to reinforce the promotion of RNR programmes. Prepared in Dzongkha or English, the videos includes science communication, promotional programmes through documentary of people’s stories (successes or failures), and public service announcements, news and events. It is used during meetings and distributed within MOA and Dzongkhags. ICS pays BBS TV (government-managed broadcast media) to telecast the material during the agricultural programme slot every Monday at 6:30 p.m. The material is re-telecast at some appropriate time for free; and

• Radio-based information materials – ICS produces one radio-based, 20-

minute information material weekly for the same purpose as the video-based information material. The material is prepared in Dzongkha and is used to convey messages to a wider audience via BBS radio. The material is broadcast free of charge within the 30 minute slot every Wednesday at 8:30 – 9:00 a.m. and repeated on Friday at 5:15 – 5:45 p.m.

• Ministry website ((http://www.moa.gov.bt) – The information portal of RNR.

Launched on 05 December 2000, the website is a repository of all RNR information produced by MOA, including general information, RNR rules and regulations, RNR Newsletters and Journals, policy objectives, among others. It is expected to provide a communication backbone in facilitating efficient and innovative information-sharing among RNR sector.

ICS also supports RNR agencies that intend to produce their own information materials following the approved standardized guidelines. Initially, the agency prepares the article and sends a request to ICS for its editing and printing (e.g. as leaflet). Once approved, the article is sent to ICS editor and artist for design and lay-outing, back to the agency for proof-reading, and at ICS for final lay-out. ICS prepares a quotation (float to tender) for agency head and ICS PD approval, with the approved quotation forwarded to AFD Procurement Division for a months’ newspaper advertisement. As soon as the applicants’ tender (forms) are available (usually in two months), AFD and ICS awards the winning bidder. Then ICS prepares the supply order for printing. Once delivered, an RNR agency staff and the ICS editor check the quality of the printed materials. The process flow takes around seven months to prepare and print the leaflet, excluding the distribution part.

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On other multi-media materials concerns, ICS is the sole agency in MOA that prepares radio- and video-based information materials. As a general rule, ICS annually conducts 1- to 2-day stakeholders’ meeting with RNR agencies to identify their priority information needs and decide what programme requires information support and in what format (print, radio, video, web, etc.). For all programmes, ICS has four designated information and communication officers (ICOs) that coordinates with RNR agencies and prepares the work plans along with the radio, audio-video (AV), and publication staffs. For the preparation of radio-based materials, a radio producer is responsible to deliver one 20-minute radio broadcast per week. Based on the approved work plan, the radio producer along with ICO conducts meeting with expert on the topic to be broadcast and decides how the topics should be delivered. The ICO writes the script, sends the draft to the AV Section Head and expert for comments, and the revised version to ICS PD for approval. Based on approved script, the radio producer records the dialogue, narration, or interview of the expert and subsequently, does editing, audio mixing, and disk labeling. The radio producer prepares two broadcast materials per week to provide an allowance for the following week’s broadcast. A database of each radio-based material provided to BBS is also maintained at ICS in the computer and in mini-disk.

For the preparation of video-based materials, the ICO works in tandem with AV team. Initially, the ICO prepares the script and style for ICS PD approval. Then production designs like language is decided depending on the target audience such as Dzongkha if farmers and locals; English if school children or policy-maker or for use outside Bhutan. The team handles all pre-production until production activities only then outsources most of post-production works as there is no skilled video editor in ICS. In the editing stage, the ICO or AV staff guides and directs the editor of the style and design of the video programme. Once the team has a first rough cut, a preview is called with the expert, ICS PD, and ICO. Then changes are incorporated and a final preview is called for with the same people for approval. A copy of the video material in DV Cam is sent to BBS TV which ICS pays at Nu5,000 per telecast. A master copy in DV CAM or Mini DV format is maintained at ICS. It takes around 4-6 months to prepare one video.

Some ICS-produced materials are also maintained at ICS library along with other materials received daily/weekly like Bhutan and Indian newspapers; monthly like agriculture periodicals; and annually like publications related to agriculture, livestock, forestry, fisheries, and general (commodities, trades, statistical yearbook, food standards, proceedings, post harvest, etc.). Some materials received from other sources are immediately sent to concerned MOA agency while the remaining ones are catalogue using the FAO Library Classification Scheme via PROCITE database. A daily average of 1-2 clients gain access to the materials either by walk-in, phone-in, or email to the Librarian.

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Other materials are also posted in the Ministry’s website that ICS developed and regularly maintained and updated. For RNR agencies wanting to publish their articles in the website, the designated focal person hand-carries the materials to the web administrator at ICS or sends it via e-mail. The web administrator checks the appropriateness of the information by consulting with the Departments’ Information Management Section (IMS). If publishable, the web administrator edits and layouts the text and photos otherwise, informs the focal person about the inappropriateness of the material for web publishing. Being the lead agency to coordinate ICT within the Ministry, ICS collaborates with RNR agencies in the development of web-based information systems which will be linked to the Ministry’s website. Among the systems are as follows: • Digital Compendium of RNR Technologies. This information system, being

developed in collaboration with CoRRB, will be launched on December 2005. The compendium is a repository of RNR information materials from various agencies of the Ministry. It includes specific technical skills, technology details like how to grow a certain crop, or packets of technologies – sometimes in the form of synopsis. The site is primarily aimed for RNR extension staff with plans to evolve into a more farmer-friendly site;

• Survey and Land Records website (http://www.moa.gov.bt/moa/DSLR/). The

website, developed in collaboration with the Department of Land Survey and Records (DLSR), was launched in 2005. It contains data inventory/ specifications; contact persons; forms such as request for survey/printing, land records, and other forms required by the general public; publications (maps and books) that are either free for distribution or for sale; services that the Department is capable of executing on demand; and structures and functions of all divisions and sections;

• Market Information System. The information system is recently initiated in

collaboration with AMS and DIT. It will contain information initially on available commodity market prices that are collected by AMS staff weekly (for retail prices) and daily (for auction prices);

• Policy Information System. This information system, recently initiated by

PPD, will contain information on RNR Acts, RNR five-year plans, other policies and guidelines besides the Acts, project profiles of the Ministry that are currently implemented, and the annual RNR conference resolutions;

ii) Agricultural Marketing Services (AMS) – Also attached under the Non-

Departments group like ICS, the Agricultural Marketing Services is the Ministry’s agricultural market information office. The office is located in the Ministry headquarters in Thimphu and is lead by a Chief Marketing Officer.

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AMS has the following main information and knowledge management responsibilities: a) collect market data/information from various institutions such as MOA, Dzongkhags, Royal Bhutan embassies, and Department of Revenue and Customs; b) process and analyze collected market data/information into useful information/knowledge; c) develop mechanisms/systems to properly disseminate market information/knowledge through various media; and d) provide efficient market information services for the benefit of the farmers, traders, consumers, policy-makers within and outside MOA, researchers from RNR agencies, and Geog extension agents. AMS has a limited functional market information section within its set-up with only four marketing officers and office assistant responsible for the management of market information services throughout Bhutan. Among the officers, nobody is trained in market information management. Currently, the main information product of AMS is a database (MS Excel) with hard copies of weekly retail prices and daily auction prices of commodities available in the markets. The database is supplemented with an analysis of the data which AMS prepares when reporting and if the Ministry so requires. Another upcoming information product is the Market Information System which will initially cover the commodity prices. For weekly retail prices, this includes data on cereals, vegetables and spices, fruits, livestock and dairy products, and other products like fish, oil and sugar that are available in the market. This data are collected every Sunday from six main markets of Bhutan as follows:

Region Dzongkhag

• Trashigang (for the northern side of the region) 1. Eastern • Samdrup Jongkhar (for the southern side of the region)

2. East-Central • Sarpang (via Gelephu) • Dagana 3. West-Central • Tsirang

4. West • Samtse

The weekly retail prices are based on the average data from 5-6 vendors. AMS obtains the retail price data they want although some are inconsistent as there are no data available in the market during the time of collection. Since AMS lack resources to gather price data from the six main markets, AMS collaborates with the Dzongkhags through the Sector Heads. Initially, the extension agent collects the retail price data using the agreed format, hand-carries the handwritten data to the Sector Head who in turn endorses the data to AMS by mail or facsimile. It may take 1-2 weeks transmittal depending on the distance from the Dzongkhags. Surprisingly, there is no weekly retail price data available in the main market of Thimphu – the country’s biggest market – and the main market in Bumthang of east-central region. This is because AMS operates only in Dzongkhags that are responsive to AMS undertaking.

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For daily auction prices, this includes data on potato, apple, and vegetables from the Food Corporation of Bhutan’s (FCB) five auction yards in Phuentsholing (Chhukha Dzongkhag). FCB is in-charge of the country’s food procurement and distribution, maintains food security reserves, stabilizes prices, manages auction yards, and undertakes business in agricultural and related products. These auction prices only come during the auction season from June to November. To collect this price data, AMS collaborates with FCB through its Director. Initially, the designated FCB staff collects the auction price data using the agreed format, sends the handwritten data to the FCB Director who in turn endorses the data to AMS by facsimile. The collected price data is encoded into a database. AMS compiles the price data for three months and then distributes copies to the Dzongkhags, the Departments, and to CoRRB. For the daily auction price data, AMS distributes a copy to BBS radio for the evening broadcast. There are already plans to broadcast the price data via BBS TV or to post in the Market Information System. Any interested client can also request copies via walk-in, phone-in, or e-mail to AMS.

iii) Agriculture Information Management Section (AIMS) – The Department of

Agriculture’s information management office in support to resources monitoring and management of the agriculture sector. The office is located in the Ministry headquarters in Thimphu and is lead by an IMS Officer with one Assistant.

The main information and knowledge management responsibilities of AIMS are to: a) create and maintain functional databank of the Departments’ resources, manpower, institutions, equipment, and programmes; b) document and disseminate agricultural scientific knowledge, information, and technology for field use; c) assist in monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of planned programmes of the Department in consultation with the Divisions; and d) backstop the Department offices in terms of information management and act as focal point for releasing the Departments’ M&E related information. AIMS works in collaboration with other offices of the Department to carry-out its responsibilities. As a repository of the Department’s information/data, AIMS is a major source of information for ICS, along with the Departments’ Divisions and national centres when specific details are needed. The office also participates in the discussion of the Departments’ identified priority information needs during the annual ICS stakeholders’ meeting wherein specific programmes and activities of the Department requiring information support and consequent format (print, radio, video, web, etc) are finalized. The office maintains a compilation of hard copies of reports and documents from various offices of the Department. Other information materials available in the office include compilation of annual progress reports presented during the Departments’ M&E forum, statistics of agriculture in Bhutan (in excel format), leaflets, and other agriculture-related publications for reference purposes.

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As discussed with NPC and AIMS, there are three offices in the Department of Agriculture which will have relevance to VERCON:

• National Plant Protection Centre (NPPC) – A national service centre that

coordinates the supply, procurement, and distribution of pesticides in the country and provides technical backstopping in pesticide management. The office is located in Semtokha, Thimphu and is lead by a PD.

NPPC has the following main information and knowledge management responsibilities: a) generate and compile integrated pest management technologies through research in collaboration with four RNR research centres (RCs) and extension programmes; b) attend to technical queries from Geog extension centres and other clients; c) organize training programmes for farmers and extension agents on pest management or for commission agents on pesticide handling and storage management; and d) offer advisory services to requesting clients using the centre’s diagnosis form. The main information products of the centre are handouts, extension leaflets, pest surveillance forms, and hard and soft copies (MS Word) of list of stocks and prices of pesticides. The centre produces handouts in-house based on research conducted. The handouts, written in English, contain information and photos of major pests of economic crops in Bhutan. There are also 39 extension leaflets which are produced in collaboration with ICS and which will be posted in the Digital Compendium. The handouts and extension leaflets are disseminated within the Ministry, Dzongkhags, and other clients through its training programmes, extension activities, and advisory services. The centre, in collaboration with ICS or AIMS, also disseminates technologies and programmes through mass media and other forum such as the Annual RNR Conference and RNR Expo.

There is also a compilation of forms related to pest monitoring and surveillance. These are pest surveillance forms for graminaceous crops and buckwheat, vegetable crops, and tree crops required by NPPC for extension agents who would like to avail of their technical services. Based on the centre’s protocol, extension agents fills-up the form by recording the pest description observed in the farm. The extension agent brings the filled-up form to the Sector Head who then endorses it to NPPC by mail for advice. The designated NPPC staff visits the site, makes diagnosis, and provides immediate recommendations. Otherwise, the observations and physical samples are brought to NPPC for further evaluation before sending the recommendations to the Sector Head which in turn requests the extension agent for appropriate action with the farmer. (There are cases when extension agents availed of the expert services of RNR RCs instead as it is more convenient and near the centre, although they still need NPPC for the appropriate equipment and chemicals to contain the pest problem.)

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The centre also maintains hard and soft (MS Word) copies of the list of stocks and prices of pesticides earlier endorsed by the centres’ PD to the Secretary of Agriculture copy furnish Department Directors and all Sector Heads in 20 Dzongkhags for their information and guidance. ICS includes the year’s price list of pesticides in the RNR Extension Diary and also posts the data in the Ministry’s website once the NPPC focal person e-mails or brings it personally to the web administrator. To post the data, the web administrator uploads the data at the MOA server which is linked to the Ministry’s website or re-encodes it into HTML format. To obtain pesticides from NPPC, the extension agent collects the demand from the farmers, prepares the list, and hand-carries it to the Sector Head for endorsement by mail to NPPC. When the stocks are available, the centres’ PD informs the Sector Head by mail or phone for pick-up. When informed by the Sector Head, the extension agent collects the stocks from NPPC and, through the Chewog’s (sub-block) representative, informs the farmers of the pesticides for pick-up at the Geog extension centre.

• National Post Harvest Centre (NPHC) – A national service centre that provides technical services on crop production programme via post-harvest handling and processing. The office is located in Paro and is lead by a PD.

NPHC has the following main information and knowledge management responsibilities: a) generate and compile improved post-harvest technologies designed to reduce post-harvest crop losses; to improve handling, grading, packaging, storage, and quality; and to increase product market value. To do this, NPHC either conducts local research or tests introduced foreign-based technologies for their suitability to local conditions; and b) offer advisory services and training programmes such as on improving product packaging to withstand rough transport, improving transportation methods, constructing storage facilities, and commercial agro-industry development either on food processing or semi-processing. The centre also offers its facility for use by exporters and growers for a nominal fee.

For its information products, the centre has produced in-house a simple manual on food processing and preservation as well as quality standards for fresh apples and mandarins. They also produced handouts on post harvest handling on fruits and vegetables, cold store facility, pack-house facility with automatic weight grading machine for apples, dual energy source improved dryer, and zero energy cool chamber storage. These materials are distributed within the Ministry, Dzongkhags, and other clients through the centre’s training and extension programmes. The materials are also included for posting in the Digital Compendium. In collaboration with ICS or AIMS, the centre promotes improved technologies and programmes through various media and forum just like other national service centres.

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• Agriculture Machinery Centre (AMC) – A national service centre that provides services related to procurement, development, supply, installation, repair and maintenance, and training in the operation and maintenance of all agriculture machines in Bhutan. The main office is located at Paro and is lead by a PD.

AMC has the following main information and knowledge management responsibilities: a) develop and compile design of agricultural machineries and tools intended to alleviate farm labor constraints; otherwise, they procure or introduce appropriate labour-saving machines and tools from other countries; b) provide information relative to technical questions from extension agents and other clients; and c) organize training programmes to farmers to enhance their capability and to extend back-up service to their community. AMC expects the trainees to be capable of repairing machines and supply spare parts and tools, and eventually become self-employed. For its information product, the centre maintains hard and soft copies (MS Word) of the list of available supply and prices of machines earlier endorsed by the centres’ PD to the Secretary of Agriculture copy furnish the Departments and the Dzongkhags for their information and guidance. In collaboration with ICS or AIMS, the centre promotes labor-saving devices and mechanization to increase crop production through various forum and media. For instance, the years’ price list of equipment is published in the RNR Extension Diary and also posted in the Ministry’s website just like pesticides once e-mailed or brought to the web administrator.

A farmer who intends to buy a machine from the centre can contact the nearest Geog extension centre or Sector Head office for initial information. The farmer can then directly contact AMC through walk-in visits or by phone to inquire about machine availability and technical services.

iv) Livestock Information Management Section (LIMS) – The Department of

Livestock’s information management office in support to resources monitoring and management of the livestock sector. The office is located in the Ministry headquarters in Thimphu and is also lead by an IMS Officer with one Assistant.

The knowledge management responsibilities of LIMS are almost similar to AIMS. They also collect, process, analyze, and build-up a livestock databank for Department’s use particularly in meeting the government’s objective of self-sufficiency in livestock production. Likewise, the office is responsible to disseminate these data to clients being the focal point for releasing the department-related information. Thus, ICS works in partnership with LIMS in its dissemination and promotional activities for the livestock sector.

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LIMS coordinates with various agencies of the Department which are primarily involved in technology utilization and services (like disease diagnosis, animal health services, artificial insemination) as well as procurement, production, supply, and monitoring of livestock agri-inputs. In the Ministry’s current set-up, the Department of Livestock is in charge of technology utilization, CoRRB is responsible for the generation of livestock technologies through the RNR RCs, while ICS is in charge of multi-media production. Thus, clients who wish to avail of technical assistance on livestock can send their request to the Director of the Department of Livestock copy furnish LIMS for them to coordinate with the concerned agency for appropriate recommendations. The main information product of LIMS is an in-house annual publication of compiled progress reports presented during the research and extension meeting with the Dzongkhags/Geogs, the Department, and CoRRB. The spiral-bound publication, which LIMS provides minor analysis and observation, is distributed to the Ministry and Dzongkhags for their information and guidance. The office also compiles leaflets and other livestock-related publications and reports produced by the department related to production and development of breeds, dairy, fodder, sheep and fisheries; livestock farm machineries and other inputs; animal health services; farmers' trainings; research and extension development; human resources and infrastructure development. As discussed with NPC and LIMS, the Department of Livestock can support VERCON in terms of providing the information needs of clients, including source of inputs for the livestock sector through the following agencies:

• Livestock Central Store in Phuentsholing (Chhukha Dzongkhag) through its

Store Officer (for medicine and equipment); • National Livestock Breeding Programme (NLBP) in Wangchu Taba through

its Programme Director (for crossbreed bulls); • National Jersey Breeding Centre in Samtse Dzongkhag through its Farm

Manager (for jersey purebreed); • Regional Mithun Breeding Programme in Wangkha, Chukka Dzongkhag (for

Mithun bulls); • National Feed and Fodder Development Programme in Bumthang through its

Programme Director (for pasture seeds); • Dzongkhag Forestry office through its Dzongkhag Forestry officer (for fodder

tree seedlings); • Vaccine Production Centre in Serbithang, Thimphu through its Deputy Chief

Farm Manager (for vaccines); • Regional Poultry Breeding Farm in Paro through its Manager (for pullets);

and • National Pig Breeding Centre in Serbithang, Thimphu through its Manager

(for piglets).

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These offices maintain hard and soft copies (MS Word or Excel) of list of supply and prices of livestock inputs earlier endorsed by the agency head to the Department copy furnish the Dzongkhags and other list of recipients for their information and guidance. The list is also posted in the MOA website once e-mailed or brought to the web administrator. A farmer who intends to avail of livestock agri-inputs need to inform the extension agent which in turn compiles the demand and prepares the list. The extension agent brings the list to the Sector Head which then endorses it via mail to the concerned DOL agency. When the concerned agency head informs the availability of stocks, a staff from the Sector Head office collects the needed inputs and informs the extension agent of its availability. As informed by the extension agent through the Chewog’s representative, the farmer collects and pays the inputs at the Dzongkhag, except for the transportation cost which is borne by the Dzongkhag. For fodder tree seedlings, the farmer gets the inputs as paid by the Dzongkhag or Geog Administration.

v) Forest Information Management Section (FIMS) – The Department of Forest’s information management office in support to resources monitoring and management of the forestry sector. The office is also located within the Ministry headquarters in Thimphu and is also lead by an IMS Officer with one Assistant.

FIMS works similarly in terms of information management like AIMS and LIMS and is also a major information source of ICS. Specifically, the office collects, manages, and provides forest resources data/information for formulation of effective strategies, policies, rules and regulations for sustainable forest management. They backstop the Forest Divisions in addressing clients’ information queries on such areas as managing commodity/private forest, non-wood forest, parks, and pests and diseases. Like AIMS and LIMS, clients need to officially request the Director General of the Department of Forest for the required information/data copy furnish FIMS, who in turn will refer the request to the concerned Forest Divisions. FIMS is still planning to develop a simple Forestry Information Database (FID) using MS Access. In the absence of a database, the office maintains a compilation of hard copies of information from field offices covering forest products, forest management, resource utilization, wildlife community, and private forestry in the Dzongkhags, Divisional and Park Management offices including the headquarters level. Other information materials available in the office include compilation of annual progress reports, Druk Forestry News (quarterly newsletter of the Department of Forest) which are also posted in the MOA website, leaflets, and other forest-related publications from RNR RCs, Forest Divisions, and abroad.

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FIMS suggests featuring in VERCON the existing Dzongkhag Forestry Nurseries in Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, and Wangdue Phodrang for sources of forest seedlings. This information is not yet available in the Ministry’s website. The Dzongkhags’ Nursery In-charge regularly provides the Sector Head office a list of available forest seedling stocks (free-of-cost to the farmers) for their information and file. A farmer wanting to obtain forest seedlings need to inform the Forestry extension agent that in turn prepares the supply order based on available stocks. The farmer brings the supply order to the Forestry Sector Head for approval, and once approved, brings it to Dzongkhags’ Nursery In-Charge to get the seedlings.

vi) Council for RNR Research in Bhutan (CoRRB) – The Ministry’s research system coordinating body and source of RNR-related technologies and scientific information. CoRRB is tasked to pursue RNR integration concept in programming research and generation of technology. The office is located within the Ministry’s headquarters in Thimphu and is lead by a Director.

The main information and knowledge management responsibilities of CoRRB are to a) collect and package technological options generated from four RNR RCs and national service centres for publication in the Digital Compendium of RNR Technologies or RNR Journal; and b) establish linkages with the international research institutes to tap opportunities in the scientific world and gain access to technological innovations. As part of these tasks, the office conducts pre-regional and regional review and planning workshops as well as national research coordination workshop. For its information products, CoRRB will soon launch its Digital Compendium for RNR Technologies system. The office also maintains hard copies of RNR Journals and proceedings of review and planning workshops for reference to walk-in clients. For information materials that are submitted to CoRRB for posting in the Digital Compendium, an Editorial Committee reviews the materials prior to posting by a CoRRB staff. The committee is composed of representatives from CoRRB, National Livestock Breeding Programme, National Centre for Animal Health, Department of Agriculture (DOA) and Survey and Land Records (DSLR), and Jigme Dorji Wangchuk National Park. The committee is tasked to a) screen, validate, and approve sector-specific technologies for web posting; b) encourage technology submission from their sector; c) create awareness about the Digital Compendium in their sector; and d) identify technology gaps in their sector. The Digital Compendium already contains more than 200 technological options categorized as agriculture, horticulture, forestry, livestock, and general topics.

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For RNR Journals, CoRRB publishes the Journal once a year in English and is distributed to MoA researchers, libraries, and abroad. ICS previously handled the production of RNR Journal which it published every 11th of November coinciding with the birth anniversary of His Majesty the King. The booklet provides avenue for Bhutanese researchers in the RNR sector to publish and document their research findings as well as other knowledge and technologies that are continually being developed. It also serves as a useful forum for exchange of views among the various stakeholders of the RNR sector, from decision- and policy-makers to extension agents and beneficiaries. For articles and papers intended for RNR Journal, an Editorial Board composed of representatives from the National Soil Service Centre (NSSC), RNR RC Yusipang and Jakar, and CoRRB as well as Referees from the National Research Programme Coordination Centres review the materials prior to publication. To expand readership and reach a wider national and international audience, ICS plans to post the Journal in MOA’s website in PDF format. CoRRB uses various forums to forge linkage and disseminate information to their stakeholders. This includes the following: a) via its Executive Board (Council’s policy-making body) with its core members representing the key stakeholders and which links itself to the policy-makers, farmers, and other groups; b) via the committees, task forces, and working groups which ensures the coordination of planning, implementation, and facilitation of research and technology packaging activities; and c) via workshops/meetings. Based on discussions with NPC and CoRRB, there are three offices under CORRB which will have relevance to VERCON: • Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre (RNR RC) – The research

agency of the Ministry with national and regional mandates. There are four research centres in the country, namely: RNR RC Yusipang in Thimphu with national mandate on forestry, Bajo in Wangdue Phodrang (field crops), Jakar in Bumthang (livestock), and Wengkhar (formerly Khangma) in Mongar (horticulture). The Consultant will focus the discussion on RNR RC in Bajo as the general functions of the three other centres are almost similar and also it being one of the proposed VERCON pilot sites. The Bajo research centre is located 1,300 metres above sea level in Wangdue Phodrang Dzongkhag and is lead by a PD.

The main information and knowledge management responsibilities of the centre are the following: a) coordinate and compile technologies related to field crops (rice, maize, wheat and other minor cereals, oilseeds, and grain legumes), horticulture, livestock, feed and fodder, agro-forestry, and water management; and b) work with and give support to the Dzongkhag RNR sector staff in technical matters and extension activities, and provide training to extension staff and farmers.

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The centre leads in formulating strategic plans on field crops and ensures that researches are interlinked and the activities not duplicated with the other research centres. Its regional mandate involves implementing research programmes on horticulture, livestock, feed and fodder, agro-forestry, and water management in the West-Central region comprising Wangdue Phodrang, Punakha, Gasa, Dagana, and Tsirang Dzongkhags. It has around 70 staff consisting of programme officers, research assistants, support staff, and a national work force. The staff implements research with emphasis on on-farm trials and with active participation of farmers, Dzongkhags’ RNR sector staff, and the functional divisions of the Ministry and their central and field programmes working on soils, plant and animal protection, post-harvest, etc.

For its information products, RNR RC Bajo produces publications in-house or in collaboration with ICS as well as annual reports of centre’s activities. Although the centre is still planning to publish its own Newsletter, the RNR RC Jakar and Khangma (now Wengkhar) already published their Newsletters in-house, some of which are posted online through the MOA website in PDF format. The publications produced in Bajo include 19 leaflets in English version on rice, maize, wheat, mustard, apricot, walnut, general horticulture, bamboo, pangtse, and fig tree. These publications contain information on several varieties released by the centre for general cultivation as well as on crop management technologies designed to increase productivity, reduce labor requirement, and help conserve the environment.

The information materials are distributed to the Dzongkhags, RNR libraries, walk-in clients, and to CoRRB. These materials also form part of the centre’s library collections consisting of leaflets, annual and training reports, proceedings, books, journals, and newsletters. The Librarian uses the FAO Library Classification Scheme to catalogue the collections in the PROCITE database and attends to clients’ queries consisting of high school students and centre staff. The Library has available computer though Internet connection is unreliable.

To support the extension activities of the Dzongkhag, the centre’s Regional Research and Communication Officers (RRCOs) works directly with the Dzongkhag RNR sector staff such as coordinating support on technical matters via face-to-face interaction, phone-in, and distribution of extension materials as well as training of extension staff and farmers. This is supplemented with farmers’ field school, field days/demonstration, and farm and home visit as needed. As part of their effort to disseminate and exchange information, the RRCOs collate all technical queries from the Sector Heads or extension agents and forward these to experts for technical advice. The PD formally communicates by mail to the Sector Head and extension agent about the recommendations; otherwise the RRCOs hands-in the recommendations if ever the extension agent visits the centre.

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Some of the centre’s activities are facilitated by using new information and communication technologies (ICT). The centre has 15 computers and a server networked via a local area network (LAN). Some staff already shared files using their own flash drive or via e-mail. Sharing files via LAN is not a good option considering the condition of its server which is already old and oftentimes crashes. There is also a problem with the Internet connection at the RRCO office so that personally carrying the files to the research office is the most logical option at the moment.

• National Soil Service Centre (NSSC) – A national service centre that provides

support and technical services on agriculture through sustainable soil conservation and management or appropriate land husbandry practices. The office is located at Simtokha, Thimphu and is headed by a PD.

The main information and knowledge management responsibilities of the centre are the following: a) generate and compile technologies through research that can conserve soil biodiversity for sustainable agriculture and improve agriculture and livestock management; b) promote and offer technical services to clients particularly on the principles of organic farming such as the use of composts and microbial inoculants as well as recycling back organic waste materials to the soil; c) offer advisory services (e.g. nutritional disorders, data interpretation) to clients using the centre’s sample submission form (for soil, plant, feed, water, and fertilizer samples); and d) create general Bhutanese soil information system – classification of land capability and soil (exemplified via maps, benchmark soils and soil database) – to optimize the use of the land suited for agriculture, horticulture, and pastures. For its information products, NSSC produces a handout on how to manage soils the organic way. In collaboration with ICS, the centre also produced leaflets concerning vermi-composting, tips on composting, effective microorganisms (EM) technology, and biological nitrogen fixation. These information materials are distributed to walk-in clients, within the Ministry, Dzongkhags, and to CoRRB for posting in the Digital Compendium. The office also works in partnership with ICS to promote these technologies and the centres’ programmes and activities through various forum and media.

A client who may wish to avail of the advisory services of the centre has to fill-up the sample submission form (e.g. on soil sample) and send the filled-up form to NSSC for advice. Clients are advised to wait for one month after the samples are submitted.

• RNR Agromet Office – The Ministry’s agro-meteorological service

information office. The office was established functionally in 2000 within the Ministry headquarters in Thimphu and is currently manned with two staff, namely: a Chief Meteorologist and an Assistant Meteorologist.

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The main information and knowledge management responsibility of the RNR Agromet Office is to provide agro-meteorological information and advice for planning and management of the Ministry’s agricultural research and development activities. To do this, the office collaborates with the Meteorological and Climatological Unit, Department of Energy of the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) for its weather data collection considering its current limited capabilities and because MTI has the Agromet facilities. MTI has an Agromet station per Dzongkhag and 90 stations throughout the country that are classified either as Class A or Class C. Class A stations have more equipment which can provide data on temperature, rainfall, relative humidity, solar radiation, and wind velocity. On the other hand, Class C stations can only provide data for temperature and rainfall.

The office collects from MTI via e-mail the daily temperature (highest and lowest in 0C) and short-range (3-5 day) weather forecasts (e.g. sunny, cloudy or rainy) for all the 20 Dzongkhags. The office also gets temperature data for free from the Internet via http://www.eccuweather.com and weather outlook data for free via satellite data from India which is used for comparison and additional reference.

For its information product, the RNR Agromet staff maintains an excel database of both the daily temperature and weather outlook data. The office disseminates the data via e-mail to the following: a) BBS – the national media station, which receives a copy of the day’s data before 2:00 p.m., telecasts the data during the evening at 6:00 p.m. and broadcasts over the radio the following day at 6:00-7:00 a.m.; b) ICS – the Ministry’s main communication office, through its web administrator, posts the day’s data in the Ministry’s website. The web administrator converts the data for Thimphu and one of the 19 Dzongkhags in random manner into HTML format. The data for the other Dzongkhags are uploaded to the web server which can be accessed through a link in the MOA website; and c) Kuensel – the national newspaper media, which receives a copy 2x a week (every Tuesday and Friday), publishes the data every Wednesday and Sunday.

vii) Druk Seed Corporation (DSC) – The “National Seed Grid” or the country’s “Seed

Bank” mandated to produce, supply, and market seeds and plants of agricultural and horticultural crops in adequate quantity to meet farmers’ demand. This quasi-corporation is also mandated to export high value seeds as well as procure and sell fertilizers and herbicides (Butachlor). The office is located in Paro and is lead by a Managing Director (MD). It has three Regional Managers (RMs) based in Bajo (Wangdue), Bhur (Sarpang), and Chinery (Trashigang) that are responsible for production and marketing.

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The main information and knowledge management responsibility of DSC is to provide technical support and information on available supply, handling and storage management of seeds and plants, fertilizers, and herbicides (Butachlor) to its clients. For its information product, DSC maintains hard and soft copies (MS Word) of the list of available supply and prices of seeds and seedlings, fertilizers, and herbicides (Butachlor) earlier endorsed by the corporations’ MD to the Secretary of Agriculture copy furnish the Departments, its RMs, and the Dzongkhags for their information and guidance. ICS publishes the years’ price list in the RNR Extension Diary and also posts into the Ministry’s website once e-mailed or brought to the web administrator. Meanwhile, DSC plans to put-up its own Newsletter and website as a strategic option for its market promotion and awareness campaign. A farmer – after getting information from the extension agent – can avail of the needed seeds, seedlings, or fertilizers through a commission agent in the Dzongkhag who will transact business with the corporation.

viii) Policy and Planning Division (PPD) – The Ministry’s policy, planning, and

economic advisory office. The office is located within the Ministry’s headquarters in Thimphu and is lead by a Deputy Secretary and Chief Planning Officer.

The main information and knowledge management responsibility of PPD is to provide RNR policies, statistics, and planning advice to the Ministry. To do this, PPD coordinates with various RNR agencies via committees and task forces which prepare the groundwork for approval within the Ministry or the National Assembly. PPD produces the following information products in collaboration with RNR agencies: RNR policies and guidelines, RNR five-year plans, resolutions of the annual RNR conference, publications of RNR Acts, investment programmes and projects profiles (e.g. Bhutan National Food Security Strategy Paper from FNPP or FAO-Netherlands Partnership Programme Bhutan project), and publications of RNR Census 2000 and selected RNR statistics for 2002-2003. PPD distributes the information materials within the Ministry while also maintaining copies for reference to walk-in clients. A forthcoming information product is the Policy Information System which will contain information on RNR policy and other economic advice. The existing procedure to prepare an Act and have it approve takes more than a year as it undergo through various consultations and legalities. Once MOA decides to come up with RNR Act, PPD forms a task force with representatives from RNR agencies which will conduct stakeholders’ consultations and prepare the draft. The draft then passes through PPD’s Policy and Legal Section before it will be deliberated in the Directors’ Forum, the Policy and Planning Coordinating

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Committee, and the Senior Management Level. The division forwards the final version to the National Assembly for review and evaluation via its legislative committee before it is being deliberated by the Assembly for enactment. PPD coordinates the attendance of Ministry representatives as required by the Assembly. This system of preparing an Act though might change after 2008 as the country transforms into a democratic form of government.

The concerned Department formulates the approved Act’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for Minister’s approval. Again it may take sometime to come up with an IRR as it also has to undergo consultations with stakeholders. PPD is currently coordinating the approval of the IRR for Forest and Nature Conservation Act. Once approved, the concerned Department is expected to coordinate its publication and distribution to all Ministries and at the same time enforce the rules. As a general rule, PPD only coordinates policy preparation while the Departments implement/enforce the policies and the rules. Information about RNR Acts are available at MOA website along with key policy directives (e.g. for the 9th Five Year Plan, extension, livestock, national forest, and national irrigation). For the publication to be posted, a PPD staff forwards a copy to the web administrator which re-encodes the contents into PDF or HTML format. The division’s plan to develop a Policy Information System incorporating all the relevant policy data objects of the Ministry may, however, change the existing system from encoding to updating. On the part of generating RNR statistics, the Ministry through PPD attempted to establish a reliable RNR database on Geog level via survey for the planning and monitoring of development policies and programmes in RNR sector. The first attempt was made in 1999 based on 10% sample level which became the baseline information in the conduct of the first RNR Census in 2000. The aim is to collect reliable RNR data needed for the 9th Five Year Plan and to serve as a base for the new millennium. The results of the Census were presented in two volumes as follows: Volume 1 contained RNR data (e.g. harvested area, production, and yield; number of trees; livestock population; and farm-produced livestock products) on national/Dzongkhag level which was published and with some data posted in the MOA website. Volume 2 contained Geog level data but was published in-house (via ring-binder) only.

The Geog extension agents helped the census management with coordination and field supervision of enumerators. The census, however, was done on project-type basis through the collaboration between the Ministry and the Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA). The plan then was to conduct census every five years but the plan was shelved because of the huge funding requirement. Instead, the Ministry decided to follow-up the first census with annual sample survey in collaboration with PPD, the Departments, Dzongkhags, and Geogs, with the census planned to be carried-out every 10 years. Annual sample surveys were done in 2002 and 2003 with a publication of selected RNR statistics.

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In 2004, another sample survey was done to address the requirement of the Ministry on food security concerns. This time, the arrangement was changed with the annual data collection centralized to the Departments and then PPD to do the compilation of each department’s results. PPD, however, found it difficult to do its task as they have to wait for the Departments to conduct their own survey and submit their results. As it is, when the survey is done, PPD requests the data from the Department only when the Ministry so requires.

B) Mass media – This is another institution in Bhutan that provides valuable support to agricultural and rural information systems. This includes the print (newspaper) and broadcast (TV/radio) media as follows:

• Newspaper media – Kuensel is the national newspaper media in Bhutan based in

Thimphu. It was introduced in 1967 as an internal government bulletin. This is the only newspaper media that was operational before the VERCON project began although two additional privately-managed newspaper media are expected to be introduced in early 2006.

Kuensel publishes news, events, and announcements mostly happening in Bhutan. The newspaper also includes RNR information mainly through its coverage of events and interviews from farmers, agency heads/staff of the Ministry of Agriculture, other agriculture stakeholders, or through articles sent by ICS. It is published every Wednesday and Sunday in versions of English, Dzongkha (the national language), and Lhotshamkha (also called Nepali – the language of Nepal-speaking ethnic groups in Southern Bhutan). A 12-14 page issue costs Ngultrum (Nu) (the local currency) 10 for all the three versions (Note: 1US$: Nu44).

Kuensel newspaper is distributed to Dzongkhags by bus courier and is also available online (http://www.kuenselonline.com). It cost Nu40 per hour to surf at Internet café that are mostly available in urban areas like Thimphu, Paro, Phuentsholing, Wangdue Phodrang, Trongsa, and Kanglung Dzongkhags and in Dzongkhags and other government offices like RNR RCs. It may not be easy to access the Internet though as dial up connectivity via DrukNet, Bhutan Telecom’s Internet service provider, is between 14.4 kbps to 52.2 kbps, although there are plans to upgrade this to 512 kbps or higher by 2007. DrukNet is planning to double its bandwidth capacity for Internet from its current capacity of 10 mbps.

• Broadcast media – Bhutan Broadcasting Services (BBS) is the national radio and television media based in Thimphu. BBS offers radio broadcast and TV telecast with the former officially launched in 1986 and the latter in 1999.

Just like Kuensel, BBS relays news, events, and announcements mostly about Bhutan and which is also available via Internet (http://www.bbs.com.bt). BBS is also another source of agricultural information in the country including those coming from ICS.

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Radio is the most popular media in the rural areas of which about 44% of the Bhutanese population of 634,982 resides and where farmers have been observed to listen to their radio sets in their workplace. Most Bhutanese can afford to buy radio sets and have taken advantage of the nationwide radio broadcast. In fact, the National Statistical Bureau (NSB) reported that about 67% of the Bhutanese households of 126,115 owned radio sets, one of the three preferred household items aside from watch and rice cooker. This is doubly important considering the country’s mountainous geographical pattern. Radio broadcast is being done either in Dzongkha, English, Sharchopkha (the language in eastern Bhutan), and Lhotshamkha. For RNR programmes, BBS radio has the following schedule:

Schedule Days Time Language

Wednesday 8:35 Dzongkha 9:40 English Monday/Wednesday/Friday 10:50 Lhotshamkha

Morning

Monday/Tuesday 11:50 Sharchopkha Monday 4:15 Sharchopkha Afternoon Wednesday 5:35 Dzongkha

For TV telecast, there is only one national channel (Druk Jangdra Thruekhang) in BBS with 4-5 hours daily telecast (that is, between 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and repeating the same programme the following morning from 6:00 am to 10:00 am). This national channel, with telecast done mostly in Dzongkha and English, is available in real-time in areas within or near Thimphu only but is delayed by 15 days in distant areas of the country. However, there are other TV channels (more than 20 and all foreign-based) available with 24-hours telecast via commercial cable operators. NSB reported that only 28% of households in Bhutan own television sets partly because of non-availability of electricity in some areas and the high cost of TV set. Nevertheless, some villagers are able to watch TV shows by visiting restaurants, shops, or through their relatives. Interestingly, most Bhutanese, according to the survey made by Mr. Kinley Wangdi of the Ministry of Labor and Human Resources, prefer to watch national channel to know what is happening in the country, although teenagers prefer to watch sports, movies, and musical shows.

c) Department of Information Technology (DIT) – The country’s ICT coordinating body

based in Thimphu. DIT is under the Ministry of Information and Communication but also works with other Ministries and Dzongkhags on ICT-collaborative concerns.

The main information management responsibility of DIT is to coordinate the development and promotion of the country’s ICT operating systems, e-services, emerging technologies, infrastructure and human resource development, and policies.

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Relative to agricultural and rural information systems, DIT is soon to implement a project called Community Information Centres (CICs). The CICs are Internet-based information centres that will be established in rural areas to bring ICTs near the rural community. The CIC project will be piloted in more than 80 Geogs and will utilize Geog extension offices. It will be started at Kuenga Rabten (in Trongsa Dzongkhag) and Tangmachu (in Lhuntse Dzongkhag) on pilot basis. The project aims to help improve rural livelihood and contribute to national development by enabling rural people to seek information, communicate with experts, and acquire ICT skills. Specifically, the CICs will have the following tasks: a) serve as an information centre for people living in the rural communities; b) serve as a gateway for the delivery of government services, government policies, and publications; c) serve as a repository of online forms; d) facilitate planning at Geog level; e) improve marketing channels; f) provide available technical assistance; and g) provide adequate and timely access to required information.

To operate the system, DIT will commission consultants to conduct needs’ assessment and to design content and application system through a web portal. CIC will cover such areas as agriculture, livestock, forestry, land records, health and hygiene, education, e-governance, employment, and entertainment. Thus, DIT has identified the Ministry of Agriculture as one of the CIC-collaborating agencies to be the main information source on environment and farming techniques. There will be two Internet-connected sites: a central site containing all the relevant information which will be hosted at Druknet or a Thimphu Gateway and a local site per CIC which will host all the features of the central site. The local sites will be synchronized daily to the central site and will be customized to reflect the rural needs such as advertised products from various organizations for rural use like farm machinery, fertilizers, seeds, etc. On the other hand, the central site will have special focus on rural products, information about the community, among others. The system will also provide information and advisory service, discussion forum, as well as links to selected web pages, and will enable clients to publish and retrieve meaningful experience. The basic services to be offered at each centre will include the following: a) e-mail and Internet access (send/receive e-mail, browse the web); b) access to government forms (accessible offline); c) word processing (typing and formatting of letters, job applications and other documents); d) Internet searches; e) access to Dzongkha Linux operating system; and f) computer use. It will also allow offline use via data synchronization for new updates to be delivered to the autonomous Internet-based CICs. Its future additional services will include the following: a) photocopying (school study material, circulars, newsletters, license applications, etc. with different coloured papers available); b) facsimile communication (send and receive documents to and from anywhere in the country or the world); c) telephone calls (make or receive calls); d) printing (and copying (for promotional materials and presentations); and e) web camera facility.

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Capacity building will also be provided to enable clients to use the system efficiently and effectively. Aside from the system and database administrators of the central and local sites, users will include villagers/general users, government workers in rural communities (e.g., school teachers, staff from RNR/health/Geog office, etc.), students, and the rural business community. The future sustainability of the centre will depend on support from Dzongkhag and on creating a profitable business model.

d) Dzongkhag/Geog Extension Centres – The rural-based extension service agency of the government. The Geog extension centres are under the administration of Dzongkhags (districts) but works closely with MOA as part of the R&E community.

The centres’ information and knowledge management functions include the following: a) act as a hub of RNR activities in the Geog; b) serve as learning centre for farmers; c) ensure resource-sharing within the RNR sector; d) enhance the image of the RNR sector; e) provide adequate extension-related information and technical backstopping to farmers and other clients; and f) promote comradeship among RNR staff in implementing the programmes and maintaining the centre. There are 201 Geog extension centres in the country with each centre manned by three extension agents comprising agriculture, livestock, and forestry. The extension agents are anticipated to be “agent of changes” – to bridge the gap between the government and the people. Most of the extension agents are graduates of the College of Natural Resources or CNR (formerly the Natural Resources Training Institute or NRTI) in Lobesa, Thimphu. These extension agents underwent a 2-year live-in training with a month-long ‘homestay” in a Geog. Upon graduation, the extension agents are assigned to a Geog depending on the RNR sector that they have chosen. The topnotch graduate is privileged to choose a Geog that he would like to work on. The centre is located in one of the Chewogs (sub-block) and is administratively supervised by Sector Heads which are also correspondingly represented per sector. Each extension agent handles more than six Chewogs (see table below for reference). The geographical and mountainous location for each village makes it a daunting challenge for the extension agent to provide extension service.

Administrative Unit Unit Numbers Unit Head

In Dzongkha In English 1. Dzongkhag District 20 (country’s total) Dzongda 2. Geog Block 4-16 per Dzongkhag Gup 3. Chewog Sub-block 6+ per Geog Chipon

Limbu, Punakha 6 Chewogs Gaselo, Wangdue P.

• Upper 7 Chewogs • Lower 6 Chewogs

Baap, Thimphu 9 Chewogs 4. Yue Village 1-35 per Chewog Mangmi

Limbu, Punakha 25 villages; 207 households

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Gaselo, Wangdue P. • Upper 4 villages; 180 households • Lower 3 villages; 108 households

Baap, Thimphu 35 villages; 251 households The extension agents work hand in hand with farmers, the Sector Heads, Gup (Geog Head), and Chewog representatives either through field/centre visits, face-to-face meetings such as during the Geog Yargay Tshogchung (GYT) meetings, walk-in, or phone-in. Because of limited telephone service in the rural areas, some farmers and clients request information to the extension agents via mobile phone, a communication system which is now increasingly popular in rural areas. Some areas do not have mobile phone sites though but this is understandable considering that mobile communication has just been introduced in 2003. With the addition of one mobile phone operator sometime in 2007, the communication services is expected to be expanded and the increasing use of mobile phone is anticipated of which at present phone call is very popular than short messaging service (SMS). It cost Nu2.25 per minute to call using mobile phone and Nu2 per minute using SMS. For telephone, it cost Nu3 per 5-minute call. The main information products of the centres are Geog annual work plans, administrative reports (monthly, quarterly, and annually), compilation of clients’ queries, and handwritten/drawn visual information materials usually pasted on the walls of the centre or brought during meetings. Most of the visuals represent local databases and technologies or best practices. In the centre, the extension agent also displays information materials received from RNR agencies which become sources of information for dissemination or eventual conversion into simple extension materials. There is also a compilation of list of stocks of agri-inputs based on farmers’ demand. As a protocol, extension agents submit all the work plans and reports to the Sector Heads that are normally holding office within or near the Dzong (fortress). The concerned Sector Head consolidates the work plans or the reports, and forwards the consolidated material to the Dzongda (Dzongkhag Head) for transmittal to the concerned Department of the Ministry of Agriculture. Each Sector Head handles more than four Geogs representing one Dzongkhag (District). For clients’ queries and filled-up RNR forms for advisory services, the extension agent normally hand-carries the formal request to the Sector Head for assistance. The Sector Head in turn contacts concerned MOA office by phone or mail for the needed solution. When the recommendation is available from the RNR agency, the Sector Head informs the extension agent via mail or phone which then takes appropriate action with the farmer. As the process may take sometime for extension agent to obtain the required solution, extension agents also indirectly contact concerned MOA agencies by phone or mail but only on matters related to technical concerns copy furnish Sector Heads for reference. Queries related to policy concerns such as permits and land conversion should pass through Sector Heads as a matter of protocol.

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12.2 Complete the review of available studies, including past and ongoing needs assessments and existing information providers

12.2.1 The Consultant did a scanning of the information needs’ assessments done for the RNR sector and encountered three studies along this line, namely: a study done by this Consultant at ICS in 2001 (ICS-UNV), those initiated by the first VERCON-Bhutan Consultant – Dr. Gary Coldevin, and those conducted by Gonefel consultant commissioned by DIT for the CIC project. Based on his analysis of the three assessments, the Consultant requested the NPC to conduct his own information needs’ assessment to validate the previous outputs in the context of the present needs of VERCON pilot sites. 12.2.2 As earlier indicated in his first mission report, the Consultant believes that – instead of having a workshop – re-visiting and consulting (with validation/follow through later on) to the staff of the pilot sites and the agencies to be involved would give him a hands-on and better understanding of the ICT situation, their information/services needs, and research and extension (R&E) linkages of the network. In addition, the Consultant believes that a team approach is the most practical way to get the total ICT situation needed in coming up with a design of the VERCON-Bhutan system. This means the site assessment will involve the active participation of the NPC, the IT Consultant, and the Content Manager which the team readily accepted. 12.2.3 To provide a comparative analysis of the teams’ assessment vis-à-vis the three other assessments, the Consultant prepared a summary (Annex 3) which includes the assessment coordinator; year, area, and method of assessment; the participants; and the identified commodities and information needs. As indicated in this summary, the four assessments were done across seven Dzongkhags, commonly in Thimphu, Wangdue Phodrang, Punakha, and Bumthang. The participants that were frequently involved via focused group discussions include RNR RC PDs and staff, extension agents and Sector Heads, and staff from various MOA agencies. As expected, non-agriculture stakeholders such as students, teachers, and businessmen were also consulted for the CIC project. 12.2.4 Specific details of the teams’ assessment are presented in Annex 4. This includes comparative assessment of the four pilot sites, namely: Limbu in Punakha, Gaselo and Bajo in Wangdue Phodrang, and Baap in Thimphu. Annex 4 also provides information details related to each sites’ R&E work activities, general problems that are work-related, priority commodities identified and the criteria involved in the identification, information or services needs and sources, medium to access and disseminate information, ownership of communication units or equipment, and training needs. There is also a separate table presentation relative to the identified major commodities in each site and the technology topics per commodity. The following are the major observations based on the teams’ assessment vis-a-vis observations of the three other assessments:

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• Both the research and extension (R&E) communities have multi-faceted tasks to address the goals of RNR sector, namely: national food security, conservation of natural resources, sustainable economic production and enhancement of rural income, and social and regional balance and equity. These communities are guided by the RNR triple gem called PAM or production, accessibility, and marketing and the Ministry’s motto “Walking the Extra Mile”. It is thus logical to see both the R&E communities having similarities in some of their tasks, namely: attend to clients/ farmers queries, farm/home visits, conduct farmers field school/field days, training, meeting, and administrative work. The distinction lies in the fact that the research community does research work, conduct workshops, and prepare technical publication materials; the extension community, on the hand, serve as front-liners in the rural areas and does additional extension work like Geog planning, farmers’ group/mobilization tour, watershed-related activities, and production of simple extension materials;

• On general problems faced in relation to their work, both R&E communities claimed

access to information and new ICT facilities as the major ones. On the extension community side, information access is usually done through face-to-face interaction, by phone, via radio, and print materials (leaflet, poster, and manual). While some extension offices have limited computers with Internet connection like the Sector Heads’ offices and Limbu Geog (which acquired computer with Internet connection through a CIRAD-funded Ecole-Commod project but which will be turned-over to the Gups office by December 2006), other pilot Geog extension centres are without these new ICT facilities. The Geog extension centres also lack equipment to reproduce available materials for distribution to farmers or to capture images in order to further visualize farm constraints (e.g. signs or symptoms of pests and diseases).

On the other hand, an efficient Internet connection is one of the facilities identified to be important communication means in the research community. For instance, in Bajo research centre, Internet connection is limited to almost three hours each only in the morning and afternoon via dial-up with 15 networked workstations. In the Ministry’s headquarters in Thimphu where various agencies are located, Internet connection is available 24/7 via 128 kbps speed, but there are more than 200 networked workstations. Other problems identified include visual teaching aids, feedback, mobility, and skills related to research or extension.

• There were a number of commodities identified to be of priority concerns. In fact, identified commodities vary per assessment; 12 for VERCON project (except for Dr. Gary Coldevin’s assessment wherein no commodity was identified), 19 for CIC project, and 11 during ICS-UNV evaluation. From the commodities identified, only five were common among the four assessments, namely: paddy (or rice), chili, potato, cattle, and poultry. Pig and grass/fodder/pasture were also common in both the VERCON and CIC assessments.

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Before the 12 priority commodities were finally identified for inclusion in VERCON, the respondents which were consulted per pilot site had initially selected 14 commodities comprising nine from agriculture, three from livestock, and two from forestry. The NPC endorsed the initial list for inclusion but suggested validating the list by conducting a workshop with RNR sector representatives and network members. The NPC further recommended for VERCON-Bhutan system to focus beyond a single commodity as farming in the pilot sites – and even in other Bhutan farms – are mostly considered as subsistence farming. This means a farmer has more than five commodities raised in his farm. The Consultant concurs with the NPCs recommendation to focus the proposed system initially on few important commodities in the pilot sites in order to jumpstart its operation, with the provision to expand to other commodities in the future.

During the workshop for the preparation of technology information materials in RNR RC Bajo, the respondents – comprising Bajo researchers, extension agents of the pilot sites, and a representative from the CIC project, ICS, and FAO-Bhutan – decided to review and finalize the list of commodities prior to the preparation of the materials. The group came up with agreed criteria, namely: local (pilot sites) farmer’s interest, assured market, and Ministry’s focus. Based on consensus, the final list was trimmed down to 12 commodities as follows: For Agriculture (6 instead of the original 9 crops identified) a) Fruits (2 but new ones)

• Apple – initial choice but low priority, small growing area; • Mandarin – initial choice but low priority, grown in the south, small growing

area in the lower valley of Wangdue Phodrang, without good potential; • Pear – new choice and high priority, small growing area but with good

potential, good market but how to reach quickly to the market such as Bangladesh and west Bengal because of short shelf-life, although agro-industry in Bhutan is also consuming; and

• Walnut – new choice and high priority, small growing area but with good potential, not so perishable, market is in western Bhutan.

b) Vegetables (3 instead of 5 vegetables)

• Cabbage – initial choice but medium priority; • Mustard (sag) – initial choice but low priority, with local market, farmers

already knew production technology • Chili – initial choice but retained as high priority, staple food and most

important vegetable among Bhutanese; with local and foreign markets, mainly India;

• Potato – initial choice but retained as high priority, a cash crop – viable alternative winter crop, with local market; and

• Tomato – initial choice but retained as high priority, one of the most important vegetables, with local and foreign markets (both fresh and processed products like sauce).

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c) Cereals (1 instead of 2 cereals) • Rice – initial choice but retained as high priority, staple food among

Bhutanese, with local market for processed products such as “ara” (local wine), exports red rice to the United States of America (USA) and Europe; and

• Wheat – initial choice but low priority.

For Livestock (4 instead of 3 commodities) • Dairy (Cattle) – initial choice but retained as high priority, most important

dairy among Bhutanese, with local market for processed products especially milk/butter/cheese, imports raw beef and pasteurized milk from India;

• Poultry (Chicken) – initial choice but retained as high priority, with local market for egg production, India supplies part of egg and meat requirements;

• Pig – initial choice but retained as high priority, one of the most important small animals in Bhutan along with poultry, imports meat from India; and

• Feed and fodder – new choice and high priority, particularly important for Bhutanese who are raising cattle.

For Forestry (2 but new ones)

• Community forest management – initial choice but low priority; should be included instead under the policy section for its guidelines; and

• Private forest management – initial choice but low priority; should be included instead under policy section for its guidelines.

• Bamboo – new choice and high priority, potential cash crop as poles/posts/ materials for furniture, productive for around 100 years, imports materials from India; and

• Pangtse (Symplocus paniculata (Thunberg) Miquel) – new choice and high priority, good substitute for or complement mustard oil as it contains edible oil better than mustard oil particularly the essential fatty acid (linolic acid), usually grown only in the bunds of rice terraces.

• The R&E community clearly expressed a wide variety of information needs that are

important in arriving at good decision to improve productivity and efficiency, enhance food security, and protect natural resources. The recent assessment revealed a total of 17 information needs versus 10 each for CIC project and Dr. Coldevin’s assessments and two for ICS-UNV evaluation. Of the information needs identified, seven were common among the CIC and the two VERCON project assessments, namely: Market, Technology, Agri-inputs, Policy, News and Events, Weather, and Directory. There were also three information needs each identified by Dr. Coldevin (Geog profile, Multi-media materials, and RNR statistics) and the CIC project Consultant (Relevant Forms, Research and Development, and Questions and Answers) which were similar to the Consultants’ assessment. Below is the summary of information needs based on the recent assessment vis-à-vis the other three assessments:

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Recent Assessment Other Three Assessments

1. Market • Prices of fruits, vegetables, and cereals,

and livestock/forest products in major markets of Bhutan

• Prices of and market for crops, vegetables, non-wood forest products (e.g. mushroom), their demand (including processing), and possibility of regional auction

• Prices of and market for animal products (dairy, meat, and other products) and their demand

• Timber price; rates of transportation of timber • Who and where the buyers are • Marketing of agricultural products

• Market infrastructure facilities 2. Technology

For Agriculture: • Growing conditions • Soil-related information (including soil testing) • Variety/cultivar • Nursery management (including seed

production)

• Commonly-grown crops in the region or crops suitable for the region

• Variety/species best for the region or new high altitude crops; choice for best seeds

• Field preparation • Good cultivation procedure • Best timing for planting

• Fertilizer/soil/nutrient management • With and without fertilizer management (commonly-used fertilizers, choice of fertilizers, its effects);

• Irrigation/water management • Irrigation/water management • Pest and disease management • List of common pests, insects, weeds, and

diseases; their symptoms/control/prevention (choice of pesticides)

• Wild pig, monkey and other wild animal control (possibility of solar electrical fencing)

• Harvesting/post-production handling • How to operate and maintain farm machineries • Greenhouse technology

• New farm production technologies For Livestock: • Growing conditions • Possibility and procedures of establishing

backyard farms • Choice of seeds for quality grass/fodder best

for the region and its cultivation procedure/ management

• Pasture development and management procedures and improved pasture techniques

• Livestock breeds; its production • Housing management • Feed formulation/nutrition management • Feeding management

• Good food and environment (e.g., shed) for good yield of improved livestock breeds (pig, poultry, cattle, and horse)

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Recent Assessment Other Three Assessments

• Health management • List of common pests/diseases, symptoms, treatments, and prevention/control (choice of medicines) for poultry and animals

• Diagnostic of animal diseases • Animal husbandry management

(production of more milk and processing of milk products (dairy), for meat and egg production (chicken), and for meat production (pig)

• Animal husbandry management (good method of processing and how to improve the quality of dairy products)

For Forestry: • Growing conditions • Nursery management • Exotic/unusual species in the region (list and

their specialty information), • Best timing for tree (sapling) plantation in the

region and their planting procedure/technology • Information on alternative energy and building

resources 3. Pests and Diseases • Common pests and diseases, their

symptoms, control measures and prevention

• See Technology for agriculture and livestock

4. Agri-Inputs • List of available agri-inputs • List of available agri-inputs • Rate (prices/cost) and updates on seeds

and seedlings, agricultural machineries, fertilizers, pesticides, and livestock inputs

• Rate (prices/cost) and types of seeds and other planting materials (e.g. fodder seedlings/pasture seeds; variety of tree saplings); improved livestock breeds/hybrids, pullets, and piglets; fertilizers; chemicals/pesticides; vaccines; farm machineries and implements; and milk/wood processing equipment

• Procedures on how to obtain/purchase 5. Directory • Directory of specialists/experts and

extension agents • Directory of experts/scientists • Transporters of agricultural products/goods to

the market 6. Geog Profile • Geog general profile • Geog plan documents and socio-economic data • Annual updates of local RNR databases • Farmers’ data, innovative and indigenous

farmers’ practices 7. Policy • Important government acts, policies,

and regulations for the RNR sector • RNR Acts, policies, by-laws, rules and

regulations, and land use for agriculture, livestock, and forestry

• Policies, rules and regulations related to control/killing of wild animals

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Recent Assessment Other Three Assessments • Pasture development plans/policies as well as

rules regarding lease of pasture by the Government

• Animal migration policies (e.g., cattle/sheep) • Policies and procedure for community and

private forestry • Rules on the use of “Sokshing” • Law enforcement on timber marking/

harvesting/sanctions; conservation of natural resources, protected and endangered species

• Quality and regulatory standards • Farm/rural loans and application procedures 8. Weather • Update of days’ weather in the pilot

sites as well as forecast • Weather forecast (hailstorm)

9. Relevant Forms • Downloadable relevant forms from the

Ministry of Agriculture • Permit/permission for transportation of timber,

timber construction, acquiring prayer flag poles, and acquiring firewood near houses/ fields/cultivated areas

10. Administrative Reports • Administrative report format for

extension agents

11. Questions and Answers (Q&A) • Forum on growers’ problems and

answers from scientists and RNR service providers

• General advice/suggestion on agriculture, on use of fertilizers; on processing of dairy products, where to inform the firewood problems, solution to the problem of firewood and house construction timber in the region, as well as procedure for farm road assistance

12. Multi-media materials • Available RNR publications and other

multi-materials • RNR publications

13. News and Events • Current RNR news, events, activities,

programmes, new generated technologies, etc.

• Flash reports on disease outbreaks, training courses, financial support for trainings/ workshops/seminars, and RNR information

14. RNR Statistics • RNR production figures • RNR production figures

15. Training and Scholarships • Available trainings and scholarships • See News and Events

16. Research and Development • Available research outputs • Research findings for agriculture, livestock,

and forestry 17. Relevant Website Links • Information on R&E-related websites

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• This Consultant concurs with the CIC Consultant to prioritize the needs accordingly in view of the risks of duplication of information that is already being provided by extension agents. This is one of the reasons why the Consultant conducted a Workshop for the Preparation of Package of Technology and Geog Information for Web Posting. In this workshop, the researchers and extension agents validated the information needs and finalized the information to be included in the package of technology of the identified commodities. Discussion on this aspect is presented under Consultants’ Terms of Reference (TOR) No. 5 – Collect, prepare, and/or revise write-up of need-based information materials, including the pre-testing of relevant materials with extension agents prior to web posting (item number 12.5).

For the CIC project, it is interesting to note that they have prioritized the information to be initially tackled based on a simple counting of frequencies of information needs expressed among Geogs (frequency of occurrence of needs among the Geogs visited). Based on CIC findings, the following are the priority information needs per sector: For agriculture – technology on wild pig control measures (which farmers reported to oftentimes damage 75% of standing crops in one night. Surprisingly, control of wild animals was not identified to be a major problem of crops in the VERCON pilot sites). This is followed by pest and disease control in crops; supply of agri-inputs like seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and machinery; and then prices of agricultural products. For livestock – technology on the prevention and control of animal diseases takes precedence followed by information on animal breeds, good varieties of pasture/ fodder seed, and then rules and regulations and marketing of livestock products. For forestry – technology on tree saplings varieties, its planting techniques, and mode of acquisition are the most expressed need followed by rules and regulations with regards to firewood and timber acquisition, for formation of community and private forestry, for communities to lease government lands for pasture development, and for transportation of timber.

• As in ICS-UNV assessment, extension agents expressed the need for package of

technology which should be in a popular/layman version in a how-to, step-by-step process but brief/concise; content should be in English; product-based with cost of production, if applicable; information sources from local + best practices and, if lacking, supplemented with international sources; and with photos (especially for pests and diseases). However, out of the 12 commodities identified, the Bajo forest expert/specialist suggested to include only the propagation method for both bamboo and pangtse as this is the only available information currently at hand.

There are enough resource persons in the development of information materials for the identified commodities. The Regional Research and Communication Officers (RRCOs) coordinate the packaging and publication of scientific and technological information from the experts, either in-house following the agreed standardized format or through collaboration with ICS.

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• Both extension agents and researchers usually access and/or disseminate information through face-to-face interaction, by phone, via radio, and print materials (leaflet and manual) which is almost similar to ICS-UNV evaluation. The Consultant learned though that even if most of them owned mobile phone, this is mainly used for private purpose only. Extension agents also exploit poster, TV, and newspaper – and occasionally instructional video (as some owned video player) and Internet – while researchers use Internet and Research Journal as additional means to access/ disseminate information. The use of Internet is an improvement of the ICS-UNV results in 2001 wherein dissemination via the web was not included in the list as Internet presence was barely felt in the countryside then as it was just only introduced in the country in 1999 along with the television. With LAN availability, the researchers are now accustomed to use the Internet relative to their research work and exploit the web-based RNR Research Journal to publish their findings.

The Consultant agrees with the CIC Consultant that e-mail and Internet are seen as potential powerful media to access updated information or services, which could be through the MOA website, sent through email to the CICs, or copied to CD-ROMs for access by villagers and extension agents.

• Similar to the ICS-UNV output, the kind of media to disseminate information varies

per topic, but mainly in English language although other participants encouraged the use of Dzongkha, Sharchopkha, or Lhotshamkha. The CIC findings are more specific in their recommendations which almost reflect the expectations of the participants from pilot sites. For instance on agriculture, the information on wild pig control should be both in written (with sufficient illustrations) and audio format to cater to the requirements of both literate and illiterate farmers. On the other hand, a simple table listing of agri-inputs, the source, and the prices would suffice. To enable farmers to identify pest infestations with ease, it will be important to insert in the article the close-up photographs of diseased plants, pest-infested plants, and the pests. This could be accompanied with a narrative audio in the language spoken by the farmers. For livestock, an explanation of the symptoms of animal diseases in both written and audio format and a visual display of the condition are recommended. On the other hand, information on agri-inputs like livestock breeds (cattle, pig, poultry, and horse), its sources, prices, and procedures for acquisition would be beneficial if provided in a table supplemented with pictures of the breeds and accompanied with both written and audio explanation of the qualities and characteristics. The rules and regulations like grazing policy and swapping of unproductive cattle for improved breeds could also be presented in written and audio media. Markets and prices for livestock products could be provided via email by the Dzongkhags livestock sector or through the Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority (BAFRA) staff on a weekly basis to the CIC. It could also be posted in a website so that farmers with assistance from the CIC operator can access the information.

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For forestry, provision of information on tree saplings as photographs showing the type of seedlings and step-by-step illustrative guidelines on planting techniques is suggested. The rules and regulation on matters relating to forestry and forestry products can be provided in both written and audio format.

There is still a felt need to check the technical accuracy of information before it will be disseminated to any media. This is now being attended to by the RRCOs at RNR RCs and the ICOs at ICS which validate the data/information with the concerned expert prior to its dissemination to various media, including the Ministry’s website. Likewise, ICS through the web administrator has also drafted the Ministry’s standardized website development guidelines for consistency and avoid duplication of resources. Agencies under the Ministry who may wish to come up with their own website should follow the guidelines and should closely collaborate with ICS.

• The Consultant learned that researchers at RNR RC Bajo have not attended any

formal ICT training programme and knew computer and the Internet only through self-help or assistance from other staff. In fact, the “IT focal person” in the centre – a crop protection specialist by profession – knew IT through his own initiative. In contrast, extension agents have attended short-term training programmes in 2005-2006 being offered by the government either on basic computer, basic IT training, or Internet basics. They have now started to appreciate the use of computer and the Internet which they believe could facilitate their extension work.

• There were a number of training concerns as indicated below that both the R&E

community have identified to address some of the general problems that they have encountered in their work, particularly on access to information, teaching aids, feedback, and extension/technical skills. Details of the training programmes are presented under Consultant’s TOR No. 6 – Prepare training curriculum and resource materials, incorporating IMARK (http://www.imarkgroup.org/) modules where appropriate, to train project stakeholders on information management based on the identified additional training needs (item number 12.6).

Areas needing training/exposure VERCON training programmes 1. Internet use; file management/

sharing • Basic IT training (completed –

November 2005) • Internet basics (completed –

December 2006) • Use of VERCON-Bhutan website

2. Use of computer/other equipment; server management/troubleshooting

• Equipment handling and LAN security

3. Technical information preparation; subject matter; technical skills

• Content repackaging and reformatting

4. Facilitation skills; personality development; presentation skills

• Communication for development

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12.3 Finalize assessment of existing information networks at all levels (ministry, research, extension, farmers) to categorize sectors of beneficiaries and other project stakeholders (subsistence peasants, commercial farmers, small traders, local authorities, extension services, cooperating agencies, etc.) and examine how these sectors currently exchange information

12.3.1 As indicated in the Consultants TOR No. 1 (item No. 12.1), there are existing networks of information service provider in Bhutan that works under the RNR umbrella and collaborates and liaises closely with its respective stakeholders through various forum and media. In summary, the networks include MOA, mass media, DIT, Dzongkhags/Geog extension centres, and the Internet. 12.3.2 At MOA, there are various offices providing specific RNR information resources based on their mandates. For instance, the CoRRB/RNR RCs are recognized as major sources of RNR technologies, AMS and FCB for market concerns, ICS for multi-media materials, PPD for RNR policies and plans, CoRRB/Agromet for weather data, DSC for seeds and fertilizer-related information, various offices of the Department of Livestock for its agri-inputs, and the Departments’ IMS for overall sectoral concerns. There are also specific MOA centres that have been acknowledged to provide information on soils (NSSC), plant pests and diseases and pesticides (NPPC), post harvest handling and processing (NPHC), and agricultural machineries (AMC). Meanwhile, the Dzongkhag/Geog extension centres and the Dzongkhag nurseries were known to be major sources for local RNR databases/socio-economic data and for forest seedlings, respectively. The mass media are also good sources for RNR news and events while the Internet is considered a great source for international RNR information. On the other hand, DIT is planning to implement its Internet-based CICs that will bring ICT near the rural community and provide adequate and timely access to required information. 12.3.3 Based on assessment and consultations with the VERCON project team, the Consultant believes that new ICTs have already complemented traditional information and communication systems in Bhutan in terms of providing RNR information and services to clients. For instance, some researchers and extension agents are already using the computer and the Internet in their work-related activities. Also, the MOA website has been offering a variety of RNR information that addresses some of the clients’ needs. Besides, the Internet-based CICs will soon be established in the rural areas with agriculture as one of its main information coverage. It is thus, important to examine how this new ICTs in complementation with existing systems could best apply to further strengthen the linkages among the R&E communities – and by extension the farmers and other agriculture stakeholders. It is in this context that the Consultant proposed to design and develop a need-based website and which will be the most visible outcome of the VERCON-Bhutan project.

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12.3.4 The main question that the Consultant inquired from the project team is whether to put-up a VERCON website or only a part of the MOA website. This is based on the fact that some information identified during the assessments are already available in the MOA website and he would like to make sure that it will not duplicate the present efforts of the Ministry. To resolve this issue, the NPC agreed with the Consultant to meet with a “VERCON-Bhutan Interim Group” composed of the project team, Mr. Dorji Dhradhul of CoRRB, Mr. Sangay Duba of RNR RC Bajo, and Mr. Phintsho Dorji of FAO-Bhutan. The interim group recommended that VERCON should have its own website with distinct feature from the MOA website. In this case, the VERCON website will be more interactive and service-oriented to best answer questions from the field and will be targeted for specific users, namely: extension agents, researchers, and service providers to strengthen their linkage. In contrast, the MOA website is more of general overview about MOA like Departmental information, policies and plans, national RNR statistics, and related information for the general public. With the interim group’s endorsement and clarification of the difference and relevance between the MOA and VERCON websites, the NSC also later on approved the development of a VERCON-Bhutan website. 12.3.5 The project team then discussed the system design based on identified information needs and priority commodities. The team, however, noted that the list of information needs is too broad which might take sometime to design and field test a system, including collection, reformatting, or encoding of need-based information. It should be noted that the original plan of the IT Consultant is only to integrate existing systems available at MOA, which were very few (i.e. Digital Compendium of RNR Technologies and other systems in the MOA website that needs enhancement plus DSLR website) or development is still ongoing (i.e. Market and Policy Information Systems), the plan never materialized. And with numerous information needs identified during Dr. Coldevin’s assessment, the IT Consultant and the Content Manager have no concrete idea on how to make use of this output in designing the system. It is in this context that the IT Consultant has not done any design even when this Consultant came in for his mission in 19 June 2006 (or seven months after Dr. Coldevin’s assessment) and has opted for the arrival and recommendations of the Consultant on Information Management. 12.3.6 To identify the systems to be included during the pilot phase of the proposed VERCON-Bhutan website, the team in consultation with other experts analyzed existing information and communications systems relative to the identified information needs. The observations of the team were as follows: a) On market information concerns – As indicated earlier, the Agricultural Marketing

Services (AMS) in tandem with the Dzongkhags (through the Geog extension centres) and the Food Corporation of Bhutan are the primary agencies that provide market information services – basically on weekly retail prices and daily auction prices of available commodities in major markets of Bhutan. The stakeholders such as the farmers, traders, consumers, policy-makers within and outside MOA, researchers from RNR agencies, and Geog extension agents are able to exchange price information through walk-in visits, meetings, phone-in, mails, or e-mails to concerned agencies whichever is applicable.

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The current market information service, however, is still limited considering the problems faced by AMS. For one, AMS still lacks efficient market information collection and dissemination mechanism. In fact, the information collectors (extension agents and FCB focal person at auction yards) need training on market information management and information collection techniques. Compounding this problem is the lack of standard data collection sheet and units of measure, lack of market information software and capacity to use, and inadequate knowledge on what and how information collected could be interpreted and used.

AMS, however, is optimistic that the Ministry will be able to establish a Market Information System as the government has already identified it as a priority project under the E-Gov initiative administered by DIT. In fact, AMS is collaborating closely with ICS for the ongoing development of the system, initially on existing price updates in major markets, to jumpstart its operation. Supposedly, this system will hopefully address the information on market concerns but based on discussion with DIT Consultant – Mr. Aditya Sharma – the CIC project has also started to develop its own market information system. As such, the plan is to launch both systems for a trial period and later on will be integrated based on findings and experiences. The AMS Director has indicated his full support in coming up with a Market Information System as it would be the precursor to develop one such system. In fact, he promised to provide one full-time AMS staff to be the focal person for this undertaking. Initially, the Director suggested to also include the directory of wholesalers and production packets but, considering the limitations, has agreed to incorporate this information in future system expansion. In addition, there is a need to look at the Indian Information Market System as reference. There is also a need to look at the existing proposal of AMS, a good reference material for future system expansion, which aims to establish a knowledge management agricultural market information services in Bhutan. Initiated by their Economist, Mr. Chhimi Tshering, the proposal will utilize a knowledge management approach covering the existing commodities plus non-timber forest products and will develop mechanisms/systems for information collection and dissemination. In this proposal, the two main markets in Bumthang and Thimphu will be included for data collection. To carry-out the proposed activities, AMS will collaborate closely with concerned agencies within the Ministry, Dzongkhags, Department of Revenue and Customs, Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Royal Bhutan Embassies in India, Bangladesh and Thailand, as well as BBS and Kuensel. As proposed, the type of information/knowledge objects and their mode of dissemination will include the weekly retail and daily auction prices, retail selling price of selected agri-inputs, and description of prevailing market conditions. This will be disseminated through BBS radio and TV programmes. Other information will include a) trends and aggregated auction price, retail prices, quantity of auction traded, export, import, and production; b) annual market situation and outlook reports; c) market R&D reports; d) guide to good marketing and post harvest

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practices; e) investment advices and success stories in agribusiness; f) information on existing food safety standards and regulations; g) relevant regional market information/news; and h) directory of exporters and importers. AMS proposes to disseminate this information via trainings, workshops, seminars, RNR Newsletter, proposed AMS Bulletin, RNR website, manuals and guides, and through the VERCON and CIC websites. AMS will initiate interventions to address the limitations on organisational/ institutional, infrastructure, and human resources. Thus, AMS proposes to implement activities by phases, starting on weekly/auction prices, farm inputs (types/sources/selling price), description of prevailing market conditions, and information on existing food standards and regulations which are readily available in the Ministry. This will then be expanded later on to other identified information/ knowledge objects based on learned experiences and as resource permits. The AMS/ICS-initiated Market Information System is only 20% complete at the time of evaluation hence it will not be operational within the project duration (that is, until May 2007). Thus, it is not logical to include the system during VERCON’s pilot phase. Besides, AMS/ICS will have to continually confer with DIT on the trial launching/testing of the two separate systems involving various stakeholders, the eventual integration of the two systems, and future expansion with consideration on the AMS proposal to establish a knowledge management agricultural market information services in Bhutan. It is possible that VERCON-Bhutan website will host the integrated market information system later on with a link to the CIC portal.

• On technology concerns – As indicated earlier, the Council for RNR Research in Bhutan (CoRRB) in collaboration with the four Renewable Natural Resources Research Centres (RNR RCs) and the national service centres are the country’s main sources of agricultural research findings and technologies via research and development (R&D) works.

CoRRB has three categories of stakeholders. The primary stakeholders are the policy-makers/researchers/service providers of the Departments of Agriculture, Livestock, and Forest which are directly accountable for RNR sector development at grass roots level, including farmers. The secondary stakeholders are the Ministry’s Non-Departments and Corporations which also directly or indirectly use CoRRB outputs. The tertiary stakeholders are other agencies outside MOA which may indirectly use CoRRB outputs such as BBS, Ministry of Home Services, Ministry of Trade and Industry, and Dzongkhags (Sector Heads and Geog extension agents), among others. These stakeholders are able to exchange research findings and technologies through walk-in visits, mails, phone-in, meetings, workshops, conferences, trainings, farm visits/field days, RNR Journal publication, RNR Newsletter, RNR expos, e-mails, or via the discussion forum in the MOA website.

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The RNR Journal and the Digital Compendium, which are now available through the MOA website, already address the client’s needs on R&D and technology concerns, respectively. For the Digital Compendium, clients can use a search engine to access technologies either by organization, contributor, title, or year of publication. Thus, it may not be logical to develop a new Technology System for VERCON. However, there is a need to revise the technology details and enhance the Digital Compendium system based on discussion with CoRRB. For technology details, the Digital Compendium currently contains different formats, some in specific technical skills, some in technology details like how to grow a certain crop, or some in packets of technologies – sometimes in the form of synopsis only. This is the reason why the Consultant recommended revising the format in the preparation of technology as he also noted the need for package of technology based on previous assessments. It can start initially with the 12 identified priority commodities using agreed format with extension agents, researchers, and RRCO, and containing package of technology duly pre-tested with extension agents. These materials can be sent to extension agents/RNR libraries via mail or e-mail for their future reference. ICS can tie-up with DIT/CIC project in translating this technology information in Dzongkha and uploading in the portal for immediate access and download (e.g., by students, extension agents) and, through various forum and media, in creating awareness on the usefulness and availability of said information materials. In terms of system design, the Digital Compendium system, a Windows-based, is stand-alone meaning the user can only use the system where it resides. The current set-up for updating is not efficient since the designated CoRRB staff that will input the information will have to go to the server to update the system. Thus, if the Digital Compendium is to be used, VERCON needs to assist CoRRB to enhance the system including a web-enabled content management system and some refinements in the packaging of technologies, and make it operational during the project duration. There is another thing that the extension agents and NPPC researchers particularly expressed during the course of assessment. This is about the need to establish a separate Pest and Disease Management Information System as pests and diseases are identified to be continuing major problems in the farm. In fact, there are already available package of technology on integrated pest management for crops and livestock. However, owing to time constraint, it is impossible to develop such system within the project duration. Besides, the NPC recommended concentrating the current efforts to RNR RC Bajo – which can also provide the needed technical assistance on pest and disease management and other technology concerns – and include NPPC (and other relevant RNR agencies) in future plans. In addition, technologies related to pest and disease management can initially be subsumed as part of the Digital Compendium system but with due consideration to develop a separate system in future expansion of VERCON.

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To complement the Digital Compendium, there is also a need to create a directory system of experts/scientists wherein clients can easily access for referrals. At present, a hard copy of the list of technical staff is available in the shelves of CoRRB and other RNR offices as reference materials. There is also seemingly an absence of one comprehensive directory of RNR experts/scientists. Although extension agents can call-up CoRRB and other RNR agencies to inquire for technical assistance from experts/scientists, it may be expensive in the long run if done regularly. CoRRB’s Chief R&E Officer is amenable to the idea and even suggested the minimum requirements for an expert/scientist to be included in the directory, which is B.S. degree holder plus five years of experience in his/her field of specialization. Since the system will address both the research and extension community, it was likewise important to include extension agents in the proposed directory. There is already a directory system prepared by the IT Consultant and the Content Manager based on available sample formats for scientist and extension agents’ databases. The Consultant developed the sample formats relative to his discussion with NPC, CoRRB, the Department’s IMS, and extension agents. The dynamic directory system, which is 90% complete, will enable expert/scientist or extension agents to update new information following the proposed process flow: a) expert/ scientist or extension agent applies for membership in the Directory using the Directory interface; b) Content Manager checks with the concerned Department or Sector Head by e-mail or phone for the authenticity of the new applicant; c) once confirmed, Content Manager creates an account for the new applicant and informs the applicant via the interface (e.g. e-mail); d) applicant encodes the data in the directory database which is automatically published; and e) Content Manager will be informed via system notification of the new updates and checks whether the data inputted are in order (e.g. spacing, comma, spelling, etc.). Also in support to technology concerns, the researchers expressed the need to include website links relevant to mountain R&D and extension that can augment local knowledge and serve as potential reference. Although the MOA website has existing useful links, these are specifically catered to project-related agreements. There is already a Links system prepared by the IT Consultant and the Content Manager based on discussion with NPC and the Consultant during his first mission. The Links system is already 100% complete with a proposed protocol for updating as follows: a) researcher informs the Content Manager of a relevant website for inclusion in the Links; b) Content Manager browses the website and refers the URL to the concerned Departments’ IMS via e-mail for evaluation and approval; c) Departments’ IMS informs the Content Manager via e-mail whether to include the website or not; and d) if included, Content Manager prepares a brief description of the website and publishes in the Links interface.

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On the other hand, the extension agents emphasized the need for an online interactive forum to facilitate access for technology updates and other RNR information/services or response to technological/farm constraints. Such online forum, according to them, and I quote, “would facilitate linkage with the experts/scientists/service providers and would definitely improve the delivery of agricultural advisory services to the farmers”. Linking the MOA discussion forum to the proposed VERCON website is not a valid option as the system is open to everyone, even posting topics beyond RNR concerns. Creating a Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) system appears unacceptable as FAQ may not be appropriate to address client’s needs. Hence, the NPC recommended a Q&A system wherein posting of queries and answers will be initially restricted to pilot sites only, though everyone can browse the information posted. The original plan was for extension agents to post query to the system and then concerned scientist or service provider responds to the query. However, such system may be considered restrictive. Hence to improve the proposed Q&A system, the new plan is to allow any user to login in order to access the Q&A privilege and post the query. But only registered users can access the query and post the answers. Also, with the Content Manager acting as moderator, only registered users are allowed to interact and provide possible answers to the posted query until such time the final answer is attained, which everyone should agree. The Content Manager publishes the final answer along with the query to the Q&A interface which can now be viewed by everyone. The query and the answer will be categorized either as general, agriculture, livestock, or forestry sector. There will also be search facility for immediate access. If the same query will be asked, the system will inform the user to proceed to the archived Q&A using the search engine. The archived Q&A will include information on who posted it, when it was posted, and when it was archived (meaning when the final answer was attained). There is already an initial Q&A system developed by the IT Consultant and the Content Manager based on earlier discussion with NPC and the Consultant. However, the system, which is 60% complete, needs refinements based on the new plan. There are existing websites which the team can look into as valuable references for enhancement of the Digital Compendium (for Technology), Directory, Links, and Q&A systems. This includes the FAO TECA Technology for Agriculture; FAO Special Programme for Food Security: Asia; Arne Larsen website on pest in Namibia; FAO Library Catalogue Online; FAO International Information System for the Agricultural Sciences and Technology (AGRIS) Categories; Country Information/Specialized Country Profiles and Information Systems; and FAO Knowledge Forum (Ask FAO-Consult With A Technical Expert). The learnings and ideas which the Content Manager obtained during his VERCON-Egypt trip would also be valuable in enhancing the system.

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In addition, the team needs to vigorously pursue conducting training programmes for the identified VERCON stakeholders to enhance their information and communication skills and also enable them to use and access various systems (e.g. Technology, Directory, Links, and Q&A) of VERCON-Bhutan website. With VERCON providing new ICT facilities (computers, 4-in-1 equipment-printer-facsimile-scanner-copier, digital camera, LAN server, and flash drive) to these identified stakeholders, the team might as well train them on how to use and maintain said equipment. Likewise, there is a need to follow-up with Agency Heads for the inclusion of annual budget for the maintenance and operating expenses of equipment and for the sustainability of the pilot Geog extension centres’ Internet connection.

• On agri-inputs concerns. There are various agencies that provide the needed agri-

inputs and consequent technical services to its stakeholders, namely: researchers/ service providers, Geog extension agents, commission agents, and the farmers. These includes the Druk Seed Corporation (DSC) for seeds and plants, fertilizers, and herbicides (Butachlor); National Plant Protection Centre (NPPC) for pesticides; various agencies of the Department of Livestock as agri-inputs sources for livestock sector; Dzongkhag Forestry Nurseries in Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, and Wangdue Phodrang for sources of forest seedlings in the pilot sites; and Agricultural Machinery Centre (AMC) for farm machineries. The stakeholders are able to exchange information via walk-in visits, meetings, mails, facsimiles, phone-in, farm visits/field days, trainings, or e-mails.

As indicated earlier, the MOA website already contains static version on rate (prices/ cost) of seeds and plants, pesticides, farm machineries, and livestock agri-inputs under the RNR Inputs and Frequently Used Links web page. These data forms part of the dynamic Agri-inputs system earlier developed by the IT Consultant and Content Manager based on discussion with NPC and the Consultant during his first mission. The Agri-inputs system is already 80% complete and will be initially maintained as a separate system but with due consideration for its interoperability with the Market Information System in the future. Agri-inputs data are updated only once or twice a year whereas market prices are updated daily/weekly.

There is, however, a need to conduct a workshop with all the agency focal persons to finalize the teams’ proposed process flow for data uploading. As planned, the focal person will be responsible to upload (with quality control) via a password the list and rate (cost) as well as photo and brief product description of available agri-input stocks. Uploading depends on the agreed interface as follows: Option 1. Encoding – The focal person encodes all the data in the HTML interface.

The published HTML data can be exported into excel format. Option 2. Import via HTML – The focal person imports the data using Import

interface and the output will be shown as HTML like Option 1. The published HTML data can be exported into excel format.

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Option 3. Import via Excel – The focal person imports the data using Import interface and the output will be shown as excel format similar to the original database.

The first option considers the recommendation of the National Steering Committee to also include a brief description of the agri-input product (see Annex 5 for sample format). Options 2 and 3 are alternative choices. Also, the workshop should be able to identify the appropriate encoding interface and encoding scheme for multi-sectoral agencies (e.g. will it be LIMS to encode for all the livestock agri-inputs or individual DOL agencies), determine frequency of updating and mode of sending data (e.g. facsimile, mail) for those without or inefficient Internet connection, and schedule training programme for VERCON stakeholders on how to use and access the VERCON-Bhutan agri-inputs system. It should also led to creating harmonize data among various agri-inputs agencies to avoid confusion and conflict (e.g. using rate as the common term for prices and costs). Further, the workshop should also explore the possibility to disseminate online updates of agri-inputs via existing information and communication means such as radio broadcast which is popular in the rural areas or TV agricultural programmes.

• On policy concerns – As indicated earlier, the Policy and Planning Division (PPD), in coordination with concerned Departments, is responsible for providing RNR policy advice within and outside MOA. PPDs stakeholders, which include the policy-makers/researchers/RNR service providers within the Ministry, Dzongkhags (Sector Heads/Geog extension agents), members of the National Assembly, and Directors/ staff from other agencies requiring RNR policies and economic advice, are able to exchange information through walk-in visits, meetings, workshops, conferences, mails, facsimiles, phone-in, e-mails, or via the MOA discussion forum. In the MOA website, nine RNR Acts and other relevant policies are already posted under the Publications section. Interestingly, PPD also initiated the development of a Policy Information System that will contain the same relevant RNR policies, publications, and other policy matters. But since the system development is done without the help and knowledge of ICS, this somehow duplicates the posting of policy information. The system is reportedly a static version such that the web administrator had to physically go to the server room to update the content. The MOA website and the PPD-initiated system already tackle the need for policy information. Therefore, there is no need to develop a new system for VERCON but to resolve the issue on how to integrate the two systems and enhance it. The NPC specifically recommended including a summary of dos and the don’ts for a clearer and better appreciation of the policies and rules such as on policies related to forestry (management of parks, community forestry, social forestry, and rural timber), national biodiversity, cooperatives, and organic farming. The MOA website can host the system with a link to the summary of do’s and don’ts in VERCON.

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• On weather concerns – Based on mandates, the Council for RNR Research in Bhutan (CoRRB) through its RNR Agromet Office provides agro-meteorological information and advice for planning and management of the Ministry’s agricultural R&D and extension activities. Their stakeholders include personnel from MOA and other Ministries, extension agents, BBS, and Kuensel. The stakeholders are able to exchange information via e-mail, phone-in, facsimiles, or walk-in visits.

There is already available weather data (daily temperature and weather outlook of Thimphu and one of the 19 Dzongkhags) in the MOA website. But since climatic conditions vary within a Dzongkhag, it may be worthwhile to include a Weather system at the Geog level. The forecast weather data could be important information to the farmers as this could help them come up with a decision, such as when to harvest a crop relative to the forecast weather outlook for the coming days or transporting the harvested crop or livestock products relative to the weather outlook.

Of the VERCON pilot sites, the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) where RNR Agromet gets its weather data has existing weather station in Gaselo only and it may be possible to provide data on temperature and rainfall. However, it is difficult to provide data for Baap and Limbu as there are no MTI weather stations in these places. Hence, it is better to maintain the existing Dzongkhag weather data posting at the MOA website and defer the initial plan to develop a Geog weather data system until such time that RNR Agromet office will be able to provide Geog weather data.

• On multi-media concerns – As indicated earlier, ICS is the main communication arm, of the Ministry of Agriculture. ICS stakeholders include personnel/policy-makers from MOA and other Ministries needing RNR information materials, mass media, Dzongkhags (Sector Heads and extension agents), students, and farmers. The stakeholders are able to exchange information through meetings, workshops, conferences, RNR expos, RNR Newsletter, walk-in visits, mails, facsimiles, phone-in, trainings, field tours, e-mails, or via discussion forum in the MOA website.

ICS produces and maintains various information materials either in print, radio, video, and web formats. However, there are some constraints related to production and archiving of these information materials, which they are going to address in the 10th Five Year Plan. For print-based materials for instance, there is a need for the information and communication officers to take refresher course on content writing, reformatting/repackaging, and editing. On the other hand, the web administrator expressed the need for training on advanced PHP/MySQL and web designing. For radio-based information materials, the radio producer still uses a mini disk which BBS requires that takes time (about an hour) to transfer records of interviews from the recorder to the computer and vice versa. It may be wise to use a digital recorder although this should be analyzed and discussed with BBS in line with their requirement, the advantages, and the equipment cost. This can be complemented with training such as on the use of equipment and on new techniques for radio-based material production (that is, from interview to post-production).

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To provide extension agents with other reference materials, ICS may have to consider the possibility of sending CD-ROMs containing a compilation of radio-based materials to the pilot Geog extension centres. CDs are readily available in Thimphu and the cost is cheap (Nu10 for generic items). The broadcast materials can be played using computer which the extension agents can use to convey later on to the farmers. In addition to what is forwarded to BBS, ICS may also explore the possibility with BBS to utilize information contained in VERCON-Bhutan website for radio broadcast and to get feedback. The BBS Radio Producer is amenable to discuss this idea with NPC as he noted the convenience of surfing the Internet using the office’ computer and look for websites with Bhutanese content that are suitable for broadcast. In terms of video-based material, an outside editor prepares the master copy of each video in DV CAM or Mini DV format since the video producer has yet to learn how to use the recently-acquired non-linear editing machine. ICS can save almost two months from floating the tender, identifying the winning editor, raw stock video editing, and master copy production if they know how to use the equipment. Training on the use of equipment is imperative including its maintenance, conversion of VHS to CD format, and CD burning. This is because ICS also outsource the conversion of VHS to CD at Nu120 if CD is supplied and Nu 150 without supplying CD. ICS may have to consider maintaining an archive via CD-ROMs and sending a CD-ROM compilation of video/radio-based materials and publications to the pilot Geog extension centres as this might be more advantageous with the availability of computers in the centres. Despite the numerous information materials produced for publicity and support to extension concerns, ICS has yet to develop an efficient electronic archive system that will contain all information materials the office has produced since its establishment as well as those produced from other RNR agencies. There are numerous write-ups and limited publications on RNR that are posted in the MOA website but there is no specific system for multi-media concerns. In any case, the News, Announcements, and Events of the MOA website already provides the information required by extension agents, researchers, policy-makers, and other agriculture stakeholders. Hence, there is no need for News and Events system under VERCON since the MOA website already provides such for which ICS has to continually update and create awareness with various clients. The NPC initially recommended developing a multi-media materials system for VERCON beginning with a catalog of ICS-produced information materials (e.g. documentaries, interviews, publications, and photos) for clients’ reference including those in the PROCITE database of ICS Library. In fact, the Consultant has already requested the AV Section Head for the list of ICS-produced audio-video materials for posting in the proposed website. Due to time constraint, the new plan is to develop such system beyond the pilot phase and host the system in the MOA website with consideration to evolve this into a Multi-Media Documentation Centre and link to VERCON-Bhutan website.

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Interestingly, FAO has an e-learning module on Management of Electronic Documents which is a part of its Information Management Resource Kit (IMARK) which can be used to develop a Multi-Media Documentation Centre. ICS can use this valuable module to help them strengthen their information management and facilitate exchange of information materials within their local network (including the four RNR RCs and national service centres) and also international networks like FAO and the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), Global Forum on Agricultural Research (GFAR), among others. The exchange of information from these international agencies will have important domestic value for its research and extension community and vice versa. ICS plan to remodel its library is a laudable effort to make the ambiance more conducive for research and documentation. If the plan to come up with online multi-media materials system pushes through, capacity building is also imperative. For instance, the Librarian identified training needs on how to establish a library professionally via hands-on training abroad or through on-the-job training at ICS with a Consultant for a year instead of just one month only. Also, there is a need to standardize the scheme of classification to all RNR libraries for easy access and management as currently the National Biodiversity Centre (NBC) Library in Serbithang, Thimphu is using the Dewey Decimal Classification Scheme while most RNR libraries are using FAO Library Classification Scheme. The Librarian even cited the use of Dewey Scheme as more acceptable based on experience and limited knowledge of FAO scheme.

• On relevant forms and administrative report concerns – There are various forms issued by various MOA agencies that are used by its stakeholders for business transaction and work-related activities. The stakeholders who include RNR RC staff, extension agents/Gups, Dzongkhag staff, and exporters/importers are able to exchange information related to the required forms through walk-in visits, phone-in, or mail.

Some of the notable forms required by stakeholders include export and import permits which have to be secured from Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority (BAFRA), soil and plant sampling form from NSSC, and various livestock and forest-related forms from the Department of Forest and Livestock, respectively. For extension agents, they regularly availed of the following forms from MOA: For Agriculture: • Pest Surveillance Form for Graminaceous Crops and Buckwheat, Vegetable

Crops, and Tree Crops from the National Plant Protection Centre (NPPC).

For Livestock (as required by the Department of Livestock or its attached agency): • Monthly clinical report form (clinical cases of livestock); • Quarterly backyard report form (progress of the backyard farms);

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• Quarterly breeding bulls reporting form (progress of the bulls that the government has supplied to the farmers) as required by the National Livestock Breeding Programme;

• Annual Livestock Census form (database); and • Sample collection form (fecal/blood samples and history, disease symptoms) from

the Regional Veterinary Laboratory. For Forestry (as required by the Department of Forest): • Application form for new house construction timber; • Application form for house renovation; • Application form for subsidized timber for other rural construction purpose; and • Application form for other forest produces for rural uses.

There is one interesting development which came out in the discussion of the Pest Surveillance Form. NPPC and RNR RC Bajo researchers as well as extension agents plan to explore the possibility to use distance diagnostics as additional tool to fast-track the diagnosis of pests and diseases in the farm. They are amenable to give it a try if given the right equipment, efficient Internet connection, training, and agreed protocol or process flow based on the Consultant’s proposal as presented in Annex 6. In this process flow, the extension agents and experts will make use of new ICT in complementation with existing systems to facilitate diagnosis and recommendation, the results of which will also be posted in VERCON-Bhutan website for future reference. ICS can coordinate and guide the extension agents and researchers in pursuing the plan beyond the VERCON pilot phase. Meanwhile, extension agents plan to discuss with Sector Heads the option to submit filled-up forms and administrative reports via e-mail in addition to hand-carrying the documents to their office. Also, to speed up submission of filled-up forms to RNR agencies and their consequent recommendations to Sector Heads, ICS can coordinate a dialogue with these RNR agencies and Sector Heads to discuss the prospect of using electronic means like e-mail and the resulting protocols for Ministry’s approval. The current system to download forms from MOA website already addresses clients’ needs for immediate access to these forms. Hence, there is no need to set-up similar system but only a link to the list of available forms to VERCON-Bhutan website. ICS should encourage RNR agencies to submit additional or revised forms for posting and create clients’ awareness on availability of forms online currently free of charge. For administrative reports, the Application System for Monitoring and Evaluation Procedure (ASMEP) earlier developed by a MOA Consultant could be linked to the VERCON system. ASMEP was intended to be used by Sector Heads for sending progress reports and work plans to Dzongkhags and concerned Department. Unfortunately, ASMEP was considered non-operational as it is too technical for the Sector Heads and deemed not user-friendly. However, there is a similar system being developed by the Planning Commission and it is imperative to wait for the system to be finished and see whether MOA will adopt it.

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• On Geog profile concerns – As indicated earlier, the Geog extension centres are the main sources of information for any Geog RNR information/databases. The stakeholders who include Sector Heads, Department Heads, researchers, and farmers are able to exchange information through walk-in visits, phone-in, mail, field days/farm visits, RNR expos, and meetings. The extension agents manually prepare Geog databases which can be accessed upon request or manually copied as some of the information materials are posted on the wall of the Geog extension centre.

There was an attempt by the Ministry through PPD to establish a reliable RNR database on the Geog level via RNR survey for the planning and monitoring of development policies and programmes in the RNR sector. The first attempt was made in 1999 based on 10% sample level which became the baseline information in the conduct of the first full RNR Census in 2000. The results of the Census were presented in two volumes as follows: Volume 1 contained RNR data (e.g. harvested area, production, and yield; number of trees; livestock population; and farm-produced livestock products) on national/Dzongkhag level which was published and available at PPD and with some data also posted in the MOA website. Volume 2 contained Geog level data but was published in-house (via ring-binder) only. The Geog extension agents helped the census management with coordination and field supervision of enumerators during the 2000 census. The census, however, was done on project-type basis through the collaboration between MOA and the Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA). The plan then was to conduct census every five years – the 2nd census of which should have been done in 2006 but this was not carried-out because of the huge funding requirement. Hence, MOA decided to follow-up the first census with annual sample survey in collaboration with PPD, the Departments, Dzongkhags, and Geogs, with the census planned to be carried-out every 10 years. Annual sample surveys were done in 2002 and 2003 with a publication of selected RNR statistics. In 2004, another sample survey was done to address the MOA requirement on food security concerns. This time, the arrangement was changed with the annual data collection centralized to the Departments and then PPD to do the compilation of each Department’s results. PPD, however, found it difficult to do its task as they have to wait for the Departments to conduct their own survey and submit their results. As it is, when the survey is done, the concerned Department maintains the data generated and PPD requests the data only when the Ministry so requires. According to the Chief Planning Officer, PPD has to coordinate all these things again, see what is on the ground, and decide whether policies on data collection/ consolidation needs revision or fine-tuning, and then come up with a road map on institutionalizing a knowledge management system that will aid in decision-making process of the Ministry. In the 10th five-year plan, PPD plans to pursue the development of this system together with the Departments to consolidate various RNR data available in the Ministry such as those collected during the Census, those collected on a project basis to come up with policy paper (e.g. Bhutan National Food

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Security Strategy Paper from the FNPP project or FAO-Netherlands Partnership Programme Bhutan), those submitted by the Dzongkhags as required by MOA, and those data available in CoRRB on suitable agro-ecological zones (e.g. slope, soil type) of Bhutan which when matched with Geog data/profile will provide an idea on bio-social information aspects of that Geog. In other words, the information is fragmented and often inadequate, and in different formats. There is apparently an absence of a system to handle all available Geog information/data into one comprehensive and easily accessible RNR databases. It is in this context that PPD is enthusiastic to the idea of putting-up an online Geog profile on a pilot basis through VERCON as it falls within the divisions’ framework of programme to come up with one comprehensive database. Besides, as proposed, it will be the Geog extension agents that will collect and manage the data which is part of their existing workload and, therefore, the institutionalisation process is accelerated. In addition, it would be easier for PPD to access the local data online thereby facilitating consolidation and analysis. PPD will consider the proposed Geog profile system as soon as a new staff is hired to lead the divisions’ Statistics Unit as part of its effort to come up with a road map for a knowledge management system.

There is already a Geog profile system developed by the IT Consultant and Content Manager based on earlier discussion with NPC and the Consultant. The system, which is 90% completed, is based on sample formats of Geog databases in agriculture, livestock, and forestry being prepared by the Consultant as an offshoot of meetings with Sector Heads, extension agents, and the Departments. There is, however, a need to continually discuss with Geog extension agents to refine the formats, finalize the protocol, and schedule training programme on how to use and access the system. As proposed, the extension agent is responsible to collect and record the data from the farmers and, then imports the data using import interface with the output shown as MS Excel format similar to the original database. The Content Manager will be informed via notification of the new updates and checks whether the data inputted are in order (spacing, comma, spelling, etc.). The extension agent informs the Sector Head via e-mail or phone of the new updates in the VERCON-Bhutan website for downloading.

In summary, Annex 7 presents the findings in table format for the user needs’ assessment versus existing RNR information products in Bhutan as it relates to the establishment of the VERCON-Bhutan system. The summary presents, by stakeholders group (farmers, extension agents, Sector Heads, researchers/RNR service providers, and policy-makers), the information needs of the user/stakeholder, existing information products based on users needs, the gaps, and suggested VERCON solution (within and beyond the pilot phase) to address the gaps.

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12.4 Collaborate with the National IT Consultant and the Content Manager in the development of functional specification design and architecture, as well as field-testing of VERCON-Bhutan system

12.4.1 During the Consultant’s first mission to Bhutan, the project team – as endorsed by NPC – identified 10 systems out of the 17 identified information needs that will be initially included during the pilot phase of the proposed VERCON-Bhutan website. This includes the following: • Agri-inputs – Updates of available seeds, seedlings, pesticides, crossbreed bulls,

jersey purebreed bulls, fodder seeds, vaccines, pullets, and piglets; • Technology – Extension documents package of technology on production/

postproduction and available commodity prices of major markets. Note that the NPC has endorsed market to be subsumed under the Technology system;

• Directory – Key scientists and extension agents; • Questions and Answers – Forums on growers’ problems and answers from

scientists/service providers; • Geog Profile – General profile and annual updates of local RNR database; • Website Links – Information on related websites; • Policy – Important government Acts, policies, and regulations – summary of do’s and

don’ts; • Weather – Update of days’ weather in pilot sites as well as forecast; • Multi-media Materials – e-library of publications and video clips initially from ICS;

and • Downloads – MOA’s relevant forms and extension agents report format. 12.4.2 Initially, the systems will address the information needs for the following commodities: cereals (rice and wheat), vegetables (chili, potato, cabbage, mustard, and potato), fruits (apple and mandarin), dairy (cattle), poultry (chicken), piggery, community forest, and private forest. This was presented to the National Steering Committee which subsequently stumped its approval to go ahead with the system design but making sure that VERCON makes farming more attractive, that is, VERCON should be agriculture information base so that farmers get whatever information they need from the system (through the extension agents), thereby making farming easy and more attractive. 12.4.3 The Consultant prepared a brief description of the 10 systems which provided the Content Manager – who is under study with the IT Consultant in website development – a clearer picture about each application system. The NPC subsequently approved the write-up for posting in the website. To facilitate website development, the Consultant revised the Site Map and the VERCON-Bhutan leaflet to reflect the Committees recommendations. He also came up with a list and brief write-up for each of the relevant research and extension website (Annex 8) recommended by the researchers to be included in the Links system. The write-up contains brief information about the website including the URL for immediate reference to the client.

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12.4.4 From time to time, the Consultant provided technical research and extension inputs to the IT Consultant and the Content Manager in coming-up with the overall website design. The Consultant is always on hand to answer technical requirements – an arrangement which they appreciated well considering their limited knowledge on agriculture. In this way, they immediately crystallized what the network members’ needs are before developing the appropriate design – with a free-flowing discussion between the two sides. The IT Consultant, the Content Manager together with the Consultant also constantly met with the NPC to discuss issues that needs her recommendation and approval, progress and project accomplishments as well as project plans and activities. 12.4.5 To provide FAO an idea about the website design, the Consultant recommended hosting the site temporarily at the MOA website. When informed, FAO was thus apprised of the status of website development and at the same time, the project team got their initial feedback. The document sent by Ms. Sophie Treinen (Information Management Specialist of FAO-GILF Rome) on WAICENT checklist for the clearance of new website provided a valuable reference in developing the VERCON-Bhutan website. 12.4.6 The FAO Bhutan mission of Ms. Sophie Treinen and Mr. Michael Riggs (Information Management Specialist of FAO-RAP Bangkok) from 13-25 November 2006 became the pivotal point in finalizing the system design. In this mission, the project team presented their outputs and plans such as the system design and architecture, preparation of package of technologies, training and promotional activities. In turn, the FAO mission briefed the project team of their initial observation as well as FAO requirements and standards for online communities and networks. As such, from the agreed 10 systems to jumpstart VERCON-Bhutan pilot phase operation this was further trimmed down to six systems or modules based on the deliberation with the FAO mission (Annex 9). The six systems will include the following: • Agri-Inputs information on machinery, seeds and plants, pesticides, and livestock; • Technology information: extension documents on package of technology on

production/postproduction; • Directory services with key scientists, extension agents, and farmers; • Questions and Answers forums on grower’s problems and answers from scientists

and service providers; • Geog profile and annual updates of local RNR databases; and • Links to websites on R&E.

12.4.7 Based on evaluation, the group noted that it will be impossible for the IT Consultant to present an operational website within the pilot phase if it pushes through with the development of the 10 systems. It should be noted that system development was delayed as the IT Consultant had to wait for the recommendations of the Consultant on Information Management. As a consequence, there was little time for full assessment particularly on system-related issues although the IT Consultant in collaboration with the team exerted their best efforts to proceed with the development of the systems within the time frame. The IT Consultant and the Content Manager, however, considered following-up important system-related issues as appropriate.

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12.4.8 The FAO missions’ observations and recommendations based on their discussions with the project team and field visits to the Geog pilot sites and Bajo research centre were presented to the NSC last 24 November 2006 at MOA headquarters in Thimphu. Annex 10 presents the approved recommendations which addresses the issues pertaining to the systems to be included in VERCON website during the pilot phase, content updating, collaboration with other agencies, proposal for Q&A, creation of a quality control group, training programmes, and harmonization/standardization of terms. In general, the following changes to the website were suggested: General: • Provide a short paragraph of “What is VERCON-Bhutan” in the Homepage and the

succeeding description is clickable to “About Us” section. Essentially, the description will come from the VERCON-Bhutan leaflet. Annex 11 presents the final version of the leaflet jointly prepared by NPC and the Consultant based on the 2nd draft written by Ms. Sophie Treinen and the 1st draft from the Consultant;

• Write in a formal style instead of the previously written personalized or colloquial manner. Annex 12 presents the revised version of the description of the six systems based on the 1st draft written by the Consultant which was then forwarded to the NPC for approval;

• Use website resolution of 800 x 600 (fixed width) and standard photo file resolution of 72 DPI for web image. There is a need for the Ministry to conduct interpersonal meeting for standards;

• Make the system as user-friendly as possible; • Include a Site Map; • Provide copyright. The Consultant prepared and submitted to the NPC a brief

copyright description (included in Annex 39) based on the format provided by Ms. Sophie Treinen; and

• Add a print option with the website printable on portrait A4 pages and a help desk on how to print.

For Agri-inputs system: • Need a brief and formally-written introduction for each agri-input product (that is,

seeds and plants, pesticides, livestock agri-inputs, and agricultural machinery) to inform clients what the product is all about, what is interesting in it, and what is available in the Ministry;

• Provide a brief description of the items in each product (e.g. power tiller for agricultural machinery), accompanied with a photo plus information on where to buy and whom to contact. Request concerned agency to supply additional agri-input data (e.g. agricultural machineries) as existing information is insufficient;

• Place the total for all available products as well as asterisk on top of the table rather than at the bottom for easy reference. Clients need not scroll down just to get the total. Also, provide explanation about what asterisk means using the information indicated in the source document;

• Adopt Ministry-wide standards (terms like price vs. cost; serial number vs. number). Check with the focal person for the meaning/explanation of the terms and ensure to adopt common and acceptable standards;

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• Maintain caption from the original source document; • Include data (e.g. livestock agri-inputs) beyond technical limits, that is, not limited to

the identified priority commodities; • Explore the possibility for automatic import of data (e.g. in MS Excel format) from

the focal person to the VERCON system to facilitate updating. Also, data from the MOA website;

• Exclude trend say on price over the years (e.g. 10 years) during the pilot phase. Check the feasibility to keep data archives later on via MS Excel format to export data;

• Use keywords (drop down menu) or free text for the search facility (e.g. seeds); and • Change “Updated by” to “For more information click here” or “Please contact

concerned staff”. Also, there is need to formalize if there are changes in focal person and change the name accordingly.

For Technology system: • Need a brief and formally-written introduction similar to agri-inputs suggestion; • Institutionalize the system on who is going to write technology instead of ICS

requesting RNR RC Bajo. Get approval from the National Steering Committee; • Develop technology platform then link to the enhanced Digital Compendium for

RNR Technologies. For additional reference, check the following websites: TECA website (http://www.fao.org/sd/teca/, http://www.fao.org/spfs/asia/), animal health avian influenza (http://www.fao.org/ag/againfo/subjects/en/health/diseases-cards/special_avian.html), Arne Larsen website on pest in Namibia (http://www.larsen-twins.dk/), Special Programme for Food Security Asia website (http://www.deptan.go.id/saims-indonesia/), and FAO virtual library (http://www.fao.org/waicent/portal/Virtualibrary_en.asp); and

• Explore the possibility for the convergence of information between technology system and the proposed multi-media materials system (or later on multi-media documentation centre) consisting of ICS and the four RNR RCs slated for the next phase.

For Geog profile system: • Need a brief and formally-written introduction similar to agri-inputs suggestion; • Provide photo that is representative of the pilot Geog site; • Reformat Geog database using one set of real data to see how it looks and request

extension agents for comments and suggestions. Check such parameters as “nearest market from what Chewog” rather than Geog or various parameters for one animal (male/female and improved/local). Separate database for boundaries or use image in GIF file;

• Explore the possibility for automatic import of data (e.g. in MS Excel format) from the extension agents to the VERCON system to facilitate updating; and

• Check the country information/specialized country profiles and information systems website (http://www.fao.org/countryprofiles/index.asp?lang=en&ISO3=BTN) for reference.

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For Directory system: • Need a brief and formally-written introduction similar to agri-inputs suggestion; • Expand the title to “Directory of Research and Extension Services”. It should be a

resource for users and other systems; in other words, not just as mere contact but linked to Q&A and Technology systems. Check FAO knowledge forum website (http://www.fao.org/KnowledgeForum/index_en.htm) or ask FAO website (http://www.fao.org/askfao/home.do?lang=en) for reference. Contact Ms. Sophie Treinen for the “Ask FAO” interface in case VERCON-Bhutan plans to use it;

• Include the following categories for each expert: name, designation, location, contact details, Department, and expertise. Check if some fields are compulsory or not;

• Use standard specialized keywords to search for expertise. Check International Information System for the Agricultural Sciences and Technology (AGRIS) (http://www.fao.org/AGRIS/Default.asp?Language=EN) or AGRIS categories (http://www.fao.org/aims/ag_categories.jsp) and Agricultural Information Management Standards (AIMS) (http://www.fao.org/aims/) for reference. Ensure to expand/refine the existing fields of expertise/specialization earlier developed by the Consultant to include all those in RNR RCs and other concerned RNR agencies; and

• Explore the possibility to use free open source software (e.g. Mambo, Jomla, or Xoops) for content management systems. Check the platicar website (http://www.platicar.go.cr) for reference.

For Questions and Answers (Q&A) system: • Spell-out Q&A as full title of the system; not abbreviated; • Need a brief and formally-written introduction similar to agri-inputs suggestion; and • Keep the system open instead of restricting it to network members only. Allow users

to register (login), post the query, and only registered users are allowed to interact and decide among themselves (as internal forum of discussion) for the final answer which the Content Manager publishes along with the query. Involve the proposed VERCON Bhutan editorial–quality control committee in the internal discussion as part of its TOR presented in Annex 13 which Ms. Sophie Treinen suggested. The TOR also details other activities which the proposed committee will work on.

For Links system: • Need a brief and formally-written introduction similar to agri-inputs suggestion; • Link the MOA website’s news and events system to VERCON; and • Place the acronym ahead of its full name (e.g. (AGORA or Access to Global Online

Research in Agriculture) and include relevant FAO websites. 12.4.9 The NSCs approval to focus on the six systems for the pilot phase provided the basis for the development of the functional specification design and architecture as indicated in Annex 14. The Consultant wishes to acknowledge the laudable efforts of the IT Consultant and the Content Manager in coming up with the design and architecture. As indicated earlier, system development was a team effort wherein the Consultant provided the technical R&E inputs which the IT Consultant badly needs in system development. However, system development was delayed, the reason of which was stated in the IT Consultant’s e-mail on 27 November 2006 to Mr. Jacob Sterringa of FAO-RAP

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Bangkok copy furnished Mr. Ricardo del Castillo of FAO Rome, and I quote, “The TCDC expert on information management was delayed because he was not released from his office in India and it further delayed my job in system development. Work has just now begun with the appointment of Mr. Jojo Payot for this contract whose title is TCDC expert on Information Management”. 12.4.10 To field-test the VERCON system, the team plans to conduct the testing as part of the training on the use of VERCON-Bhutan website where all network members (extension agents, sector heads, researchers, RRCOs, and focal persons of RNR service providers) are expected to attend. The training is slated on March 2007 at CNR in Lobesa, Thimphu. The plan is to test each of the six systems to all the network members after a thorough briefing of each system’s profile, advantages/usefulness, MOA website links and its difference with VERCON as well as showing its design and architecture: • For the Directory system, all the participants will be requested to apply (login) for

membership in the Directory using a dummy Directory interface. As soon as the Content Manager has created the member’s account, each participant is requested to encode the relevant data. The Content Manager then requests the participants to search for specific expert or field of expertise in the Directory system using the search facility. They are then encouraged to send e-mail to the identified expert copy furnish the Content Manager for evaluation purposes. There will be a discussion on the reactions/observations relative to the testing of the system.

• For the Links system, the researchers, RRCO/alternate RRCO and the focal persons

will be requested to browse the Internet and search for one relevant RNR website (excluding those available in the VERCON-Bhutan Links system) that is considered useful for inclusion in the system. After which they will be requested to prepare a brief description of the identified website following the website format available in the Links system. Then they are instructed to send both the uniform resource locator (URL) and the brief description to the Content Manager via e-mail. The Content Manager then requests all the participants to search for specific URL in the dummy Links interface using the search facility. Again discussions will be encouraged and reactions and observations duly noted.

• For the Geog profile system, the extension agents and the Sector Heads – grouped

according to their sector – will be requested to prepare a sample database of each sector’s local data (e.g. previous years’ data on acreage of wetland, dryland, orchard, and “Tsheri” for agriculture; data on the number of local livestock like pig, poultry, mithun, etc. categorized by male/female; and data on the number of parks, timber permits, forest fires, cattle depredation, etc. for forestry). They will use a database format similar to those posted in the Geog profile system. Then they are requested to import the data using a dummy import interface. After which all the participants are requested to search for a specific database using the search facility, copy the file into the hard disk, and send via e-mail to each participant (e.g. extension agent to Sector Heads or vice versa) copy furnish the Content Manager for evaluation purposes. Discussion will follow.

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• For the Q&A system, all the participants will be requested to login using a dummy Q&A interface. The extension agents and the Sector Heads are then encouraged to post one common question (either in agriculture, livestock, or forestry sector) based on a real situation. The researchers, RRCOs, and focal persons are requested to answer the question and virtually interact each other – with the Content Manager as the Moderator – until such time that a final answer is obtained. After which the Content Manager will publish the answer along with the question and then request all the participants to use the search facility to access the posted Q&A. They are also requested to use the printer option to print the file. Depending on the discussion, the Content Manager will allow repeating the procedure by posting another question.

• For the Technology system, the researchers, RRCO/alternate RRCO, and focal

persons from NPPC, NSSC, NPHC, AIMS, LIMS, and FIMS will be requested to encode sample information and photo for a certain technology (either in agriculture, livestock, or forestry sector) using the format of the Digital Compendium for RNR technologies. Then they will be encouraged to send the data to the CoRRB participant via e-mail who in turn uploads the data into the dummy digital compendium interface (Content Manager may help to facilitate uploading). After which all the participants will be requested to open the dummy Digital Compendium site and search for a specified technology update using the search facility. As in Geog profile system, they will also be requested to copy the technology file and send via e-mail to each participant copy furnish the Content Manager for evaluation purposes. Open forum follows.

• For the Agri-inputs system, the focal persons from AMC, DSC, NPPC, AMS, FCB,

AIMS, LIMS, and FIMS will be requested to prepare a sample list in MS Excel format of respective agency agri-input data (e.g. agricultural machinery, seeds and seedlings, etc.) as well as photo and brief description of a sample product that is included in the list. After which the focal persons are encouraged to encode all the data via a password in the dummy agri-inputs interface. Then all the participants will be requested to search for a list of a certain agri-input (e.g. machinery) and a certain product (e.g. power tiller) using the search facility, copy the file, and send via e-mail to each participant copy furnish the Content Manager for evaluation purposes. Another open forum follows.

To facilitate field-testing the systems, the Consultant suggested requesting the participants to bring a sample agency database such as those indicated in the Geog profile, Agri-inputs, and Technology systems which can be used as reference material during the testing. Similarly, researchers, RRCO/alternate RRCO and concerned focal persons of RNR service providers will be requested to bring photos either on a certain technology or agri-input product (along with product specification). In addition, the Consultant also suggested for the Content Manager to monitor the duration as to how long it will take to complete the activities per VERCON system for evaluation purposes. Also, ensure Internet connectivity in the testing venue.

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12.5 Collect, prepare, and/or revise write-up of need-based information materials, including the pre-testing of relevant materials with extension agents prior to web posting

12.5.1 Based on the previous assessments, technology is a major felt need among extension agents and even researchers. Specifically, the extension agents recommended package of technology (instead of bits and pieces) for a certain commodity so that it would be easier for them to answer multiple queries to the farmers. They also felt the need to regularly access technology updates which the project team underscored the importance to link the Technology system with the Q&A system. As indicated earlier, the Digital Compendium of RNR Technologies is the best option to provide the needed technology information as planned for by the Ministry. However, the compendium needs enhancement – system-wise and content-wise. Although there are technologies available in the compendium, these are fragmented and sometimes inadequate, and oftentimes not in the form needed by extension agents. 12.5.2 It is in this context that the Consultant – as endorsed by the NPC and RNR RC PD Mr. Sangay Duba – coordinated the holding of a “Workshop on Preparation of Package of Technology and Geog Information for VERCON Web Posting” at RNR RC Bajo last 22 September 2006. The workshop aimed to brief network members about VERCON-Bhutan and to discuss the preparation of package of technology for the identified priority commodities. The Consultant also recommended including discussion on the preparation of the directory of scientists/experts and extension agents as well as Geog general information and its RNR databases for web posting to take advantage of the presence of researchers and extension agents. 12.5.3 The Consultant prepared sample formats for the preparation of technology and databases as talking points and presented the workshop mechanics and expected outputs. Annex 15 presents the output of the workshop. As indicated in the output, the workshop provided a good avenue for extension agents to articulate their technology requirements to the researchers while the researchers were able to indicate whatever available information at hand. They were also accommodating in providing the necessary information to come up with the directory and Geog profile. As the extension agents emphasized, the workshop is a good way to link them further to the concerned researchers and afforded them the opportunity to learn, exchange ideas, and be part of the process to prepare the information materials. 12.5.4 The RNR RC PD acknowledged the importance of holding the workshop and it is worth mentioning in this report the following points that he emphasized: • The need to further improve R&E linkages via VERCON-Bhutan as the system can

provide updates and exchange information between researchers and extension agents. The fate of VERCON-Bhutan, however, depends on the dynamic participation of researchers, other RNR service providers, and extension agents – and by extension – the farmers. Thus, the PD urged the participants to play a pro-active role – that willingness to put effort or reach out. Further, he advocated for a frank exchange and

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lively discussion as, according to him, there is no expert in this workshop – let everyone express his views/opinions on behalf of the farmers. He added that discussions will be a continuing exercise and, in fact, this workshop is only one of the workshops that VERCON-Bhutan will be conducting to come up with an operational and sustainable system;

• The need to discuss the required technologies (or so-called demand pull) by farmers

in the pilot sites, clarifying what type of technologies to post in the website – would it be specific topics only or the whole package of technologies. The PD advised researchers to be frank in admitting the absence of technologies – as the case maybe – and seek assistance or link to researchers from abroad; and

• The need to identify researchable gaps and subsequent capacity building based on the

discussion. It is now time to conduct in-depth research as current efforts were geared towards adaptive (applied) research vis-à-vis understanding the local environment.

12.5.5 In this workshop, the major recommendations put forward includes the following: • Finalize commodities for VERCON-Bhutan to initially work-on. As agreed upon by

the group, the system will thus feature subsistence farming consisting of the staple rice, chili, potato, and tomato and to the expanding small orchards of walnut and pear. Further, the site will feature an array of information on cattle, chicken, pig, and feed and fodder. VERCON-Bhutan will likewise include information on bamboo and Pangtse (Symplocus paniculata) – a species preferred by the farmers for its oil seed. Hence, there will be 12 commodities that the system will initially focus;

• Provide Market information as a separate service from the Technology information.

Market prices are very important information that putting it within the Technology section may not be appropriate;

• ICS to consider putting-up a user-friendly e-mail address instead of vercon-

bhutan@moa.gov.bt; • Make available micro-climate data within the pilot sites under Weather. Within the

Geog Limbu alone, the vast mountainous areas have varied agro-climatic conditions so that putting general weather data (e.g. rainfall or temperature) may not be appropriate for some areas within the Geog to arrive at a good decision;

• Come up with a package of technology for each commodity identified. The

technology should be written in English and in popular or layman version, with photos (especially for pests and diseases), product-based, and with cost of production, if applicable. The information sources will be coming from local and blended with best practices and, if lacking, supplemented with sources from abroad. It must be a how-to, step-by-step process but brief/concise;

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• Go ahead with the format for the directory of scientist and extension agents with inclusion of additional expertise for livestock. All the researchers and extension agents submitted the filled-up form for web posting;

• Give concerned researchers enough time to write the package of technology. Hence,

the schedule to write the technology for the 12 commodities will be made from October until the last week of November 2006. Subsequent activities such as editing, pre-testing with extension agents, revising, and encoding will follow and which maybe completed towards the end of the year. The Consultant, however, decided to take up the recommended schedule with the NPC for consideration and final action;

• Coordinate with the Department of Survey and Land Records for Geog maps while

extension agents will send the required information of their respective Geog to ICS. The Consultant will then consolidate all the information and come up with a write-up for each Geog for posting in the Geog profile; and

• Revise the Geog RNR databases based on the recommendations of the extension

agents to reflect the needed data. The extension agents were requested to send their initial RNR data to the Content Manager for posting in Geog profile as soon as the user-interface is completed. This includes Geog population, location of the pilot site (North-South-East-West boundaries), distance (by hour) from nearest market/ Dzongkhag, number of Chewogs and households, and agreed data for crops, livestock, and forestry.

12.5.6 As approved by the NPC and RNR RC Bajo PD, the Consultant coordinated the holding of a 3-day writeshop with Bajo researchers as a strategy to fast-track the preparation of the technology. In this activity, the researchers were able to come up with the first draft on the technology for rice, pest and disease management, livestock, and forestry while the Consultant drafted the commodity’s brief profile in Bhutan context based on information supplied by the researchers. There was no write-up, however, on fruits and vegetables as the Bajo expert was then busy attending the preparation for the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006 Expo in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The RNR RC Bajo PD suggested waiting for the arrival of the Bajo expert as there is no other Bajo expert who can do the write-up. 12.5.7 Considering the time limitation and wanting to facilitate the preparation of technology, the NPC agreed on the Consultant’s suggestion for him to draft the brief profile and technologies on fruits and vegetables for experts’ critique later on. At the same time, the Consultant will first edit all the researchers’ write-up for a common format and then send to the RRCO for his final editing and compilation prior to pre-testing with extension agents. For fruits and vegetables write-up, the Consultant made use of the Digital Compendium as reference and based on his experience, some information available are insufficient and highly technical on the part of the extension agents. In fact, the Bajo expert later on sent the vegetable write-up to RNR RC Wengkhar for clarification, comments, and/or additional information.

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12.5.8 Based on Consultant’s observation, some of the researchers need training on packaging/repackaging and reformatting of technology information materials. It would be easier for the RRCO to edit the write-up if the researchers have enough background on this aspect. In fact, even if the Consultant is an agriculturist by profession, he had a hard time understanding some portions of the write-up as these are written in highly technical manner and loaded with technical jargon. Thus, it took him sometime to edit and refine all the write-ups as he has to confer with the concerned researcher for the revision. Some researchers, however, believe that extension agents could very well understand the technical writing as they are taught on the subject matter. In any case, the researchers and RRCO/alternate RRCO are willing to undergo training to improve their writing skills. 12.5.9 The researchers welcome the Consultants’ suggestion for the centre to train a staff as photographer since some photos are not clear enough or insufficient to complement the write-up. Some researchers though would like to attend basic training on photography in the future in case their workload permits. In any case, some researchers make use of photos from the Internet or books; hence the Consultant reminded them to ask permission as the photos might be copyrighted. 12.5.10 The Consultant acknowledged with pride the substantial efforts provided by RNR RC Bajo researchers in coming-up with the technology write-up despite the limited time and their numerous research workload. The researchers are also very accommodating to the Consultant’s suggestions and have been appreciative of the comments made to the write-up. The information contained in the write-up is based on best efforts and available information and photos and, therefore, any upcoming updates are most welcome to them. The write-up, however, is heavily focused on the production side and needs more information on post-production. This is understandable as RNR RC Bajo’s mandate is more of the production aspect. The researchers, given more time, said that they can get additional information from NPHC in Paro although they are not sure whether all the needed post-harvest information are available for the 12 commodities. In fact, the Digital Compendium has limited information on post-harvest technology component. 12.5.11 On 13 December 2006, the Consultant coordinated the pre-testing of eight commodity write-ups plus the pest and disease management write-up (Annex 16) with extension agents, researchers, RRCO/alternate RRCO, and representatives from ICS and CoRRB at RNR RC Bajo. Each write-up includes the commodity description and the package of technology based on agreed format. The pre-testing activity excludes the write-up for pear, potato, cattle, and feed and fodder as these still needs revision with concerned Bajo experts based on the Consultant’s comments and suggestion. In summary, the status for write-up preparation is indicated below:

Commodity Writer Status Cereals 1. Rice Mr. Mahesh Ghimiray Completed as package of technology Fruits 2. Walnut Mr. Gyambo Tshering Completed as package of technology

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3. Pear Mr. Gyambo Tshering For revision as package of technology Vegetables 4. Chili Mr. Gyambo Tshering Completed as package of technology 5. Potato Mr. Gyambo Tshering For revision as package of technology 6. Tomato Mr. Gyambo Tshering Completed as package of technology Pests and Diseases 7. For agriculture Mr. Sangay Wangdi Completed as package of technology Livestock 8. Chicken Mr. Dawa L. Sherpa Completed as package of technology 9. Pig Mr. Dawa L. Sherpa Completed as package of technology 10. Cattle Mr. Dawa L. Sherpa For revision as package of technology 11. Feed and fodder Mr. Dawa L. Sherpa For revision as package of technology Forestry 12. Bamboo Mr. Rinzin Dorji Completed as propagation technology only 13. Pangtse Mr. Rinzin Dorji Completed as propagation technology only 12.5.12 In this pre-testing activity, the Consultant handed hard copies of the edited write-up on technology information materials to concerned extension agents and researchers/experts. He also provided the extension agents with the evaluation sheet and explained to them the importance of doing the evaluation. To start the activity, the extension agents were grouped by sector and accompanied by concerned commodity expert. The agricultural crops sector was divided into two groups to lessen the burden of pre-testing seven write-ups but they are allowed enough time to confer each other’s group. A separate venue was provided to each group to pre-test the information materials. The RRCO/alternate RRCO and representatives from ICS and CoRRB were tasked to observe and assist the group as the need arises. As soon as all the groups have finished pre-testing, the RRCO/alternate RRCO compiled all the evaluation sheets after which the following general observations and recommendations were presented to the participants: • Overall, all the 10 extension agents indicated acceptability of information materials

as written by Bajo researchers. See Annex 17 of the evaluation details as compiled by the Consultant. The details include evaluation relative to persuasiveness, clarity, and acceptability. The extension agents expressed their great appreciation to the researchers for providing such information as they have now ready reference materials to answer farmers’ queries. They hope that in the future, they will be able to get regular updates as well as similar format of information materials for other commodities. Interestingly, the extension agents were also able to get some technical reference materials on other commodities from the researchers while doing the pre-testing activity;

• On rice production technology, to include information on other weeds. The rice and

crop protection specialists will collaborate on this aspect. Also, rename photo credits for the three photos to Limbu Geog extension centre instead of Bajo. In the future, include technology on organic production, processing, and value addition (e.g. quality packaging). Technically aside, the extension agents suggested including focal person for marketing (e.g. pounded rice) in VERCON-Bhutan Directory system;

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• On pest and disease management, to include more information for other important weeds of potato. Also, include information on nut weevil and die-back for walnut as well as chili mosaic virus. The crop protection specialist will consider on these features. In addition, link all the pest and disease management information with concerned crop technology in the VERCON-Bhutan Technology system. It should also be searchable in the system;

• On walnut production technology, to simplify scientific jargons (e.g. stratification,

undercutting). The fruit crop specialist will consider on this portion; • On pig production technology, to include feed formulation. The livestock specialist

to consider on this part; • On bamboo production technology, to include nursery disease and treatments/local

names as well as description of bamboo and sunken bed. The forestry specialist to consider on these aspects;

• On pangtse production technology, to describe/explain pre-treatment. The crop

protection and forestry specialist to consider on this matter; • On the schedule to revise the nine information materials based on the suggestions,

the following schedules have been agreed upon: for crop protection (up to 1st week of January 2007); for livestock (up to 22 December 2006); for forestry (up to 22 December 2006); and for RRCO (up to 2nd week of January 2007) for submission of nine revised information materials to CoRRB; and

• On the schedule to pre-test the four remaining information materials, the following

schedules have been agreed upon: for feed and fodder and dairy (up to 27 December 2006 with livestock specialist, three livestock extension agents, and RRCO; for pear and potato (up to 17 January 2007 with fruit crop specialist, four agriculture extension agents, and RRCO; and for RRCO (end of January 2007) for submission of the four revised information materials to CoRRB.

12.5.13 CoRRB’s Chief R&E Officer expressed great satisfaction on the results of the pre-testing activity. He encouraged ICS, CoRRB, and other concerned RNR agencies to continually discuss the following relative to the enhancement of the digital compendium: • Review existing system design to make the Digital Compendium user-friendly

particularly in updating information; • Finalize protocol for the preparation (from write-up to pre-testing) and web posting

of information material in the Digital Compendium. He requested the Consultant to provide the draft protocol to ICS and CoRRB for their reference in coming up with an enhanced Digital Compendium;

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• Type of information to post (that is, existing information at Digital Compendium that are “bits and pieces” vs. the packages of technologies that have been pre-tested);

• Preparation of packages of technologies for other important commodities in Bhutan

aside from the commodities already pre-tested; and • Finalize criteria for experts relative to inclusion in the Directory system.

12.5.14 The team welcomes the suggestion of the DIT/CIC project to translate all the technology information materials into Dzongkha. This is one of the areas where VERCON and CIC can complement each others efforts. The translated materials will be posted in the CIC portal which will be linked to the VERCON website. 12.6 Prepare training curriculum and resource materials, incorporating IMARK

(http://www.imarkgroup.org/) modules where appropriate, to train project stakeholders on information management based on the identified additional training needs

12.6.1 Based on previous assessments, training is another major need of network members as they underscore its importance for effective research and extension linkages using the VERCON-Bhutan system. This was further affirmed by NSC during its first meeting last 31 August 2006 as they highlighted the value of capacity building for the system to succeed. 12.6.2 Initially, the Consultant identified four training programmes for the network members as follows: a) use of communication equipment; b) information management, search and retrieval; c) content development; and d) how to use the VERCON-Bhutan website. These were the training programmes – listed in the Consultant’s first mission report - that the project team believed the network members would really need based on assessments. There were 55 potential participants then identified to be involved in the training as follows: Thimphu District Office (9), Wangdue Phodrang District Office (9), Punakha District Office (9), RNR RC Bajo (4), and RNR service providers (24). The District Offices will involve three participants each for extension agents, Sectoral Heads, and Assistant Sector Heads while RNR service providers (CoRRB, NSSC, NPPC, DSC, AMC, PPD, L IMS, FIMS, NPHC, and FCB) will consist of two participants each except for ICS and AMS with single and three participants, respectively. The list, however, may change depending on the recommendation of the incoming VERCON TCDC Consultant for Information Management. 12.6.3 The conduct of the training programmes, however, was held in abeyance pending the arrival of Dr. Srinivasacharyulu Attaluri, supposedly the VERCON TCDC Consultant on Information Management. This was further delayed as the Consultant – as advised by NPC – waited for FAO’s approval of his extension contract which was later on confirmed on 25 October 2006 through an e-mail from Mr. Jacob Sterringa stating that, and I quote; FAO HQ finds the revised terms of reference (TOR) are acceptable. This was the

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offshoot of NPCs letter request last 23 October 2006 to Mr. Phintsho Dorji, Assistant FAO Representative Bhutan, to endorse the revised TOR of the Consultant’s 3-month extension. With this development, the Consultant discussed with the NPC on the plan to conduct the training programmes. 12.6.4 There was a change though in the initial proposed training programmes as an outcome of the discussion with the FAO mission of Ms. Sophie Treinen, Mr. Michael Riggs, and the project team – which was subsequently affirmed by NSC last 24 November 2006. The training programmes now includes the following: a) equipment; b) security, maintenance and antivirus for the users; c) file management and sharing + back up and CD burning; d) Internet tools and applications; e) use of VERCON for users and administrators; f) LAN security and maintenance; g) communication for development; and h) content repackaging and reformatting. 12.6.5 As a result of these changes, the Consultant – along with the IT Consultant and the Content Manager – discussed the conduct of training programmes that would encompass IT-related activities. The Consultant prepared a draft of the course schedule based on the discussion and presented the same to the NPC last 28 November 2006 for approval. In the ensuing discussion, the NPC strongly recommended the revision and outsourcing of all the training programmes to which the identified trainers will submit a manual as a pre-requisite prior to the conduct of the training. Please see Annex 18 for the subsequent changes in the training programmes from the initial identification to finalization. The project team then finalized the schedule/duration, venue, and the number of participants for each training programme as follows:: a) Internet to include applications and tools (e.g. search engine, e-mail system), file

management (e.g. sharing, transferring, converting), security and maintenance (e.g. troubleshooting, do’s and don’ts, and policies). A week-long training should be held on the first week of December at the College of Natural Resources in Lobesa, Thimphu with all the extension agents of the three Geog pilot sites (Limbu, Gaselo, and Baap);

b) Equipment handling and local are network (LAN) security to include using/handling

digital camera (e.g. shooting, copying/editing images) and 4-in-1 equipment (printing, copying, scanning, and facsimile), and how to secure the agency’s LAN. A week-long training should be held within January 2007 with two groups of trainers: one for equipment and another for LAN. These trainers will visit the three Geog pilot extension centres and RNR RC Bajo for hands-on training of extension agents and two Bajo researchers;

c) Communication for development to include communication skills, production of

extension materials, among others. A week-long training should be held within January 2007 at the College of Natural Resources in Lobesa, Thimphu with all the extension agents of the three Geog pilot sites and the RRCO/alternate RRCO from Bajo;

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d) Content repackaging and reformatting to include packaging/repackaging/reformatting of available information such as on technologies, agri-inputs, and website links, and make it available to VERCON-Bhutan website in different formats (e.g. web, text, and image). A week-long training should be held within February 2007 at the College of Natural Resources in Lobesa, Thimphu with all the extension agents of the three Geog pilot sites, five Bajo researchers, RRCO/alternate RRCO from Bajo, and 10 focal persons from RNR service providers;

e) Use of VERCON-Bhutan website to include internalization of VERCON-Bhutan

system, identification of network members’ roles and responsibilities, and familiarization of systems’ features and applications. A week-long training should be held within March 2007 at the College of Natural Resources in Lobesa, Thimphu with all the extension agents and Sector Heads of the three Geog pilot sites, five Bajo researchers, RRCO/alternate RRCO from Bajo, and 10 focal persons from RNR service providers. The plan is to split the training into two schedules because of venue limitation; and

f) Basic Information Technology (IT) + other trainings mentioned above. A month-long

training should be held within April 2007 at the College of Natural Resources in Lobesa, Thimphu with all the extension agents of the six Geog extension centres to learn what has been articulated from the other trainings earlier conducted to participants of the four pilot sites. The six Geogs include Trong (Zhemgang Dzongkhag), Darla (Chhukha), Drakten (Trongsa), Bhur (Sarpang), Phongmay (Trashigang), and Chokor (Bumthang).

12.6.6 The Consultant – as requested by the NPC – prepared the budget profile (Annex 19) for the revised six training programmes which will be used as one of the attachments to their request to FAO for the release of remaining AGFUND. This was the offshoot of the NPC and the Content Manager’s discussion with Mr. Pema Y. Rinzin, the Ministry’s Finance Officer, on the proposed AGFUND remaining budget utilization to cover additional expenses for network members’ six training programmes, proposed farmer’s training-orientation, RNR RC Bajo Internet connectivity, and licensed antivirus software procurement. Based on the Consultant’s estimate, the revised six training programmes will cost Nu2,362,400 (or US$52,498 at US$1 =Nu45). 12.6.7 The first training entitled Internet Basics was successfully conducted last 04-08 December 2006 at the computer laboratory of the College of Natural Resources in Lobesa, Thimphu. The training was outsourced to the group of the IT Consultant and the Content Manager (as trainers) with the Consultant as the training coordinator. The participants included three extension agents each from Baap and Limbu, four extension agents from Gaselo, and one from ICS. The training preparation was a team effort in terms of administrative and financial requirements, logistics (supplies and materials/ vehicle), venue groundwork (contact person/reservation/computer and LCD availability/ Internet connectivity/electricity/rules and regulations), food and accommodation, invitation letters, needed equipment, attendance sheet, certificates, training manual and survey-questionnaire for the participants.

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12.6.8 Prior to the start of the training, the Consultant provided the training overview for participants’ guidance as follows: a) purpose of the training; b) conduct of a brief refresher course for the December 2005 training; c) programme outline and mechanics (e.g. purpose, participants, duration, venue, trainers, punctuality and agreed time in the morning and afternoon session, training coverage, medium of communication either in Dzongkha or English or Dzonglish, open forum as informal as possible, lecture-discussions followed by hands-on exercises, ice breaker, schedule and venue for lunch and snacks, short recapitulation every day of the previous days’ activities, training evaluation, and closing ceremony including messages/feedback from trainee representatives, distribution of certificates, and photo session); d) payment for the participants’ daily subsistence allowance (DSA); and e) graduation dinner. 12.6.9 The trainers discussed and answered questions from the participants related to the training coverage (see Annex 20 for the training manual prepared by the trainers). On the refresher course, three participants (two from Gaselo and one from Baap) were observed to require additional tutorial on MS Word and Excel which they preferred face-to-face query with the trainer. Of particular emphasis is on how to print MS Word documents, prepare table, and use of formula using MS Excel. On the training side, the participants requested the trainers to slow down the lecture-discussion so that they can catch-up or fully understand with what is being discussed. The Consultant also gathered via e-mail the following interesting observations from the participants: • It is nice to come across all of you. Hope all of you will keep in touch when you go

away from here (that is, the training); • Let’s not lost our relationship of our VERCON groups; • We are very much grateful to ICS/VERCON project for the training. Looking

forward for your continuous support; • The Internet training is very interesting and I am enjoying a lot of browsing; • Regarding today’s programme (i.e., about e-mail), it is very useful and interesting

one to learn; • I have gained a lot of knowledge about the Internet and PC maintenance. I always

would like to thank the VERCON project; • I think we should request for a 1GB pen drive from VERCON project, since it would

be very useful for data transportation and also we can carry the same for the monthly staff meetings about the VERCON activities; and

• We would be very happy and obliged if you could talk to VERCON project Manager and give us one thumb drive each.

12.6.10 The participants were also pleased to learn the e-mail addresses of the Bajo researchers and agreed to immediately contact them through e-mail copy furnish the Consultant. Incidentally, some of the e-mails bounced back because of wrong e-mail addresses (some used druk.net instead of druknet or misspelled the name of the researcher). Hence, the trainers have to advise again the participants to ensure the use of correct e-mail address. Some of the participants’ messages are listed below including a reply from the researcher:

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• It's me Tshering Dema working in Baap Geog as agriculture extension agent. How are you sir? In my Geog, the problem of pear and mango fruit drop is very severe and I would like sir to solve the problems. Only this much. More in the next mail;

• I was asked to be in your good office on 13th December 2006. Mainly for pre-testing on horticulture, cereals and others activities as a part of VERCON training activities;

• This is the agriculture extension of Limbu Geog looking for information on northern corn blight, since one of the Chewog grow maize as a main cereal crop. Therefore, I want to give some advices for my farmers on the management aspect and if you have some leaflets or some papers on the topic I would be very grateful. I am looking forward for your advice in this matter; and

• I will prepare some materials on maize diseases/blight that you can collect from me on 13th December when you come to Bajo for VERCON meeting.

12.6.11 Overall, the participants were very enthusiastic with the conduct of the training. Annex 21 presents the training evaluation results which include such areas as course contents, instructional methods, training materials, resource speaker, conduct of training programme, rating of the training in relation to time and cost, and overall usefulness of the training. The evaluation results also present the training aspects which are most rewarding and useful, work-related areas wherein extension agents can apply the skills and knowledge gained, plans after the training, and recommendations to improve the conduct of the training. The training was all the more doubly significant with the arrival of Mr. Dorji Wangchuk, Director of College of Natural Resources, who readily accepted the trainers’ instant invitation to grace the closing ceremony. He distributed the Certificates (Annex 22) and imparted inspirational message to the participants. 12.6.12 For the five other identified training programmes, the Consultant – as requested by the NPC – prepared the proposed course schedule and curriculum for reference and consideration to the prospective trainers (Annex 23). The Consultant made use of IMARK and ItrainOnline Multimedia Training Kit (MMTK) documents provided by Ms. Sophie Treinen and Mr. Michael Riggs in the preparation of the curriculum. In terms of protocol, ICS will have to collaborate with the Ministry’s Administrative and Finance Division (AFD) to certify fund availability and identify the prospective trainers. First, AFD checks whether there is budget allocated by ICS for the proposed training. In view of this, ICS needs to follow-up the additional budget from FAO for the conduct of other training programmes. Then, if budget is available, AFD announces the proposed training to the media (usually via Kuensel and BBS) and collects the bids. A committee comprising of Finance Officer, Procurement Officer, and ICS awards the training to the winning bidder (considering the bid amount as well as the past experiences of the trainer). ICS initially provides the background of the training such as objectives, participants, etc. so that the trainer will prepare the manual accordingly. 12.7 Act as resource person for delivery in all the pilot sites of training courses on

specific subjects to be discussed with GILF 12.7.1 The Consultant acted as resource person on the following:

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• Packaging and/or pre-testing of technologies for the 12 commodities plus the technology on pest and disease management with Bajo researchers, RRCOs, and extension agents. Because of the observed difficulty of the Bajo researchers and RRCOs in the preparation of the information materials, the Consultant recommended their inclusion in the proposed training on repackaging and reformatting to further improve their writing skills; and

• Training on Internet Basics. The Consultant assisted the trainers during the hands-on

exercises with the extension agents, including aspects on copying and saving a document, creating files and folders, preparing a table using MS Word, converting files to PDF format, CD burning, installing anti-virus, and sending/saving e-mail.

12.8 Coordinate and carry-out promotion of VERCON services to extension agents, researchers, focal persons, and others 12.8.1 The Consultant coordinated and carried-out the promotion of VERCON-Bhutan services through the following: • Workshop on the preparation of package of technology and Geog information for

web posting as well as pre-testing of the technology information materials. This was a great opportunity for the Consultant and the Content Manager to brief and interact with RNR RC Bajo researchers/RRCOs, extension agents, CIC Consultant, and FAO-Bhutan representative about VERCON-Bhutan. The Consultant also handed VERCON-Bhutan leaflets to the participants for their reference and encouraged the extension agents to discuss VERCON in their meetings with Sector Heads and Gups.

• Training on Internet basics. This was another opportunity for the Consultant along

with the project team to promote and articulate the advantages and usefulness of VERCON-Bhutan to the extension agents during the training proper and during lunch and snack time. No less than the Director of College of Natural Resources encouraged the extension agents during the closing ceremony to take advantage of the VERCON system to further link with the researchers and other RNR service providers and consequently improve their extension delivery services.

• Meeting with RNR service providers. The Consultant along with the Content

Manager - in the course of their informal discussions with the Director/staff of concerned RNR agencies – discussed the importance of VERCON-Bhutan and explored the possibility on how these agencies can collaborate or be part of the system. The Consultant was pleased to hear that most of these RNR agencies are already aware of VERCON and appreciated the relevance of the system since they have been consulted earlier starting with the preparation of the project proposal to attending workshop and meetings, including the NSC and CIC meetings.

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• Radio interview with BBS. The Consultant provided the Content Manager initial questions about VERCON-Bhutan as a guide for his radio interview with BBS last 26 September 2006. The interview was conducted in Sharchopkha language that is aimed for eastern Bhutan clients. The Consultant later on prepared and submitted a Q&A about VERCON-Bhutan to the NPC for future reference (Annex 24). The Q&A includes 14 topics related to what VERCON-Bhutan is, its objectives, functions, services, clients benefits, information sources and access, among others. The Consultant also provided the ICS Radio Producer a copy of the Q&A for possible conversion into local language.

• As part of the strategy to create awareness about VERCON-Bhutan, the Consultant

proposed the participation of the NPC to the APAARI Workshop on Expert Consultation on Agricultural Innovations: Linking Farmers to Market last 06-08 November 2006 at Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi, India. APAARI is an international organization that promotes the development of the National Agriculture and Research System in Asia-Pacific region through inter-regional/institutional cooperation. The NPC approved the idea to participate in this workshop – of which she was accepted to participate – as it would provide an opportunity to share and exchange ideas with other countries doing ICT work. However, her participation did not push through due to numerous commitments in Bhutan.

• The Consultant provided the NPC and Content Manager a copy of a 5-minute photo

story (via MS Digital Image Suite) he prepared containing snapshots of some project activities while he was working with the project. This project documentation could be a useful reference material (project document) to the Ministry of Agriculture about VERCON-Bhutan.

12.8.2 As discussed with NPC, the Consultant also identified additional promotional activities for VERCON-Bhutan as follows: • Mass media. The Consultant discussed with the AV Section Head and other ICS staff

to include VERCON in their plan of activities and prepared a Memorandum – signed by the ICS Director – along this line. The plan includes TV and radio broadcast via BBS in Dzongkha, article via Kuensel and Bhutan Observer in English, and similar article as in broadsheet but reformatted via ICS-produced Farmer Newsletter (in Dzongkha) and ICS-produced RNR Newsletter (in English). The article will also be posted in the MOA website.

• RNR Expo 2006. This will be held at the Higher Secondary School Grounds at

Gedu, Chhukha on 19-23 December 2006. This is the time when the Ministry annually showcases its services and products to farmers, extension agents, and other agriculture stakeholders. ICS will have its own booth and the plan is to promote and create awareness to agriculture stakeholders about VERCON-Bhutan.

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• Annual RNR Conference. This will be held in Lobesa, Thimphu on February 2007. This is an opportunity for ICS to present its activities carried out in 2006, of which VERCON is included that would promote and provide mileage for the VERCON project. The conference involves mid- and high-level personnel of the Ministry to discuss RNR issues and plans for the year.

• Upcoming trainings of VERCON-Bhutan. This will be held in 2007 and will be a

good opportunity for the team to talk about and promote VERCON-Bhutan to Sector Heads and focal persons of RNR service providers that will be participating in the training programmes aside from extension agents and RNR RC Bajo researchers/ RRCOs.

• DIT/CIC meetings and launching. The Consultant discussed with DIT Assistant

Director on the continued participation of the VERCON team in the CIC meetings, including its full launching of the CIC project.

• Official launching of VERCON-Bhutan. This will be held before May 2007 to

promote the project to its intended beneficiaries and others. V. Recommendations 13. The main conclusion from this mission is that the project is still half-way towards putting-up the systems in place. In any case, the Consultant and the project team members are pleased to see the system already shaping up and the network members’ eagerness to cooperate and improve the systems’ operation. The following recommendations are directed towards continuing the gains made so far: 1. Continue system design with important issues followed up as appropriate and present

this to NSC and network members to get their feedback. Also, carry on with the write-up of the functional specification design and architecture;

2. Conduct field-testing with network members and fine-tune the system as needed.

Also, develop the protocols of the system modules to guide network members; 3. Ensure that the network members will undergo trainings as planned; 4. Promote VERCON-Bhutan based on identified mechanisms, including its planned

launching; 5. Strengthen collaboration with other agencies doing work on agricultural and rural

information systems; and 6. Consider the preparation of VERCON-Bhutan Phase 2 based on previous assessments

and learning experiences.

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Annex1. Map of VERCON-Bhutan pilot sites.

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Annex 2. Organogram of the Ministry of Agriculture (lifted from the MOA website).

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Annex 3. Brief summary of various information needs’ assessments conducted for the RNR sector.

Parameters ICS (thru UNV) ICS (VERCON Project) DIT (CIC Project) ICS (VERCON Project) 1. Assessment

Coordinator Mr. Joselito Payot Dr. Gary Coldevin Gonefel Consultant (local

consulting firm) Mr. Joselito Payot

2. Year of assessment 2001 2005 2006 2006 3. Area of assessment • RNR RCs Yusipang,

Thimphu • RNR RC Bajo,

Wangdue Phodrang • RNR RC Jakar,

Bumthang • RNR RC Khangma,

Mongar

• Thimphu (MOA HQ) • Wangdue Phodrang

(Gaselo and Bajo) • Punakha (Limbu)

• Wangdue Phodrang (Nyisho and Rukuji)

• Bumthang (Ura) • Trongsa (Drakten) • Lhuentse (Menbi)

• Thimphu (Baap) • Wangdue Phodrang

(Gaselo and Bajo) • Punakha (Limbu)

4. Participants • RNR RCs PDs and staff (Programme Officers, Researchers, Research assistants, Extension programme officers (EPOs) (now RRCOs), and Assistant extension programme officers (AEPOs)

• RRCO of RNR RC Bajo • Sector Heads and

Dzongdas of the pilot Dzongkhags (Wangdue Phodrang and Punakha)

• Extension agents of the Geog pilot sites (Gaselo and Limbu)

• Staff from various agencies of the Ministry

• RNR staff • Farmers • Health assistant • Teachers • Students • non-formal education

(NFE) students • Businessmen • Village or block

councils called Geog Yargay Tshokchung (GYT) members

• RNR RC Bajo PD, Researchers, RRCO/ Assistant RRCO, and Librarian

• Sector Heads of the pilot Dzongkhags (Wangdue Phodrang, Punakha, and Thimphu)

• Extension agents of the Geog pilot sites (Gaselo Limbu, and Baap) and Kabji Geog, Punakha

• Directors/Staff from various agencies of the Ministry

5. Method of assessment • Focused group discussion

• Workshop discussion • Focused group discussion

• Survey-questionnaire

• Focused group discussion

• Follow-up consultation/ validation

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Parameters ICS ICS (VERCON Project) DIT (CIC Project) ICS (VERCON Project)

6. Identified commodities Total: 11 • Paddy (or rice) • Chili • Potato • Walnut • Apple • Citrus • Cattle • Poultry • Winter fodder • Cordyceps sinensis • Fuel wood species

Not identified Total: 19 • Paddy (or rice) • Chili • Potato • Maize (or corn) • Vegetables (commonly-

grown) • Wild animals (wild pig,

monkey) • other crops suitable for

the region • New high altitude crops • Cattle • Pig • Poultry • Grass/fodder/pasture • Horse • Non-wood forest

product (e.g., mushroom)

• Timber • Tree (sapling)

plantation • Private forestry • Exotic/unusual species

in the region • Alternative energy and

building resources

Total: 12 • Paddy (or rice) • Chili • Potato • Walnut • Tomato • Pear • Cattle • Pig • Poultry • Feed and fodder • Bamboo • Pangtse

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Parameters ICS ICS (VERCON Project) DIT (CIC Project) ICS (VERCON Project)

7. Identified information needs

Total: 2 • Technology • Directory of experts/

scientists

Total: 10 • Market • Technology • Agri-inputs • Policy • News and Events • Weather • Directory • Geog profile • Multi-media materials • RNR statistics

Total: 10 • Market • Technology • Agri-inputs • Policy • News and Events • Weather • Directory • Relevant Forms • Research and

development • Questions and answers

Total: 17 • Market • Technology • Agri-inputs • Policy • News and Events • Weather • Directory • Relevant Forms • Research and

development • Questions and

answers • Geog profile • Multi-media materials • RNR statistics • Relevant website

links • Pests and diseases • Training/Scholarships • Administrative reports

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Annex 4. Results of VERCON project team information needs’ assessment in pilot sites, 2006.

Table 1. Summary of the output on the information needs' assessment held at the Geog pilot sites.

Parameter Limbu, Punakha Gaselo, Wangdue Phodrang

Baap, Thimphu RNR RC Bajo, Wangdue P.

1. Date conducted From July-December 2006

2. Work activities • Attend to clients/ • Attend to clients/ • Attend to clients/ • Research work identified farmers’ queries farmers’ queries farmers’ queries • FFS/field day

• Farm/home visit • Training • Admin. work • Farm/home visit • FFS/field day • Meeting • Training • Training • Admin. work • FFS/field day • Meeting • Meeting • Field work • Farm/home visit • Field work • Attend to clients/ • Training • Admin. work • FFS/field day farmers’ queries • Meeting • Field work • Farm/home visit • Admin. work • Farmer’s group • School/agri • Network admin. mobilization/study programme • Workshop tour • Publications • Watershed-related activities

3. General problems • Access to info • Access to info • Access to info • Access to info faced in relation to • Facilities • Facilities • Facilities • Facilities work • Teaching aids • Mobility • Teaching aids • Research skills • Feedback • Feedback • Technical skills • Extension skills • Extension skills • Mobility • Technical skills • Teaching aids • Mobility • Feedback

4. No. of commodities 21 29 26 identified a) Agriculture 14 24 19 b) Livestock 5 3 5 c) Forestry 2 2 2

5. Top commodities (12)

identified a) Agriculture • Rice, Pear, Walnut, Chili, Potato, and Tomato (6) b) Livestock • Cattle, Poultry, Pig, and Feed and Fodder (4) c) Forestry • Bamboo and Pangtse (2)

6. Major criteria • Local farmers interest

in selecting • Assured market top commodities • Ministry of Agriculture’s focus

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Parameter Limbu, Punakha Gaselo, Wangdue

Phodrang Baap, Thimphu RNR RC Bajo,

Wangdue P. 7. Information and • Market • Market • Market • Market

services needs • RNR statistics • RNR statistics • RNR statistics • RNR statistics identified • Technology • Technology • Technology • Technology • Agri-inputs • Agri-inputs • Agri-inputs • Agri-inputs • Pests/Diseases • Pests/Diseases • Pests/Diseases • Pests/Diseases • Directory • Directory • Directory • Directory • News and events • News and events • News and events • News and events • Training/ • Training/ • Training/ • Training/ scholarships scholarships scholarships scholarships • Weather • Weather • Weather • Policy • Multi-media • Multi-media • Multi-media • Relevant website materials materials materials links • Geog profile • Geog profile • Geog profile • Questions and • Relevant forms • Relevant forms • Relevant forms answers • Admin. Reports • Admin. Reports • Admin. Reports • Q&A • Q&A • Q&A

8. Medium to access/

• Face-to-face interaction

• Face-to-face interaction

• Face-to-face interaction

• Face-to-face interaction

disseminate • Phone • Phone • Phone • Phone information • Leaflet • Radio • Radio • Internet • Poster • Leaflet • Leaflet • Research Journal • Manual • Manual • Poster • Leaflet

• Instructional video • TV • Manual • Manual • Radio • Internet • TV • Newspaper • Poster • Newspaper • Newspaper

9. Identified • CoRRB/RNR RCs (for technology, technical expertise, research updates) information • National Soil Service Testing Centre (NSSC) for soil-related info, technical expertise

sources at MOA • National Plant Protection Centre (NPPC) (for pest/disease management, technical and other entities expertise, pesticide-related information)

• National Post Harvest Centre (NPHC) (for post harvest management, technical expertise) • Agricultural Marketing Services (AMS) (for market concerns) • Agricultural Machinery Centre (AMC) (for machinery-related information) • Food Corporation of Bhutan (FCB) (for market auction prices) • Druk Seed Corporation (DSC) (for seed-related information) • Policy and Planning Division (PPD) (for policy-related information) • Department of Livestock-Information Management Section (for livestock husbandry, management, livestock agri-inputs information, technical expertise) • Department of Forestry-Information Management Section (for community/private forest management, technical expertise, information on forestry seedlings) • CoRRB/Agromet Section (for weather-related information and forecast) • Information and Communication Services (ICS) (for multi-media materials) • Ministry’s website (for relevant forms, news/events/announcements, training and scholarships, RNR databases, extension agents/farmers’ queries and experts’ answers) • Print and mass media (for RNR news and events) • District Offices/Geog Centres (for Geog profile/local databases, administrative reports) • World Wide Web (for links to relevant websites) • Farmers (for indigenous farm practices)

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Parameter Limbu, Punakha Gaselo, Wangdue

Phodrang Baap, Thimphu RNR RC Bajo,

Wangdue P. 10. Ownership of • Mobile phone • Mobile phone • Mobile phone • Mobile phone communication • Telephone • Telephone • Telephone • Telephone units/equipment • VCD/DVD player • VCD/DVD player • VCD/DVD player

• TV set • TV set • Computer • Internet/web access

11. Areas needing • Technical info • Technical info • Technical info • Technical info training/exposure Preparation Preparation Preparation Preparation

• Facilitation skills • Facilitation skills • Facilitation skills • Facilitation skills • Use of computer/ • Use of computer/ • Use of computer/ • Use of computer/ other equipment other equipment other equipment other equipment • Internet use • Internet use • Internet use • Presentation skills • File management • File management • File management • Personality and sharing and sharing and sharing development • Personality • Personality • Personality • Server mgt. and development development development troubleshooting • Subject matter • Research management and technical skills

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Cont. Annex 4 Table 2. List of major commodities in the Geog pilot sites.

Item Limbu,

Punakha Baap,

Thimphu Gaselo,

Wangdue P. RNR RC Bajo,

Wangdue P. No. of identified 21 29 26 27

commodities a) Agriculture 14 24 19 24 • Field crops • Rice • Rice • Rice • Rice

• Wheat • Wheat • Wheat • Wheat • Maize • Maize • Maize • Maize • Oil seeds • Oil seeds • Oil seeds • Barley • Minor cereals • Grain legumes

• Fruits • Pear • Pear • Pear • Pear • Walnut • Walnut • Walnut • Walnut • Apple • Banana • Apple • Persimmon • Mandarin • Citrus • Orange • Citrus • Guava • Guava • Guava • Guava • Peach • Mango • Mango • Mango • Sugarcane • Peach • Peach • Plum • Plum • Grapes • Pomegranate • Pomegranate • Pecan nut

• Vegetables • Chili • Chili • Chili • Chili • Potato • Potato • Peas • Potato • Radish • Tomato • Onion • Tomato • Mustard green • Mustard green • Mustard • Cabbage • Bean • Bean • Cauliflower • Garlic • Garlic • Broccoli • Spring onion • Radish • Spinach • Carrot • Broccoli • Tree tomato • Brinjal • Squash b) Livestock 5 3 5 1 • Cattle • Cattle • Cattle • Winter feed • Pig • Pig • Pig and fodder • Poultry • Poultry • Poultry species • Horse • Horse • Goat • Pasture/

Fodder

c) Forestry 2 2 2 2 • Broadleaf

forest trees • Tshenden

shing • Broadleaf

forest trees • Main purpose

trees sp. • Chirpine • Chirpine • Chirpine • Non-wood forest products (e.g. Bamboo, Pangtse)

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Table 3. Technology topics identified per priority commodity.

A. Cereals (Rice) B. Fruits (Pear and Walnut) C. Vegetables (Chili, Potato, &Tomato) 1. Pre-production stage 1. Pre-production stage 1. Pre-production stage

A. Ideal growing conditions A. Ideal growing conditions A. Ideal growing conditions • Elevation • Elevation • Elevation • Irrigation system • Sunlight • Sunlight • Soil texture • Wind speed & direction • Wind direction • Temperature • Topography • Soil pH

• Others same as rice • Soil texture & fertility • Rainfall • Relative humidity B. Choice of variety/cultivar B. Choice of variety/cultivar B. Choice of variety/cultivar

• Yield potential • Yield potential • Yield potential • Planting season • Planting season • Planting season • Days to maturity • Days to maturity • Days to maturity • Pest/disease resistance • Pest/disease resistance • Pest/disease resistance • Eating quality • Eating quality • Eating quality • Milling recovery • Further planting material • Fruit characteristics (size, • Cropping pattern selection shape, colour, pungency) • Plant height

2. Production stage 2. Production stage 2. Production stage • Nursery preparation • Site selection, layout, and • Nursery preparation (chili/tomato • Field preparation • pit digging, and filling • Land preparation, planting • Transplanting • Fertilization • (for potato) spacing • Weeding • Basin preparation • Fertilization • Irrigation management • Irrigation • Weeding/Earthing-up (potato) • Pest/disease management • Pruning and training • Irrigation • Harvesting • Pest/disease management • Pest/disease management

• Harvesting techniques • Harvesting techniques 3. Post-production stage 3. Post-production stage 3. Post-production stage

• Post-harvest storing • Proper handling & grading • Proper handling & grading • Storage pest management • Packaging techniques • Packaging techniques • Storage pest management

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E. Cattle F. Pig G. Poultry 1. Breed selection 1. Breed selection (local/exotic) 1. Breed selection 2. Feed (concentrate, compound) and 2. Management (boars/sows/replacement 2. Feed requirements

fodder (daily intake) requirements stock 3. Husbandry practices (housing, 3. Husbandry practices (housing, 3. Feed requirements (piglets, gilt, common disease and control measures)

reproductive disease/treatments, pregnant, lactating, boars) 4. Product marketing common disease/control measures, 4. Husbandry practices (housing, 5. Farm economics (housing materials,

4. Reproductive parameters (important common disease and control measures, labor/capital/land requirements, traits for dairy cows, calf crop, public health) equipment, feeds, cost of production) lactation length, calving interval) 5. Product processing/marketing 6. Local feed formulation

5. Product processing (milk/meat)/marketing 6. Farm economics (housing materials, 6. Farm economics (housing materials, labor/ labor/capital/land requirements, capital/land requirements, dairy equipment, feeds, cost of production) equipment, feeds, fodder/pasture 7. Local feed formulation development, and cost of production 7. Pasture development (land selection, pasture/fodder seeds, fence, irrigation, cutting/grazing management) 8. Local feed formulation H. Feed and fodder I. Bamboo J. Pangtse 1. Ideal conditions for pasture development 1. Propagation method (by seeds) 1. Propagation methods

• Elevation • Soaking A. By seeds • Irrigation • Sowing • Collection • Soil fertility (fertilizers) • Nursery management • Treatment

2. How to develop pasture • Pulling out from single clum • Sowing • Land preparation • Pricking out in the poly tube • Fertilizer application • Hardening • Seed sowing methods • Transplanting • Management of pasture • Planting method B. By vegetative cuttings

• Shoot cutting • Root cutting

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Annex 5. Sample format for a presentation of an agri-input product (power tiller) using the VERCON-Bhutan system.

Kubota Diesel for Power Tiller The RK 50 Series is equipped with features to afford dependable power and long years of service. Specifications Type Horizontal, water-coloured 4 cycle diesel engine Number of cylinder 1 Bore x Stroke (mm) 72 x 75 Displacement (cm3) 305

kW/s-1 (rps) 3.4/36.7 Continuous rated output HP/min-1 (rpm) 4.5/2200

kW/s-1 (rps) 3.7/40 Max. output HP/min-1 (rpm) 5/2400

Cooling system Radiator Combustion system Three vortex combustion system Fuel Light diesel oil (SAE No. 2-D) Lubricating oil API Service CB-class (SAE #30, 20, 10W-30) Lubricating system Forced lubrication with trochoid pump Starting system Manual speed-doubling handle/[Cell start (NB

models)] Direction of revolution Counter-clockwise (facing flywheel) Cooling water capacity (L) 1.3 Fuel tank capacity (L) 7.5 Crankcase oil capacity (L) 2.0 Lamps 12V45W Dynamo (V-W) (20V-20W) Dry weight (Kg) 64 (72) Note: Specifications are subject to change without prior notice. Contact Us: The Director

Agricultural Machinery Centre, Paro Tel. No. 00975-08-271234/271460

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Annex 6. Details of the proposed process flow for distance diagnosis in agriculture and livestock using the VERCON-Bhutan system.

For Distance diagnosis for agricultural crops: 1. A farmer visits Geog extension centre and requests technical assistance from

extension agent about the pest problem in his farm. 2. The extension agent checks the farm, interviews the farmer, and takes a good number

of required photos using a digital camera. 3. In the office, the extension agent browses the proposed Technology or Q&A system

of the VERCON-Bhutan website for the needed solutions. If none or he is not technically adept with the pest, he downloads the diagnostic form from the MOA website (or opens one from his database) and encodes the details of the pest.

4. The extension agent sends the filled-up form and photos via e-mail to the focal person

of RNR RC Bajo or NPPC copy furnishes Sector Head for Agriculture and the AIMS. The Sector Head or AIMS may follow-up with RNR RC Bajo or NPPC for immediate solution to the problem.

5. The focal person immediately records in his database and sends the form + photos via

e-mail to the concerned expert/scientist for diagnosis. If the scientist is practically sure of the pest and the symptoms, he sends prescription form indicating appropriate recommendations/solutions in the context of the farmers’ situation copy furnishes the focal person, AIMS, Sector Head, and VERCON-Bhutan website.

6. The Content Manager posts the query and the prescribed solutions at the Technology

or Q&A system, whichever is applicable, of VERCON-Bhutan website for future reference.

7. The extension agent then informs the farmer about the prescribed solutions and takes

appropriate action to solve the problem. The extension agent also sends the information to all extension agents via group e-mail service for their information and guidance.

8. To further ensure the accuracy of the pest, the scientist requests for more information

and photos from the extension agent or goes to the farm along with the extension agent. The scientist makes further diagnosis and prescribes the necessary solutions to the farmer/extension agent copy furnishes the focal person, AIMS, Sector Head, and VERCON-Bhutan website.

9. To augment his knowledge about the pest, the scientist browses pest-related websites

or communicates with international network online for assistance.

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10. The scientist publishes a technical report to the RNR Journal (which is also posted in the MOA website) and at the same time updates the Digital Compendium of RNR Technologies for extension agents’ future reference.

For Distance diagnosis for livestock: 1. Steps 1 to 8 are basically the same as in agriculture. In step 4, however, the focal

person comes from the Regional Veterinary Laboratory (RVL); Also, the RVL focal person copy furnishes the LIMS) instead of AIMS.

2. In case there are no available local solutions, the expert requests assistance to the

National Centre for Animal Health (NCAH) in Thimphu via e-mail copy furnishes the RVL focal person. The NCAH provides recommendations to the expert/scientist copy furnish RVL focal person and LIMS.

3. The LIMS focal person encodes the recommendations to the Digital Compendium of

RNR Technologies for extension agents’ future reference.

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Annex 7. User needs’ assessment vs. existing information products in Bhutan, by stakeholder group, as it relates to VERCON-Bhutan system development.

Stakeholder Group

User Needs Existing Information Products

Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

1. Farmers Market: • Price and market of

crops, vegetables, fruits, cereals, dairy, meat, other livestock products, forest and non-wood forest products;

• Market infrastructure facilities;

• Commodity demand (e.g. for processing);

• Possibility of regional auction;

• Rates of transportation of timber; and

• Buyers (who and where).

• Hard copy and MS Excel database from AMS of weekly retail price for cereals, vegetables and spices, fruits, livestock and dairy products, fish, oil and sugar that are available in six main markets (Dzongkhags) of Bhutan; and

• Hard copy and MS Excel database from AMS of daily auction price of potato, apple, and vegetables that is available in auction yard of Phuentsholing (Chhukha Dzongkhag).

• Absence of market price data for Thimphu (the biggest market) and Bumthang (another main market);

• Time-consuming and costly to visit or call-up AMS to access/inquire data;

• Limited use of 3-month compiled price data sent to Dzongkhags. Also, time-consuming to visit; and

• Radio broadcast is limited to auction price data only.

• ICS to explore the possibility with AMS for the following: a) to include Thimphu and

Bumthang markets in its price data collection and

b) to include retail price data in radio broadcast.

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Stakeholder

Group User Needs Existing Information

Products Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

Cont. Farmers

Technology: A. For agriculture: • Growing conditions; • Crops (varieties/

species) suitable/best for the region;

• Seed production; nursery management

• Field preparation; best timing for planting;

• Good cultivation procedure; soil/nutrient-related management;

• With and without fertilizer management (choice, its effects);

• Water/irrigation management;

• Wild pig, monkey and other wild animal control;

• List of common pests, insects, weeds, and diseases and their symptoms/control/ prevention (choice of pesticides);

• Harvesting and post-production handling.

• Handwritten databases/visuals from extension agents posted on the wall of Geog extension centre; and

• Leaflets/Brochures/ Farmer Newsletter from various RNR agencies.

• Limited access to needed information materials (e.g. leaflets) due to insufficient copies available in Geog extension centres;

• Takes time to acquire the needed information from extension agents if this is not available on hand;

• Insufficient information in some publications as recommended technologies is written in “bits and pieces” and not as “package of technology” (e.g., from production to post-production);

• Difficulty in understanding information materials that are written in English version; and

• Unable to access information in the Digital Compendium as farmers are not Internet/computer literate.

• ICS to explore the possibility with CoRRB to prepare technology information materials as package of technology (e.g., from production to post-production of a certain commodity) initially with the 12 identified priority commodities using agreed format with extension agents, researchers, and RRCO and duly pre-tested with extension agents. These materials can be sent to extension agents/RNR libraries via mail or e-mail for their future reference; and

• ICS to tie-up with DIT/CIC project in translating this technology information in Dzongkha and uploading in the portal for immediate access and download (e.g., by students, extension agents); Also, in creating awareness on the usefulness and availability of said information materials.

91

Stakeholder Group

User Needs Existing Information Products

Gaps VERCON Solution

Cont. Farmers

• How to operate and maintain farm machineries; and

• Greenhouse technology B. For livestock: • Growing conditions; • Livestock breeds (pig,

poultry, cattle, horse) and its production;

• Choice of seeds for quality grass/fodder best for the region and its cultivation procedure/management;

• Pasture development/ management procedure and improved pasture techniques;

• Housing management; • Feeding management;

feed formulation/ nutrition management;

• Health management; list of common diseases, symptoms, treatments, and prevention (choice of medicines) for poultry and animals;

92

Stakeholder

Group User Needs Existing Information

Products Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

Cont. Farmers

• Livestock husbandry management to produce more milk and processing of milk products (dairy), meat/ egg production (chicken), and meat production (pig);

• Good method of processing and how to improve the quality of dairy products; and

• Possibility/procedures of establishing backyard farms.

C. For forestry: • Growing conditions; • Exotic species in the

region (list and their specialty information);

• Nursery management; • Best timing for tree

(sapling) plantation in the region and their planting procedure/ technology; and

• Information on alternative energy and building resources.

93

Stakeholder

Group User Needs Existing Information

Products Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

Cont. Farmers

Agri-inputs: A. For agriculture: • List of available,

procedures on how to obtain/purchase, rate (cost/prices), and types of seeds and other planting materials, fertilizers, pesticides, and farm machineries and implements;

B. For livestock: • List of available fodder

seedlings/ pasture seeds; • List of and how to

obtain improved livestock breeds/ hybrids, pullets, and piglets best for the region;

• Availability of milk processing equipment;

• List of vaccines for different animals; and

• List, prices, and procedures to obtain/ purchase livestock machineries.

• Hard copy and MS Word/Excel database of the list and rate (cost/prices) of agri-inputs from various RNR agencies and Dzongkhags.

• Time-consuming and costly to visit or call-up concerned RNR agri-inputs agency and Dzongkhags to access/ inquire information;

• Insufficient or lack of agri-inputs information available via radio broadcast which is a popular mass media in rural areas; and

• Unable to access posting of the list and prices of agri-inputs at the MOA website as farmers are not Internet/computer literate.

• ICS to explore the possibility with BBS Radio or TV to disseminate agri-inputs data from VERCON as well as create awareness about the system.

94

Stakeholder

Group User Needs Existing Information

Products Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

Cont. Farmers

C. For forestry: • Availability of variety

of tree saplings/forest seedlings and procedure on how to obtain/purchase;

• Availability and information about wood processing equipment.

Market: • Same as those indicated

in farmers group

• Same as those indicated in farmers group

• Same as those indicated in farmers group

• Same as those indicated in farmers group

2. Extension Agents

Technology: • New farm/forest

production and post-production technologies such as those indicated in the farmers group; and

• An online interactive forum that can further strengthen extension agent’s linkage to experts/scientists/RNR service providers for them to immediately address queries from farmers.

In addition to those indicated in the farmers group • RNR Newsletter from

ICS; • Manual/Handouts

from various RNR agencies; and

• In the MOA website, HTML format of the Digital Compendium of RNR Technologies from CoRRB.

• Limited copies of available information materials from RNR agencies.

• Absence or lack of equipment at Geog extension centre to reproduce/photocopy available materials for distribution to farmers or capture images to visualize farm constraints (e.g. pest signs/symptoms); and

• Takes time to access needed technology updates from RNR agencies to address immediate problems (e.g. pest or disease outbreak);

In addition to those indicated in the farmers group: • Provide pilot Geog extension

centres with 4-in-1 equipment (printer-photocopier-scanner-facsimile) and train extension agents on how to use and maintain said equipment; Also, provide flash drive to enable them to copy information materials while on tour/visiting RNR agencies;

• ICS to consider sending a CD-ROM compilation of publications and radio/video-based materials to extension agents;

95

Stakeholder Group

User Needs Existing Information Products

Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

• Inadequate extension and facilitation skills and technical information/ subject matter preparation; and

• Inadequate knowledge on use of Internet/computer.

• Train pilot Geog extension agents on basic Internet, communication for development, content repackaging and reformatting, and how to use and access VERCON-Bhutan technology system via digital compendium and the Q&A system.

• ICS to explore arrangement with BBS Radio to use information contained in VERCON-Bhutan website for radio broadcast.

Cont. Extension Agents

Agri-inputs: • Same as those indicated

in farmers group

In addition to those indicated in farmers group: • In the MOA website,

HTML format of the list and rate (cost) of seeds and plants, pesticides, Livestock, and farm machineries ; and

• In the RNR Extension Diary, list of the year’s price list of agri-inputs.

In addition to those indicated in farmers group: • Limited access to posting of

agri-inputs data at the MOA website as Geog extension centres lack or without computers and Internet connection.

In addition to those indicated in farmers group: • ICS to follow-up Sector Heads

regarding Internet connection in Geog pilot sites;

• Train pilot Geog extension agents on how to use and access the VERCON-Bhutan Agri-inputs system; and

• Enhance agri-inputs webpage to: a) include brief description/

photo of products; and b) harmonize data among

various agri-inputs agencies to avoid confusion (e.g. using rate as the common term for prices and cost).

96

Stakeholder Group

User Needs Existing Information Products

Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

Cont. Extension Agents

Policy: • RNR Acts/policies/by-

laws; • Land use; • Quality and regulatory

standards; • Farm/rural loans and

application procedures; • Conservation of natural

resources, protected and endangered species;

• Control/killing of wild animals;

• Pasture development and rules regarding lease of pasture by the Government;

• Animal migration policies (e.g., cattle/ sheep);

• Law enforcement on timber marking, harvesting, sanctions;

• Community and private forestry;

• Other relevant forestry information; and

• Rules on the use of “Sokshing”;

• Publications of nine RNR Acts and one Implementing Rules and Regulations available at PPD as well as PDF format in the MOA website;

• RNR policies and guidelines;

• RNR five-year plans; • Resolutions of the

annual RNR conferences;

• Investment programmes and projects profiles; and

• Ongoing development of PPD-initiated policy information system.

• Limited copies of publications; and

• Absence of a summary of the do’s and the don’ts for a clearer and better appreciation of the policies and rules.

• PPD and ICS to continue discussion in coming up with one system incorporating the relevant RNR policy data/ information to be hosted at MOA website. Also, link the summary of do’s and don’ts to VERCON.

97

Stakeholder Group

User Needs Existing Information Products

Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

Weather: • Forecast weather

outlook (e.g. hailstorm) • Days weather in the

Geog pilot sites

• Hard copy and MS Excel database of daily high and low temperature and weather outlook data (sunny, rainy, etc.) from RNR Agromet disseminated through BBS TV (6:00 p.m.) and Radio (6:00-7:00 a.m.);

• Published data in Kuensel newspaper every Wednesday and Sunday; and

• In the MOA website, HTML format on daily temperature and weather outlook of Thimphu and one of the 19 Dzongkhags (data posting is rotated randomly among Dzongkhags).

• Time-consuming and costly to visit or call-up RNR Agromet Office to access/inquire data;

• Limited access to posting of weather data at MOA website as Geog extension centres lack or without computer and Internet connection;

• Limited weather data available; other data like rainfall, relative humidity, solar radiation, and wind velocity are inconsistent;

• Available weather data is for 20 Dzongkhags only, none for Geogs including the pilot Geog sites (Baap and Gaselo) where there are no weather stations; and

• Unreliable 3-5 day weather forecast.

• Maintain the existing Dzongkhag weather data posting at the MOA website as well as dissemination via BBS TV and Radio and in Kuensel; and

• Defer the initial plan to develop a Geog weather data system until such time that the CoRRB-RNR Agromet office will be able to provide such data.

Cont. Extension Agents

Directory: • Experts/scientists; • MOA focal persons; and • Transporters of goods/

agri-products to market.

• Hard copy and MS Word database of technical staff available in the shelves of CoRRB and other RNR offices

• Absence of a comprehensive directory of RNR experts/ scientists; and

• Costly to call-up CoRRB and other distant RNR agencies to regularly inquire for experts/ specialists.

• Include a dynamic directory system during VERCON’s pilot phase; and

• Train extension agents on how to use and access the VERCON-Bhutan directory system.

98

Stakeholder

Group User Needs Existing Information

Products Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

Relevant Forms: • Permit for transportation

of timber; • Permit for timber

construction; • Permit for acquiring

prayer flag poles; • Permit for acquiring

firewood near houses/ fields/cultivated areas; and

• Other relevant forms from MOA which can also be downloaded from the MOA website.

• Forms/permits from various RNR agencies; and

• In the MOA website, MS Word/Excel format of forms/ permits from the Department of Forest (15), Livestock (3), Survey and Land Records (1), and BAFRA (13).

• Takes time to get recommendations or approval as submission of filled-up forms and recommendations are done manually or via mail; and

• Limited access to forms at the MOA website as Geog extension centres lack or without computers and Internet connection.

• ICS to hold dialogue with RNR agencies and Sector Heads to discuss the prospect of using electronic means like e-mail for sending of forms and recommendations as well as the resulting protocols for Ministry’s approval;

• No need to set-up system in VERCON to access relevant forms but only a link from the MOA website; and

• ICS to create awareness to extension agents on availability of forms online currently free of charge.

Cont. Extension Agents

News and Events: • Flash reports on disease

outbreaks; • Training courses; • New generated

technologies; • Current RNR news,

events, activities, and programmes; and

• Publications from ICS such as RNR Newsletter, RNR Extension Diary, and poster;

• Radio and video-based materials from ICS; and

• Seasonal access to ICS publications (e.g. quarterly for RNR Newsletter); and

• Limited access to MOA news, events, and announcements’ webpage as Geog extension centres lack or without computers and Internet connection.

• ICS to create awareness about news and events in MOA website;

• No need for News and Events system under VERCON since the MOA website already provides such. If warranted, link VERCON and CIC portal to MOA news, events, and announcements’ webpage.

99

Stakeholder

Group User Needs Existing Information

Products Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

Cont. Extension Agents

• Available financial support for trainings/ workshops/seminars;

• In the MOA website, PDF format of Newsletters/Reports; photo gallery; News, Announcements, and Events webpage.

Technology: • Same as those indicated

in extension agents group

• Same as those indicated in extension agents group

• Takes time to access needed technology updates from RNR agencies to address immediate problems (e.g. pest or disease outbreak).

• ICS to create awareness and train Sector Heads on the use of VERCON-Bhutan technology (via digital compendium) and Q&A systems.

Agri-inputs: • Same as those indicated

in extension agents group

• Same as those indicated in extension agents group

• Limited access to posting of agri-inputs data at the MOA website as Sector Head offices has limited Internet connection.

• ICS to discuss with Sector Heads regarding inclusion of annual budget for the maintenance and operating expenses of equipment and for the sustainability of Internet connection; and

• Train Sector Heads on how to use and access the VERCON-Bhutan agri-inputs system.

3. Sector Heads

Policy: • Same as those indicated

in extension agents group

• Same as those indicated in extension agents group

• Same as those indicated in extension agents group

• Same as those indicated in extension agents group

100

Stakeholder

Group User Needs Existing Information

Products Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

Geog profile: • Geog plan documents; • Farmer data; • Innovative/indigenous

farmers’ practices; • Geog socio-economic

data; • General profile; • Annual updates of local

RNR databases.

• Handwritten databases from extension agents posted on the wall of their office;

• Hard copy and MS Word/Excel databases of Sector Heads and Departments’ consolidated reports;

• Publications of RNR Census 2000 with some data posted in MOA website in HTML format. Also, publication of selected RNR statistics, 2002-2003; and

• Project documents containing selected Geog RNR databases (e.g. FNPP project).

• Absence of a system to manage all available Geog information/data into one comprehensive and easily accessible RNR databases.

• Include a Geog profile system based on agreed formats and protocol during VERCON’s pilot phase; and

• Train extension agents and Sector Heads on how to use and access the VERCON-Bhutan Geog profile system.

Cont. Sector Heads

Administrative Reports: • Format for progress

reports and work plans

• Hard copy and MS Word format of reports

• Takes time to consolidate reports and work plans as extension agents’ hand-carries their documents to Sector Head office.

• Extension agents to explore the possibility to send reports to Sector Heads via e-mail; and

• Wait for a monitoring and evaluation system being developed by the Planning Commission to be finished and see whether MOA will adopt it.

101

Stakeholder Group

User Needs Existing Information Products

Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

Market: • Information on market

similar to those indicated in farmers group

In addition to those indicated in farmers group: • Ongoing development

of two separate market information systems (AMS/ICS and DIT).

In addition to those indicated in farmers group: • No functional market

information section within AMS set-up; available data mainly on weekly retail prices and daily auction prices;

• Inadequate manpower and lack of training on market information management;

• Lack of market information collection mechanism, standard data collection sheet and units of measure, and market information software and capacity to use;

• Takes time to transmit retail price data via mail from Geogs to AMS; costly transmittal via facsimile; and

• Insufficient data interpretation due to inadequate knowledge on what and how collected information could be interpreted and used.

• ICS to continue discussion with AMS and DIT on the development and field-testing of integrated market information system initially using available data and involving various stakeholders to complement existing information & communication systems. Also, its future expansion to consider AMS proposal to establish a knowledge management agricultural market information services;

• Host the integrated market information system later on at VERCON-Bhutan website with link to CIC portal; and

• Exclude market information system during VERCON’s pilot phase considering the time limitation in system development.

4. Researcher/ Service Providers

News and Events: • Same as those indicated

in extension group

• Same as those indicated in extension group

• Seasonal access to ICS publications (e.g. quarterly for RNR Newsletter).

• ICS to create awareness about news and events in MOA website.

102

Stakeholder

Group User Needs Existing Information

Products Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

Cont. Researchers/ Service Providers

Technology: • Information similar to

those indicated by extension agents group

In addition to those indicated in farmers group: • Reports/Proceedings

from various RNR agencies; and

• Publications from international agencies like FAO, IRRI and other CGIAR members, etc.;

• Hard and soft copies of technology information downloaded from relevant websites; and

• RNR Journal publications from CoRRB as well as PDF format in the MOA website.

• Inadequate information on local production and post-production RNR technologies;

• Limited copies of publications and radio/video-based information materials due to high cost;

• Inadequate research and technical skills (subject matter preparation); and

• Limited or slow access to Internet due to high cost of Internet connection or local area network (LAN) problems (e.g. obsolete server in RNR RC Bajo).

• Come up with Links system containing relevant research and extension websites for reference;

• Come up with online information on package of technologies initially with the 12 identified commodities;

• Include Technology (via Digital Compendium), Q&A, and Links systems during VERCON pilot phase and train researchers/service providers on how to use and access the systems;

• ICS to consider sending CD-ROM compilation of radio/ video-based materials and publications to researchers/ service providers;

• ICS to consider developing a multi-media materials system in MOA website beyond pilot phase starting with a list of ICS-produced audio-video materials then evolving into multi-media documentation centre; Also, standardize all RNR agencies’ library scheme of classification; and

103

Stakeholder

Group User Needs Existing Information

Products Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

• Provide RNR RC Bajo with LAN server, printer, and digital camera and train researchers on how to use and maintain the equipment. Also, train a Bajo researcher handling LAN server on LAN security as well as other researchers/RRCOs on content repackaging and reformatting.

Cont. Researchers/ Service Providers

Agri-inputs: • Same as those indicated

by extension agents group

• Same as those indicated by extension agents group

• Limited access to posting of agri-inputs data at the MOA website as RNR agencies has limited Internet connection.

• Develop one agri-input system during VERCON’s pilot phase initially using existing agri-inputs database from the MOA website with protocols and mechanism agreed upon by MOA and Dzongkhags. Also, consider its interoperability later on with market information system;

• ICS to discuss with Agency Heads regarding inclusion of annual budget for the sustainability of Internet connection; and

• Train researchers/service providers on how to use and access the VERCON-Bhutan agri-inputs system.

104

Stakeholder Group

User Needs Existing Information Products

Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

Policy: • Same as those indicated in

extension agents group

• Same as those indicated in extension agents group

• Same as those indicated in extension agents group

• Same as those indicated in extension agents group

Directory • Extension agents

• Hard copy and MS Word database of extension agents available in the shelves of Sector Heads

• Absence of a comprehensive directory of extension agents

• Train researchers/service providers on how to use and access the VERCON-Bhutan directory system.

Geog profile: • Same as those indicated in

Sector Heads group

• Same as those indicated in Sector Heads group

• Takes time to individually access needed Geog profile or information updates from Sector Heads or Departments

In addition to what is indicated in Sector Heads group: • ICS to continually discuss

with PPD the possibility to consider the Geog profile system as part of its effort to come up with a road map for a knowledge management system; and

• Train researchers/RNR service providers on how to use and access the VERCON-Bhutan Geog profile system.

Cont. Researchers/ Service Providers

News and Events: • Same as those indicated in

extension group

In addition those indicated in extension group • Discussion forum

via the MOA website

• Seasonal access to ICS publications (e.g. quarterly for RNR Newsletter) especially those in the countryside

• ICS to continue creating awareness about news and events in MOA website.

105

Stakeholder

Group User Needs Existing Information

Products Gaps Suggested VERCON Solution

5. Policy-makers

• Knowledge management system

• Hard copies of information from MOA agencies;

• HTML/MS Word & Excel/PDF format of information in MOA website; and

• Ongoing development of VERCON-Bhutan system.

• Information is fragmented and inadequate, and in different formats.

• Absence of a road map on institutionalising a knowledge management system that will aid in decision-making process of the Ministry.

• Continue with the development of VERCON-Bhutan system to complement MOA website in providing a comprehensive RNR information/database and to strengthen the linkage between extension agents, researchers, and RNR service providers. Link this with the DIT/CIC portal to enable rural people to seek RNR information and communicate with extension agents, researchers, and RNR service providers for adequate and timely access to required information.

106

Annex 8. Contents for the Links module of VERCON-Bhutan website. The Links is VERCON-Bhutan’s catalog of websites which are relevant to Bhutan’s agriculture, livestock, and forestry research and extension sectors. These are sites that provide information resources such as databases, technologies, programmes, and systems among others. Fair and conscientious use of the information materials is hereby encouraged. 1. RNR General Section

• (AGORA) Access to Global Online Research in Agriculture (http://www.aginternetwork.org/en/) of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – a programme which enables developing countries to gain access to an outstanding digital library collection in the fields of food, agriculture, environmental science, and related social sciences.

• (AIMS) Agricultural Information Management Standards

(http://www.fao.org/aims/) or (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agricultural_Information_Management_Standards) of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations –AIMS brings together different resource types, and mechanisms to facilitate information sharing, consensus building and awareness raising. The goal is to provide all the tools necessary to facilitate interoperability between existing datasets, and the creation of new systems using consistent and commonly accepted standards.

• (AGRICOLA) AGRICultural OnLine Access (http://agricola.nal.usda.gov/)

of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Agricultural Library – a comprehensive database of bibliographic citations encompassing all aspects of agriculture and allied disciplines, including animal and veterinary sciences, entomology, plant sciences, forestry, aquaculture and fisheries, farming and farming systems, agricultural economics, extension and education, food and human nutrition, and earth and environmental sciences.

• (AGRIS) International Information System for the Agricultural Sciences and

Technology (http://www.fao.org/Agris/) or http://www.fao.org/AGRIS/Default.asp?Language=EN or http://www.fao.org/aims/ag_categories.jsp of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – a worldwide bibliographic database in the area of agricultural science and technology including forestry, animal husbandry, aquatic sciences and fisheries, and human nutrition.

107

• AGROVOC Thesaurus (http://www.fao.org/aims/ag_intro.htm) of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – a multilingual, structured and controlled vocabulary designed to cover the terminology of all subject fields in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, food and related domains (e.g. environment).

• Arne Larsen website on pest in Namibia (http://www.larsen-twins.dk/) – a

catalog with description and photo of pests in Namibia.

• (APAARI) Asia Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (http://www.apaari.org/) – an international organization that promotes the development of the National Agriculture and Research System (NARS) in the Asia-Pacific region through inter-regional and inter-institutional cooperation, providing information on the regions’ databases, publications, meetings and trainings.

• CAB ABSTRACTS (http://www.cabi.org/) of the Centre for Agriculture

Biosciences (CAB) International – a bibliographic database covering the significant research and development literature in the fields of agriculture, forestry, aspects of human health, human nutrition, animal health, and the management and conservation of natural resources.

• (CGIAR) Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research

(http://www.cgiar.org/) - a strategic alliance of countries, international and regional organizations, and private foundations supporting 15 international agricultural Centres, that work with national agricultural research systems and civil society organizations including the private sector.

• Country information/Specialized Country Profiles and Information Systems

http://www.fao.org/countryprofiles/index.asp?lang=en&ISO3=BTN of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – In order to standardize and harmonize the vast quantity of terms used in FAO documents and publications, the Organization developed the terminology database FAOTERM. The Corporate NAMES OF COUNTRIES database also aims at facilitating the consultation and harmonization of country names throughout the Organization. Downloading options are available to enable the creation of customized country lists and databases.

• (FAOSTAT) FAO Statistical Database

(http://faostat.fao.org/faostat/collections?subset=agriculture) of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – an on-line multilingual database covering statistics on agriculture, nutrition, fisheries, forestry, food aid, land use, and population.

108

• FAO virtual library (http://www.fao.org/waicent/portal/Virtualibrary_en.asp) of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations

• (HORTIVAR) Horticulture Cultivars Performance Database

(http://www.fao.org/hortivar/index.jsp) of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – a database on performances of horticulture cultivars (that is, fruits, vegetables, roots and tubers, ornamentals, mushrooms, herbs, and condiments) in relation to agro-ecological conditions, cultivation practices, the occurrence of pests and diseases, and timing of the production covering. It covers six categories of horticultural crops: fruits, vegetables, roots and tubers, ornamentals, mushrooms, herbs and condiments.

• (HORTINET) Horticulture Information Network

(http://www.hortinet.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph) – an information service of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD) designed to address the needs of the country’s horticulture industry (that is, fruits, vegetables, and ornamentals) stakeholders.

• (IPGRI) International Plant Genetic Resources Institute

(http://www.ipgri.cgiar.org/index.htm) – one of the Future Harvest Centres of the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) which is the world’s largest international non-profit agricultural research and training organization devoted solely to the conservation and promotion of agricultural biodiversity.

• Knowledge Forum (http://www.fao.org/KnowledgeForum/index_en.htm) Ask

FAO (http://www.fao.org/askfao/home.do?lang=en) Best practices (http://www.fao.org/bestpractices/index_en.htm?lang=en) Thematic Knowledge Networks (http://www.fao.org/bestpractices/index_en.htm?lang=en) Knowledge organization systems (http://www.fao.org/aims/kos_intro.htm) of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – provides a direct gateway to the Organization’s vast expertise and wealth of knowledge through a series of interactive services. It is also an opportunity to learn from and give a voice to the agricultural community regarding a wide range of issues affecting Food Security and Agricultural Production today. Through the Knowledge Forum, FAO uses knowledge exchange and dialogue to help build a world without hunger.

• (TECA) Technology for Agriculture (http://www.fao.org/sd/teca/) of the Food

and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – an initiative that aims at improving access to information and knowledge about available proven technologies in order to enhance their adoption in agriculture, livestock, fisheries, and forestry thus contributing to food security, poverty alleviation and sustainable development.

109

• (SPFS-Asia) Special Programme for Food Security: Asia

(http://www.fao.org/spfs/asia/) of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – a Regional SPFS Project in Asia that aims to ensure that all people in the countries involved have access at all times to the food they need for a healthy, active life and to alleviate poverty.

• Wikipedia home (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page) – the free online

encyclopedia that anyone can edit. 2. Agriculture Sector

A. Cereals

• The Rice Knowledge Bank (http://www.knowledgebank.irri.org/) of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) – one of the Future Harvest Centres of the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) – a comprehensive, digital rice-production library containing an ever-increasing wealth of information on training and rice production.

• (CIMMYT) Centro Internacional de Mejoramiento de Maiz y Trigo

(http://www.cimmyt.org/) – one of the Future Harvest Centres of the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) that researches sustainable development of wheat and maize farming.

• Pinoy Farmers Internet (http://www.openacademy.ph/) of the Open

Academy for Philippine Agriculture (OPAPA) – the Philippine’s first internet-based extension support system to help modernize Philippine Agriculture.

B. Fruits

• (MIN) Mango Information Network (http://www.min.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph) – an information service of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD) designed to address the needs of the country’s mango industry stakeholders.

• University of California Fruit and Nut Research and Information Centre

(http://fruitsandnuts.ucdavis.edu/crops/walnut.shtml), (http://fruitsandnuts.ucdavis.edu/crops/pear_asian.shtml), and (http://fruitsandnuts.ucdavis.edu/crops/pear.shtml) – aids in the coordination and dissemination of University of California (UC) research-based information, accomplishments, and statewide research and extension activities related to fruit and nut crops.

110

C. Vegetables

• (CIP) Centro Internacional de la Papa or the International Potato Centre (http://www.cipotato.org/potato/potato.htm) – one of the Future Harvest Centres of the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) dedicated to scientific research and related activities on potato, sweet potato, and other root and tuber crops.

• Tomato Production

(http://www.avrdc.org/LC/tomato/production/01title.html) by P. Hanson, J.T. Chen, C.G. Kuo, R. Morris and R.T. Opena. Prepared by T. Kalb, AVRDC, 2001 of the AVRDC: The World Vegetable Centre – the principal international centre for vegetable research and development in the world aiming to reduce poverty and malnutrition in developing countries through improved production and consumption of vegetables.

• University of California Vegetable Research and Information Centre

(http://vric.ucdavis.edu/selectnewcrop.chilipep.htm#ipm) and (http://vric.ucdavis.edu/selectnewcrop.tomato.htm) – provides information for the cultivation, production, and harvesting of vegetables in California for consumers, growers and processors.

3. Livestock Sector

• Animal Health Avian Influenza (http://www.fao.org/ag/againfo/subjects/en/health/diseases-cards/special_avian.html) of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – an information resource on avian influenza which is managed by the Animal Production and Health Division of the Agriculture Department.

• Country Pasture Profiles

(http://www.fao.org/ag/AGP/AGPC/doc/pasture/forage.htm) of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – a basic information system about pasture and forage resources of countries, including topographical, climatic and agro-ecological information with focus on livestock production systems and the pasture/forage resource and information concerning key institutions and personnel and their current research interests and selected references.

• (DAD-IS) Domestic Animal Diversity Information System

(http://www.fao.org/dad-is/index.asp) of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – an extensive searchable databases, tools, guidelines, library, and contacts to promote the sustainable development and conservation of Farm Animal Genetic Resources (AnGR).

111

• (EMPRES) Emergency Prevention System for Transboundary Animal and Plant Pests and Diseases (http://www.fao.org/ag/AGA/AGAH/EMPRES/index.htm) of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – a system to promote the effective containment and control of the most epidemic livestock diseases through epidemiological surveillance, contingency planning, early warning systems, and global coordination.

• (WHO) World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) – the United

Nations specialized agency for health. • (ICAR) Indian Council of Agricultural Research (http://www.icar.org.in) -

An autonomous National Organization which conducts and promotes research and training in the field of agriculture and allied sciences.

• (ILRI) International Livestock Research Institute (http://www.ilri.cgiar.org/)

– one of the Future Harvest Centres of the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) that works at the crossroads of livestock and poverty, bringing high-quality science and capacity-building to bear on poverty reduction and sustainable development.

• (INFPD) International Network for Family Poultry Development

(http://www.fao.org/AG/AGAInfo/subjects/en/infpd/info_res.html) – an independent voluntary association funded by the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations that provides publications and proceedings related to poultry, specifically targeting small-scale poultry production in rural areas.

• (PIN) Poultry Information Network

(http://www.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph/cin/poultry/default.htm) – a one-stop-shop of information established by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD) that provides stakeholders access to updated data and information relevant to the country’s poultry industry.

• (RIN) Ruminant Information Network

(http://www.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph/commodities/ruminants/) – a one-stop-site of information set-up by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD) to hopefully aid in developing the country’s industry on the ruminant commodity including cattle, carabao, goat/sheep, dairy, and feed resources.

112

• (SWIN) Swine Information Network (http://www.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph/cin/SWIN/default.htm) – an information service developed by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD) which seeks to disseminate relevant information to the swine industry.

• (TAD-info) The Transboundary Animal Disease Information System

(http://www.fao.org/ag/AGA/AGAH/EMPRES/tadinfo2/e_tadinf.htm) of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – a database management system for the storage and analysis of information on livestock diseases.

• World Organization for Animal Health or Organisation Mondiale de la

Sante’ Animale (http://www.oie.int/eng/en_index.htm) – an intergovernmental organization created to ensure transparency in the global animal disease situation; collect, analyze and disseminate veterinary scientific information; provide expertise and encourage international solidarity in the control of animal diseases; safeguard world trade by publishing health standards for international trade in animals and animal products; and improve the legal framework and resources of national Veterinary Services.

4. Forestry Sector

• (BIN) Bamboo Information Network (http://www.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph/cin/bamboonet/default.htm) – one of the Commodity Information Networks (CIN) of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD) which seeks to provide significant information to the bamboo industry stakeholders in the country.

• (CIFOR) Centre for International Forestry Research

(http://www.cifor.cgiar.org/) – one of the Future Harvest Centres of the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) which is the leading international forest research centre whose mission is to contribute to the sustained well-being of people in developing countries, particularly in the tropics, through collaborative strategic and applied research and related activities in forest systems and forestry, and by promoting the transfer of appropriate new technologies and the adoption of new methods of social organization, for national development.

• (FORIS) Forest Resources Information system (http://www.fao.org/forestry/index.jsp) of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – a database containing information on the distribution of world forests.

113

• (ICIMOD) International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (http://www.icimod.org/home/) – international independent mountain learning and knowledge centre committed to improving the sustainable livelihoods of mountain peoples in the extended Himalayan region, building institutional capacities and facilitating the development of mountain policy and regional cooperation.

• (INBAR) International Network for Bamboo and Rattan

(http://www.inbar.int/publication/pubdetail.asp?publicid=89) – an international organization dedicated to improving the social, economic, and environmental benefits of bamboo and rattan.

• (IUFRO) International Union of Forestry Research Organizations (http://www.iufro.org/) – a non-profit, non-governmental international network of forest scientists that promotes global cooperation in forest-related research and enhances the understanding of the ecological, economic and social aspects of forests and trees. It disseminates scientific knowledge to stakeholders and decision-makers and contributes to forest policy and on-the-ground forest management.

• REFORGEN (http://www.forestryguide.de/cgi-bin/ssgfi/anzeige.pl?db=forst&nr=000441&ew=SSGFI) of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations – a worldwide information system on forest genetic resources and holds information on on-going activities and programmes in the sector.

• (ICRAF) World Agroforestry Centre (legal name: International Centre for

Research in Agroforestry) (http://www.worldagroforestrycentre.org/) – one of the Future Harvest Centres of the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) that provides access to agroforestry-related resources like libraries, electronic journals, newsletters, and references.

114

Annex 9. VERCON-Bhutan systems, initial teams’ recommendations and as discussed with FAO mission, for inclusion during the pilot phase (inset, photos of FAO mission field visits and meetings).

Recommendation Proposed Systems Percent Accomplished Initial Project Team

Recommendation With FAO

Mission 1. Agri-inputs 80 For pilot phase. With

consideration to integrate with Market Information System

2. Technology 0 (for system development)

80% (for content via package of technology)

For pilot phase using an enhanced Digital Compendium system that is hosted at MOA website

3. Geog profile 90 4. Directory 90 5. Q&A 60 6. Links 100

For pilot phase

For pilot phase

7. Market 20 For pilot phase. Both CIC and VERCON Market Information Systems will be launched for trial period and will be integrated based on findings and experiences. VERCON to host integrated system with link to CIC

8. Weather 0 For pilot phase depending on availability of Geog data

9. Policy 0 10. Multi-media

materials 0

11. Administrative reports and forms

0

For pilot phase but link to enhanced system hosted at MOA website

12. Timber price 13. Advertisement

Recent ideas that did not pass through the information needs’ assessment. For consideration in future plans

14. Pests and diseases Subsumed under Technology but with consideration to develop separate system in the future

For next phase

15. News and Events 16. RNR Stats

Maintained at MOA website

17. Training/ Scholarships

Merge under News and Events of MOA website

115

Briefing at Information and Communication Services,

Thimphu upon arrival

At RNR RC Yusipang, Thimphu

At RNR RC Bajo, Wangdue Phodrang

116

At Limbu Geog Extension Centre, Punakha

At Gaselo Geog Extension Centre, Wangdue Phodrang

At Baap Geog Extension Centre, Lobesa, Thimphu

117

Annex 10. Minutes of the National Steering Committee meeting held on 24 November 2006 at MOA headquarters (inset, photos during and after the meeting).

Issues/Remarks Approved Recommendations

1. Systems for VERCON-Bhutan

• VERCON-Bhutan project through ICS to focus its efforts on six systems only during the pilot phase (that is, until May 2006) which includes Agri-inputs information, Technology information, Directory services, Q&A, Geog profile, and Links.

• For other planned systems, these will be considered for next phase either under VERCON or MOA website depending on appropriateness of hosting or just link-up.

• For agri-inputs, VERCON-Bhutan to include description and photo of an agri-input product (e.g. power tiller). A pilot module will be developed for testing.

2. Updating of VERCON-Bhutan contents

• VERCON-Bhutan through ICS to discuss with Departments on their commitment to regularly update the website contents.

• ICS to discuss the possibility for the MOA to issue a memorandum regarding content development and updating and an information management protocol for every module.

3. Collaboration with other agencies

• VERCON-Bhutan through ICS to collaborate closely with agencies on possible joint activities: a) Department of Information and Technology (DIT) on

matters related to training (e.g. sharing modules), website design/development, technical standards (e.g. machineries) for data inter-operability, and language (e.g. Dzongkha).

b) Planning and Policy Division (PPD) on matters related to Geog profile (e.g. FAO-Netherlands Partnership Programme).

c) Department of Survey and Land Records (DSLR) on matters related to maps.

d) MOA agencies providing agri-inputs information. 4. Proposals for

Q&A • The system will be interactive but an internal forum for

extension agents, researchers, and RNR service providers to deliberate on the question posted. The final answer, however, will be posted in the Q&A.

5. Creation of Quality Control Group

• The technical department will be responsible to conduct quality control of content to be posted to VERCON-Bhutan website.

6. Training programme

• VERCON-Bhutan to prioritize and finalize the identified eight training programmes.

7. Harmonization/ standardization of terms

• ICS to issue letter to all departments stating that from now on the term “cost” of the commodities will be termed as “rate”.

118

Mr. Michael Riggs and Ms. Sophie Treinen presenting their

recommendations

Members of VERCON-Bhutan National Steering Committee

attending the meeting

VERCON group meeting at ICS after the presentation

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Annex 11. The VERCON-Bhutan leaflet – final version.

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Annex 12. Revised description of the six modules included in VERCON-Bhutan’s pilot phase as well as the Homepage and copyright.

1. The Agri-inputs information is VERCON-Bhutan’s information resources of local

agricultural inputs that are needed in farm operation. This includes updates of available machineries, seeds and plants, pesticides, and livestock farm inputs.

2. The Technology information presents information resources on agricultural production. The information – presented in a how-to, step-by-step process – are sourced from the Ministry of Agriculture’s research centres and complemented with best practices and foreign-based materials as needed. There are also photos to supplement the write-ups.

3. The Directory Services provides the general profile of the country’s extension agents, scientists, and even farmers.

4. The Questions and Answers is the virtual, interactive meeting site for information exchange on matters related to Renewable Natural Resources. This section publishes questions related to growers’ problems and the answers from scientists and service providers.

5. The Geog profile features the Geog pilot sites with brief description including a map. It also offers updates of local Renewable Natural Resources databases.

6. The Links is VERCON-Bhutan’s catalog of websites which are relevant to Bhutan’s agriculture, livestock, and forestry research and extension sectors. These are sites that provide information resources such as databases, technologies, programmes, and systems among others. Fair and conscientious use of the information materials is hereby encouraged.

7. For Home Page

THE VIRTUAL EXTENSION AND RESEARCH COMMUNICATION NETWORK (VERCON-BHUTAN)

The Virtual Extension and Research Communication Network (VERCON) in Bhutan sets the ground to link research and extension (R&E) communities using new information and communication technologies (ICTs) complementing traditional information and communication systems. Originally, VERCON is a conceptual model of the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO). It has been adopted by the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) to enhance agricultural advisory services in Bhutan. more.. The pdf file of VERCON-Bhutan leaflet is available here

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8. For Copyright

All rights reserved. Reproduction and dissemination of material contained on VERCON-Bhutan’s website for educational or other non-commercial purposes are authorized without any prior written permission from the copyright holders provided the source is fully acknowledged. Reproduction of material for resale or other commercial purposes is prohibited without the written permission of the copyright holders. Applications for such permission should be addressed to the: The VERCON-Bhutan National Project Coordinator Information and Communication Services Ministry of Agriculture Post Box 1095 Thimphu, BHUTAN Tel: +975-2-321142 or +975-2-323765 Fax: +975-2-324520 Email: p_lhamo@moa.gov.bt or vercon@moa.gov.bt Note: Hyperlinks to non-VERCON-Bhutan Internet sites do not imply any official endorsement of or responsibility for the opinions, ideas, data or products presented at these locations, or guarantees the validity of the information provided. The sole purpose of links to non-VERCON-Bhutan sites is to indicate further information available on related topics.

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Annex 13. Proposed terms of reference for VERCON Bhutan editorial – quality control committee/group as suggested by Ms. Sophie Treinen, FAO-GILF.

1. Establish mechanism for the identification, selection, production, and digitization of

content for the multi-media documentation module and technology module of VERCON-Bhutan;

2. Identify the process mechanisms for the inclusion of other agricultural stakeholders and service providers, e.g. Non-governmental organizations (SNV, WWF, etc.) and farmer groups (such as Farmers Field Schools) and others involved in the production of extension materials;

3. Identify the fields of the database structure for the documentation and technology systems of VERCON-Bhutan taking into account the AGRIS standards and TECA;

4. Ensure quality (avoid duplication, up to datedness, appropriateness, etc.); 5. Identify the fields of the database of the experts’ directory that will be used for the

questions and answer, technology modules as well as for the validation of the content of multimedia documentation centre;

6. Select the people who should be involved in their organisation for the repackaging and reformatting of information;

7. Select the people who should be trained on basic ICTs-computer, repackaging, Training of trainers of administrators and users of VERCON Bhutan; and

8. Identify mechanism for the questions and answers module.

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Annex 14. Functional specification design and architecture for VERCON-Bhutan.

NB: as agreed, this information will be provided under separate cover within the reporting of the project’s National Expert in Information Technology/Systems and Networking.

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Annex 15. Bajo workshop output on the preparation of package of technology and Geog information for web posting.

Figure 1. Workshop participants (inset - RNR RC Bajo Programme Director Sangay Duba)

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Attachment 1

Workshop for the Preparation of Package of Technology and Geog Information for Web Posting

22 September 2006 RNR RC Bajo, Wangdue Phodrang, Bhutan

P R O G R A M M E

Time Activity Concerned Person 9:00-9:30 Registration RNR RC Secretariat 9:31-10:00 Message Programme Director, RNR RC

Bajo VERCON project briefing Mr. Joselito A. Payot Open Forum 10.01-10.30 Present sample format Mr. Joselito A. Payot Open Forum 10:31-12:59 Mini-workshop (sectoral) Mechanics Mr. Joselito A. Payot Working snacks 1:01-2:00 Lunch RNR RC Secretariat 2:01-3:00 Continue workshop Prepare presentation 3.01-4.00 Sectoral output presentation Sectoral Representative 4:01-4:20 Closing Remarks Mr. Sangay Tenzin Snacks Group photo

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Attachment 2 Sample Format

Package of Technology Rice Production in Lobesa, Thimphu (Dry, Medium Altitude)?

(Source: Name of Author/s, designation, agency, and contact address) A. Pre-production Stage

1. Ideal rice growing conditions in Bhutan

Criteria Description 1. Elevation • Lower than ___ m above sea level?

• At higher elevations, what will happen? 2. Rainfall • Range (expressed in mm)? For how many months? 3. Relative Humidity (RH) • Lower than __% mean RH for how many months? 4. Soil moisture • Expressed in (__ atmosphere)

• Near source of irrigation water during dry months? 5. Soil pH • Range?

• What to do if lower or higher than the range? 6. Soil depth, texture and

fertility • Soil texture? • Soil analysis? like Organic Matter (__%); P (__

ppm); K (__ ppm); Ca (___ ppm); Mg (___ ppm). 7. Sunlight • Is it full sunlight, long sunny days? At what stage

of plant growth? 8. Topography • Flat to rolling?

• Preferably below what slope (expressed in __o slope)?

9. Temperature • Mean temperature range, (expressed in __ oC)? 10. Wind speed • Preferably free from typhoon or seldom between

what month?

2. Choice of Variety

Variety Name No. English Dzongkha

(optional)

Seed Sources

for Planting

Planting Season

Days to Maturity

Pest and Disease

Resistance

Potential? Yield

(t/acre)

Eating Quality

Milling Recovery

(%)

Adaptabi-lity to local

condition 1 IR64 145-150 5.0-7.0 65 2 Milyang

54 140-145 Susceptible

to sheath blight

2.5-3.5 Good

3 IR20913 120-130 >3.0

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B. Production Stage

1. How to prepare the nursery Step 1. Prepare the nursery either in May (for dry zone?) and June (for humid

zone?). Use either semi-dry bed or wet bed method.

Criteria for Adoption Method Irrigation “Shochum”? Low temperature

1. Semi-dry bed Not assured Common Problem at seedling stages 2. Wet bed Assured Common Not a problem

A. For semi-dry bed method: Step 2. Level the field of at least 30 sq. ft (3 ft x 10 ft) (Please be consistent with

units of measurement). Pulverize the soil thoroughly. Step 3. Prepare FYM? How? Step 4. Apply 3 kg of well-rotten FYM to the soil. Mix thoroughly. Step 5. Make slightly raised beds (that is, 4-5 inches high, 3 ft wide, and any

convenient length?). Prepare channel/furrow? How? Sketch? Step 6. Uniformly broadcast 1.2 kg of clean?, healthy dry seeds. Step 7. Mix well-decomposed FYM and fine soil. Cover the seeds with a thin

layer of the mixture. Step 8. Water the seed bed immediately along the furrow/channel. Do not over-

soak or flood the bed. Thereafter, water the bed when necessary? Step 9. Transplant the seedlings at 3-4 leaf stage or 25-30 days after sowing? B. For wet bed method: Step 2. Plow, puddle, and level a conveniently located plot? How big or small? Step 3. Apply enough FYM before puddling. Step 4. Make slightly raised beds as in semi-dry bed method. Step 5. Soak 1.2 kg seeds? in clean water for 24-36 hr. Step 6. Rinse the seeds with ___?. Transfer them to loosely-tied sack and keep

them moist by ____?. Incubate for 36-48 hr.

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Step 7. Drench the seeds with ___? after 12 hr then turn the sack upside down to regulate the temperature. Do this every 12 hr until such time the pre-germinated seeds are ready for sowing.

Step 8. Uniformly broadcast the pre-germinated seeds on the seed bed. Step 9. Saturate the seed bed continuously with just enough water for the first

week. Gradually increase the water level as the seedlings grow. Step 10. Transplant the seedlings 20-25 days after sowing.

2. How to prepare the rice field Step 1. Prepare the field in ____(month) or ___ days before transplanting? Step 2. Plow the field with rotovator or ____, then flood thereafter. Drain the

water slightly and puddle the field. Do this 2-3 times. Step 3. Apply green manuring when needed. Do this by incorporating 6-8 week-

old Dhaincha (Sesbania aculeata) before final puddling?

Step 4. Do final puddling and leveling before transplanting the seedlings. 3. How to manage fertilization

Note: Do you conduct soil analysis before applying fertilizer? Also apply lime

if the soil is acidic? Step 1. Apply 2-3 t/acre of FYM basally before transplanting? and top-dress

with 14 kg N/acre (__ bags/acre) 35-40 days after transplanting. If FYM is not available, apply 30-16-0 (N-P-K) kg/acre. Apply half of N and all of P and K as basal dose before transplanting? Top-dress the remaining half of N at 35-40 days after transplanting.

4. How to transplant the seeds Step 1. Transplant the seedlings ___ days? after land preparation. Step 2. What to do at the nursery just before transplanting? Pull the seedlings

and place in bags? Or What?

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Step 3. Using a planting rope, transplant the seedlings at 20 cm between row? and 15-20 cm within row, with a plant density of 25-35 hills per sq.m. If hand weeding will be done, use close spacing.

5. How to control weeds

Step 1. Observe for the presence of weeds and “Shochum”. Step 2. If the weed population is low or moderate, apply 2 hand weeding at 20

and 40 days after transplanting. If high, apply 2 rotary weeding at the same interval. In areas where “Shochum” is a severe problem, apply additional hand weeding (when?). If available, use ‘Sanbird’ (weedicide?) at 25-35 kg/ha or NC 311 at 25-30 kg/ha 4-6 days after transplanting.

If there is little “Shochum” but weed pressure is high, use Butachlor at

12-16 kg (5% granule “Punch”) per acre 3-6 days after transplanting. 6. How to replant

Note: Do you do this?

7. How to manage irrigation Step 1. After transplanting, keep the water level as minimum as possible for 4-7

days. Step 2. From tillering to flowering, increase the water level. Avoid subjecting

rice to moisture stress during flowering. Step 3, Drain the water 10-15 days before harvest.

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8. How to manage major? pests and diseases

Disease: e.g. Rice Blast

Causal Organism: Fungus:

a) Sexual state –Magnaporthe grisea (Herbert) Barr

b) Asexual state –Pyricularia grisea (Cooke)

Photo of the disease

Photo of the disease symptoms

Parts affected: • Leaf blades • Stem nodes • Panicles • Grains

Symptoms: • On leaf blades, • On stem nodes, • On panicles, • On grains,

Prevention: Step 1. Step 2. Step 3.

How To Treat: Step 1. Step 2. Step 3.

9. How to harvest

Step 1. Harvest the crop when at least 85% of the upper portion of the panicles

turn straw coloured. Complement this observation with the days to maturity of the variety.

Step 2. Cut the panicles ____ cm above the field using __________. Step 3. Bring the harvested crop to ______ . Step 4. What to do with field after harvesting?

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C. Post-Production Stage (No available local information)

1. How to thresh Step 1. Step 2.

2. How to clean

Step 1. Step 2.

3. How to dry Step 1. Step 2.

4. How to store Step 1. Step 2.

5. What else?

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April

Preparatory stage?

Seedling development?

May June July August

Tillering stage? Panicle stage? Grain-filling stage?

Sample calendar of activities for rice production in Lobesa, Thimphu, 2006

Maj

or p

ests

and

dis

ease

s St

age

of D

evel

opm

ent

Rice blast

Goo

d ag

ricul

tura

l pra

ctic

es

Use clean, healthy seeds/ weed-free seed-bed

Plant Dhaincha

Fertilize with half N

Fertilize with FYM or half N, full P-K

Protect seeds with

fungicide

Fertilize with FYM; Use

green manuring

Do hand and rotary

weeding

Prepare land properly

Manage water properly?

Protect with Butachlor or Sanbird or

NC 311

Do sanitation

Do hand and rotary

weeding

134

Sample format in case technopreneurial (technology with business sense) is considered (Tables 1-4 may serve as a guide to writers)

Table 1. Cost of supplies and materials/equipment used to produce an acre of rice 1/

Year 1:

Item 1 Item 2 Item 3 Item 4 Item 5 Item 6 Practices Qty (pc)

Cost (Nu)

Qty (pc)

Cost (Nu)

Qty (pc)

Cost (Nu)

Qty (pc)

Cost (Nu)

Qty (pc)

Cost (Nu)

Cost (Nu)

Qty (pc)

Total Cost (Nu)

1. Nursery mgt. 2. Land preparation 3. Fertilization 4. Transplanting 5. Weed control 6. Replanting 7. Irrigation 8. Pest/Disease mgt. 9. Harvesting 10. Threshing 11. Cleaning 12. Drying 13. Storing 1/ Based on 2006 prices.

135

Table 2. Labor cost to produce an acre of rice 1/ Year 1:

Practices Man-day (MD) Cost per MD (Nu)

Total Cost (Nu)

1. Nursery management 2. Land preparation 3. Fertilization 4. Transplanting 5. Weed control 6. Replanting 7. Irrigation 8. Pest/Disease Management 9. Harvesting 10. Threshing 11. Cleaning 12. Drying 13. Storing

1/ Based on 2006 prices. Table 3. Cost of producing an acre of rice 1/ Y1:

Practices Supplies and Materials/

Equipment (Nu)

Labor (Nu) Total Cost

(Nu) 1. Nursery management 2. Land preparation 3. Fertilization 4. Transplanting 5. Weed control 6. Replanting 7. Irrigation 8. Pest/Disease Management 9. Harvesting 10. Threshing 11. Cleaning 12. Drying 13. Storing

TOTAL 1/ Based on 2006 prices.

136

Table 4. Estimated cost and return for an acre of rice field 1/

Year Harvestable Grains

(kg)

Gross Income (Nu) 2/

Production Cost

(Nu) 3/

Yearly Net Income

(Nu)

1 2 3 4 5

Total 1/ Based on 2006 prices. 2/ At Nu__/kg of rice. 3/ See Table 3

137

Attachment 3

PowerPoint presentation on Workshop Mechanics

138

139

140

141

142

143

Attachment 4

FORMAT FOR THE PACKAGE OF TECHNOLOGY FOR AGRICULTURE FOR CEREALS (RICE)

I. PRE-PRODUCTION STAGE

A. Ideal growing conditions 1. Elevation 2. Irrigation system 3. Soil texture 4. Temperature

B. Choice of variety 1. Yield potential 2. Planting season 3. Days to maturity 4. Pests and diseases resistance 5. Eating quality 6. Milling recovery 7. Cropping pattern 8. Plant height

II. PRODUCTION STAGE

1. Nursery preparation 2. Field preparation 3. Transplanting 4. Weeding 5. Irrigation management 6. Pests and diseases management 7. Harvesting

III. POST-PRODUCTON STAGE

1. Post-harvest storing 2. Storage pests management

144

FOR HORTICULTURE (WALNUT AND PEAR)

I. PRE-PRODUCTION STAGE A. Ideal growing conditions 1. Elevation 2. Sunlight 3. Wind speed and direction 4. Topography 5. Others same as Rice

B. Choice of cultivar 1. Yield potential 2. Planting season 3. Days to maturity 4. Pests and diseases resistance 5. Eating quality 6. Further planting material selection

II. PRODUCTION STAGE 1. Site selection, layout, and pit digging and filling 2. Fertilization 3. Basin preparation 4. Irrigation 5. Pruning and training 6. Pests and diseases management 7. Harvesting techniques

III. POST-PRODUCTON STAGE

1. Proper handling and grading 2. Packaging techniques

145

FOR VEGETABLES (CHILI, POTATO, AND TOMATO) I. PRE PRODUCTION STAGE

A. Ideal growing conditions 1. Elevation 2. Sunlight 3. Wind direction 4. Soil pH 5. Soil texture and fertility 6. Rainfall 7. Relative humidity

B. Choice of cultivar 1. Yield potential 2. Planting season 3. Days to maturity 4. Pests and diseases resistance 5. Eating quality 6. Fruit characteristics (size, shape, colour, pungency etc)

II. PRODUCTION STAGE

• Nursery preparation (Chili and Tomato) • Land preparation, planting (spacing, planting methods for Potato) • Fertilization • Weeding and earthing-up (Potato) • Irrigation • Pests and diseases management • Harvesting techniques

III. POST-PRODUCTON STAGE

1. Proper handling and grading 2. Packaging techniques 3. Storage methods for better storage pests management

146

Attachment 5

FORMAT FOR THE PACKAGE OF TECHNOLOGY FOR LIVESTOCK FOR DAIRY Criteria Description 1. Breed selection

a. Jersey b. Brown Swiss

2. Feed and fodder requirement a. Fodder requirement (daily intake) b. Feeds (concentrate, compound)

3. Husbandry practices a. Housing b. Health - reproductive diseases & treatments - common diseases & control measures - public health

4. Reproductive parameters a. Important traits for dairy cows

- calf crop - lactation length - calving interval

5. Product processing and marketing a. Processing

- Milk - Meat

b. Marketing

6. Farm economics (especially for beginners) - housing materials - labor requirement - capital requirement - dairy equipment - land requirement - fodder/pasture development - feeds - cost of production

7. Pasture development - land selection - pasture/fodder seeds - fence - irrigation - cutting/grazing management - fodder conservations

8. Local feed formulation

147

FOR POULTRY

Criteria Description 1. Breed 2. Feed requirement 3. Husbandry practices

a. Housing b. Health - common diseases & control measures

4. Products marketing 5. Farm economics

- housing materials - labor requirement - capital requirement - equipment - land requirement - feeds - cost of production

6. Local feed formulation

148

FOR PIG

Criteria Description 1. Breed

a. Local b. Exotic

- Large Black - Saddle Back - Large White - Duroc

2. Management - boars - sows - replacement stock

3. Feed requirements - piglets - gilt - pregnant - lactating - boars

3. Husbandry practices a. Housing b. Health - common diseases & control measures - public health

4. Products processing and marketing 5. Farm economics

- housing materials - labor requirement - capital requirement - equipment - land requirement - feeds - cost of production

6. Local feed formulation

149

FOR FODDER/PASTURE DEVELOPMENT 1. Ideal conditions required for pasture development

Criteria Description 1. Elevation 2. Irrigation 3. Soil fertility (fertilizers)

2. How to develop pasture

Step 1: Land preparation • Clearing of bushes • Burning • Ploughing • Rotary (breaking the clumps) • FYM application • Fencing (Wooden, live or barbed wire)

Step 2: Fertilizer application

• Basal dressing Step 3: Seed sowing methods

• Broadcast method • Direct seeding • Root slip propagation

Step 4: Management of pasture

• Weeding / cleaning • Harvest (graze, cut and carry) • Top dress • Irrigation • Reseeding / patch sowing

150

Attachment 6

FORMAT FOR THE TECHNOLOGY FOR FORESTRY FOR PANGTSE (Symplocus paniculata)

Symplocus paniculata (Pangtse) is species that grows in the temperate zone with moist clay soil from 1600 to 2850 masl. The species is preferred by the farmers for its oil seed. The trees therefore, can be seen along the bunds of the paddy fields in Punakha and Wangdue valley.

I. Propagation methods

• What are the possible propagation methods? • What is the success rate of different propagation methods? • When different propagation methods should be carried out?

A. Propagation through seeds

a) Seed collection • When to collect seed • How to select mother trees • How seed should be stored

b) Seed Treatment

• How to treat seeds c) Seed sowing

• Season • Sowing method • Bed type • Watering • Weeding

d) Pricking out in the poly tube

• When and at what height the seedlings should be pricked • Management after pricking

e) Hardening

• When to hardened seedlings • How long it should be hardened

f) Transplanting

• When and at what age seedlings should be transplanted

151

g) Planting method • Spacing • Pit size • Tending

B. Propagation through vegetative cuttings

a) Shoot cutting • When to collect cuttings • How raise cuttings

b) Root Cutting

• When to collect cuttings • How raise cuttings

Note: Complete compilation will be done by Yog Raj Chhettri and Rinzin Dorji

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Attachment 7

Format for Geog’s Agriculture Database Dzongkhag: __________________ Geog: _______________________

Wetland (acre)

Kitchen Garden (acre)

Backyard Farm (acre)

Walnut Pear

Year

Rice Tomato Potato Chili Chili B NB B NB

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Note: B – Backyard NB – Not Backyard Inputted by: _________________________ Email Address: ______________________ Date Inputted: _______________________

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Attachment 8

Format for Geog’s Livestock Database

Dzongkhag: __________________ Geog: _______________________

Livestock (number)

Total Seri Jersey Mithun Horse Pig Poultry Year

Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female Mule

Improved Local Improved Local Dog

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Inputted by: _________________________ Email Address: ______________________ Date Inputted: _______________________

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Attachment 9

Format for Geog’s Forestry Database

Dzongkhag: __________________ Geog: _______________________

Year Private Forest (acre)

Community Forest (acre)

No. of Timber Permits

No of Forest Fires

No. of Cattle

Depredation

Sokshing Tsamdro Forest Type (acre)

Inputted by: _________________________ Email Address: ______________________ Date Inputted: _______________________

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Annex 16. Technology write-up and a brief description of the nine commodities included in VERCON-Bhutan.

Attachment 1

Rice Description

Rice is one of the most important cereals in Bhutan along with maize. Locally, milled rice is called chum (in Dzongkha) or chung (in Sharchopkha).

With a botanical name of Oryza sativa, the rice plant belongs to the grass family otherwise known as Gramineae. In Bhutan, rice can grow to 1.4 m long depending on the variety. All Dzongkhags grow rice but the top producers in 2005 were Sarpang, Samtse, Punakha, Paro, and Wangdue. Noticeably, rice

cultivation in Bumthang has been recently introduced and popularized. In 2005, the average farm size in Bhutan is two acres. Growers obtained an

average yield of 2.5 t/ha with a production cost of Nu 14/kg. The current price for milled rice in Bhutan ranges from Nu 20-25/kg. On the average, the population of half a million consumes 180-200 kg of rice per yr.

Rice is mainly used as food in Bhutan. However, some Bhutanese also processed

them into ara (local wine), siep (flattened rice), zaw (puffed rice), and mekhu (delicacy made of rice flour).

To cope with the demand, Bhutan imports rice at an average of 35,000 tons per

year mainly from India. Interestingly, the country also exports 100 tons of red rice to USA and Europe.

Most farmers get technical support from extension agents and the Renewable

Natural Resources Research Centres of the Ministry of Agriculture.

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TECHNOLOGY FOR RICE PRODUCTION IN BHUTAN

By

Mr. Mahesh Ghimiray Programme Officer

Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre Bajo, Wangdue Phodrang Tel. No. 02-481209

E-mail address: mghimire@druknet.bt I. PRE-PRODUCTION STAGE

A. Growing Conditions

Criteria Description 1. Altitude • Between 250 metres above sea level (masl) such as in the

southern foothills of Sarpang, Samtse, and Samdrup Jongkhar to above 2,700 masl like in Bumthang

• At higher altitude (>2,700 masl), rice takes considerably longer to grow and mature due to low temperatures.

2. Ecosystems • Either in one of the following ecosystems wherever applicable: a) Irrigated ecosystem where rice is grown in terraced fields

with assured irrigation water such as those in Paro, Thimphu, Wangdue, and Punakha.

b) Rainfed ecosystem where rice cultivation depends on rainfall – in terraced fields – such as those prevalent in the southern foothills.

c) Upland ecosystem where rice cultivation also depends on rainfall – but in sloping drylands without terraces – such as those grown in small pockets in the East and Central regions. Rice is usually direct-seeded, either dribbled or broadcast.

3. Soil pH • Slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. 4. Soil texture • Grow ideally in clay and clay-loam soils which have good

water-holding and -retention capacity. • Sandy soils quickly lose water and lead to moisture stress.

Addition of organic matter helps. 5. Temperature • Varies at growth stages:

a) Seeds germinate and grow at mean temperatures above 14oC. At lower temperatures, growth will be slow.

b) Critical temperature for rice flowering and fertilization ranges from 16o-20oC.

c) At grain filling and ripening stage, 18o-32oC. d) Temperatures higher than 35oC may affect pollen shedding

and thereby grain filling.

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B. Choice of Variety

The choice of a variety depends on altitude, cropping pattern, ecosystem, and

growers’ preference. The recommended varieties for different altitudes and growing conditions are given below:

Variety Name

Altitude (m)

Recom-mended

Dzongkhag

Cropping Pattern and Ecosystem

Days to Maturity

Disease Reaction

Potential Yield (t/ha)

Eating Quality

IR 64 700 -1,500 • Chhukha • Punakha • Trashigang • Tsirang • Wangdue

As main crop under irrigated conditions

150 Susceptible to rice blast

5-7 Good, comparable to locals

IR 20913 700 -1,500

• Punakha • Trashigang • Wangdue

As main crop or as second crop in double cropping

120 Tolerant to rice blast

3-4 Good

<700 • Samtse • Sarpang • Zhemgang

First crop in double cropping

No.11 >1,600

• Haa • Paro

Main crop

>200

Highly susceptible to rice blast

5-6

3-4

Sticky, hard when cold

700 -1,500 • Punakha • Thimphu • Wangdue

As first crop in rice-rice rotation

180

Bajo Maap-1

700 -1,500 • Chhukha • Punakha • Wangdue

Main crop; irrigated

150 Tolerant to rice blast

5-7 Good, comparable to locals

Rice cultivation in Bumthang (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

Upland rice cultivation in Mongar (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

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Variety Name

Altitude (m)

Recom-mended

Dzongkhag

Cropping Pattern and Ecosystem

Days to Maturity

Disease Reaction

Potential Yield (t/ha)

Eating Quality

Bajo Maap-2

700 -1,500 • Chhukha • Punakha • Wangdue

Main crop; irrigated

145 Tolerant to rice blast

5-6 Good, comparable to locals

Bajo Kaap-1

700 -1500 • Chhukha • Punakha • Wangdue

Main crop; irrigated

155 Tolerant to rice blast

6-8 Good, comparable to locals

Bajo Kaap-2

700 -1,500 • Chhukha • Punakha • Wangdue

Main crop; irrigated

155 Tolerant to rice blast

6-8 Good, comparable to locals

Khumal-2 700 -1,500 • Dagana • Mongar • Trashigang • T/yangtse • Tsirang

Main crop; irrigated

160 Tolerant to rice blast

5-6 Good, like locals

Khumal-6 700 -1,500 • Dagana • Mongar • Trashigang • T/yangtse • Tsirang

Main crop; irrigated

160 Tolerant to rice blast

5-6 Good, like locals

BR 153 <600 • S/jongkhar • Samtse • Sarpang

Main crop; irrigated or rainfed

160 Tolerant to rice blast

3-5 Acceptable

Khangma Maap

>1,600 • Haa • Paro,

Thimphu • Higher areas

of other Dzongkhag

Main crop; irrigated or upland

>180 Resistant to rice blast

4-6 Good, like locals

Yusirey Maap

>1,600 • Haa • Paro • Thimphu

Main crop; irrigated

>180 Resistant to rice blast

4-6 Good

Yusirey Kaap

>1,600 • Haa • Paro,

Thimphu • Higher areas

of other Dzongkhag

Main crop; irrigated

>180 Resistant to rice blast

4-6 Good

Jakar Reynaab (Paro China)

>2,500 • Bumthang • Haa • Parts of

Wangdue

Main crop; irrigated

>200 Susceptible to rice blast

5-6 Good

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Characteristics of Main Rice Varieties Grown in Bhutan IR 64 • Developed by IRRI • High yielding tropical

semi-dwarf variety (80-90 cm tall)

• Grain quality similar to local white rice "Zakha"

• Milling recovery: 65% • Slender white grains Bajo Maap-1 • Developed by RC Bajo • Semi-dwarf variety, about

100 cm tall • Resistant to lodging and

responsive to fertilizers • Light red grains Bajo Maap-2 • Developed by RC Bajo • Semi-dwarf variety (about

100-110 cm tall) • Resistant to lodging and

responsive to fertilizers • Deep red grains

Photo 3Close-up view of Bajo Maap-1 variety

(Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

Rice field grown with Bajo Maap-2 (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

Rice field grown with IR64 (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

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Bajo Kaap-1 • Developed by RC Bajo • Semi-dwarf variety (about

100 cm tall) • Resistant to lodging and

responsive to fertilizers • Slender white grains Bajo Kaap-2 • Developed by RC Bajo • Semi-dwarf variety (about

90-100 cm tall) • Resistant to lodging and

responsive to fertilizers • Slender white grains Khumal 6 • Introduced from Nepal • Medium variety (about 1.1 m tall) • Milling recovery: 66% • White grains

Close-up view of Bajo Kaap-1 variety (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

Rice field grown with Bajo Kaap-2 (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

Close-up view of Khumal 6 variety (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

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Khangma Maap • Introduced from Nepal • Tall variety (over 120 cm tall • Resistant to blast disease • Roundish red grains BR 153 • Introduced from Bangladesh • Medium tall variety (about 100-

110 cm tall) • Tolerant to poor and marginal

growing conditions • White grains Yusirey Maap • Developed by RC Yusipang • Tolerant to rice blast • Difficult to thresh manually • Bold red grains

Close-up view of BR 153 variety (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

Rice field grown with Yusirey Maap (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

Rice field grown with Khangma Maap (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

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II. PRODUCTION STAGE

1. Nursery Preparation

There are three main methods of raising rice seedlings in Bhutan as described below, including the conditions as to which method to adopt:

Conditions for Adoption Method

Irrigation Weeds Temperature Altitude Zones 1. Semi-dry

bed Not assured Shochum areas Low (<18oC) at

seedling stage High and mid (>1000 masl)

2. Wet bed Assured No shochum High (>18oC) Mid and low (<1000 masl)

3. Polytunnel Not assured Shochum areas Low (<15oC) High and mid (>1000 masl)

A. SEMI-DRY BED METHOD

• Prepare a well-leveled field with fine, pulverized soil.

• Apply 3 kg of well-rotten Farm Yard Manure (FYM) for a 1 m x 3 m seedbed. Mix them thoroughly with the soil.

• Make raised seedbeds 10-13 cm high, 1 m wide, and any convenient length (5-10 m)

• Broadcast unsoaked dry seeds uniformly on the seedbeds. One "Drey" or 1.2 kg seed is sufficient for a 1 m x 6 m area.

• Cover the seeds using a thin layer of fine soil mixed with well-decomposed FYM. • Irrigate the seedbeds immediately after sowing. The seedbeds should be just soaked.

Never flood. • Check the moisture of the seedbeds and irrigate when necessary. • Seedlings are ready for transplant 40-60 days after sowing, depending on the altitude

and temperature.

Rice seedbed using semi-dry bed method (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

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B. WET BED METHOD

• Plough, puddle, and level a conveniently-located plot. Apply enough FYM before puddling.

• Make slightly raised seedbeds, 10-13 cm high, 1 m wide, and any convenient length.

• Soak the seeds in clean water for 24-36 hours. Then rinse the seeds, drain, and incubate them for 36-48 hours. During incubation, keep them moist and warm in half-filled, loosely-tied sacks. Every 12 hours, drench the sacks and turn them upside down to even out the temperature.

• Broadcast the pre-germinated seeds uniformly on the seedbeds. One Drey of seeds is enough for a 1 m x 6 m seedbed.

• Maintain just enough water to continuously saturate the seedbeds for the first week. Thereafter, gradually increase the water level as the seedlings grow. Never let the seedbeds dry out.

• The seedlings are ready for transplant 20-25 days after sowing depending on the temperature.

C. Polytunnel Method

A polytunnel cover is used over the seedbed to protect seedlings – raised as first crop in rice double cropping – from cold and provide higher seedbed temperatures for seed germination and growth. Minimum temperature required for the germination of rice seed ranges from 9o-13oC. (Note: the normal air temperature during the first week of February in Wangdi and Punakha Valley averages only 4o-8oC). A polytunnel cover increases the temperature to 10o-12oC making seed germination and growth possible.

• Prepare a well-leveled field with fine, pulverized soil. • Make raised beds 10-13 cm high, 1 m wide, and of any convenient length. • Sow seeds evenly on the seedbed as in a semi-dry bed nursery. • Cover the seeds with fine soil mixed with FYM (1:1 mixture). • Sprinkle water or irrigate lightly through the channels to soak the beds. Never flood. • Put bamboo or "Kempah" hoops over the beds 80 cm apart down the length of the

bed, pushing the ends firmly into the soil.

Rice seedbed using wet bed method (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

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• Place medium-weight transparent polythene sheet over the hoops long and wide enough to cover the beds. Cover the edges of the polythene with soil to hold them down to the ground.

• Check the moisture frequently to ensure that there is enough supply and, whenever necessary, irrigate by raising the polythene sheet.

• After seedling emergence, open the plastic tunnel every 9 to 10 a.m. and close it at 3 to 4 p.m.

• Irrigate the nursery, as and when required, preferably during the day.

• Seedling vigor will depend upon the soil temperatures and growing conditions. Normally, seedlings attain 3-4 leaf stage after 40-45 days of sowing, which are ready for transplanting.

2. Field Preparation • Pre-irrigate the field, if it is dry, before ploughing. • Plough 2-3 times thoroughly and flood it thereafter. • Drain the water slightly and plough/rotovate/harrow as needed. • Repair and maintain bunds and incorporate chemical fertilizers, if any. • Do final puddling and levelling just before transplanting.

3. Manure and Fertilizer Application • Apply about 8-10 t/ha FYM basally (for medium altitude areas, about 7-15 t/ha), and

top-dress with 35 kg N/ha 35-40 days after transplanting. • If adequate manures are not available, apply chemical fertilizer at the rate of 30:12:8

kg NPK/acre. Apply half dose of Nitrogen and full dose of Phosphorus and Potash as basal application.

• Top-dress the remaining N two times at tillering and at panicle initiation equally. • Wherever possible, carry out soil tests by sending soil samples to the National Soil

Service Centre (NSSC) to determine the exact nutrient requirement. • When using green manure preferably in the mid and low altitudes, incorporate 6-8

week’s old Sesbania aculeata (Dhaincha) before transplanting of rice. Top-dress with N at the rate of 35 kg/ha for higher yields.

Seedbeds with polytunnel cover (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

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Pre-Rice Green Manuring Sesbania aculeata (Dhaincha) is a leguminous crop producing 8-25 t/ha of green matter that will add about 60-90 kg of N when incorporated. This amount would equal an application of 3-10 t/ha FYM on the basis of organic matter and N contribution. • Prepare the field as

normally done for any dryland crop like wheat.

• Pre-irrigate, if necessary, plough the field, and break soil clods to attain a good tilth. Do light planking after sowing to cover the seeds.

• Apply P at 16 kg/acre during land preparation.

• Scarify the seeds before sowing by rubbing with sand on a hard surface. • Sow the seeds in April after wheat harvesting at 16-20 kg/acre. • Incorporate the crop at 45-60 days after sowing by ploughing. If the plants are tall,

chop them into small pieces using conventional ploughs. • Transplant rice seedlings immediately after incorporation up to about two weeks. The

seedlings may exhibit leaf yellowing soon after transplanting due to temporary immobilization of inorganic N in the soil. Seedlings will recover once mineralization begins.

Close-up view of Dhaincha plant (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

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4. Rice Establishment

Establishing the rice crop in Bhutan is either by direct seeding or transplanting, although the latter is commonly practised by Bhutanese farmers.

Method Advantages Disadvantages Altitude

Zone 1. Direct

seeding • Less labor required • Matures earlier • Similar yield as in

transplanted crop

• Difficult to get a good crop stand

• More weeds problem

Mid and low

2. Transplanting • Good, optimum crop stand

• Easier weed control

• Requires more labor in seedling uprooting and transplanting

All zones

A. Transplanting

• For mid-altitudes, do transplanting in May – June. Use the traditional or random method of transplanting if the weed pressure is expected to be low, if Butachlor is intended to be used for weed control, and if the terraces are narrow and small.

• Do line planting when controlling weeds using a rotary weeder. Use planting rope to maintain row spacing of 20 cm and plant-to-plant spacing of 15-20 cm within the rows. Avoid wide spacing particularly in random transplanting.

• A plant density of 25-35 hills per square meter is optimum. Plant 2-3 seedlings per hill at 20 cm x 20 cm distance.

B. Direct Seeding (wet broadcast)

• Prepare the land similar to any transplanted rice crop. Level the field properly. • After final land preparation, allow the mud to settle overnight. Keep water level

to the minimum. • Broadcast pre-germinated seeds (that is, soaked for 24 hours and incubated for

36-48 hours) evenly. • Walk backwards while seeding and avoid making too many mud depressions

that collect water and rot the seed. • Keep the water level as minimum as possible until the seeds secure their roots

and emerge (that is, 2-5 days but may take longer if the temperature is low). • Increase the water level gradually as seedlings grow. • Use a seeding rate of 70-90 kg/ha. • Do direct seeding 15-20 days prior to transplanting depending on the cropping

season, varieties, and growing areas.

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5. Irrigation Management

• Avoid letting the soil crack and keep the fields saturated or moist. About 800-1,200 mm water is needed for a rice cropping season.

• After transplanting, keep the water level as minimum as possible for about 4-7 days until the plants recover.

• Thereafter, gradually increase the water level up to 5-7 cm and ensure enough water from tillering to flowering.

• Irrigate at short intervals (3-5 days) but do not allow the field to dry-up and crack.

• Do not subject the rice plant to water stress during the flowering stage as this is its most critical stage of growth.

• Drain the water from the field 10-15 days before harvest.

6. Harvesting

• Under normal conditions in Wangdue-Punakha valley, begin harvesting from first week of October.

• Harvest the crop as soon as it matures, when at least 85% of the upper portion of panicles turns straw coloured.

• For some varieties like No. 11 wherein some leaves and stems may still be green at grain maturity, use days to maturity of a particular variety as basis for harvesting schedule.

• Use serrated sickles to harvest the crop manually. Where available, use powered machines or reapers to harvest rice.

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Attachment 2

Walnut description

The Persian or English walnut (Juglans reiga L.) is the

only commercially important walnut species as a nut crop and it is native to areas extending from the Carpathian mountain of Poland through the mountain chains of Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Northern Pakistan, Tibet, and Southern China to eastern Himalayas. Bhutan falls within this zone, with stands of native walnut.

Walnut is locally called tako (in Dzongkha) or khesae (in Sharchopkha) and is

well-adapted and widely grown in Bhutan. The native walnut is hard shelled and has little commercial value as a nut crop but its timber is of high value. Both native forest trees and introductions of commercial soft shell walnut in the past are available. Presently, walnut is produced mostly for subsistence, with about 204.9 t produced in 2003; any surplus is sold locally.

At present, walnut is gaining interest among progressive farmers and development

agencies as a potential cash and high value crop. Walnut offers opportunities for the landlocked country like Bhutan where remoteness, quick access to market, poor transport system, and post-harvest facilities are limiting. Walnut is not so perishable, light weight, and is relatively resistant to transport damage.

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TECHNOLOGY FOR WALNUT PRODUCTION IN BHUTAN

By

Mr. Gyambo Tshering Programme Officer, Horticulture Sector

Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre Bajo, Wangdue Phodrang Tel. No. 02-481209 (O)/17617917(M) E-mail address: gtshering@druknet.bt

3. PRE-PRODUCTION STAGE

A. Growing Conditions

Criteria Description 1. Altitude • Between 1,300-2,500 metres above sea level (masl).

• Beyond 2,500 masl (like in Bumthang), commercial walnut production is not recommended as it result to erratic and even total crop loss in some years when there is late spring frost.

2. Temperature • Adapted to cold temperate zone, requiring cool period in autumn to promote leaf fall and the physiological process of plant hardening and induction of dormancy.

• Not recommended in areas where late spring or early fall frost is common as freezing temperature kills the growing point of walnut trees and severely affects production.

• Temperature of 380C or more results in sun burning of hulls and shriveled kernels, with severe damage occurring at temperature over 400C.

3. Irrigation • Requires 800 mm rainfall or irrigation equivalent. To obtain high yield, avoid planting walnut in drought-prone areas.

• Spring rainfall is associated with increased problems from walnut blight.

4. Soil pH • Requires slightly acidic soils between pH 5.5-6.5. • Prone to zinc and boron deficiencies, hence select a site

wherein recent soil analysis show reasonable levels of zinc and a slightly acidic pH.

5. Soil texture • Grows best on deep, friable loamy soil where roots can develop to 3-4 m depth. Besides good top-soil, the subsoil should be free of impermeable layers like clay and rock gravel and anaerobic conditions (clayey soil coupled with high rainfall).

• Walnut can not tolerate wet soils for any extended period. A few hours of water-logging can cause severe damage.

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6. Topography • Gentle slopes are more easily managed. As walnut plantation

is likely to be on steep slopes in Bhutan, there are two important factors to consider:

1. Choose a site with southerly and south-westerly facing

slopes. This warms up faster in spring and cools down more slowly in the autumn, thus extending the growing season at higher altitude. Northerly and easterly aspects tend to be colder and more prone to frost damage at higher altitudes, but may allow walnut production at lower altitude.

2. Choose a site with good frost drainage. Unimpeded down slope drainage of cold air is important particularly in spring where a build-up of cold air in pocket behind a line of trees or in a fold in the ground can cause crop loss due to late frosts.

B. Choice of cultivars

The newly-released cultivars by the Ministry of Agriculture for general cultivation in Bhutan are indicated below:

Kanthel Selection

• Big and long trapezoid nuts, semi-erect, and

vigorous • Regular bearer • Thin-shelled • Leafing out in 1st week of April • Flowering habit: Female flower first • Disease: Tip die back • Nut size index: 4.27 mm • Nut in-shell average weight: 26.11 g • Kernel average weight: 9.32 g • Harvesting in end-September under

Yusipang condition

(Photo courtesy of RNR RC-Yusipang)

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Yusipang 2

• Big and long ovate nuts, semi-erect, and vigorous

• Regular bearer • Thin shelled • Leafing out in 1st week of April • Flowering habit: Female flower first • Disease: Some tip die back • Nut size index: 4.00 mm • Nut in-shell average weight: 20.75 g • Kernel average weight: 8.3 g • Harvesting in end-September under

Yusipang condition II. PRODUCTION STAGE

1. Plant propagation

a) Preparing the seeds

• Use the local walnut seedlings as rootstocks. • Collect the walnut in September to October from the forest. Hull the seeds

and air-dry in the open shed. • Stratify walnut seeds either by early fall planting (planting in December

where natural stratification occurs) or by moist cold stratification for spring planting (end of February).

• At lower elevation, stratify the seeds in moist sand or peat moss for about two months. At higher elevation, there is no need to stratify as they are naturally stratified by exposure to outside winter temperatures in a cold room or shady open area.

• Dip the seeds for one minute in hot water (that is, almost boiling condition) before fall planting or stratification.

b) Preparing the nursery

• For fall or spring planting, prepare the nursery carefully. • Plant the seed in about 10 cm deep and 15 cm apart in rows and 50 cm

between the rows. It takes more than two months for the seed to germinate in the nursery for fall planting without stratification while for spring planting (after cold stratification), the seeds germinate within 1-2 weeks after planting.

• Undercut the seedlings when it is about 30 cm tall. Irrigate the seedlings thereafter.

(Photo courtesy of RNR RC-Yusipang)

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• Thin the seedlings, if required, a few days after undercutting. • Make sure that the nursery is free of weeds. Irrigate frequently and

fertilize the seedlings to correct soil deficiencies. • If nursery is properly managed, seedlings attend grafting size within a

years’ time. c) Grafting operation

The most suitable time to graft walnut under ambient condition is

towards the end of dormancy or early spring season (mid-March) especially in an altitude of 700-2,100 masl. If the nursery is located at higher altitude, use grafting cable or hot callusing technique to maintain suitable temperature for walnut grafting (20º-30ºC).

Whip grafting is the best method to graft walnut if the size of rootstock

and scion are same. For the large size rootstock, use modified whip grafting. Scion is a short piece of shoot containing dormant buds that is united to the rootstock on the upper portion of the graft and form the shoot system of the composite plant. The procedure is as follows:

• Prepare the materials required for grafting such as sharp knife, grafting

tape, wax and aluminum vessel, burner (to melt wax), and plant materials (scion and rootstock).

• Use 1-2 year old healthy rootstocks of Juglans regia and freshly collected scions of known cultivars for grafting. Use only dormant scion and active rootstock for grafting.

• Make a slanting cut (about 5 cm) with a sharp knife at the base of the scion and at the top of rootstock. For the rootstock, make the cut in the bark portion or lesser cut on wood portion depending on scion size.

Modified whip grafting (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

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• Fit the cut sections of rootstock and scion together making sure that the cambial layers of both rootstock and scion fit perfectly.

• Tie the fitting (graft union) with a grafting tape. • Dip the scion portion of the grafted plant into the hot wax to prevent scion

desiccation. • Grow the grafted walnut in the nursery or in pots with a growing medium

prepared as 1:1:1 ratio of sand, Farm Yard Manure (FYM), and soil. Add basal fertilizers.

• Remove the suckers or shoots growth from the rootstock as and when it appears.

• Irrigate the nursery 1-3 times a week depending upon the weather condition and soil types.

• Take note if bleeding occurs during grafting, that is, sap flow due to root pressure, as it kills the grafts. Control the bleeding by either cutting off the rootstock 5-8 cm above the grafting site about two weeks beforehand or make few slanting cuts in the rootstock through the bark into the wood as low as possible below the grafting point. If any later bleeding happens, it occurs through these cuts. Also, stop irrigation for about two weeks prior to grafting.

2. Layout and tree density

• Layout the orchard in square or Quincunx (diamond) design in gentle slope

and flat valley. Use contour planting for hilly and steep slope. • Consider the number of trees to plant per unit area in terms of both short- and

long-term productivity of an orchard. The short-term objective is to have maximum numbers of trees to obtain the earliest economic production potential per unit area. If the initial tree density is too high, remove specific number of trees 8-10 years after planting.

• Space the plants depending on the tree type and vigour. For small and compact tree, use initial spacing of 5 m x 5 m and adjust this to 10 m x 10 m at maturity (high density planting).

• For highly fruitful lateral-bearing but vigorous cultivars and terminal- bearing vigorous cultivars, maintain an initial spacing of 6 m x 6 m and finally adjust to 12 m x 12 m.

• As a general guide, use the following spacing: Seedling trees 12 m x 12 m Grafted on Juglans regia 10 m x 10 m Grafted Juglans nigra 8 m x 8 m

• When pollenizers are required, place them in permanent position to avoid their

elimination during the temporary tree removal. Every eight row, plant a pollenizer variety that is perpendicular to the usual direction of the wind.

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3. Pit digging and filling • On clayey or not very fertile soil, dig a pit 1 m deep and 1 m in diameter. For

loamy soil, dig a pit 0.3 m deep and 0.3 m in diameter. • Break the hard layer on any side of the pit. • Keep the top surface soil but separate this from the subsoil. • Fill the pit with mixture of rotten FYM and top surface soil at a ratio of 1:2.

4. Planting

• Order the planting materials in advance before planting. • If planting is delayed, lay the seedlings in a trench. Cover the root portion

with moist soil. Do not allow the seedlings to dry. • Prepare a hole just enough to accommodate the entire root system. Spread the

roots around in all sides and cover with soil. Make sure that the graft union is above the soil zone.

• Plant the seedlings in late dormant/early spring season. Irrigate immediately. • In the first year, prune the young tree by cutting the top above the graft union

but leaving 5-6 buds. • Paint the trunk with whitewash. • Stake the young tree in the windy area. • As the tree leaf out and growth occurs, pinch the growing tip from the shoots

other than the one selected as a main trunk.

5. Applying manures and fertilizer

• Use the following guide below as a indicative amount of NPK for the walnut in the absent of plant and soil nutrients analysis information:

Year N Dose (g/tree) Location: circle around the tree (m)

1 100 0.5 2 200 1.0 3 300 1.5 4 400 2.0

5-7 500 2.5 7-9 600 3.0

10 to full production

900 3.0

• In the first five years, place small amounts (about 100 g) of P and K per tree. From fifth year up to full production, apply 40-80 kg/ha of P and 60-100 kg/ha of K based on soil fertility and plant vigour.

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6. Training

• Train the walnut after the first year using the Modified Central leader System (delayed open centre).

• After the 1st years’ growth, head back to 2 m of its height. Remove all the lateral shoots on the leader, leaving one or two shoots at lower level on the trunk to provide shade on trunk’s south and west sides.

• To avoid narrow crotches, remove all primary buds above 1.5 m from the ground to force secondary buds to grow.

• Select main scaffold limb 1.6 m above ground. Choose primary scaffold limbs in all directions on the trunk. Ensure that limbs have wider angles, more than 30 cm apart vertically on the main trunk.

• Remove the rest of the vigorous branches leaving small branches undisturbed for fruiting.

• Head back all the selected limbs on terminal fruiting cultivars but not for lateral fruiting ones.

• After 2-3 years, allow the secondary scaffold limbs on primary scaffolds to grow by removing the extra vigorous branches.

• Head back all scaffold limbs every year in terminal fruiting cultivars. • For cultivars that are highly fruitful on lateral buds, head back a large number

of new shoots on the periphery to reduce fruiting and increase vigorous shoot growth throughout the trees’ periphery.

• On terminal bearing cultivars, head back selected branches and thin out limbs completely.

7. Pruning

• Carry-out pruning operation in the dormant season but early spring is

preferable. Further delay causes excess bleeding. • For young (16-17 year-old) and middle aged trees (34-35 year-old), cut back

3-year old shoots. For mature trees (40 year-old), cut back 4-5 year-old shoots.

• Initiate selective thinning out of limbs in the top and sides of the tree before overcrowding becomes serious. Do not remove more than 25% of the branch structure at any time.

• Treat all the cut surfaces with a tree wound dressing such Copper oxychloride or Bordeaux paste.

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8. Tree thinning

• Practice tree thinning in closely-planted orchards (high density planting). Remove the tree before it begins to crowd.

• Remove the one-third temporary tree or alternate tree at one time as the tree gets crowded leaving trees on the edges of the plantation.

9. Mulching

• Mulch the tree with plastic or organic materials like straw or grasses

10. Intercropping • Intercrop walnut trees with legume fodders in areas traditionally under pasture

farming system. For other farming systems, use low growing and non-competitive vegetables such as non-climbing beans and other legumes, tomato, and onion and more competitive vegetables such as chili and asparagus.

• Intercrop during the first 4-6 years after planting only. • If sustained intercropping is planned from the establishment of the orchard,

modify the spacing, that is, much wider between rows of mature trees.

11. Irrigation scheduling

• Do supplemental irrigation in dry spring and early summer before the start of monsoon period, that is, provide irrigation from April to June

• No irrigation is needed from June onwards until harvest since this is the monsoon season.

12. Top-working

• For walnut orchard establishment, plant the walnut seedlings directly in the

production field without nursery grafting and top-worked two years later. This is the best method of orchard development in Bhutan.

X X X X X X R X R X X X R X X X R X R X X X R X X X R X R X X X X X X

Alternate tree removal (R) leaving edge trees in place

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• To avoid sap bleeding, either head back the stock two weeks before actual operation or make few slanting cuts on the stock through the bark into the wood just bellow the grafting point so that if any bleeding occur later, it occurs though these cuts.

• Select disease-free young trees for top-working. • Cut the dormant scion wood from the parent tree in advance. Wax the scion,

pack properly, and store in the refrigerator at 4oC. • Do bark grafting for top-working in late spring (end of March to April) or

when new growth has taken place. • Wrap the graft union with thick plastic sheet. • Paint the stem portion with white wash. • Remove the shoots other than the scion growing on the plant.

Two-year old walnut seedling plantation (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

Top-worked walnut fruited two years after operation at 2,300 masl

(Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

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13. Harvesting and post-harvest operation • Walnut trees from seedling bear nuts in 10-12 years and full commercial

production 18-20 years from planting. On the other hand, grafted walnut starts production earlier, that is, in 4-5 years after planting and full commercial production in 8-10 years only.

• A fully-grown, big size tree produces as high as 100-150 kg nuts but the average yield is 40 kg per tree.

• Crop maturity and harvest in Bhutan starts from August-October depending on the elevation and cultivars. Do not delay harvesting to avoid deteriorating the nut quality kernel (brown colour kernel). The lightest kernel colour commands higher price in the international market.

• To determine maturity, observe the following: a) The nuts are mature when the nut dehisce and fall. In higher altitude,

kernel matures earlier to hull dehiscence while in the lower altitude, hull dehiscence take place prior to kernel maturity.

b) The walnut kernels are mature when the packing tissue between and around the kernel halves has just turned brown and crop can be harvested if 80% of the nut can be removed with 95% of them hullable. Harvest the remaining nuts few days after the first harvest.

• Collect the nuts from the ground. Clean, wash, and spread the nuts on a sheet or floor to dry them up to 8% moisture level.

• Grade the nuts according to size, colour, and variety. • Store the nuts in gunny bags inside small well-ventilated rooms free from

excessive humidity. Nuts have long shelf-life and it can be sold in extended marketing season.

References: 1. Gyambo Tshering, 2004, Pointer for Successful Walnut Grafting, Leaflet, RNRRC-

Bajo, CoRRB, MOA, Wangdue. 2. Gyambo Tshering, 2000, Causes of graft failure in walnut, M. Phil Thesis, Reading

University, England. 3. IHDP, 1994. Walnut-Guidelines for Orchard Management. Extension Publication No.

36. Ministry of agriculture. 4. Jackson, D.I. 1986. Temperate and Subtropical Fruit Production. Butterworths of New

Zealand Ltd., Wellington, New Zealand. 5. High Value Horticulture Ltd., 98. Draft Walnut Production Manual for Bhutan. 6. David E. Ramos (1985), Walnut Orchard Management, University of California, Davis,

USA.

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Attachment 3

Chili Description

Chili is by far the most important vegetable in

Bhutan. Local markets are never without chili, always teemed with different colours and sizes, in fresh and dried form. Bhutanese call this crop ema (in Dzongkha) or solo (in Sharchopkha). Chili is a staple vegetable in Bhutan; the famous ema datsi recipe is entirely made of chili mixed with local cheese. Chili is also important ingredients in almost all curries and food recipes.

All Dzongkhags grow chili for home consumption or for sale in the domestic

market. Some Dzongkhags like Trashi Yangtse, Trashigang, and Wangdue Phodrang produces early chili that fetches premium price. The top chili-producing Dzongkhags in 2004 were Paro, Punakha, Wangdue Phrodrang, Thimphu, and Trashigang while Southern Bhutan produces chili in fewer amounts. In 2000, the country produced 2,848.6 t, of which 925.96 t are exported, mainly to India (Planning and Policy Division, 2003).

Bhutanese cultivate the chili in rice-based farming system and in dry land as

monocropping or other cereal-based cropping system. In rice-based farming system, it is cultivated before rice and is mainly targeted for early season market to get premium price (Gyambo Tshering, personal communication). Chili production in dry land particularly in higher elevation is done for late season fresh or dry chili market. The yield varies from one area to another and based on management aspects but the average yield is about 15-20 t/ha.

The selling price of chili varies with season and cultivars. The market price is as

high as Nu 100-200/kg in Thimphu for the fresh chili that appears first in the market, and then the price falls as production season progresses, and stabilizes at Nu 15-20/kg in the main season (June to September). The fresh chill price increases again in the local market late in the season (October to December) as production and supply chili falls (Gyambo Tshering, 2006, personal communication). On the other hand, the selling price of dried chili in the local market is Nu 50-60/kg.

The production cost of Bhutanese fresh chili is about Nu. 15.49/kg in the west-

central region and farmers earns good profit from the chili farming enterprise.

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TECHNOLOGY FOR CHILI PRODUCTION IN BHUTAN

By

Mr. Gyambo Tshering Programme Officer, Horticulture Sector

Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre Bajo, Wangdue Phodrang Tel. No. 02481209

E-mail address: gtshering@druknet.bt I. PRE-PRODUCTION STAGE

A. Growing Conditions

Criteria Description 1. Altitude • Between 250 metres above sea level (masl) such as in southern

Dzongkhags to 2,600 masl like in Bumthang and Ha Dzongkhags • Growing seasons:

a) Below 800 m (low elevation) – November to April b) Between 800 m to 1,500 m (mid-elevation) – February to

October c) Above 1500 m (high elevation) – April to September

2. Soil pH • pH range of 5.5 to 6.8. 3. Soil texture • Grow ideally in loamy to clay loamy soils. 4. Temperature • Grow best at 15o-32oC.

B. Choice of Variety

The choice of variety depends on end-users or market demand. Sha ema and Baegop ema are suitable both for fresh and dried purposes with high demand in the domestic market while Super solo is suitable for fresh and salad purposes but with less demand in the market at the moment. The recommended varieties are given below:

Variety Name

Altitude (masl)

Recom-mended

Dzongkhags

Days to Maturity

Pest/Disease Reaction

Potential Yield (t/ha)

Sha Ema 250 - 2,600 All Dzongkhags

Depends on elevation/

temperature

Susceptible to Phytopthora wilt and chili mosaic virus

No data available

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Baegop Ema 250 - 2,600 All

Dzongkhags Depends on elevation/

temperature

Susceptible to Phytopthora wilt and chili mosaic virus

No data available

Super Solo 1,000 - 2,600 In most of the Dzongkhags

Depends on elevation/

temperature

Susceptible to Phytopthora wilt and chili mosaic virus

48

Characteristics of Main Chili Varieties Grown in Bhutan Sha Ema • Plant size: Medium • Fruit orientation: Pendent • Fruit shape: Elongated,

shoulder at the calyx area and with blunt tips

• Fruit colour (not ripe): Green • Fruit colour (ripe): Red • Fruit length: 8 cm • Fruit width: 2.4 cm • Average fruit weight: 23.7 g • Seed percentage: 8% • Pedicel length: 3.1 cm • Fruit wall thickness: 0.3 cm (thick) • Pungency: Mild • Number of lobs: 3 • Yield: 15-25 t/ha Baegop ema • Plant size: Medium • Fruit orientation: Pendent • Fruit shape: Elongated, no

shoulder, calyx covering the entire base of fruit and with pointed tips

• Fruit colour (not ripe): Green • Fruit colour (ripe): Red • Fruit length: 8.7 cm • Fruit width: 1.7 cm • Average fruit weight: 20.5 g

Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo

Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo

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• Seed percentage: 9% • Pedicel length: 3.2 cm • Fruit wall thickness: 0.25 cm (thick) • Pungency: Mild • Number of lobs: 3 • Yield: 15-25 t/ha Super Solo • Plant height: 61 cm • Pungency: Milder than Sha

Ema though fruit shape is similar but pointed tips

• Fruit length: 18.5 cm • Fruit width: 4 cm • Fruit weight 80 g and fruit wall

is thicker than Sha ema • Good as fresh vegetable and salad purposes • Not suitable as dried chili as it is difficult to dry

and the quality of dried chili is poor II. PRODUCTION STAGE

1. Nursery Preparation

• Plough and pulverize the soil thoroughly. Prepare nursery bed measuring 1 m wide and 15-20 cm high and of convenient length (3-5m).

• Treat seeds with Bavistin (Carbendazim) at 2 g/kg seed, against Phytopthora and other seed-borne diseases.

• Use seed rate of about 0.5-1 kg of quality seed per acre with minimum germination of 75%.

• Sow seeds about 2 cm deep in lines at 10 cm apart. • In mid-elevation areas, raised nursery in polytunnel for early chili production

and normal open nursery for main season chili production. • In high-elevation areas, sow the seeds in plastic tunnel. This will bring

forward the growing season by one month. • The seedlings are ready for transplanting in about 30-60 days after sowing

depending on the elevation under ambient conditions or when the seedlings attained 12-15 cm height.

Photo courtesy of RNR RC Wengkhar

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2. Field Preparation

• Cultivate, pulverize, and level the field after bringing soil to a good tilth. • Raise 1 m wide, 15-20 cm high beds and any convenient length ( 3-5 m). Ensure

proper levelling of field and beds for water and disease management. Raised bed and drainage is important for chili wilt management

• Apply 10-12 t of well rotten Farm Yard Manure (FYM) and 20:30:15 NPK kg/acre as basal dose.

• Apply all FYM during field preparation. Apply all the basal fertilizer at about 9-10 g of fertilizer mixture per planting hill and mix them into the soil using hand hoes.

3. Transplanting

• Transplant seedlings of 12-15 cm high, preferably during evening time and

water immediately to avoid transplanting shock. • Transplant the seedlings at 45 cm between rows and 30 cm between plants in

a row or a population of at least 25,000 plants per acre. • Top-dress the crop with 10 kg of additional nitrogen after 30 and 60 days after

transplanting. Split the top dressing fertilizer in two halves in very light soils.

4. Weeding

• Maintain the crop free from weeds to avoid competing for water, air, nutrients, and space and eventually effecting on crop performance.

• Apply 3-4 weeding/hoeing depending upon the weed pressure, soil structure, and weather conditions of the locality.

5. Irrigation

• Irrigate manually using water cans or hose pipe. The frequency of irrigation

depends on the moisture retention capacity of the soil, amount and frequency of rainfall, and local weather conditions (evapo-transpiration).

• Maintain the soil moisture regime at field capacity right after transplanting until harvest.

• Avoid excess water or water-logging as it is harmful to plants and makes congenial environment for phytopthora wilt disease to explode and completely destroying the crop.

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6. Harvesting

• Chili matures in 120-130 days after sowing in mid-altitudes and might take even longer in higher elevation or harvest it when few fruits turns red colour.

• Do 3-6 harvests/pickings depending on the elevation of area and crop management aspects. At higher elevation, do less numbers of pickings than in mid elevation areas.

References:

1. Additional New Horticulture Technology (2005), RNR RC-Bajo, CORRB, MOA. 2. Package of Practices for Vegetable Production (2001), Horticulture Section, RNR

RC-Bajo, DRDS, Ministry of Agriculture. 3. Guidelines for Chili cultivation (1994), IHDP, Ministry of Agriculture. 4. RNR Technical recommendation (2003), RNR RC-Khangma, DRDS, Ministry of

Agriculture. 5. Facts and Figures of RNR Sector 2003. PPD, Ministry of Agriculture. 6. RNR Statistics (2004), DOA, MOA.

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Attachment 4

Tomato Description

There are many varieties of tomatoes based on uses (processing and table types) and growth habits (determinate or bush type and indeterminate types). In Bhutan, tomato is called lambenda (in Dzongkha and Sharchopkha). This crop is one of the most important vegetables in the country with local markets selling assorted colours and sizes, mainly in fresh form. Tomato is practically grown in almost all of the

Dzongkhags mainly for home consumption or for local retail. Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Wangdue Dzongkhags are the top tomato producers in 2005.

A Bhutanese grower obtains an average yield of 10-15 t/acre per season. There is

mainly two growing seasons in Bhutan, namely: summer production in higher elevation and winter production in southern foot hills. Tomatoes are usually grown in less than an acre with average production cost of Nu 5.20/kg. In local markets, a kilo of fresh tomatoes fetches Nu 10-30 depending on the marketing season.

Tomatoes are important ingredients for almost all delicacies and cooking. It is

also consumed fresh as salad. In 2004, Bhutan produced 39.8 t of tomatoes and exported both fresh and

processed products such as sauce and ketchup to other countries.

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TECHNOLOGY FOR TOMATO PRODUCTION IN BHUTAN

By

Mr. Gyambo Tshering Programme Officer, Horticulture Sector

Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre Bajo, Wangdue Phodrang Tel. No. 02-481650

E-mail address: gtshering@druknet.bt I. PRE-PRODUCTION STAGE

A. Growing Conditions

Criteria Description 1. Altitude • Between 300 metres above sea level (masl) such as in

southern Dzongkhags to above 2,200 masl like Paro and Thimphu Dzongkhags

• Growing seasons: a) Below 1,000 masl, from October to middle of April. Start

nursery sowing from first week of October to mid-December.

b) At 1,000-1,500 masl, from March to October. Start nursery sowing from first week of March to end of May.

c) Above 1500 masl, from April to September. 2. Soil pH • Soil pH range is 6-7.

• Apply dolomite powder at 1.5 t/acre if the soil pH is below 5. 3. Soil texture • Grows ideally in loam and sandy loam soils. 4. Temperature • Grows well when the day temperature is between 130-350C

B. Choice of Variety

The choice of variety depends on the market requirements such as for fresh or

table purposes. The recommended varieties are given below:

Variety Name Altitude (m)

Recom-mended

Dzongkhags

Days to Maturity

Pest/ Disease

Reaction

Potential Yield (t/ha)

Roma 300-2,300 All Dzongkhags

80-100 20-30

Ratan 300-2,300 All Dzongkhags

80-100 Tolerance to blight

20-30

CHT160 300-2,300 All Dzongkhags

60-100 20-30

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Characteristics of Main Tomato Varieties Grown in Bhutan Roma • Determinate or bush type • Oval or pear-shaped and red fruit • Fruit length is 5.8 cm; width is 4.3 cm • Plant height is 85 cm • Good for cooking and processing • Can withstand long distance transport and

have better shelf-life.

Ratan • Determinate variety • Deep red, round, and large fruits • Fruit length is 5.7 cm; width is 5.62 cm • Plant height is 81 cm • Ideal for salad and cooking • Need staking and raw mulching • Need plastic roofing if rainy/cloudy period

is prolonged during fruit maturity CHT160 • Indeterminate variety • Deep red, round, and medium size fruit • Fruit length is 3.62 cm; width is 3.58 cm • Plant height is 138 cm • Ideal for salad and cooking • Need staking and raw mulching • Need plastic roofing if rainy/cloudy period

is prolonged during fruit maturity

(Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

(Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

(Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

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II. PRODUCTION STAGE

1. Nursery Preparation • Prepare the nursery soil thoroughly two weeks before sowing. Raise nursery

beds to 15 cm high and 1 m wide. • Before sowing, treat the seeds with fungicide like Thiram or vitavax at 2 g/kg

seed. • Use seed rate of 200 g/acre of good quality seeds with 75% minimum

germination. • Sow seeds at 1.5 cm deep in rows at 10 cm apart. • To produce good seedlings – particularly above 1,000 m for early planting –

sow seeds in plastic tunnels. Use semi-circular structure of bamboo sticks lay over the nursery bed at 1 m apart. Lay the plastic sheet over the structure and cover the edge of the plastic with soil. Keep the tunnel open during sunny days. Irrigate daily using a sprinkler by opening the plastic cover.

2. Field Preparation

• Plough and level the field thoroughly. • Raise 1 m wide beds and 15-20 cm above the ground and of convenient length

depending upon the field condition.

3. Fertilizer Application • Since tomato has a high nutrient requirement, determine the adequate fertilizer

required for each plot during field preparation with the assistance of the National Soil Service Centre (NSSC) in Semtokha, Thimphu.

• Take note that fertilizer application depends upon soil fertility and other factors. In general, apply an indicative fertilizer requirement during field preparation on a per acre basis as 6-8 t of Farm Yard Manure (FYM) and 10:20:20 kg of N:P:K/acre as basal. Mix all the fertilizer thoroughly. Apply basally in hills (spot application) about 250-300 g of FYM and 6 g of fertilizer mixture. Mix with soil properly up to a depth of 20 cm.

• Thirty days after transplanting, top dress the crop with 10 kg additional N. Apply the nitrogen in rings around the plant and cover with soil. In light soil, split the top dress application into two at 30 and 60 days after transplanting.

4. Transplanting

• Place the seedlings in the baskets. Make sure not to damage the roots or

dropping all the soil from the roots. • Transplant when the seedling are 12-15 cm tall, normally in about 30-50 days

after sowing depending on the elevation.

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• Plant the seedlings at a spacing of 40 cm plant to plant within a row and 50 cm between rows or row to row, or a population of at least 39,000 plants per acre.

• Transplant the seedlings preferably in the evening and irrigate immediately so as to reduce the transplanting shock.

• Since indeterminate varieties require stacking, use bamboo stake after flowering and tie the plants to it loosely as it grows.

• Regularly prune or pinch the side shoots and suckers for indeterminate or stacking type of tomatoes. For bush-type of tomatoes, do fruit thinning to get better size and quality fruits.

• For stacking type of tomatoes, remove all suckers on the lower 50 cm of the stem, then let the plant bush out with branches tied to a stake to achieve early and quality fruit production and to avoid sunscald.

5. Weeding

• During the first few weeks after transplanting and even throughout the growing season, frequently weed the plot to keep it free from weeds that will compete with water, nutrients, air and space, or light.

• Weed manually with hand or use garden hoe without damaging the shallow tomato roots.

6. Irrigation

• Water the young plants at field capacity for few weeks after transplanting to

encourage good vegetative growth. Reduce the amount of irrigation and frequency in 4-5 weeks after transplanting to provide little water stress which will enhance tomato flowering and production.

• After the fruit set, maintain uniform soil moisture to avoid blossom-end rot and fruit cracking and to improve fruit quality.

• Reduce irrigation slightly towards the time of harvest to get good flavour and less watery fruits.

7. Harvesting

• Harvest the fruits 80-90 days after transplanting but it will largely depend on

the type of tomato, varieties, and distance from the market. • For best quality, harvest tomatoes at fully ripe stage, that is, when green fruit

turns to normal varietal colour. However, for long distance market, harvest tomatoes at mature and half-ripe fruit stage.

• Pick tomatoes by twisting rather than pulling the fruits. Pack the fruits in crates lined with straw or similar materials which are placed at the bottom, sides, and at the top.

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References:

1. Additional New Horticulture Technology (2005), RNRRC-Bajo, CORRB, MOA. 2. Package of Practices for Vegetable Production (2001), Horticulture Section, RNRRC-

Bajo, DRDS, Ministry of Agriculture. 3. Guidelines for tomato cultivation (1994), IHDP, Ministry of Agriculture. 4. RNR Technical recommendation (2003), RNRRC-Khangma, DRDS, Ministry of

Agriculture. 5. Facts and Figures of RNR Sector 2003. PPD, Ministry of Agriculture. 6. RNR Statistics (2004), DOA, MOA. 7. Annual report 1995-1996, RNRRC-Bajo, MOA 8. G. Tshering (2006), Personal communication.

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Attachment 5

TECHNOLOGY FOR MAJOR PEST AND DISEASE MANAGEMENT OF

AGRICULTURAL CROPS IN BHUTAN

By

Mr. Sangay Wangdi Sr. Research Officer

Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre Bajo, Wangdue Phodrang

Tel. No. +975-02-481209 E-mail address: s_wangdi@druknet.bt

A. Rice 1. Rice Blast Causal Organism

Fungus: a) Sexual state -

Magnaporthe grisea (Hebert) Barr

b) Asexual state -Pyricularia grisea (Cooke) Saccardo

Rice blast spores

(Photo courtesy of Rice Blast Genomics Project)

Parts affected

• Leaf blades • Stem nodes • Panicles

Rice blast life cycle (Photo courtesy of IRRI)

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Symptoms On leaf blades • Presence of lesions

(wounds) on the leaves • New lesion (wound)

colour is white to grey-green with darker green borders

• Older lesions are whitish to grey with necrotic (burned) borders

• Lesions on younger leaves are less than 1cm long while in older leaves are larger (2 cm and above)

Leaf blast

(Photo courtesy of IRRI)

On stem nodes • Infected nodes have

blackened appearance • Culm breaks easily at

infected nodes.

Neck blast

(Photo courtesy of NPPC)

On panicles • Few, no seeds, or white

heads when neck is infected or rotten

Panicle blast

(Photo courtesy of The American Phytopathological Society)

Control Measures 1. Cultural

Control • Use disease-free seeds. Never use seeds from a blast-infected field

since the fungus can be transmitted through seeds. • Raise seedlings on a wet bed, as dry nurseries generally favour blast.

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• Do not apply too much manure or fertilizer as high Nitrogen will increase the susceptibility of paddy to blast.

• Avoid high density planting. Maintain at least 20 cm planting distance.

• Farmers in the same area should transplant at the same time. • Do not leave the fields dry after transplanting. Paddy is more

resistant to blast when grown under proper water management. • Burn infected straw and stubble in the field.

2. Varietal Control

• Use resistant varieties like Bajo Kaap, Chumroo, No. 11, and IR64.

3. Chemical Control

Seed treatment: • Soak seeds in water for 24 hours. • Treat the seeds with Tricyclazole at 3 g/kg of seed. • Germinate the seeds for 24-48 hours before sowing. Field Spraying: • Monitor rice nurseries/field regularly for blast infection. • If there are blast symptoms on the leaves, spray early on with

Tricyclazole at 1 g/litre of water. 2. Stem Borer Causal Organism

Insect: a) Yellow stem borer

(YSB) Scirpophaga incertulas (Walker)

b) White stem borer (WSB) S. innotata (Walker)

c) Striped stem borer (SSB) Chilo suppressalis (Walker)

d) Gold-fringed stem borer C. auricilius Dudgeon

e) Dark-headed stem borer C. polychrysus (Meyrick)

f) Pink stem borer Sesamia inferens (Walker)

YSB, SSB, Dark-headed SB, and Pink stem borer (Photo courtesy of www.doae.go.th )

Parts affected

• Tillers • Panicles

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Symptoms On tillers • Central tiller dries and

dies during vegetative stage.

• Dried/dead tillers can be easily pulled from the base.

• Small holes on stems and tillers.

• Faeces or excretion of the larvae inside the affected stems.

Dead tiller/heart

(Photo courtesy of IRRI)

On panicles • Panicles are unfilled,

empty or chalk-like.

Whitehead at reproductive stage (Photo

courtesy of IRRI) Control Measures 1. Cultural

Control • Harvest the crop at ground level to remove the larvae in stubble.

Remove and destroy stubble and volunteer rice – these are rice plants that grow on its own from seeds left in the field.

2. Chemical Control

• Do not spray chemical as it alters the natural predators’ ecology.

3. Weeds Causal Organism

Bog Pond Weed or Shochum (Potamogeton distinctus A. Benn.)

Flowering Shochum

(Photo courtesy of NPPC)

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Effect on rice • Reduces yield up to 35%

• Competes with nutrients and space.

Shochum growing vigorously along

with rice (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

Control Measures 1. Low

weed (grass & sedge) pressure

• Do hand weeding at least two times (20 and 40 days after transplanting [WAT]). If hand weeding is to be done, keep in mind to closely space the plants and do the first weeding not later than 30 days after transplanting (DAT).

2. High weed (grass & sedge) pressure

• Use line planting and rotary weeding. If line planted, do two rotary weeding at 20 and 40 DAT.

4. Low Shochum pressure

• If there is no or little Shochum but weed pressure is expected to be high, apply Butachlor at 12-16 kg per acre 3-6 DAT. Do not use Butachlor in areas heavily infested with Shochum.

5. High Shochum pressure

• Do intensive hand weeding 3-4 times thoroughly at 2, 4 and 6 WAT, by removing and destroying the weeded Shochum biomass.

• Pull out the roots/turions and dispose the weeds in a pit away from the field.

• To minimize Shochum problem, adopt cultural methods like increased tillage, deep ploughing, and restricting the physical movement of plant parts from one field to another.

• Since weeding is laborious and the use of herbicides is not environment-friendly, use indirect complementary weed control methods like good land preparation, proper water management, and use of weed-free seedbeds and seeds.

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B. Chili 1. Chili Blight Causal Organism

Fungus: Phytophthora capsici Leonian

Spores of Phytophthora capsici

(Photo courtesy of Michigan State University)

Parts affected • Leaves • Stems • Fruits • Roots

Symptoms On leaves • Lesions (wounds) are

circular and water-soaked initially and become grayish-brown as the disease advances.

• Infected leaves are usually “half-moon shaped”.

• Leaves wilt and die.

Water-soaked lesions on leaves

caused by P. capsici (Photo courtesy of NPPC)

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On stems

• Dark lesion girdles the base of the stem and may expand on the stem restricting the upward movement of nutrients and water from roots.

• Stem girdling results in sudden wilting of the plant.

Black stem lesion caused by P.

capsici (Photo courtesy of NPPC)

On fruits

• Starts as “small, water-soaked, dull green spot” that rapidly spreads to the whole length of the pod under favourable conditions.

• Infected fruit shrivel but remain attached to the plant.

Fruit rot caused by P. capsici

(Photo courtesy of NPPC)

On roots • Root rots and hence

restricts the movement of water and nutrients to other parts of plant.

Root and crown rot caused by P.

capsici (Photo courtesy of NPPC)

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Control Measures 1. Cultural

Control • Select a site that has not been used for chili cultivation. • Avoid water-logged fields. • Follow crop rotation with non-solanaceous crops such as

cabbage, cauliflowers, broccoli, etc. • Sterilise the soil by burning straw/mulching materials. • Use healthy seeds and seedlings. Never buy from weekend

markets. • Raise and transplant seedlings on a raised bed at least 30 cm high

and 1 m wide to ensure that moisture does not collect at the base of the plants.

• Avoid planting too densely; maintain 30 cm row-to-row and 20 cm plant-to-plant distance.

• Maintain the height of the bed and drain water throughout the cropping season.

• Drain out standing water from the field immediately after rainfall.

• Rogue out any infected plants and burn the plants. 2. Chemical

Control Seed treatment: • For 500 g chili seeds, dissolve 2.5 g Copper Oxychloride and 2 g

Ridomil in 500 ml water. Mix the solution thoroughly. • Soak the seeds for 10-15 minutes. Leave overnight and air dry in

a shade. Seedling treatment: • Prepare fungicide solution by dissolving 2.5 g Copper

Oxychloride and 2 g Ridomil in 1 litre water. • Dip seedlings for 10-15 minutes with the roots fully immersed in

the solution. Foliar Spray:

a) Under low rainfall condition • 1st Spray- Use Ridomil at 2 g/litre of water within two weeks of

transplanting. Observe waiting period of at least seven weeks before harvesting.

• 2nd Spray- Use Copper Oxychloride at 2.5g/litre of water 14 days after 1st spray

• 3rd Spray- Use Copper Oxychloride at 2.5g/litre of water 10-14 days after the 2nd spray

b) Under heavy rainfall condition • 1st Spray – Use Ridomil at 2 g/litre of water within 10 days of

transplanting.

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• 2nd Spray – Use Ridomil at 2 g/litre of water 15 days after the 1st spray. Observe waiting period of at least seven weeks after the last spray before harvesting.

• 3rd Spray – Use Copper Oxychloride at 2.5 g/litre of water 14 days after 2nd spray.

• 4th Spray – Use Copper Oxychloride at 2.5 g/litre of water 10-14 days after 3rd spray.

C. Chili and Potato 1. Common Cutworm Causal Organism

Insect: Agrotis segetum (Denis and Schiffermüller)

Cutworm caterpillar (Photo courtesy of NPPC)

Parts affected • Stems Symptoms On stems

• Stem of seedlings above the ground level is cut though.

• Leaves of cabbage seedlings are cut off.

• Below ground the caterpillar also feeds on crops like potato, turnip and turnip. Chili seedling damaged by cutworm

(Photo courtesy of NPPC)

Control Measures 1. Cultural

Control • Dig out and expose pupae and larvae to the sun and natural

enemies. • Clean the field and remove weeds to reduce larvae population in

the soil. Weeds serve as host for cutworm to lay eggs and supply food for the larvae.

• Mulch chilli plots with Artemisia, a shrub, locally known as

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Khempa, Mayreng-ma, Titepathi, to prevent build-up of cutworm population.

2. Mechanical Control

• Collect and manually remove the larvae from the affected fields. • Dig the soil around the affected plants to expose and kill the

larvae. 3. Natural

Control • Protect birds like Hoopoes as they feed on cutworms.

4. Chemical Control

• Dip seedlings in Chlorpyrifos solution (4 ml/litre water) before transplanting.

• In case of severe infestation, spray with Chlorpyrifos at 4 ml/litre water.

D. Potato 1. Late Blight Causal Organism

Fungus: Phytophthora infestans

Sporangia of P. infestans (left) and

Oospores of P. infestans (Photo courtesy of Cornell

University)

Parts affected • Leaves • Tubers

Symptoms On leaves • Small light to dark

green water soaked spots with a chlorotic halo.

• Lesions become bigger rapidly and turn brown or purplish black.

• Affected leaves covered by a cotton-like white mouldy growth on the underside of the leaf or stem.

• Infected leaves die within a few days.

Late blight lesion on potato leaf (Photo courtesy of Cornell

University)

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On tubers • Infected tubers show

irregular and slightly depressed areas of brown to purplish skin.

• Tubers may rot completely due to secondary infections.

Late blight tuber rot

(Photo courtesy of The Pennsylvania State University)

Control Measures 1. Cultural

Control • Select a site that has not been used for potato cultivation. • Avoid water-logged fields. • Follow crop rotation with non-solanaceous crops such as

cabbage, cauliflowers, broccoli, etc. • Use certified healthy seeds preferably from Druk Seed

Corporation (DSC). • Sort out infected tubers during seed selection.

2. Chemical Control

Foliar Spray: • Monitor potato field for late blight symptoms. • Spray immediately on emergence of first disease symptoms. Use

Mancozeb at 2 g/litre water followed by a second spray, if needed, with Copper Oxychloride at 5 g/litre water. During rainfall, use sticker (e.g. Sandovit) with the chemical.

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2. Weeds Weeds

a) Crab Grass (Digitaria ciliaris),

b) Helpsi, Shido (Persicaria runcinata, P. nepalinsi)

c) Jagyouma, Jasasuju (Galingsoga parviflora)

d) Pig Weed (Amaranthus spp.)

e) Lambsquarters/Fat Hen (Chenopodium spp.)

f) Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon)

g) Nutsedge/Nutgrass (Cyperus rotundus)

Effect on potato

• Reduces yield by as much as 50-60%

• Competes with nutrient, water, and light

• Damages tubers

Control Measures 1. Mechanical

Control • Plough or use power tiller to control established annual and

perennial weeds. • Clear and remove roots/rhizomes of perennial weeds manually.

2. Physical Control

• Do first weeding and ridging as soon as the potato emerges (4 weeks) or sooner if weed growth is heavy.

3. Chemical Control

• Before the potatoes emerge, spray Metribuzin (Sencor) at 1 g/litre water. During rainy condition, use a suitable sticker (e. g. Sandovit).

• Supplement chemical application with hand weeding.

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3. Potato Tuber Moth Causal Organism

Insect: Potato Tuber Moth, Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller)

Close-up view of potato tuber moth

(Photo courtesy of NPPC)

Parts affected • Tubers • Leaf Veins • Petioles • Stem

Damage Symptoms

On tubers • Presence of galleries

inside infested tubers when cut open

Infested tubers

(Photo courtesy of NPPC)

On leaf veins, petioles, and stem • Tunneling of the above

parts • Wilting of the plant

Potato leaf showing signs of damage

caused by the PTM (Photo courtesy of the Virtual

Museum of Canada)

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Control Measures 1. Cultural

Control • Do deep planting (at 10 cm deep) with frequent hilling-up of the

soil to reduce field infestation. 2. Sanitation • Use only healthy tubers as seed.

• Clean storage conditions. Clean the walls and the floor of the store properly and dispose off old leftover potatoes to reduce infestation.

• Store potatoes in a cool area as low temperature limits the development of the pest.

3. Natural Control

• Natural enemies like parasitoids may play an important role in keeping this pest in check. Avoid improper and indiscriminate use of chemicals to encourage the presence of natural enemies.

4. Resistant Variety

• Use resistant varieties like Desiree to reduce infestation.

5. Chemical Control

Field: • Apply either Cypermethrin (1 ml/2 litres water) or Chlorpyrifos

(4 ml/litre of water) when pest appears in the field. • For severe infestation, spray with Chlorpyrifos at 4ml/litre of

water. Store: • Mix Fenvalerate dust with the infested tubers at 100 g/100 kg

potato).

E. Tomato 1. Late Blight Causal Organism

Fungus: Phytophthora infestans

Sporangia of P. infestans (left) and

Oospores of P. infestans (Photo courtesy of Cornell

University) Parts affected • Leaves

• Stems • Fruits

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Symptoms On leaves • Pale green, water-

soaked spots, often beginning at leaf tips or edges.

• Lesions/wounds of 1-2 mm diameter are visible on leaves after 3-4 days of infection.

• Lesions/wounds have a brown dead centre, surrounded by host tissue that has died and appears either water soaked, grey-green, or yellowed.

Tomato leaves with late blight lesions(Photo courtesy of T.A. Zitter, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY)

On fruits • Large, firm, brown,

leathery-appearing lesions/wounds, often concentrate on the sides or upper fruit surfaces.

• Abundant white mould growth on the lesions.

• Rotting of entire fruit if secondary soft-rot bacteria gains entry in the wounds resulting in a slimy, wet rot of the entire fruit.

Phytophthora blight of tomato

(Photo courtesy T.A. Zitter, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY)

On stems • Infected stems appear

brown to black.

Infected tomato plants with lesions on stems and foliage

(Photo courtesy T.A. Zitter, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY)

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Control Measures 1. Cultural

Control • Select a site that has not been used for tomato cultivation before. • Avoid water-logged fields. • Follow crop rotation with non-solanaceous crops such as such as

cabbage, cauliflowers, broccoli, etc. • Use certified healthy seeds preferably from Druk Seed

Corporation (DSC). • Sort out infected tubers during seed selection.

2. Chemical Control

Foliar Spray: • Monitor potato field for late blight symptoms. • Spray immediately on emergence of first disease symptoms with

Mancozeb at 2 g/litre water followed by a second spray, if needed, with Copper oxychloride at 5 g/litre water. During rainfall, use sticker (e.g. Sandovit) with the chemical.

F. Walnut 1. Walnut Blight Causal Organism

Bacteria: Xanthomonas campestris pv. juglandis

Parts affected • Nuts • Shoots

Symptoms On shoots • Black lesions, and

leaves show irregular lesions on blade.

A shoot infected with walnut blight

(Photo courtesy of University of California)

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On Nuts • Black, slightly sunken

lesions at the flower end (end blight) when young;

• More lesions develop on the sides of the nut as it matures (side blight).

Blight infection on side of young walnut

(Photo courtesy of University of California)

Control Measures 1. Chemical

Control • Spray Copper oxychloride at 5 g/litre water when the first

nutlet/pistillate flower emerge. In areas with heavy rainfall, spray 7-10 days after first spray. Use sticker (Sandovit) when spraying chemical during rainy periods.

(Source: http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/r881100111.html)

2. Red-spotted Longhorn Beetle Causal Organism

Insect: Red-spotted Longhorn Beetle Batocera rufomaculata (De Geer)

An adult red-spotted longhorn beetle

(Photo courtesy of NPPC)

Parts affected • Branches • Bark

Damage Symptoms

On branches • Presence of “ring

barks”. • Damage of growing tips

and branches.

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On bark • Presence of cuts on the

barks. • Excretion of fluid after

oviposition (laying of eggs).

• Presence of tunnels. • Large quantities of saw

dust like frass removed out of feeding holes.

• Presence of exit holes.

Control Measures 1. Preventive • Do timely weeding and bush clearing, basin making, and other

proper orchard management practices. • For small trees, maintain only one trunk so that it is easy to

check for infestations later. • Collect adult beetles in April-June. Put them in a closed jar and

exposed to the sun. 2. Curative • Regularly monitor the trunk base for tiny wet or swollen spots.

Scrape the bark open with a small knife and kill the small larvae. • Remove weeds around the trunk to easily monitor infestations. • Poke the entry holes of the beetles with an iron wire to kill the

older larvae. Plug the holes with petrol-soaked cotton or inject the holes with petrol. Close the hole with mud preferably mixed with cow dung. Monitor the treated trees for fresh frass (saw dust-like wood powder produced as a result of the beetle’s feeding) and repeat the treatment if frass is still produced.

3. Sanitation • Remove and burn heavily-infested unproductive trees. • Destroy dead trees as they can serve as breeding place for the

beetle G. Pear

There is no major pest and disease of pear that have been recorded to date in Bhutan.

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Attachment 6

Poultry Description

In Bhutan, raising poultry (chickens) is an age-old tradition, mainly for egg production. The produce is intended for home consumption but farmers also sell surplus eggs to nearby markets. They also raise live chickens to earn additional income or rear them until death. Farmers rear mostly local breeds under scavenging condition with little food as supplementary feed. The local breed is easiest to rear and resistant to most poultry diseases. However, they produce fewer eggs than improved breeds.

Practically, chicken is raised throughout Bhutan, with local names as bja (in

Dzongkha) and goa (in Sharchopkha). Leading egg producers are those coming from the south. Each household raise an average of 5-10 chickens. Local breed produces an average of 80 eggs per year while improved ones generate 240 eggs per year. The average production cost to raise chicken within 1.5 years is around Nu 200 under farmers’ condition.

Bhutanese consumes an average of 24 eggs and 330 g of meat per year

(Renewable Natural Resources Statistics, 2000). India supplies part of the requirements, which also caters to the needs of expatriates’ living temporarily in Bhutan.

Farmers obtain technical support from extension agents side by side with the RNR

research experts.

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TECHNOLOGY FOR POULTRY PRODUCTION IN BHUTAN

By

Mr. Dawa L. Sherpa Research Assistant 1

Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre Bajo, Wangdue Phodrang Tel. No. +975-02-481209 (0)

E-mail address: dals@druknet.bt

I. PRE-PRODUCTION STAGE

A. Growing Conditions

Criteria Description 1. Altitude • Altitude affects the performances of poultry. The effective

temperature is affected by altitude as the temperature of air decreases with altitude.

• Survives at an altitude of 150-3,400 metres above sea level (masl).

2. Temperature • When considering the effect of temperature on poultry, take into account not only the average annual temperature but also the modifying affects of air humidity and wind speed.

• Performs well at 0o-45oC. Higher or lower temperature affects the performance of poultry.

3. Slope • Slope has no affect on the performance of poultry birds. B. Choice of Breeds

• The poultry breeds in Bhutan include the local and improved breeds like the

Brown egger. Both breeds are adaptable under local rearing and feeding conditions and the eggs produced are acceptable in the local markets.

• Select breed based on preference.

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Improved breeds (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

Local breeds (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

Main Characteristics of Poultry Raised in Bhutan Improved breeds • Developed in Pune, India • Produce 260 eggs per year • Meat is acceptable in the local markets • Can be raised in 5 months for meat and

produces eggs in 5 months

Local breeds • Developed by and available with farmers • Produce about 80 eggs per year • Meat is acceptable in the local markets • Can be raised in 6 months for meat and

produces eggs in 6 months • Good for free range and scavenging condition • Intelligent enough to drift away from preying

birds • Meat is tasty II. PRODUCTION STAGE

1. Housing for poultry • Design proper housing with provision for laying boxes, feed and water trough,

and an exercise yards (with wire mesh on all sides and on the top). • Construct poultry sheds only on the east-west axis, that is, the length facing

the north and south and the width towards the east and west. Raise the walls on the eastern and western side up to the ceiling level by 3 m.

• Provide 0.18 m2 of floor space for each layer and 0.09 m2 of floor space for broiler. The size of the shed depends upon the number of birds to be reared.

• Use any convenient size for the length of the house depending upon the number of birds to be kept and land terrain with floor spacing of 9-12 m2 per layer.

• For the open-sided houses both for layers and broilers, make a width of not more than 7-8 m.

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• If the width of the shed is more than 8 m, use ridge ventilation at the middle line of the roof top. In this case, the floor space requirement per bird for different age group is different as indicated in the table below:

Age in weeks Minimum floor space per bird (cm2)

0-4 450 5-10 900

11-20 1,350-1,800 Layers above 20 weeks 1,800-2,250

A simple sketch of the poultry shed

2. Health management for poultry

• Provide a healthy environment for the chicks and protect them against common contagious and infectious diseases in Bhutan as indicated below.

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Disease and Cause Symptoms Prevention Cure 1. Ranikhet disease

(New castle) Caused by: Filterable virus

a) In chicks: • Coughing and

rattling, gasping, and trembling

• Lack of coordination • Partial or complete

paralysis of extremities

• Muscular tremor • Abnormal

movements • Mortality up to

100% b) In adults:

• Respiratory distress • Impaired appetite • Nervous symptoms • Severe drop in egg

production • Soft shell and poor

quality eggs

• F1 strain vaccine for chicks 1-6 days old

• R2B Mukteswar strain vaccine at 8 weeks of age

• Minimise secondary complications by stimulating appetite with wet mashes, pellets, high level antibiotic mashes, or antibiotic-vitamin mixture in drinking water

• No treatment

2. Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD) Gumboro disease

Caused by: Birna viridae

• Enlarged bursa in the early stages and in later stages atrophied by the regression of the bursal gland

• Defective immune system making chicks susceptible to many diseases like Ranikhet despite vaccination

• Affected chicks become dull, depressed, go off feed, have tendency to peck at their own vents, and huddle in corners

• Whitish diarrhoea leading to weakness and death in 5-7 days

• High morbidity (80%) and low mortality (2-10%)

• Attenuated strains of live Gumboro vaccine

• No specific treatment with antibiotics

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Disease and Cause Symptoms Prevention Cure 3. Lymphoid

leucosis or big liver disease

Caused by: Filterable virus

• Difficult to detect in the early stages

• Enlarged and distended abdomen

• Slight drop in feed consumption and egg production

• May adopt penguin sitting posture

• Sick birds are usually not paralysed during the early stages

• Purchase chicks with no history of early leucosis

• No known treatment

4. Marek’s disease Caused by: virus

• Most birds have some degree of paralysis, although chickens with acute form may not show this condition

• Birds with paralysis may die because they are unable to reach feed and water. The acute form generally affects younger birds (6-10 weeks)

• Usually sudden death with a high rate and definite peak in mortality; in some outbreaks, paralysis may be seen. Classical form (3-5 months age)

• In mature birds, symptoms include various degrees of paralysis of legs/wings or neck; marked loss of weight; difficult breathing and sometimes diarrhoea; skin lesions are usually associated with feather follicles

• Vaccination with Herpes virus turkey vaccine (HVT) at one day of age for lifetime protection

• Good sanitation and hygiene

• None

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Disease and Cause Symptoms Prevention Cure 5. Chronic

respiratory disease (CRD)

Caused by: Mycoplasma gallisepticum

• Sniffling, rattling, sneezing, nasal discharge, swollen sinuses, eyes and other signs of respiratory distress

• Loss of appetite • Drop in egg production • Spreads slowly through

flocks (in contrast to fast spreading bronchitis and respiratory disease)

• Periodic testing for Mycoplasma infections

• Dipping hatching eggs in effective antibiotic solution prior to incubation

• Correct faulty management

• Use tetracyclines, tylosinephos- phate, and erythromycin in feed and water

6. Fowl pox Caused by: Filterable virus

• Pox lesions on comb, wattles, and legs

• Loss of appetite • Discharge from nostrils

and accumulation of foamy material in the corner of the eyes

• Cheesy membrane in mouth

• Birds suffer from suffocation unless membrane is removed

• Drop in egg production • Mortality as high as

50%

• Pigeon pox vaccine for laying birds

• Remove necrotic membrane from mouth and larynx of affected birds

• Stimulate appetite with wet mash or add antibiotic-vitamin mixture in drinking water

7. Fowl typhoid (Pullurom disease)

Caused by: S. pullorum

• Sudden death • General listlessness • Huddle together • Appear chilled • Droopiness • Closed eyes • Whitish pasty diarrhoea • Little or no appetite • Irregular labored

breathing • Peculiar chirp • Comb and wattles pale

• Hatchery and flock sanitation

• Do not use recovered birds for breeding unless negative to repeated tests

• Use neftin sulfathiazole, sulfamerazin, and sulfaquinoxa-line in mash or drinking water for a few days

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Disease and Cause Symptoms Prevention Cure For internal parasites 8. Coccidiosis Caused by: Eimeris tenella or Eimeria necatrix

• Bloody droppings • Blood tinged diarrhoea • Dehydration of comb • Droopy birds • Drop in feed

consumption and egg production

• Emaciation • High rate of mortality

unless checked

• Good sanitation • Keep litter dry

and unpacked • Continuous low

level use of cossidiostat in feed with good management

• Use amprolium, codrinal, embazin, bifuran, coxystat, and zoalene

• Do not continue treatment for long period

9. Tapeworms Caused by: Raiilietina enchinobothrida or R. tetragonal

• Loss of appetite • Loss of weight • Diarrhoea • Emaciation • Drop in egg production

• Ensure dry litter • Use dicestal or phenothiazine

10. Roundworms Caused by: Ascaridia galli

• Loss of weight • Drop in egg production • Emaciation

• Ensure dry litter • Use piperazine adipate, verban, or vermex

11. Cecal worms Caused by: Heterakis galline

• Ceca inflamed and thickened weakness

• Anaemia

• Ensure dry litter • Use piperazine adipate, verban, or vermex

• Vaccinate the chicken at appropriate age to prevent flare-up of diseases using the common vaccination schedule as indicted below:

Age Type of Vaccine Route of Vaccination/Remarks

1 day Marek’s disease vaccine (HVT)

• Subcutaneously or intraperitoneally • Check hatcheries and release chicks only after

Marek’s vaccination if it is bought from the farm 5th day Ranikhet disease

(RB1 or La Sota) • Intransal and intraocular method • Maternal antibodies will neutralize vaccine virus when

administered on the first day. Do it on the 5th day 10 Days Gumboro disease

vaccine (Live strain) • Intraocular method or drinking water method.

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Age Type of Vaccine Route of Vaccination/Remarks

3rd week (21 days)

Gumboro disease vaccine (Live strain)

• Intraocular method or drinking water method. • Maternal antibodies are present in chicks up to 2-3

weeks. Vaccinate only on 20th day 32 days Gumboro disease

vaccine (Live strain) • Drinking water method

6 weeks Fowl pox • Wing web puncture method 8-10th week

Ranikhet disease vaccine (living) R2B strain or Mukteswar strain or Kumarov strain (RDVK) Booster dose

• 0.5 ml inoculated subcutaneously

9th week Fowl pox vaccine living (FPV)

• Wing web puncture method

15-17th week

Ranikhet disease vaccine (living) R2B strain or Mukteswar strain or Kumarov strain (RDVK) Booster dose

• 0.5 ml inoculated subcutaneously

42nd week

Ranikhet disease vaccine (living) R2B strain or Mukteswar strain or Kumarov strain (RDVK) Booster dose

• 0.5 ml inoculated subcutaneously

3. Poultry husbandry practices

a) Management of chicks

Feeding • Fill the flat feed and water trough before the chicks arrive. Place the flat

feed trough half inside and half outside the brooder. • Cover the litter during the first three days with old newspapers. • Spread the feed on newspapers for the first few days with the papers

replaced every 24 hours. • Feed the chicks with chick starter mash, broken rice, or fine ground maize

grit (smaller than 0.32 cm in diameter). • Start feeding as soon as the chicks arrive. Do not leave the chicks in

hungry condition 24 hours from hatching. Chicks require 2 kg chick mash up to 8 weeks.

• Provide water in a water trough and free of contamination. Prevent spill-over that can wet and damp the litter.

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Lighting • Provide less than week-old chicks with continuous light (40 watt bulb per

3 m2) from day-old to 8 weeks of age. • Follow regular deworming and vaccination as per schedule.

b) Management of growers

Feeding • Feed grower mash from the 9th week or when chicks have consumed 2 kg

of chick mash. • Fill the feed trough one third at a time and offer feed thrice a day. • Control feeding partially from 14 weeks onwards in case birds are

overweight. Pullets require 6 kg of feed from the 9-20th weeks of age. Lighting • Rear growers from 9-20 weeks under natural light or 14 hours light.

c) Management of layers

Selection of pullets • House only well-developed pullets. With careful selection, there is no

need to do much culling with suitable strains of layers until the birds have been laying for 7-8 months.

• Avoid excessive handling. Remove sick or injured birds immediately.

Floor space and litter • Provide 0.3-0.45 m2 of floor space per bird on deep litter. • Always provide new litter for the flock being housed unless the birds have

been grown in the same house. • Keep the litter dry. • Remove wet patches of litter promptly.

Laying nests • Introduce nest boxes in the laying house two weeks before the onset of

lay. • Provide one nest box for every 5 layers. • Always provide clean nesting material and change periodically.

Water • Provide 2.54 cm water trough space for every bird or two single 10 litre

water trough for 100 birds. Or use 1 meter trough type automatic water trough accessible from both sides.

• Do not allow the bird to walk more than 3 m to drink water.

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Feed • At 20 weeks of age or 5% egg production, whichever is earlier, fed the

birds with layer mash. • Ensure that there are at least 12-45 cm diameter tubular feed troughs per

100 birds or alternatively 15 cm of trough space per bird. • Feed the layers two times a day, that is, once in the morning and once in

the afternoon. Or three times a day if labor is available. • Always be cautious about minimising feed wastage if it can not be totally

prevented. Follow the feeding practice of farms as indicated below: Parameters

Chick mesh Grower mesh Grower and layer mesh mixed

Layer mesh

Age (weeks) 0-8 9-17 18-20 21 Quantity (g) 10

90

100-120 130

Remarks increase 5-10 g until it reaches 90 g

increase 5-10 g until it reaches 120 g

5% birds already starts laying, so start feeding layer mesh too

Fixed

Quantity consumed

0.56 3.78 2.31 46.41

Note: Total consumption in 72 weeks of age is 53 kg

Culling • Cull unproductive birds, that is, those which do not lay eggs or very few

eggs. • If a high percentage of layers from a good strain have stopped laying

before completing a full cycle of at least 12 months after laying the first egg, check for faulty management or feeding before culling the layers. Keep in mind the following items to help prevent such cases:

a) If the water troughs remain without water for several hours, adopt a

fixed routine for cleaning and filling the water troughs of which a sufficient number must be supplied. If automatic water troughs are used, check frequently to see that they are in proper working order and remove deposits from time to time.

b) If feed is provided irregularly or if feeding space is inadequate, provide enough feed troughs and always keep filled. Never allow them to stay empty for prolonged periods.

c) If layers get sick, follow vaccination rules vigorously and keep house spotlessly clean. Avoid feed and water spillage.

d) If hens become broody, keep them for a couple of days in a ventilated cage, with a wire or bamboo floor hanging up in the house. Always close the nests at night. Or give the hen two tablets of aspirin for two consecutive days.

• Make sure to detect non-layers, and after a time, poor layers using the

table below:

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Characteristics Good layer should be Non-layer (culls) will be 1. Health • Active, alert, and well

fleshed • Dull, thin, or over-fat

2. Head • With stout beak and flat skull

• Small beak, narrow, and arched skull

3. Comb • Full, waxy, and pale of bright red

• Shrunken, dry, and scaly

4. Back • Long broad and flat • Short, narrow and arched

5. Vent • Large, moist, and dilated

• Small, dry, and narrow

6. Capacity

• 4-5 finders distance between end of breast bone and the pelvis

• Large pelvic span 2-4 fingers

• Only 1-2 fingers between breast bone and pelvis

• Pelvic bones close together

7. Moult • Late and rapid moulting

• Early and slow moulting

8. Broodiness • Seldom if ever broody • Frequently broody 9. Plumage • Broken and faded • Bright glassy

Flock replacement programme • As pullets begin to lay at 20-22 weeks with substantial production in 26

weeks, maintain an even supply of eggs from a poultry farm. • Arrange to purchase or make ready replacement chicks approximately 26

weeks before the previous flock is disposed.

Disposal of old hens • Dispose old hens at the same time when they reach 18 months of lay or

when egg production starts to drop to less than 45% hen-day, whichever comes first. To compute for % hen-day egg production, multiply the total number of eggs by 100 then divide by total hen-days.

d) Records, profits, and efficiency

• In each poultry house, keep a daily record in a sheet or card of the egg

production, mortality and culls, and feed consumption. • Keep a record of all items of income and expenditure. • Keep a master record of the number of chicks and layers housed, date of

housing, hatchery from which they were obtained, and number of square metre per bird.

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• Assess the cost of rearing pullets to point of lay and then assess separately the profitability of the layer operation. In all costing, analyse the income and expenditure under the following classification:

Expenditure Income

1. Day old chicks/cost of point of lay 1. Culls 2. Feed 2. Egg/meat sale/live sale 3. Labor 3. Manure 4. Lighting 4. Sale of gunny bags 5. Litter 6. Medication 7. Depreciation on buildings and

equipment

e) Feed formulation

• Before proceeding for feed formulation, check the availability of quality raw materials and their cost; feed analysis values, requirement of formula for nutrients, and maximum level of inclusion of feed ingredients.

• Use the guide below in formulating balanced poultry feeds, that is, the recommended ration (per 100 kg of feed) for various age groups of layers:

Layer mash Composition Unit Chick

mash (0-8 weeks)

Grower mash

(8-20 weeks) Phase I

(20-45 weeks) Phase II

(45-80 weeks) 1. Yellow maize kg 29.0 26.0 35.0 40.02. Rice polish kg 33.7 43.8 32.1 31.13. Wheat bran kg - 2.0 - -4. Groundnut cake kg 22.0 13 17 12.55. Fish meal kg 10.0 7.0 6.0 6.06. Lucerne meal kg 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.07. DL-methionine g 40.0 - - 15.08. Molasses kg - 3.0 - -9. Mineral mixture kg 2.0 2.0 3.0 3.010. Rovimix (Vitamin

A+ B2 +D3 supplement)*

g 20.0 20.0 30.0 30.0

11. APF Vitamin B12 supplement*

g 20.0 20.0 20.0 30.0

12. Vitamin K mg 10.0 10.0 10.0 20.013. Vitamin E mg 20.0 20.0 20.0 10.014. Potassium iodide g 20.0 20.0 20.0 20.015. Manganese sulphate g 5.0 3.0 3.0 20.016. Zinc carbonate g 8.0 5.0 3.0 3.017. Shell grit kg - - 3.8 3.0

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18. TM-25 (antibiotic supplement*

g 50.0 50.0 50.0 403.0

19. Neftin-50* g 100.0 100.0 - 50.020. Amprol* g 50.0 32.0 - -

* Corresponding products to other brands can be used in its place at doses recommended by manufacturers.

References: 1. C. A. Gopalkrishnan and G.M.M., 1994. Livestock and Poultry Enterprises for Rural

Development. 2. Ganesh Saha, 1975. Animal Treatment. 3. V.A. Sapre, 1996. A Handbook for Veterinary Physician. 4. M.R. Gnaanamani, 1996. Modern Aspects of Commercial Poultry Keeping.

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Attachment 7

Pig Description

Pigs, zoogically called Sus scrofa and belonging to the swine family, are one of the most important small animals in Bhutan along with poultry. Locally, it is called phap (in Dzongkha) or phagpa (in Sharchopkha). Rural Bhutanese farmers rear pigs for meat during especial occasions while others rear them as additional income for the households. The reared breeds are mostly local, but some are exotic or their crossbreeds. Local pigs

are preferred over exotic ones for meat quality. However, rearing of exotic breeds for piglet and pork production gives farmers higher economic benefits over local breeds.

Practically, pigs are raised throughout Bhutan, except in Bumthang. Like poultry,

the southern Dzongkhags lead in production. Each household raise an average of 1-2 pigs. Average meat production per household for local breed is 60 kg per pig while improved ones turn out 100-200 kg per pig. The average annual rearing cost is Nu 2,000 per local breed and Nu 5,000 per improved breed. In 2006, the pork fetches an average price of Nu 120/kg.

In Bhutan, pigs are generally used as food and its dung as manure. Some

Bhutanese process the pork into sausage and sikam (dry pork). Bhutanese consumes an average of 0.287 kg of meat per year (Renewable Natural Resources Statistics, 2000). Like poultry, Bhutan imports pork from India to meet the demand.

The extension agents provide technical support on pig production to farmers with

technological support from RNR research experts.

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Exotic pig (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

TECHNOLOGY FOR PIG PRODUCTION IN BHUTAN

By

Mr. Dawa L. Sherpa Research Assistant 1

Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre Bajo, Wangdue Phodrang Tel. No. +975-02-481209

E-mail address: seldendrup@yahoo.com

I. PRE-PRODUCTION STAGE

A. Growing Conditions

Criteria Description 1. Altitude • Up to 3,400 metres above sea level (masl)

• At higher altitude (>3,500 masl), growth is hindered by cold resulting to poor performance in terms of piglets and meat production even though the management is good

2. Temperature • From 00-420C. Above and below this temperature (00-420C), the performance will be affected.

3. Slope • From plain to 450 slope (where there are human settlements). At this slope, there is no effect on pigs and pig farming

B. Choice of breeds

• Choose either local breeds (Sa fag) or improved (Drem fag) or exotic breed like Bja fag or Bela fag based on preference and immediate needs.

• If one is unable to decide, seek advice from Geog extension agents. Main Characteristics of Pig Raised in Bhutan Exotic pig • Developed mostly by the Europeans • Meat is acceptable in local markets • Can be raised in nine months for meat production • Larger litter size • Greater economic return

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Crossbred Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo

Local pig (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

Crossbred • Developed and available with farmers • Meat is acceptable in local markets • Can be raised in nine months (80-100 kg) for

meat production • Better meat quality (sikam) • Better disease resistance than the exotic breeds

Local pig • Developed by Bhutanese farmers or originated

in Bhutan • Meat is acceptable in local markets • Can be raised in nine months (60 kg) for

meat production • Tastier meat quality (sikam) • Better in terms of disease resistance

II. PRODUCTION STAGE

a) Housing for pigs For commercial farms (more than 10 pigs) • Provide a permanent central house with or without attached paddocks. Follow

the floor space requirement for different age groups as indicated below:

Class of swine Floor space per animal (sq m) 1. Growing pigs

• 15-35 kg 0.36 • 35-55 kg 0.47 • 55 kg to market weight of 100 kg 0.74

2. Brood sows and boars 1.40 • Construct the house on a good foundation in an elevated, well-drained site.

Keep it away from dwellings and the dairy farms. • If possible, use brick and mortar to construct the walls of the building and the

pens within.

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Improved version of traditional pig shed

(Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

Improved pig shed (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

• Keep the floor concrete and its level at least 5 cm higher than the outside floor.

• Provide two rows of pens with a central path within the building. Provide each pen an inner part to keep the feed trough and water trough and an outer open run. Partition between pens need not be complete, but to a height of about 1.5 m and made of brick or boulders. Provide an underground gutter along the end of the pens to carry the wash water away.

Under farmers’ condition • Follow the improved pig housing as shown in the photos.

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Housing plan for 10 sows, 1 boar and a farrowing room

b) Health management for pigs

• Keep the pigs healthy and protect them against diseases to avoid heavy losses. • If the disease is hereditary in nature like haemophilia, umbilical and inguinal

hernias, and anatomical deformities, avoid using the animals for breeding which are found to carry the undesirable genes.

• Follow the general precautions below to avoid infectious diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites:

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Disease and Cause Symptoms Prevention/Treatments 1. Swine Fever

(Hog cholera) Caused by: Salmonella cholerae

• In pre-acute cases, young pigs die without any preliminary symptoms

• In acute cases, the temperature is usually very high (38.7o-39.4oC) and the animal becomes dull, have severe conjunctivitis with purulent discharge, nervous signs like convulsions and tremors, followed by terminal coma

• Inject hyper-immune serum in early stages with 50-150 ml dose

• Swine fever vaccine after six weeks of age with dose of 1 ml of reconstituted vaccine sub-cut inside thigh. Immunity is one year

2. Swine influenza Caused by: Virus

• Affects mostly young pigs • Severe fever • Loss of appetite • Respiratory distress • Liquid discharges from the

nostrils and eyes

• No specific treatment• Provide ailing

animals with warm bedding and protect from cold

3. Swine pox Caused by: Virus

• Young animals are seriously affected

• Fever • In-appetence and eruptions on

ears, neck, inferior abdomen, and inner aspects of the thighs and in very severe cases, in other parts of the body

• No specific treatment• Provide ailing

animals with warm bedding and protect from cold

4. Foot and mouth Caused by: Aphto virus Strains – A. O. C. Asia 1

• Severe depression • Off-feed • Acute painful stomatitis • Salivation • Careful chewing • Vesicles and bullae formation on

the buccal mucosa and on the dental pad and the tongue, thin-walled vesicles lameness

• Recumbency • Painful swelling of coronet

formation of vesicles on teats and natural openings (orifices)

• Abortion • Infertility • Loss of condition • Decreased milk yield

• No specific treatment• Use antibiotics to

control secondary infection

• In severe cases, use the blood from recovered or vaccinated animals for transfusion particularly on young calves to avoid acute fatal attack

• Use levamisol at 1 ml per 30 kg body weight sub-cut to correct immune deficiency and to hasten recovery

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Disease and Cause Symptoms Prevention/Treatments 5. Anthrax Caused by: Bacillus anthracis

• High fever (Hyperpyrexia) • Bleeding from natural orifices • Sudden death

• Use terramycin or oxysteclin in high doses

• Use anthrax spore vaccine at 1 ml sub- cut. Immunity is one year

6. Brucellosis Caused by: Brucella abortus

• In females, abortion, birth of weak or dead piglets and sterility and infertility

• In boars, inflammation of the testicles and joint, and sterility or infertility

• Use streptomycin and chloramphenicol with prolonged treatment at high dose

• Use oxytetracycline at 10 mg given intra peritoneum as a single dose repeated after 30 days

7. Round worm Caused by: Neoascaris vitulorum

• Young animals are seriously affected

• Poor growth • Lower resistance • Enzootic pneumonia • Poor coat • Diarrhoea • Occasional colic • Convulsion • Intestinal obstruction

• Use piparazine adipate calf at 8-10 g mixed in feed and repeat at six months of age

• Use panacur at 5-10 mg/kg body weight

8. Tape worm Caused by: Moniezia expansa and M. benedini

• Diarrhoea • Un-thriftiness • Constipation • Loss in weight • Presence of worms and eggs in

the faeces • Pot-bellied

• Use niltape at 2.5-5 g for calves

• Use praziquantel 50 mg tabs at 1 tab per 10 kg body weight. Repeat at six weeks interval

9. Lung worm infection

Caused by: Metastrongylus apri

• Infected pigs seriously suffer and die in large numbers

• The worms occupy the lung tissue in large numbers occluding the lung passages causing severe respiratory distress and death

• Young pigs up to four months are most susceptible to worm infestation

• Ivermectin injection

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Disease and Cause Symptoms Prevention/Treatments 10. Skin diseases Caused by: Lice and mange mites

• In lice infestation, skin lesions start mostly on the back of the ears and between the legs. Scratching is an indication

• Sarcoptic mange mites burrow into the skin where it feeds and multiplies

• Demodectic mite infests hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Infection causes severe irritations making the pig restless, scratch against wall or fences, and do not eat properly. Open wound may cause screw worms or other infections

• Apply butox, malathion, methoxychlor, and similar drugs as spray or dip. Do not slaughter treated animals for about 30-40 days to avoid residual effect

11. Piglet anaemia Caused by: Iodine deficiency

• Severe anaemic symptoms and respiratory distress

• Piglet borne premature and those belonging to too large a litter size suffer more

• Swab saturated iron sulphate solution on the sow’s udder so that piglets may get enough iron while suckling

• Iron injection at three days old

c) Feeding and water requirements

• Use the feeds and feeding regime as indicated below:

Class of pigs Feed required (kg) 1. Growing pigs

• 10-25 kg 1.0-1.5 • 25-50 kg 1.5-2.5 • 50-100 kg 2.5-3.5

2. Pregnant gilt 2.5 3. Bred sows first 12 weeks 2.5-3.0 4. Bred sows beyond 12 weeks 3-3.5.0 5-6 depending on litter size/milk flow 5. Adult boars 2.5-3.0

• Provide the pigs clean, fresh water at all times but not highly chilled water.

Supply warm water during winter season. Pigs on an average consume 2-3 times by weight of their dry feed intake as indicated below:

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Class of pigs In litres 1. Boars and sows 10 2. Lactating sows 25 3. Piglets (up to three weeks of age) 5 4. Pigs (10 weeks old) 5 5. Adult pigs (market pigs or feeder pigs) 5-10

d) Feeding and watering equipment

• Under farmer’s condition, use locally designed strong wooden feeders and waterers made out of cylindrical tree trunk.

• Under concrete and permanent housing systems like in the farms, attach concrete feeder and water trough to the inner walls of the pen or rise from the floor. Provide 30 cm of feeding space for four growing pigs or two adult pigs but increase to 45 cm for large size of breeding stock.

e) Weaning of piglets

• Under semi-intensive conditions, allow the piglets a long suckling period and wean them at 12 weeks after birth.

• For intensive management systems, wean the piglets a little early. Usually with two litters in a year, wean at 7-8 weeks after birth. Under any circumstances, wean the piglets earlier than three weeks.

f) Breeding time

• Take note that the sow comes to heat once in 21 days with duration of about 2-3 days. The following are the cardinal signs when the sow is nearing the heat period or is in-heat:

1. Just prior to the onset of heat, vulval lips become swollen and congested

followed by a slight discharge. The swelling of the genitalia continues throughout the entire period of heat.

2. The sow in-heat becomes restless, grunts in a peculiar fashion, sniffs at the genitalia of the other sows, and tries to mount on them.

3. Pressing the posterior part of the body towards the wall, standing calmly to be mounted, or remaining standstill when the back of the sow is firmly pressed.

g) Farrowing time

• Record the breeding date to know the farrowing time prior hand.

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• Shift the sow to a separate farrowing pen if available or provide liberal amount of bedding materials chopped out of hay or straw in the same pen 3-4 days before farrowing. The sow digs deep down into the bed or makes her nest about 12 hours prior to farrowing. Take note that uncut straw or long chopped hay may entangle the new piglets.

• Protect the corner where the sow lies with guard planks to prevent squeezing of the piglets by the sow in case it rolls over them. Or provide a separate farrowing crate with a creep arrangement.

• Ensure that the farrowing pen is dry, well-ventilated, and lighted by allowing passage for direct sunlight.

h) Management of market pigs

• Slaughter the porkers at the live weight of 70-75 kg. Their meat is lean with more protein and less fat.

• Slaughter the bacons at a live weight of about 90 kg. Their meat contains more fat than pork.

• Slaughter heavy hogs at a live weight of about 120-150 kg. Their meat is highly laden with fat.

References: 1. C. A. Gopalkrishnan and G. M. M., 1994. Livestock and Poultry Enterprises for Rural

Development. 2. Ganesh Saha, 1975. Animal Treatment. 3. S. K. Ranjhan, 2004. Animal Nutrition in the Tropics.

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Attachment 8

Bamboo Description

Bamboos, commonly grown as woody plants, belong to the family Gramineae, and form the tribe Bambuseae of the subfamily Bambusoideae. They often have tree-like habit and can be characterized as having woody usually hollow clumps, complex rhizome and branch systems, petiolate leaf blades, and prominent sheathing organs.

Bamboo species in general are distributed throughout Bhutan, though they are

most common in the higher rainfall areas; also in the periphery of rice fields. They can grow from the Tropical Southern borders to the tree line where they form extensive areas of pasture for higher altitude animals like yak and sheep. Locals call them ba (in Dzongkha) or she (in Sharchopkha).

It takes five years in Bhutan to get the first harvest for bamboo, although it is

productive for around 100 years making it a potential cash crop. A bamboo piece sells for around Nu 80-90 and considering the demand, Bhutan is also importing much from India. Bamboos are used as poles, posts, and furniture, among others.

The Ministry of Agriculture extends technical support to growers along with the

extension agents.

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TECHNOLOGY FOR BAMBOO PROPAGATION IN THE NURSERY IN BHUTAN

By

Mr. Rinzin Dorji and Mr. Yog Raj Chhetri

Forestry Research Assistants Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre Bajo, Wangdue Phodrang

Tel. No. +975-02-481209 E-mail address: rinzin@druknet.bt or dorji_r@yahoo.com

I. PRE-PRODUCTION STAGE

A. Growing Conditions

Criteria Description 1. Altitude • Grows only up to 1,600 metres above sea level (masl) 2. Soil pH • No data available 3. Soil texture • No data available 4. Temperature • No data available

B. Choice of Variety

There are two genuses, that is, Dendrocalamus and Bambusa, for which growers can choose from. The following species can adapt to Bhutan conditions, namely: Dendrocalamus strictus, Dendrocalamus calastachyous, Bambusa bamboo, and Bambusa arundinacea.

II. PRODUCTION STAGE

1. Propagation of Bamboo seedlings, Bambusa and Dendrocalamus spp. Dz. Pashi

Locally, there are three propagation techniques for bamboo. One is through

rhizomes which farmers collect from the source and directly plant in the field. Another one is through internodes in which farmers cut the shoots of mature clumps with two to three remaining internodes and then bury under the soil until new shoots and roots (layering) emerge. The other commonly practiced and effective propagation method is through the seeds which are usually practiced in the nursery for mass multiplication. This package of technology will discuss mainly on propagation techniques through seeds and mass production of planting materials as follows: • Soak the seeds in cold water for 10-12 hours.

- 235 -

• Sow the seeds via broadcast in a well-prepared seedbed, preferably between March and July. Cover the seeds with a thin mixture of soil, sand, and top soil (1:1:1). Or sow 3-4 seeds in a plastic tube to 5 mm depth.

• Keep the seedbeds moist all the time. • Apply appropriate chemicals based on the causal agent. • When the seedlings are three months-old (with 5-10 cm height), pull out a

seedling from one single seed and detach the rhizomes. A single seed can be multiplied in as many as 3-5 seedlings, or if there are 100 good seedlings raised from seeds, one can produce a minimum of 300 seedlings in a year.

Propagules separated from the single clum(Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

A clum of seedlings from single seed(Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

Propagules ready for potting as single seedling (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

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Attachment 9

Pangtse Description

Pangtse or botanically called Symplocus paniculata (Thunberg) Miquel is a deciduous shrub to small tree (3-10 m) that is popularly grown in the temperate zone. Its black to bluish-black berry contains edible oil better than mustard oil, particularly the essential fatty acids (linolic acid; 19.2%) based on the study conducted by the Centre for Agriculture research and Development (CARD) in Bajo. The oil extracted from its seeds has a black colour with a unique aroma.

In Bhutan, the tree is called pangtseshing

(in Dzongkha) and is usually grown on the bunds of the rice terraces, particularly in Punakha and Wangdue Valley. Depending upon the altitude, Pangtse flowers in May to June and the fruits ripens in October to December. Since time immemorial, the growers used the seeds as a substitute for or complement with mustard oil.

Due to the oily nature of the seeds, it is very difficult to propagate through seeds

and thus, farmers propagate them via vegetative means. The Ministry of Agriculture, through the Forestry Sector of the Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre in Bajo, is providing technical support for those who may want to initiate propagating this species.

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TECHNOLOGY FOR PANGTSE PROPAGATION IN THE NURSERY IN BHUTAN

By

Mr. Rinzin Dorji and Yog Raj Chhetri

Forestry Research Assistants Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre Bajo, Wangdue Phodrang

Tel. No. +975-02-481209 E-mail address: rinzin@druknet.bt or dorji_r@yahoo.com

I. PRE-PRODUCTION STAGE

A. Growing Conditions

Criteria Description 1. Altitude • Grows only from 1,600-2,850 metres above sea level 2. Soil texture • Moist dry to clay soil

B. Choice of Variety

In Bhutan, the species has only one variety to choose from, which is

Symplocus paniculata (Thunberg) Miquel.

II. PRODUCTION STAGE

Propagation methods

Locally, pangtse can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, and root cuttings. Research revealed that propagation through seeds is better for mass multiplication.

A. By seed

a) Seed collection

• Collect the seeds in October to

December. Make sure that the ‘Mother Tree’ should have good tree form and the tree should be free of pathogens.

• As soon as the seeds are harvested, rub the outer oily portion of the seeds and soak the clean ones in cold water for 5-6 days. Ripened berries

(Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

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• If seeds are to be stored for short duration, keep them in a freezer. For longer storage, dry the seeds.

b) Sowing medium

• Prepare a medium of topsoil, sand, and saw dust (2:2:1 mixture).

c) Seed sowing

• Pre-treat the seeds immediately after collection. • Prepare a mother bed with proper shedding. • Sow the treated seeds by broadcasting, dibbling, or in lines, at 5-8 cm

deep. • Water the seeds at least once a day under dry condition and twice a week

under humid conditions to keep the beds moist. • Do weeding as needed to prevent the germinating seedlings from

suppression.

d) Pricking out

• When true leaves appear, prick out the seedlings to the polyethylene bags filled with mixture of sand, soil and leaf mold (1:1:1).

• Place the bags inside the shed for at least a month. Arrange the bags in such a way that it avoids direct sunlight.

• Water the seedlings thrice a week. Prick out weeds from the bags.

e) Hardening

• Once the seedlings are fully established in the shed, gradually move them out in the open environment.

• Keep the seedlings in the open for 2-3 weeks before planting in the field.

Pricked-out Pangtse seedlings (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

Semi hardened seedlings (Photo courtesy of RNR RC Bajo)

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f) Planting

• Use 9-10 month-old seedlings and plant them during raining season. • Dig a pit with a minimum size of 930 sq. cm. for planting seedlings.

B. By vegetative cuttings

a) Stem cutting

• Collect cuttings from a tree that is about to set new leaves after dormancy (that is, February-March).

• Collect branches of thumb size and 25-30 cm long for cuttings. • Put the collected cuttings in an icebox or a water-soaked sack. • Raise the cuttings in a sunken mother bed with proper shed. Prepare the

sunken mother bed as follows: - 60-90 cm deep x 1 m wide and convenient bed length or 2-3 ft deep x

3 ft wide and convenient bed length; - Fill the bottom of the bed with gravel up to 3-5 cm; and - Above the gravel, fill the bed with prepared medium of sand, soil, and

saw dust in the ratio of 1:1:1 up to 45-60 cm. • If possible, apply rooting hormone such as indolebutyric acid (IBA).

Actual root formation takes 4-5 weeks.

b) Root cutting • Collect roots of thumb size and 13-15 cm long. • Plant the cutting in the manner that root grows under normal condition

(thick end up) but put it deeper into the growing medium (prepared mother bed) keeping roughly 1 cm exposed for new shoots to sprout.

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Annex 46. Evaluation results of the pre-testing of nine information materials with extension agents as accompanied by Bajo researchers

Parameters Rice Pest Mgt Walnut Chili Tomato Pig Poultry Bamboo Pangtse Persuasiveness

1. Did you like the pictures?

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes, very clear to view, easy to understand, three photos should be given due courtesy to Limbu not Bajo

Yes, very clear to view, easy to understand

Yes, photos are clear and size is ok

Yes, photos are clear and size is ok

2. What can you say about the size of the pictures?

None/Just right

Small for rice node blast/Just right

Just right Just right Just right Just right Just right Just right, but enlarge if possible

Just right, but enlarge if possible

3. Did you like the font (or the type of letters) used in the information material?

Yes Yes Yes, clear Yes, clear Yes, clear Yes, readable even from certain distance; well-designed/ very clear and right size of letter

Yes, readable even from certain distance; well-designed/very clear and right size of letter

Yes, clear Yes, clear

Clarity 4. Did you

understand the message of the information material?

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

5. Did you get additional knowledge through this information material?

Yes Yes Yes , informative

Yes, informative

Yes, informative

Yes, we know more information from all good package of practices

Yes, we know more information from all good package of practices

Yes (3), got more information since hardly know about bamboo

Yes (3), got more information since hardly know about pangtse

- 276 -

Parameters Rice Pest Mgt Walnut Chili Tomato Pig Poultry Bamboo Pangtse

6. Is there a message that you do not understand in the information material?

Yes, some lengthy paragraphs were used/ No

No Yes, some technical words were used ( e.g. undercutting, stratification)/ No

No No No but need to include feed formulation of pig ration like feedstuff requirements

No No No

Acceptability 7. In your own

opinion, are the messages of the information material right?

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

8. Are the pictures acceptable?

No, few of them are small/Yes

No, few of them are small/Yes

Yes, clear view

Yes, clear view

Yes, clear view

Yes, clear and accurate size/ very clear/ Village level photos are used but additional photos can be sent by extension agents

Yes, clear and accurate size/ Very clear/ Village level photos are used but additional photos can be sent by extension agents

Yes, clear Yes, clear

9. Are the words acceptable?

Yes Yes Yes, simple and understandable

Yes, simple and understandable

Yes, simple and understandable

Yes, easily readable/ technical words can be understood easily

Yes, easily readable/ technical words can be understood easily

Yes, familiar Yes, familiar

10. Overall, is the information material acceptable?

Yes Yes Yes, very informative

Yes, very informative

Yes, very informative

Yes Yes Yes, informative

Yes, informative

277

Annex 47. Training programmes for VERCON-Bhutan

Training Programmes Initial Proposed Training Programmes

(18 September 2006) With FAO Mission

(24 November 2006) Final Training Programmes

(28 November 2006) 1. Use of communication equipment (such as

digital camera and the 4-in-1 equipment-printer, photocopier, scanner, fax)

1. Equipment • Use of 4-in-1 equipment-printer,

scanner, photocopier, fax, and the digital camera

• Computer switch it on and off, download pictures

1. Internet basics • Applications and tools

- search engine (Internet, URL, Google)

- e-mail system (e-group, mailing list

• File management - Sharing - Transferring - Converting

• Security and maintenance - Troubleshooting - Do’s and don’ts - Policies

• Survey questionnaire 2. Information management, search and

retrieval: 2. Security, maintenance and antivirus for the

users 2. Equipment handling and LAN security

• Using/handling digicam (shooting, copying/editing images)

• How to secure agency’s LAN • Basic Internet and its application 3. File management and sharing + back up

and CD burning 3. Communication for development

• Electronic avenues (e-mail, instant messaging, discussion forum, search engines, e-groups, file transfer via LAN/CD/flash drives, ftp/pdf)

4. Internet tools and applications • Search engine • E-mail • File transfer • Sending and converting files

4. Content repackaging and reformatting (technology, agri-inputs, website links)

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Training Programmes

Initial Proposed Training Programmes (18 September 2006)

With FAO Mission (24 November 2006)

Final Training Programmes (28 November 2006)

• Basic troubleshooting (anti-virus, e-copy via CD-ROM, photo management)

5. Use of VERCON for users and administrators

5. Use of VERCON-Bhutan website

• Online encoding 6. LAN security and maintenance 6. Basic information technology + 5 trainings mentioned above for six Geog extension centres

• Advance PHP/MySQL and web designing

7. Communication for development

3. Content development for extension materials and transformation to farmer-friendly formats

8. Content repackaging and reformatting • Write appropriate content • MMTK content development – writing

for the web

4. How to use the VERCON website

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Annex 48. Budget summary of the final training plan for VERCON-Bhutan

Expenses (Nu) Course No. of Trainees

Schedule/Duration Resource Persons

(Honorarium) Trainees

(DSA/DA/TA)* Other

Expenses**

Total Budget (Nu)

1. Internet basics 9 December 4-8, 2006 (Mon-Fri)/5 days

25,000 57,600 62,500 145,100

2. Equipment handling and LAN security

11 Within January 2007 (Mon-Fri)/Six (6) days

50,000*** 0 5,000 55,000

3. Communication for development

11 Within January 2007/Five (5) days

25,000 57,600 61,500 144,100

4. Content repackaging and reformatting

26 Within February 2007/Five (5) days

25,000 177,600 102,500 305,100

5. Use of VERCON-Bhutan website

35 Within March 2007/Five (5) days in 2 batches

50,000 243,600 163,500 457,100

6. Basic information technology + other trainings mentioned above

18 Within April 2007/Twenty seven (27) days

135,000 747,000 374,000 1,256,000

TOTAL 310,000 1,283,400 769,000 2,362,400* DSA means daily subsistence allowance; DA means daily allowance while TA means traveling allowance. ** This includes supplies, food, printing/photocopying/binding of manuals/guidelines, and rental for hall, computer, LCD and vehicle. *** There will be two resource persons, namely: one on equipment handling and another one on LAN security that will conduct training at the

Geog pilot sites and Bajo research centre. Follows the honorarium rate of the College of Natural Resources when inviting resource person for training; includes 1 hour lecture and 3 hours preparation.

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Title/Venue Trainer/Other staff Schedule/Duration Participants Equipment

Required Supplies + Vehicle Budget

(Nu) 1. Internet basics/

College of Natural Resources

Trainers: • Mr. Karma Dhendup • Mr. Sangay Tenzin Plus: • 1 Training Coordinator • 1 Support staff

December 4-8, 2006 (Mon-Fri)/5 days

• 9 extension agents • 10 computers/ CD writers

• 3 Flash drives • LCD

• 30 blank CDs • 15 pens • 15 notebooks • Bond papers • Certificates + printing/ photocopying/ binding of manuals

145,100

2. Equipment handling (digicam + 4-in-1 equipment) and LAN security/ Visit to three (3) Geog Centres and RNR RC Bajo

Trainers: • Office Automation representative • Mr. Karma Dhendup • Mr. Sangay Tenzin Plus: • 1 Support staff

Within January 2007 (Mon-Fri)/Six (6) days

• 9 extension agents • 2 RNR RC Bajo

researchers handling LAN server and digital camera

• Digital camera • 4-in-1

equipment (fax, printer, photocopier, scanner)

• LAN server

• Bond papers + printing/ photocopying/ binding of manuals and/or guidelines

55,000

3. Communication for development/ College of Natural Resources

Trainer: • To be outsourced Plus: • 1 Training Coordinator • 1 Support staff

Within January 2007/Five (5) days

• 9 extension agents • RRCO • Alternate RRCO

• 12 computers • LCD

• 15 pens • 15 notebooks • Bond papers • Certificates + printing/ photocopying/ binding of manuals or guidelines

144,100

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Title/Venue Trainer/Other staff Schedule/Duration Participants Equipment

Required Supplies + Vehicle Budget

(Nu) 4. Content

repackaging and reformatting/ College of Natural Resources

Trainers: • To be outsourced Plus: • 1 Training Coordinator • 1 Support staff

Within February 2007/Five (5) days

• 9 extension agents • 5 Bajo Researchers • RRCO • Alternate RRCO • 10 Focal persons*

• 27 computers • 1 LCD

• 30 pens • 30 notebooks • Bond papers • Certificates + printing/ photocopying/ binding of manuals

305,100

5. Use of VERCON-Bhutan website (2 groups)/College of Natural Resources

Trainers: • Mr. Karma Dhendup • Mr. Sangay Tenzin Plus: • 1 Training Coordinator • 1 Support staff

Within March 2007/Five (5) days each group

• 9 extension agents • 5 Bajo Researchers • RRCO • Alternate RRCO • 9 Sector Heads • 10 Focal Persons

• 36 computers • 1 LCD

• 40 pens • 40 notebooks • Bond papers • Certificates + printing/ photocopying/ binding of manuals

457,100

6. Basic Information Technology (IT) + other trainings mentioned above/ College of Natural Resources

Trainers • Mr. Karma Dhendup • Mr. Sangay Tenzin Plus: • 1 Training Coordinator • 1 Support staff

Within April 2007/ Twenty seven (27) days, including 5 days for Basic IT training

• 18 extension agents from 6 Geogs**

• 19 Computers/ CD writers

• 3 Flash drives • 1 LCD

• 25 pens • 25 notebooks • Bond papers • Certificates + printing/ photocopying/ binding of manuals

1,256,000

TOTAL 2,362,400 * One representative each from DSC, NPPC, NSSC, NPHC, AMS, FCB, LIMS, FIMS, CoRRB, and AMC. ** This includes the following Geogs: Trong (Zhemgang Dzongkhag), Darla (Chhukha), Drakten (Trongsa), Bhur (Sarpang), Phongmay (Trashigang), and Chokor

(Bumthang). Training on Basic IT which was previously conducted in December 2005 will also be included.

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Annex 49. Course schedule and manual for training on Internet basics and troubleshooting (with kind permission from Mr. Karma Dhendup and Mr. Sangay Tenzin)

Attachment 1

Course Schedule – Internet Basics and Troubleshooting (04-08 December 2006)

Note

Tea Break Duration = 20 Minutes Lunch Break Duration = 1 hour

Manuals prepared by:

• Sangay Tenzin, ICT Officer, ICS-MoA • Karma Dhendup, CEO, Athang ICTech

Day

Morning (9:00 AM to 1:00 PM) (Class)

(9.00 am – 10.50 am) (11.10 am– 1.00 pm)

Afternoon (2:00 PM to 5:00 PM) (Practice)

(2.00 pm- 3.20 pm) (3.40 pm-5.00 pm)

Monday 04/12/2006

Refresh what was taught in Dec 2005 training on Basic Computer

Internet basics • Internet • www

Exercise

Exercise

Tuesday 05/12/2006

Internet Basics • Email • E-groups and

mailing list

Internet Basics • Search Engine

Exercise

Exercise

Wednesday 06/12/2006

File management • Managing files • Converting files

to different formats

File backup • CD burning

Exercise

Exercise

Thursday 07/12/2006

PC troubleshooting and maintenance • Best practices and

tips

PC troubleshooting and maintenance .. cont..

Exercise

Exercise

Friday 08/12/2006

Antivirus • Installation • User guide

T E A B R E A K

…..Wrap-up…..

L U N C H B R E A K

Feedback

T E A BR E A K

Certificate distribution

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Manual:

Training on Internet Basics and Troubleshooting

Contents What is the Internet? ....................................................................................................... 284

i. Internet Services .................................................................................................. 284 ii. Internet Components........................................................................................... 284 iii. Email.................................................................................................................. 285 iv. World Wide Web............................................................................................... 286 v. Web Browser ...................................................................................................... 289 vi. URL ................................................................................................................... 290

Exercises ......................................................................................................................... 296

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What is the Internet?

The Internet is a network of networks, linking computers to computers. Each runs software to provide or "serve" information and/or to access and view information. The Internet is the transport vehicle for the information stored in files or documents on another computer.

i. Internet Services

E-MAIL - For sending and receiving messages, letters, and attached files via the internet to any internet computer in the world. My favourite application.

WWW - The World Wide Web. Browse web pages containing multimedia (text, graphics and sound)

ftp - Used for publishing (up-loading) web pages and multimedia files to the www.

IRC - Internet Relay Chat. A type of bulletin board which shows text as typed, in real time, including yours, of people joined into a chat room at that particular time.

NEWSGROUPS - Bulletin boards where anyone, anywhere, can read and leave messages on any topic.

TELNET - Used for accessing information from other computers and databases. e.g.: Telnet enables your computer a home to emulate a computer in the library you've logged into. You'll see the same screen as if you were in the library at their computer.

Gopher - An early, text-only method for accessing internet documents. Gopher has been almost entirely subsumed in the World Wide Web, but you may still find gopher documents linked to in web pages.

ii. Internet Components

To access the Internet by computer, you need a computer, a modem or other telecommunications link, and software to connect to an Internet Service Provider.

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Computer

Serve as the client to access the information in Internet or as a server to store information for other to access.

Medium

A means through which signals can travel as a means for communication. E.g. Phone Line, Cable, DSL, Wireless.

Modem

Short form of modulator/demodulator. A communications device that converts one form of a signal to another that is suitable for transmission over communication circuits, typically from digital to analog and then from analog to digital.

Network Software - TCP/IP

Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol - A collection of protocols that define the basic workings of the features of the Internet.

Application Software - Web Browser

Software programme used to view and interact with various types of Internet resources available on the World Wide Web. Netscape and Internet Explorer are two common examples.

Internet Service Provider (ISP)

ISP, or Internet Service Provider, is a company which provides Internet access for individuals, organizations, and companies usually for a monthly fee.

iii. E-mail

Electronic Mail (e-mail) is a computer-based system for the exchange of messages and other information. Electronic mail is the most common application in use on computer networks allowing rapid and easy communication between individuals and groups.

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Components of a mail message Each mail message includes these fields: To: This is the e-mail address of the person who is to receive the message. From: This identifies the person sending the message. It is normally inserted automatically by the sending system. Subject: This should be a short description of the contents of the mail. Although optional, you should always label your messages this way. Date: This is automatically included by the system. You might also use these fields to copy your message to other recipients: Cc: Use the Cc: field to insert the addresses of people who should receive a copy of a message. Bcc: Same as Cc:, except the recipients don’t see (are blind) that other people are also receiving copies of this message.

These fields form part of the header (like an envelope), which shows the address of the recipient and where the message has come from. The text of the message (or body) follows the mail header.

E-mail addresses (the To: field) To send a message to someone, the following information is needed:

person: the mail name or username of the other person (the recipient)

site: the mail address of their computer service. This information is usually given as person@site e.g. sangay@yahoo.com

E-mail etiquettes When using e-mail, please adopt these simple points of good practice and etiquette.

Remember the laws of the land relating to written communication apply equally to email, including laws on defamation, copyright, obscenity, fraud and discrimination.

Remember that the Internet is an open world - treat the security of email messages you send off-campus about the same as a postcard i.e. anyone along the chain of

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distribution might see what you have written. Even for within-campus messages, think carefully before sending sensitive or confidential information by e-mail.

Make a good impression - your email may be seen by persons who don't know you, so ensure that what you write and how you write it gives the reader the right impression.

Be polite - adhere to the same standards as you would when writing a letter. If you TYPE LIKE THIS, for example, people will think you are shouting.

Use humor and sarcasm with care - not everyone will appreciate it and without voice inflection and body language, mail messages can be easily misinterpreted. It sometimes helps to use 'emoticons' such as a smiley face e.g. :-) but use them sparingly.

Don't 'Flame' - Flames are messages or replies that express anger or might anger the reader. Don't get involved in flame wars. Neither post nor respond to incendiary mail.

Keep it simple - e-mail is good for factual information, but not for matters that require tact and diplomacy. People are busy - don't add to their information overload.

Identify yourself - you can use a signature file to put your name at the end of your email automatically (but it's good etiquette to keep it short).

Ensure your email is going to the right destination - it can be easy to use the wrong email address by mistake and your message may be delivered to the wrong person or group. If you do find a message has been misdelivered, send an apology to the person or to the group.

Check your reply settings - it is easy to use "Reply-All" by mistake, and this could be very embarrassing for you and very annoying to others.

Use a meaningful 'subject' field - don't leave it blank; this is very irritating.

Clear out your mailbox regularly - there is limited space in your mailbox. Old mail will be moved aside if you go over quota. Move messages you want to keep into mail folders.

Don't send an attachment unless you need to - attachments, such as Word documents, are much larger than the corresponding text and they can be awkward to handle if the recipient doesn't have the corresponding application. If the formatting is not necessary, insert the text into the body of your e-mail message instead of using an attachment.

Take care with the size of your message - they slow down mail system performance and some Internet mail systems will reject large messages or delay delivery. Large messages are usually caused by including a very large attachment or multiple attachments. A good rule of thumb is to keep the message size below 50KB. Split your attachments across more than one message, if all together they will exceed this size.

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When replying to a message, think carefully whether to reproduce the original message in your response - If it's not necessary, don't do it. If you need to refer to it, be selective in the parts that you include in your response.

If you need to send mail regularly to a long list of people, create a mailing list - this avoids long lists of recipients at the top of everyone's copy.

Don't send anonymous mail or 'spoof' your address - in 99% of cases, your email can be traced back to its source; disciplinary action may then follow.

Don't 'Spam' - i.e. don’t send electronic garbage. Sending junk email, such as advertisements or other unsolicited material, to mailing lists, newsgroups, list servers or to anyone you don't know is considered 'spamming'.

Don't reply to chain-letters - these are an absolute 'no-no' on all networks.

iv. World Wide Web

When you log onto the Internet using a web browser, you are viewing documents on the World Wide Web.

The basic foundation on which the WWW functions is the programming language called HTML. It is HTML and other programming imbedded within HTML that make possible hypertext. Hypertext is the ability to have web pages containing links, which are areas in a page or buttons or graphics on which you can click your mouse button to retrieve another document into your computer. This "clickability" using Hypertext links is the feature which is unique and revolutionary about the Web.

Hyperlinks

Hyperlinks typically appear as highlighted (underlined and coloured) phrases. The mouse cursor will turn to a "pointing finger" when it is pointed over a hyperlink. Click once to follow a hyperlink.

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HTML

HyperText Markup Language. It is a programming language to design websites. It defines how the website should be rendered when displayed over the Internet. The Web Browser “interprets” the commands written in the form of HTML and is displayed accordingly.

v. Web Browser

A web browser is the computer programme you use to retrieve and view web pages.

The browser “interprets” the programming commands written in HTML and finally displays the webpage accordingly. It

Some of the common browsers are:

• MS Internet Explorer • Netscape • FireFox • Opera • Lynx

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Example:

vi. URL

URL stands for Uniform Resource Locator. It defines the location of a file or any resource in the Internet. A typical URL looks like: http://www.moa.gov.bt/forum/index.php http: (hyper text transfer protocol) a set of rules for the web page transfer over the Internet.

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www.moa.gov.bt: computer name on the Internet where the required file is located. It is called the domain name. forum: the folder in which the file is located. index.php: the required file name.

2. Guide to Critical Thinking about What You See on the Web

Sometimes, it takes special skills just to find something on the Web. To use the Web well, however, you need to do even more. I offer for your consideration the following six suggestions when examining Web pages:

1. Make sure you are in the right place. 2. When in doubt, doubt. 3. Consider the source. 4. Know what's happening. 5. Look at details. 6. Distinguish Web pages from pages found on the Web.

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In addition to these six suggestions about evaluating sources, here are some criteria that are commonly used.

• Authority: Who are the authors of the Web page, or who is responsible for it? What gives them their authority or expertise to write?

• Accuracy: Do you have good reason to believe that the information on the site is accurate? Are the facts documented?

• Objectivity: What is the author's point of view? What is the purpose of the site? • Currency: When was the information on the page originally written? Has the site

been kept up-to-date? • Coverage: Does this site address the topic you are researching? Is the information

basic and cursory or detailed and scholarly? However complex the language might be is the information substantial?

• Value: Was the page worth visiting? Does the site offer anything informative, unique, or insightful? Is the site free of careless errors, misspelled words, and poor grammar?

i. Make sure you are in the right place

Ask yourself why you are using the Web. Don't use the Web because it is fun and easy; use it when it is the appropriate source for the information you are seeking. An hour on the Web may not answer a question that you could find within two minutes of picking up a reference book. This is not to say there aren't useful Web sources.

The Web may have been originally designed as a medium to exchange scientific (and military?) research data, but it has become a commercial playground. The research is still there, but it is harder to find and no longer may be free or easily accessible.

Not everything is on the Web. Let me repeat. Not everything is on the Web. Because of copyright, cost, and demand issues (and dozens of other reasons), some materials just won't be found on the Web. Although some really old stuff does show up on the Web in new packages, most materials written before you were born have not migrated to the Web and probably never will. As for more recent stuff, the issue is evolving. Much more is available online than just a few years ago. However, what is available and what is freely available are two different issues.

Questions to think about:

Does this site address the topic you are researching? Was the page worth visiting?

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ii. When in doubt, doubt

Almost anyone can put up almost anything on the Web for almost any purpose. Look for ambiguity, manipulative reasoning, and bias. Examine assumptions, including and perhaps especially, your own.

Accuracy is not easy to confirm. Information on a site cannot be evaluated unless you compare it to other sources. As with any research, you must test one source against another. Unfortunately, sometimes facts can be misleading.

Who coined the phrase Question Authority!? Look at five or six different Web sites and you might get six or eight different answers.

• Many Web pages credit the bumpersticker, but Hippieland Glossary also indicates it's from the sixties. Or is it from the '70s or more recent?

• Several sites attribute the quote to Timothy Leary. However, Web page with the claim that Timothy Leary was a CIA agent indicates that Dr. Leary was quoting Socrates. Perhaps it's a bumper sticker summation of Socrates' idea.

• Some pages insist or at least hint at a Unitarian-Universalist connection. • To complete the circle, I suspect this page has been used as an authority to answer

the question.

My advice: question the authority of all Web sources. Don't accept an author's word without checking for supportive evidence. Look for such things as bibliographic citations or links to resources.

Questions to think about:

Do you have good reason to believe that the information on the site is accurate? Do authors provide any supportive evidence for their conclusions?

iii. Consider the source

Try to find out who wrote or created the Web pages -- not just their names, but something that indicates what about them indicates they are a "good source." It is easy to think that an author wouldn’t be writing unless he or she was some kind of expert on the topic, but that is not always true.

Consider this report on the Bay of Pigs by Jared Wiener. A Google search reveals it has been linked by more than a hundred Web sites. But who is Jared Weiner? Historian? Congressional investigator? Senior news analyst? The site doesn't say, but he is a student at Ithaca College who is a talented double major and news director for an award-winning news programme at ICTV. However, he wrote the report when he was in the eighth

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grade. He may not be a renowned Kennedy era scholar, but, he tells me, he did get an A- on the report.

Sometimes pages will generously provide an about the author link, but usually you will have to dig around.

You can try googling an author, but you can also check the URL itself for important clues. Truncating the URL by deleting the all the characters after each slash (/) until you get to the first one is a good way to find out what person, organization, or institution is responsible for the site. The URL http://www.ithaca.edu/library/training/think3.html reveals that this page is connected to the Library at Ithaca College.

The distinctions among the codes have blurred, and even more letters have been added, but check the top level domain of the site's URL. That's the .com, .org, .gov, .edu, and two letter geographic codes, among others. A tilde (~) is becoming rare in a URL, but it used to be a strong indication of a personal homepage. Now most personal web pages will have a .com address. Whether a .com is a personal web page or a commercial site, it warrants a different kind of scrutiny than a .gov page, one sanctioned by the US government. The quality and nature of .edu sites range from research forums to joke collections, so just knowing the organization responsible for a web site is not enough.

Questions to think about:

Who is responsible for the site? Do the authors have any authority or expertise? Do they provide you a means to contact them? Is this a commercial, governmental, personal, or academic Web site?

iv. Know what's happening

Try to identify the reason the Web page was created in the first place. Determine if the main purpose is to inform, to persuade, or to sell you something. Advertising and opinion can both be disguised. If you know the motive behind the page's creation, you can better judge its content. And here is an important, if difficult, question to ask: What is not being said?

Since money talks, try to notice who is paying for the site, either through advertising or sponsorship. Both can affect content and objectivity. Whether bias is intentional or not, it is a factor. For example, facts presented by the National Rifle Association concerning gun control legislation are more likely to be challenged by others than its facts on gun safety.

Try to determine who the site is intended for. Simplification of facts can distort them, but if the information is too technical or jargon-ridden, you may have a hard time understanding it.

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Whatever the type it is, if a Web site is presenting facts or statistics, quoting a person or a passage, there should be documentation. A citation or a link should be provided. If there is no documentation, you shouldn't use the cite for research. Your next step will then be to check out the sources and test the authors' conclusions, as you would for any other research material.

Questions to think about:

What is the purpose of the site? Is the main purpose to inform, to persuade, or to sell you something? Do you understand what is being said? Are the facts documented? What do you think has not been said that should be addressed?

v. Look at details

Internal clues can tell you much about a Web page. Check for the obvious things, such as good grammar and correct spelling. Note the depth of the material presented. Is the language simple or technical and demanding? Look for documentation of the facts being presented. Look for the date the page was last revised.

Graphics may help a Web page look more interesting, but do they serve any purpose other than decoration? Just as a magazine with many colour advertisements may have a different purpose than a scholarly journal with no illustrations, a Web site with mirthful colour and slickness may not be primarily a research site. However, even academic types can get carried away with cool icons.

Pay attention both to how well the links work and what kind of sources are being linked. In addition, check to see who has links to the page and what they have to say about it.

The WayBackMachine at the Internet Archive can show you how a web page has evolved and changed over the years. Sometimes by comparing the revisions you gain some clues about the nature of the site. The archive can also help you locate sites that have disappeared, if you know the original URL.

Questions to think about:

Is the site well organized? Are there misspelled words or examples of poor grammar? Do the links work? Do they send you beyond the site to other reliable sources of information? Does the site offer anything unique or does it tell you little more than you could find in an encyclopedia? Are the graphics on the page clear and helpful or distracting and confusing? What opinions do others have about the Web page?

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vi. Distinguish Web pages from pages found on the Web

When people speak of Web pages, they usually don't mean books and periodical articles, but both books and periodical articles are accessible through the Web.

Publishing is changing, and some research materials may only be available online. Government agencies have led the way in the online migration of documents.

Many libraries no longer subscribe to the paper version of some periodicals, but either subscribe to the online version of the journal or rely on full text access through Web-based periodical databases.

The online version of a periodical article is no more or less reliable than the same article found in the print version of the journal. On the Web, however, you can't see a periodical's glossy, lurid cover, or lack of one, so it can take more effort to distinguish among magazines, trade journals, and peer reviewed journals. Wherever you find it, in print or online, a source must be considered and evaluated before you use it for research.

Questions to think about:

Do you think this page was designed for the Web, or do you think it was originally something else? If it was originally something else, what something else was it?

Exercises:

1. Visit any website using the Internet Explorer and identify the URL. 2. Add the website that you have accessed to “Favorites” list. Sometimes you may find a website which you would like to revisit later but the URL is difficult to remember. You can add that website link to “Favorites” list using the Internet Explorer so that later you can access the website without having to remember the URL. Steps 1. Open the website that you would like to add to favorites list. 2. Go to -> Add to Favorites…

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3. The “title” of the webpage will be saved as the default name of the site. However, this name can be changed as required.

Practice: Add more links to the favorites list and save the links in different folders. 3. Set the Internet Explorer default page to www.moa.gov.bt Setting the default page to your Internet Explorer will let you define the page to be opened when you click the Internet Explorer. E.g. if you set your Default Page as www.moa.gov.bt, the MoA website will appear when you click the Internet Explorer. Steps 1. Open the Internet Explorer. 2. Click on the Tools menu and choose Internet Options…

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3. Enter the desired home page URL into the following address box:

4. Click OK. Now if you click on the Internet Explorer, your default page will appear whose address you entered into the address dialog box above. If you chose “Use blank” option in the address dialog box, a blank page will be set as your default page.

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4. Clearing History List in Internet Explorer The Internet Explorer keeps track of the websites you visited in its "History list". You can see the history list in the drop down menu on the address bar of the Internet Explorer. E.g.: You probably do not want to keep the list because, say, you do not want somebody to know what websites you visited. How can you clear this list? Steps: 1. Open the Internet Explorer. 2. Go to the Tools menu and select Internet Options…

Steps: 1. Open the Internet Explorer. 2. Go to the Tools menu and select Internet Options…

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3. Click on the Clear History button.

4. Click Yes when the following appears:

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Now checked the address bar of the Internet. There won’t be any URLs in the History list. 5. Create an email account using any of the following email servers: • www.yahoo.com • www.hotmail.com • www.gmail.com 6. Send an email message to someone. If possible check whether the recipient has received the email or not. 7. Send an email message with file attachment.

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Contents

1. What is Search Engine ............................................................................................ 303 2. Major Search Engines ............................................................................................. 303 3. Google Search Engine (www.google.com) ............................................................ 303

i. Introduction...................................................................................................... 303 ii. Result Page ..................................................................................................... 304 iii. Google Search Features ................................................................................. 307 iv. Search Tips .................................................................................................... 318

Exercises ..................................................................................................................... 320

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1. What is Search Engine Search Engines are programmes which help users find web pages on a given subject. The search engines maintain databases of web sites and use programmes (often referred to as "spiders" or "robots") to collect information, which is then indexed by the search engine.

2. Major Search Engines

1. Google http://www.google.com 2. Yahoo http://www.yahoo.com 3. Ask Jeeves http://www.askjeeves.com 4. AllTheWeb.com http://www.alltheweb.com 5. AOL Search http://search.aol.com/ 6. HotBot http://www.hotbot.com 7. Teoma http://www.teoma.com 8. AltaVista http://www.altavista.com 9. Gigablast http://www.gigablast.com 10. LookSmart http://www.looksmart.com 11. Lycos http://www.lycos.com 12. MSN Search http://search.msn.com 13. Netscape Search http://search.netscape.com 14. Open Directory http://dmoz.org/

3. Google Search Engine (www.google.com)

i. Introduction

Google is one of the most popular search engines used. Doing a search on Google is easy. Simply type one or more search terms (the words or phrase that best describe the information you want to find) into the search box and hit the 'Enter' key or click on the Google Search button. Example, type “Ministry of Agriculture, Bhutan” into the search box and enter. The following page will load:

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ii. Result Page

Your search results page is packed with information. Here's a quick guide to decoding it.

Each underlined item is a search result that the Google search engine found for your search terms. The first item is the most relevant match we found, the second is the next-most relevant, and so on down the list. Clicking on any underlined item will take you to the associated web page. But first, here's a sample search results page, along with brief explanations of the various types of information about your search results that you can find there.

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A. Top links Click the link for the Google service you want to use. You can search the web, look for images, browse Google Groups (Usenet discussion archive), or use Froogle to search for products. B. Google search button Click on this button to submit another search query. You can also submit your query by hitting the 'Enter' key. C. Advanced search This links to a page on which you can do more precise searches. D. Search field To do a search on Google, just type in a few descriptive search terms, then hit “Enter”, or click on the “Google Search” button.

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E. Preferences This links to a page that lets you set your personal search preferences, including your language, the number of results per page, and whether you want your search results screened by our SafeSearch filter to avoid seeing adult material. F. Statistics bar This line describes your search and indicates the total number of results, as well as how long the search took to complete. G. Tip Information that helps you search more efficiently and effectively by pointing out Google features and tools that might improve the query you just made. H. OneBox results Google's search technology finds many sources of specialized information. Those that are most relevant to your search are included at the top of your search results. Typical onebox results include news, stock quotes, weather and local websites related to your search. I. Page title The first line of any search result item is the title of the web page we found. If you see a URL instead of a title, then either the page has no title or we haven't yet indexed that page's full content, but its place in our index still tells us that it's a good match for your query. J. Text below the title This is an excerpt from the result page with your query terms are bolded. If we expanded the range of your search using stemming technology, the variations of your search terms that we searched for will also be bolded. K. URL of result This is the web address of the returned result.

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L. Size This number is the size of the text portion of the web page, and gives you some idea of how quickly it might display. You won't see a size figure for sites that we haven't yet indexed. M. Cached Clicking this link will show you the contents of the web page when we last indexed it. If for some reason the site link doesn't connect you to the current page, you might still find the information you need on the cached version. N. Similar pages When you select the Similar Pages link for a particular result, Google automatically scouts the Web for pages that are related to this result. O. Indented result When Google finds multiple results from the same website, the most relevant result is listed first, with other relevant pages from that site indented below it. P. More results If we find more than two results from the same site, the remaining results can be accessed by clicking on the "More results from..." link.

iii. Google Search Features

In addition to providing easy access to billions of web pages, Google has many special features to help you to find exactly what you're looking for. Click the title of a specific feature to learn more about it.

• Book Search Use Google to search the full text of books. • Cached Links View a snapshot of each page as it looked when we indexed it. • Calculator Use Google to evaluate mathematical expressions. • Currency Conversion Easily perform any currency conversion. • Definitions Use Google to get glossary definitions gathered from various

online sources. • File Types Search for non-HTML file formats including PDF documents

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and others. • Froogle To find a product for sale online, use Froogle - Google's

product search service. • Groups See relevant postings from Google Groups in your regular web

search results. • I'm Feeling Lucky Bypass our results and go to the first web page returned for

your query. • Images See relevant images in your regular web search results. • Local Search Search for local businesses and services in the U.S., the U.K.,

and Canada. • Movies Use Google to find reviews and show times for movies playing

near you. • Music Search Use Google to get quick access to a wide range of music

information. • News Headlines Enhances your search results with the latest related news

stories. • PhoneBook Look up U.S. street address and phone number information. • Q&A Use Google to get quick answers to straightforward questions. • Refine Your Search Add instant info and topic-specific links to your search in order

to focus and improve your results. • Results Prefetching Makes searching in Firefox faster. • Similar Pages Display pages that are related to a particular result. • Site Search Restrict your search to a specific site. • Spell Checker Offers alternative spelling for queries. • Street Maps Use Google to find U.S. street maps. • Travel Information Check the status of an airline flight in the U.S. or view airport

delays and weather conditions. • Weather Check the current weather conditions and forecast for any

location in the U.S. • Web Page Translation Provides you access to web pages in other languages. • Who Links To You? Find pages that point to a specific URL.

Book Search Google is helping to get the world's information online by bringing books themselves online. Whenever books in our Google Book Search index contain content that matches your search terms, you'll see links to those books under Book Results at the top of your search results page. Click on any book title and you'll see the page in that book which contains your search terms, as well as other information about the title. Click one of the links under "Buy this Book" and you'll go straight to a bookstore selling that book online.

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example: books about Agriculture Google Search

Cached Links Google takes a snapshot of each page examined as it crawls the web and caches these as a back-up in case the original page is unavailable. If you click on the "Cached" link, you will see the

web page as it looked when we indexed it. The cached content is the content Google uses to judge whether this page is a relevant match for your query.

When the cached page is displayed, it will have a header at the top which serves as a reminder that this is not necessarily the most recent version of the page. Terms that match your query are highlighted on the cached version to make it easier for you to see why your page is relevant.

The "Cached" link will be missing for sites that have not been indexed, as well as for sites whose owners have requested we not cache their content.

Google ... Advertise with Us - Business Solutions - Services & Tools - Jobs,Press, & Help ©2004 Google - Searching 4,285,199,774 web pages. www.google.com/ - 3k - Nov 26, 2004 - » Cached « - Similar pages

Calculator

To use Google's built-in calculator function, simply enter the calculation you'd like done into the search box and hit the Enter key or click on the Google Search button. The calculator can solve math problems involving basic arithmetic, more complicated math, units of measure and conversions, and physical constants. Try one of the sample expressions below, or refer to our complete instructions for help in building your own.

These sample queries demonstrate the utility and power of this new feature:

• 5+2*2 • 2^20 • sqrt(-4) • half a cup in teaspoons • 160 pounds * 4000 feet in Calories

example: 5+2*2 Google Search

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Currency Conversion

To use our built-in currency converter, simply enter the conversion you'd like done into the Google search box and hit "Enter" or click the Google Search button

Here are some sample queries:

• 3.5 USD in GBP • currency of Brazil in Malaysian money • 5 British pounds in South Korean money • 2.2 USD per gallon in INR per litre

example: 3.5 USD in GBP Google Search

Definitions

To see a definition for a word or phrase, simply type the word "define," then a space, and then the word(s) you want defined. If Google has seen a definition for the word or phrase on the Web, it will retrieve that information and display it at the top of your search results.

example : define World Wide Web Google Search

You can also get a list of definitions by including the special operator "define:" with no space between it and the term you want defined. For example, the search [define:World Wide Web] will show you a list of definitions for "World Wide Web" gathered from various online sources.

File Types

Google has expanded the number of non-HTML file types searched to 12 file formats. In addition to PDF documents, Google now searches Microsoft Office, PostScript, Corel WordPerfect, Lotus 1-2-3, and others. The new file types will simply appear in Google search results whenever they are relevant to the user query.

Google also offers the user the ability to "View as HTML", allowing users to examine the contents of these file formats even if the corresponding application is not installed. The "View as HTML" option also allows users to avoid viruses which are sometimes carried in certain file formats.

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Overall, the additional file types provide Google users a wider view of the content available on the World Wide Web. And Google has plans to keep expanding the range of file types available over time.

» [PDF] « The Anatomy of a Search Engine File Format: PDF/Adobe Acrobat - » View as HTML «... Second, Google keeps track of some visual presentation details such as font... phonenumbers, product numbers), type or format (text, HTML, PDF, images, sounds... www-db.stanford.edu/pub/papers/google.pdf - Similar pages

If you prefer to see a particular set of results with a specific file type (for example, PDF links), simply type filetype:[extension] (for example, filetype:pdf) within the search box along with your search term(s).

example: form 1040 filetype:pdf Google Search

Froogle

If you search for products using Google, you may see relevant product search information and links displayed at the top of your search results. These product search results are linked to the sites of merchants who participate in Froogle, Google's product search service. These results are not advertisements, as participation in Froogle is completely free to merchants.

example: coffee maker Google Search

Groups

When you search on Google, sometimes you'll see results from Google Groups at the bottom of your search results page. These are messages that users have posted to a discussion group about a topic related to your search. Clicking on one of these results will bring you to the full text of the message on the Google Groups site.

example: google maps api help Google Search

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I'm Feeling Lucky

The "I'm Feeling Lucky™" button takes you directly to the first web page Google returned for your query. You will not see the other search results at all. An "I'm Feeling Lucky" search means you spend less time searching for web pages and more time looking at them.

For example, to find the homepage for Stanford University, simply enter Stanford into the search field and click on the "I'm Feeling Lucky" button. Google takes you directly to "www.stanford.edu", the official homepage of Stanford University.

example: Stanford I'm Feeling Lucky

Images

You may occasionally see small images at the top of your Google search results. These are images that we think are relevant to your search terms.

You can also find relevant images by doing a Google Image Search, or by adding words like 'pics' or 'pictures' to your search terms when you do a regular web search.

example: sunset pictures Google Search

Local Search Google Local enables you to search the entire web for just those stores and businesses in a specific neighborhood. Include a city or zip code in your search and Google displays relevant results from that region at the top of your search results. example: pizza poughkeepsie Google Search

Movies To find reviews and show times for movies playing near you, type "movies", "show times" or the name of a current film into the Google search box. If you've already saved your location by using Google Local, the top search result will display show times for nearby theaters for the movie you've chosen. example: movies Google Search

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Can't remember a movie title, or just looking for something new to see? You can use the "movie:" operator to search for films related to a specific actor, director or plot detail.

example: movie: red pill blue pill Google Search

Want to read about the movies you find? Your search results for any film will include an average rating out of 5 stars and several snippets from online reviews, along with links to the reviews themselves. Click the "reviews" link near any title for a complete list of online reviews of this film.

Music Search

Find information about artists, songs, albums and places to buy the music you are looking for. If you enter the name of an artist popular in the U.S. into the search box, we will display user reviews, song titles, stores to purchase the music and other useful information related to that artist at the top of your search results.

Click on the link to see more music information about that artist such as related albums, songs, and more.

News Headlines

When searching on Google you may see links at the top of your results marked "News". These links connect you to reports culled from numerous news services Google continuously monitors. The links appear if the terms you enter are words currently in the news and clicking on them will take you directly to the service supplying them.

example: election Google Search

PhoneBook Google has added the convenience of US street address and phone number lookup to the information we provide through our search box. You'll see publicly listed phone numbers and addresses at the top of results pages for searches that contain specific kinds of keywords.

To find listings for a US residence, type any of the following combinations into the Google search box:

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• first name (or first initial), last name, city (state is optional) • first name (or first initial), last name, state • first name (or first initial), last name, area code • first name (or first initial), last name, zip code • phone number, including area code • last name, city, state • last name, zip code

Q&A Want to know the population of Japan? What currency is used in Algeria? The birthplace of Bono? Hit us with a fact-based question or query (like "population of Japan") by typing it into the Google search box. We'll search the web and display the answer at the top of your search results page. We also link to our source for this information so that you can learn even more. example: population of Japan Google Search

Refine Your Search For searches within certain topics, you'll notice links at the top of the search results page that help you quickly narrow your search.

These links are labels that have been assigned to certain WebPages. Organisations, businesses, and individuals can label websites in the topics they know best.

example: back pain Google Search

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Results Prefetching

On some searches, Google automatically instructs your browser to start downloading the top search result before you click on it. If you click on top result, the destination page will load faster than before.

Google uses a special prefetching feature in Firefox and Mozilla web browsers to provide this functionality, so results prefetching is not available in Internet Explorer or other web browsers.

Similar Pages

When you click on the "Similar Pages" link for a search result, Google automatically scouts the web for pages that are related to this result.

The Similar Pages feature can be used for many purposes. If you like a particular site's content, but wish it had more to say, Similar Pages can find sites with similar content with which you may be unfamiliar. If you are looking for product information, Similar Pages can find competitive information so you can make direct comparisons. If you are interested in researching a particular field, Similar Pages can help you find a large number of resources very quickly, without having to worry about selecting the right keywords.

The more specialized a page is, the fewer results Google will be able to find for you. For example, Similar Pages may not be able to find related pages for your personal home page if it does not have enough information to authoritatively associate other pages with yours. Also, if companies use multiple URLs for their pages (such as company.com and www.company.com), Similar Pages may have little information on one URL, but lots on the other. In general, however, Similar Pages works well for the majority of web pages.

Google ... Advertise with Us - Business Solutions - Services & Tools - Jobs,Press, & Help ©2004 Google - Searching 4,285,199,774 web pages. www.google.com/ - 3k - Mar 26, 2004 - Cached - » Similar pages «

Site Search

The word "site" followed by a colon enables you to restrict your search to a specific site. To do this, use the site:sampledomain.com syntax in the Google search box. For example, to find admission information on Stanford's site, enter:

example: admission site:www.stanford.edu Google Search

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Spell Checker

Google's spell checking software automatically looks at your query and checks to see if you are using the most common version of a word's spelling. If it calculates that you're likely to generate more relevant search results with an alternative spelling, it will ask "Did you mean: (more common spelling)?". Clicking on the suggested spelling will launch a Google search for that term. Because Google's spell check is based on occurrences of all words on the Internet, it is able to suggest common spellings for proper nouns (names and places) that might not appear in a standard spell check programme or dictionary.

Street Maps To use Google to find street maps, enter a U.S. street address, including zip code or city/ state (e.g. 165 University Ave Palo Alto CA), in the Google search box. Often, the street address and city name will be enough. example: 165 University Ave Palo Alto CA Google Search

When Google recognises your query as a map request, we'll return links from Google Maps and other high quality map providers that will lead you directly to the relevant map.

Travel Information

To see delays and weather conditions at a particular airport, type the airport's three letter code followed by the word "airport." For example, San Francisco International Airport updates can be found by searching for "sfo airport."

example: sfo airport Google Search

To check the status of a U.S. flight, type the name of the airline followed by the flight number. For example, to see the status for United Airlines flight 134 search for "United 134."

example: united 134 Google Search

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Weather

To see weather conditions and a four-day forecast for a particular U.S. location, type "weather," followed by the location. Usually a city name will be enough, but you may also want to include a state or zip code. For example, to see Palo Alto weather, you could search for "weather palo alto, ca" or "weather palo alto 94301."

example: weather palo alto, ca Google Search

Web Page Translation

Google breaks the language barrier with this translation feature. Using machine translation technology, Google now gives you the ability to access web pages in languages other than your own. Currently, Google offers the following translation pairs: English to and from Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Korean, Japanese, Spanish, and Portuguese; and German to and from French.

If your search results contain a page in one of these languages, and we support your translation pair, you can translate that page into your language with a single click.

Répertoire Web de Google - World > Français - » [ Translate this page ] « ... Modifié par Google - ©2003 Google Aide du répertoire Google - À propos - Google in English. directory.google.com/Top/World/ - 7k - Mar 26, 2004 - Cached - Similar pages

Who Links To You?

Some words, when followed by a colon, have special meanings to Google. One such word for Google is the link: operator. The query link:siteURL shows you pages that point to that URL. For example, link:www.google.com will show you pages that point to Google's home page. You cannot combine a link: search with a regular keyword search.

example: link:www.google.com Google Search

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iv. Search Tips

Here are some basic tips to help you maximize the effectiveness of your search:

Choosing search terms

Choosing the right search terms is the key to finding the information you need.

Start with the obvious – if you're looking for general information on Hawaii, try Hawaii.

But it's often advisable to use multiple search terms; if you're planning a Hawaiian vacation, you'll do better with vacation Hawaii than with either vacation or Hawaii by themselves. And vacation Hawaii golf may produce even better (or, depending on your perspective, worse) results.

vacation Hawaii golf Google Search

Capitalization

Google searches are NOT case sensitive. All letters, regardless of how you type them, will be understood as lower case. For example, searches for george washington, George Washington, and gEoRgE wAsHiNgToN will all return the same results.

Automatic "and" queries

By default, Google only returns pages that include all of your search terms. There is no need to include "and" between terms. Keep in mind that the order in which the terms are typed will affect the search results. To restrict a search further, just include more terms. For example, to plan a vacation to Hawaii, simply type vacation hawaii.

vacation hawaii Google Search

Phrase searches

Sometimes you'll only want results that include an exact phrase. In this case, simply put quotation marks around your search terms.

" the long and winding road" Google Search

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Phrase searches are particularly effective if you're searching for proper names ("George Washington"), lyrics ("the long and winding road"), or other famous phrases ("This was their finest hour").

Negative terms

If your search term has more than one meaning (bass, for example, could refer to fishing or music) you can focus your search by putting a minus sign ("-") in front of words related to the meaning you want to avoid.

For example, here's how you'd find pages about bass-heavy lakes, but not bass-heavy music:

bass -music Google Search

Note: when you include a negative term in your search, be sure to include a space before the minus sign.

+ and – qualifiers

If you prepend a word with + that word is required to be on the page.

If you prepend a word with - that word is required to not be on the page.

Example: +always -never

* wildcard

If a query word ends with a * all words on a page which start the same way as that query word will match.

Example: gift*

? wildcard

If a query word contains a ? any character will match that position.

Example: b?g

boolean search

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You can use the following boolean operators in your search: AND, OR, NOT. These operators MUST be in capital letters.

Example: (contact AND us) OR (about AND us)

Exercises:

1. Explore different Search Engines. 2. Search the information in Google with using the keyword Ministry of

Agriculture, Bhutan. Open another Google page and search the information using the keyword “Ministry of Agriculture, Bhutan”, and note the difference in the two result pages.

3. Find the definition of Agriculture using Google. 4. Carry out basic arithmetic calculations using Google. 5. Search images of Yak using Google. 6. Find the answer to the question “Altitude of Bhutan” using Google. 7. Find the weather information about Thimphu using Google.

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Contents 1. Why is File Management important?.......................................................................... 322 2. What is hierarchy system? .......................................................................................... 322 3. Computer file management......................................................................................... 323

i. Storage media ...................................................................................................... 323 ii. Folders and Files................................................................................................. 324 iii. Saving a Document............................................................................................ 325 iv. Moving and Copying a File ............................................................................... 326 v. Retrieving a File.................................................................................................. 326

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1. Why is File Management important?

File management is important for easy track for your documents on where you have kept and how you have kept. Storing files in computer is like storing documents in file cabinets. You determine which drawer, and then place the document in an appropriate folder. Most file cabinets are sorted so that the folders are in alphabetical order. This allows you to find a particular folder quickly. Some folders may contain sub-folders. There is no limit to how many sub-folders there can be. Files can only be created from two sources: you or your computer. You should store your data files in a separate location from the system files.

2. What is hierarchy system?

Refers to systems that are organised in the shape of a pyramid, with each row of objects linked to objects directly beneath it. Hierarchical systems pervade everyday life. The army, for example, which has generals at the top of the pyramid and privates at the bottom, is a hierarchical system. Similarly, the system for classifying plants and animals according to species, family, genus, and so on, is also hierarchical.

Hierarchical systems are as popular in computer systems as they are in other walks of life. The most obvious example of a hierarchical system in computers is a file system, in which directories have files and subdirectories beneath them. Such a file organisation is, in fact, called a hierarchical file system.

Royal Government of Bhutan

Ministry of Agriculture Ministry of Information

Dept of Livestock Dept of Agriculture Dept of Forestry Dept of Information Technology

Dept of Aviation

Cattle

Poultry

Application

Infrastructure

Promotion

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In computer system:

In addition to file systems, many data structures for storing information are hierarchical in form. Menu-driven programmes are also hierarchical, because they contain a root menu at the top of the pyramid and submenus below it.

3. Computer file management

The following tutorial is designed to acquaint you with basic procedures related to data storage and retrieval. Every time you create a document, the first thing you need to do is to save it. But the question is: Where? If you need to continue working on that same document a week later, you will need to know how to retrieve it.

i. Storage media

Storage devices: Knowing how a computer stores data is essential for creating, storing and retrieving your own files. A computer stores data on a disk drive, which could be local or remote. Different types of drives are possible; your computer may have all or some in the list that follows:

D:/

Projects Personal Files Trainings

VERCON GTZ

Manual.doc

Material.xls

Pictures Docs Computer Gardening

Ugyen&I.jpg

Gangtey.jpg

Loan.xls

inventory

Basic.doc

Page editors.doc

VERCON Manuals

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Floppy drive. This is the drive (accessible from the outside of the computer) into which you can insert and/or remove a floppy disk. One floppy diskette will hold 1.4 MB of data. If your file size is larger than 1.4 MB, it will not fit into one floppy diskette.

This drive is normally designated as the "A" drive.

Hard drive. This is the internal storage unit of your computer. Normally, you will install programmes on it and store your data on it. You cannot see the hard drive

unless you remove the case of the computer.

This drive is normally designated as the "C" drive. If you have a large hard drive, it may be divided into two (or more) parts. In this case, you will have a "C" drive, a "D" drive and so on.

CD/DVD-ROM/RW drive. It will temporarily hold a CD or DVD (computer programme, music CD, movie DVD). Depending on the drive characteristics, it

could read, and/or write new CD's and DVD's. A CD can hold about 650 MB (standard) of data, where as a DVD can hold about 4.7GB of data.

Zip or Jazz drive. These are high-capacity storage drives (one diskette will hold 100MB or 250MB of data on a Zip drive or as much as 2 Gigabytes of data on a Jazz drive). As a rule, these drives are external--they sit next to your computer and are attached to it by a cable. Some

computers come equipped with an internal zip or jazz drive.

Remote drive. You may also store your files in hard disks located not in your local computer, but in a remote server provided that you have a network connection and access to that server.

You can see what drives you have on your computer by looking inside the "My Computer" icon on the Windows desktop. You can also view what's on each drive by using your left mouse button to double-click on the A, C, or D icon.

ii. Folders and Files

Think of your disk drive as one big file cabinet. You will stash your work in the file cabinet. But you shouldn't just throw documents in without any organisational structure.

Folders provide that organisational structure to a disk drive, just as they do in a file cabinet. First, you will put labeled folders into your cabinet/drive. Each folder will have a name. When you view the contents of a disk drive, folders are normally listed in alphabetical order.

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Inside the folder, you will put your documents. In order to be able to find your documents later within an overstuffed folder, you will give each document a name. On a PC, it is wise to use the following naming conventions for both folders and files:

• A file name is made up of two parts: (1) the name of the document and (2) the file extension. You may name a file anything you wish, but it is preferable to name a file something you are likely to remember later.

• File names should be no longer than 8 characters whenever possible. Although Windows (and Mac) allow longer file names, you may get in problems while transferring files to other computers if you use longer file names. Also, use only letters and numbers in your file names. Special characters like "-", "/", "&", or blank spaces must be avoided in the file name.

• The second part of a file name is the extension. In the file text.doc, the word text is the file name and the .doc is the extension. A period (dot) always separates the two. The extension identifies what kind of a document you have. Some examples of file extensions are:

o .txt : plain text o .doc : Microsoft Word Document o .htm or .html : Web document o .gif , .jpg , .bmp : image o .ppt : PowerPoint Presentation

iii. Saving a Document

There is no great mystery about saving documents. A document will go wherever you put it. However, if you don't pay attention, it's likely to end up where you least expect it. A few tips about saving documents:

1. What drive is it on? You can save it anywhere; the floppy disk, the hard drive inside the computer, a zip/jazz drive (external), or on a remote location on a server. You have to tell the computer where you want it.

2. What folder is it in? Once you've chosen the drive, you must then select the folder. You can put it in any folder you want.

3. What is the name of the file? You can call it anything you like, but take in account some filename conventions. Play it safe, and use only 8-character file names. For consistency, use all lowercase letters in filenames.

4. What is the extension? If you have created a MS Word document, be sure the extension is .doc. If it's a webpage, the extension should be .htm or .html (also it could be .asp, .php, etc.)

Paths Once a file or folder has been saved, it will have a specific address on the computer, just as you have one for your home. This “address" or where a file lives, is called a path. Here's an example:

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c:\vercon\limukha\training.doc

This path says the following: This file is stored on the "C" drive (c:\), in the folder called "vercon", in the "limukha" folder. The file is named "training.doc" and it is an MS Word document because it has a .doc extension on it. Notice that each level of the hierarchy is separated by a backslash "\". The highest level is the drive; the lowest level is the file name.

iv. Moving and Copying a File

There will be times when you need to change the location of a file. You may want to copy it from one folder to another on a drive, or you may want to copy it from the hard drive to a diskette (or vice versa). Or you may simply want to move it to another location without making another copy of it. Moving and copying files from one place to another is relatively simple. However, a few warnings are in order:

1. If you are copying from the hard drive to a diskette, watch out for the size of your files. Hard drives are large capacity storage areas. Diskettes will hold only 1.4 MB of data. For text files, this is usually not a problem, since they tend to be rather small. But, once you get into multimedia files (images, sound or video), you may have a serious problem since these files tend to be enormous (especially sound and video). Check the size of the file before you attempt to copy it onto a disk if you suspect it might be quite large. This is also true of PowerPoint presentation files.

2. If your file is larger than 1.4 MB, you can either zip the file (compress it) or save it onto a zip drive. Also, you may burn a CD.

Moving vs. Copying

Moving a file means just that: you have one copy of a file that you remove from one location and place in another. You start out with one copy of a file and you end up with one copy of the file in a different place. When you drag and drop a file from one folder to another folder on the same drive, you are moving it. Copying a file means that you make a second copy of the same file and store it in a different location. You start out with one copy of a file and end up with two, each in a different location.

v. Retrieving a File

Retrieving a file is simple, once you know how to save a file. It's the same process in reverse. Let's assume that yesterday you saved a file named "test.doc". Today, you want to go back and add to it. So instead of creating a new file you will OPEN an existing file.

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When we try to open a file, a dialogue box will open up. This box is asking us what file we want to work on. We have to choose the file. In order to choose it, we will have to follow the same steps we followed when we saved it:

• What drive is the file on? • What folder is it in? • What is the name of the file?

Finding a File

Retrieving a document is quite simple IF you remember where you put it in the first place. But you will need some method for retrieving files when you can't remember where you put it. Several methods are possible:

• Seek and you will find. You could always open up and look in each and every folder on your drive or disk until you find it. This is not too efficient.

• A better method is:

Win: to click on START then FIND (or SEARCH) then FILES OR FOLDERS

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Contents What is PDF file format…………………………………………………………........330

i. The advantages of PDF files………………………………………………….330 ii. CutePDF printer: Conversion tool…………………………………………….330

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What is PDF file format?

PDF: Portable Document Format. A file format that enables a document to be distributed on different systems while preserving the layout (.pdf). PDF files preserves the fonts, images, graphics, and layout of any source document, regardless of the application and platform used to create it. To view the PDF files, an application software called “Acrobat Reader” is required.

i. The Advantages of PDF Files • A PDF file is a “read only” document that cannot be altered. • PDF files preserves the fonts, images, graphics, and layout of any source document,

regardless of the application and platform used to create it. • Files can be used across platforms. It is a document format that represents a

document in a manner independent of the hardware, operating system and application software used to create the document. It was designed to enable documents to be transferred and shared across computer platforms. If your system uses multiple platforms it is not a problem when using PDF Files. A PDF document created in one platform such as Windows can be read in another platform such as Macintosh or Unix. This cross platform acceptability makes PDF the document of choice to use over a network, the internet or an intranet.

ii. CutePDF printer: Conversion tool CutePDF printer is an application software used to convert (any) file to PDF format.

1. Install the CutePDF printer 2. Open the file which is to be converted to PDF 3. Go to File -> Print

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4. Select CutePDF printer from printer select dialog box

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5. Select the location to save the (PDF) file in the “Save as” dialog box, enter the file name and click Save button.

6. The file is converted into PDF format.

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Contents

1. CD-ROM................................................................................................................. 333

i. Introduction.......................................................................................................... 333 ii. CD-R................................................................................................................... 333 iii. CD-RW.............................................................................................................. 333

2. How to write CD..................................................................................................... 333

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1. CD-ROM

i. Introduction CD-ROM – Compact Disc, Read-Only Memory. It is a high-density storage medium for computer programmes and data. CD-ROM drives come in many styles. They are both external and internal. They also come in different speeds. The speed is denoted in terms of how much faster it is than a standard audio CD player. Therefore a 2X drive is twice the speed of your stereo’s CD player, and so on. Technology has advanced quite a bit. Today, 24X, 32X all the way up to near 50X is quite common. CD-ROM drives are included in just about every PC on the market today. They are pretty simple at the end-user level, but there is a lot more to know about CD-ROM drives than most users care to know. CDs are now the main medium for distribution of software. A single CD can hold about 650 MB of data whereas a diskette can hold only about 1.44 MB of data. There are two broad categories of CDs:

ii. CD-R Compact Disk-Recordable. Once the data is stored, it cannot be erased and re-recorded. Data can be written only once. For large-scale duplication of data into CD, CD-R is preferred.

iii. CD-RW Compact Disk-Rewritable. A type of CD disk that enables you to write onto it multiple times, like a floppy disk.

7. How to write CD Nero is one of the most popular CD writing software. The following tutorial is based on Nero 7. Before starting this tutorial, Nero 7 software should be already installed in the computer and the CD drive should be CD/DVD writer.

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Steps: 1. Insert a blank CD into the CD-drive. 2. Click Start -> Programmes -> Nero 7 Premium -> Nero SmartStart

3. Select “Make Data CD”.

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4. The right side of the window shows the files stored in the computer and the left side of shows the files to be written to the CD. Browse the files on the right side and drag-and-drop to the left side. The green bar on the bottom of the window shows the size of the files to be written. If the bar crosses the yellow line, it indicates the warning that the size of the files is going beyond the CD capacity. If the bar crosses the red line, the files cannot be written to the CD because the size is bigger than the CD capacity.

5. After selecting the files and making sure that the size is within the capacity of the CD,

click on button. 6. Select the default values from the following dialog box and click “Burn” button:

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8. The files are now being written (burnt) to the CD. It may take several minutes

depending on the size of the files being written.

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Contents

1. Common Problems………………………………………………………………..338 2. Routine Maintenance……………………………………………………………...338 3. Maintenance Tips for day-today life……………………………………………...339 4. Troubleshooting…………………………………………………………………...339

i. Modem Troubleshooting………………………………………………………340 ii. Troubleshooting Computer Case and Power Supply………………………….341

iii. Troubleshooting CRT Monitor………………………………………………..342 iv. Troubleshooting Mouse……………………………………………………….342 v. Troubleshooting Keyboard……………………………………………………343

vi. Troubleshooting Printer……………………………………………………….343 vii. Troubleshooting a Scanner……………………………………………………345

viii. Troubleshooting Video Card………………………………………………….346 ix. Sound Card Troubleshooting………………………………………………….347

5. Hands-on Practices………………………………………………………………..348 i. System Information……………………………………...……………………348

ii. Start-up Programmes………………………………………………………….350 iii. Installing Programmes………………………………………………………...351 iv. Uninstalling Programmes……………………………………………………..352 v. System Cleanup……………………………………………………………….352

vi. Deleting Temp Files…………………………………………………………..354 vii. Temporary Internet Files…………………………………………………...…355

viii. Defragmenting the hard disk………………………………………………….355

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1. Common Problems

Before deciding that your computer is not working anymore, please check the following:

1) If the base unit or monitor isn't working, is the power switched on? Are all power cables securely connected?

2) No monitor picture - is the brightness or contrast turned all the way down? Is the monitor cable securely connected to the PC?

3) No sound - are the speakers plugged in and switched on? Is the speaker cable securely connected to the PC? Is the volume control turned all the way down?

4) Keyboard error - is the keyboard cable securely connected to the PC? Is something lying on one of the keys?

5) Printer won't print - is the printer plugged in and switched on? Is the printer cable securely connected to the PC? Are the correct printer drivers installed? Will the printer print a test page (see owner's manual for instructions)?

If all else fails, please have as much information as possible available when you get in touch e.g. what you were doing when the problem first started, what you were doing immediately before the problem started, any error messages that you are receiving, etc.

2. Routine Maintenance

Not all computer problems can be prevented, but a little love and attention goes a long way. Here are 5 cheap, quick, and easy things that you can do to keep your PC in good condition: 1) Keep it clean. Dust and dirt can clog fans inside the computer, prevent proper ventilation, and in extreme cases cause short circuits. The outside cases of the PC and monitor can be wiped down with a damp clean lint-free cloth. Keyboards can either be cleaned off with a keyboard wipe (available from any good computer/office supplies store), or in the case of a spill soaked in distilled, demineralized water. Mouse rollers should be cleaned with a swab soaked in isopropyl alcohol. The internals of the PC should be periodically cleaned with a can of compressed air...do NOT use a vacuum cleaner or you may cause electrostatic discharge damage. Finally always remember to disconnect the power from any component before cleaning it, and never reconnect the power until you are 100% certain that it is dry.

2) Install anti-virus software, and keep it updated. Norton Anti-Virus is a top notch package with a high detection rate and excellent support. If you are connected to the Internet, It can also update itself in the background so you don't forget!

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3) Defragment your hard drive. Over time the files on your hard drive get scattered all over the place, and this slows down access to the drive. Microsoft Windows 95/98/2000/XP include disk defragmentation software which should be run at least monthly, and preferably more often if the system is used regularly.

4) Backup your system regularly. This is probably the most often ignored rule in computing, but it is one of the most important things to be done.

5) Uninstall unused programmes, and do it the right way. With hard drives getting bigger all the time, it's very tempting to install all kinds of programmes on your system. Many programmes get used a couple of times and then sit hogging space and bloating the registry for no good reason. Don't just delete the programme folder though as this is asking for trouble. Use the "Add/Remove Programmes" applet in the Windows? Control Panel to remove software cleanly and safely.

5) Do keep at least 100 MBs of your C: drive free for Windows to use. If you use Windows Me or Windows XP then you should have 300 MBs or more of free space on your C: drive.

3. Maintenance Tips for day-to-day life

1. Never turn your computer off with the power switch until Windows has shut down.

2. We highly recommend that you purchase and use UPS (uninterruptible power supply).

3. Backup, backup, backup, any data you cannot afford to lose.

4. Never unplug peripherals from the computer when it is powered up.

5. Do not let a lot of programmes load up when you start your computer.

6. Do use a virus checker regularly.

7. If you have a high speed Internet connection you need a firewall programme.

8. Keep track of the software disks you receive with your computer and new peripherals.

4. Troubleshooting

During emergency when there is no ICT firm near your locality or when the Information and Communication specialist of VERCON cannot come to attend your problem instantly

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due to time and distance, so you might have to carry out your own troubleshooting by reading those tips.

i. Modem Troubleshooting

Modems like everything else do go nuts on you. For the most part the troubles are just with the software driver or just invalid settings. There is also a chance that another device is conflicting with the modem you have. For some reason my mouse has come into this picture before causing problems. If you are experiencing a problem with your modem such as conflicts with resources, try changing COM ports. This can fix your problem in most cases. If this doesn't help or you think that your modem is software related, reinstall the modem's driver. This can be done with the software that came with the modem.

Change Com Ports:

1. At start menu click settings 2. Click control panel 3. Click modems 4. Highlight the modem and then click properties 5. Select an unused COM port for the modem and hit OK

If you are having problems with dialing your internet provider check and make sure the properties are correct in your dial up networking.

1. At start menu 2. Click programmes 3. Click accessories 4. Click communications or dial up networking

This varies from Windows 95 and 98. You can also go to settings>control panel> dial up networking.

5. Double click your ISP (internet service provider) connection. Verify all information on the tabs is correct with your ISP.

This seems to be the most common problem when connecting to the internet. It usually is an IP number that is wrong or not added. You may have your login name wrong or password. If you are having problems with a faulty driver or just plain don't have one. You can reinstall or install one this way. There are other methods that are easier. Try using the installation disk first. If this doesn’t work then do it manually.

1. At start menu click settings 2. Click control panel

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3. Slick system 4. Slick device tab 5. Slick on your modem in the list 6. Slick for properties of the modem 7. Slick update drive or a driver tab 8. Have installation disk ready and let it search for the driver and reinstall it for you.

ii. Troubleshooting Computer Case and Power Supply

Computer Case:

The computer case doesn't require much troubleshooting nor does it go bad that often. One component of the case that will and does go bad is the power supply. So what can you do when it goes bad? Replace it, or buy a new case with a new power supply installed.

Power Supply

Here are some common symptoms of power supply problems:

• Flickering and Dimming Lights • Keyboard or System lock-ups (Don't Blame Windows) • Random Shutdowns and Reboots

Again, don't underestimate the power supply. Who is to say it’s not the Operating System that has caused you failures? Check some things out before spending money on parts. If you know and have identified this as a problem think about a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supplies). This can also solve underpowerment. Also think about how many devices are hooked up to one circuit in your system. If you have some power hogs taking up the juice you need this could be a problem. For the most part power problems can be caught if it just flickering or dimming lights. We all know this one, but random shut downs can really throw you for a loop.

Now what are some very common signs of the power supply is going to fail on you? This is pretty much common sense and you can miss it.

• Fan Noise has become excessive • No Fan Noise • The Power Supply Chassis is extremely hot

Another thing, do not attempt to mess with the insides of power supply. Even if the fan is bad simply replace the whole supply.

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In these modern times power supplies aren't something you ignore. The minimum power recommended is 480w.

Do not buy a cheap unbranded power supply. Some quality and well know manufactures of power supplies are: Antec, Tagen, Enermax, OCZ.

iii. Troubleshooting CRT Monitor

When a monitor goes badly you are usually stuck with replacing it. The number one thing to remember is never to try and fix it from the inside yourself. This can kill you! Even when the monitor has been unplugged from the wall for a while. A lethal charge will remain in the monitor for a good amount of time; this is stored in the capacitor.

Now what are some things to look at when troubleshooting monitor problems? Most of these are fairly common and easily fixed. Again not from the inside though.

Most of the time, your problems are with the cabling or interference from other devices.

Interference can be caused by uneven electrical currents, interference from speakers, fans, and telephones, bad connection through cabling and cabling over length.

Electrical currents can cause some real strange problems as with the rest of the computer. You may already know what a culprit surge protectors or even the power supply of the computer can be. If you suspect that your power supply or surge protector is causing the problems simply plug the monitor into the wall separately.

Another way to remedy this is to purchase a (UPS). Uninterruptible Power Supply, this will take up the slack in the line. The UPS can also help out in those power outage times.

iv. Troubleshooting Mouse

Troubleshooting the mouse comes down to replacement in most cases. The mouse can and does go bad. Most of your problems with this are due to bad care of the mouse. Its always a good idea to just clean the insides of the mouse.

Also take note that if your mouse is functioning incorrectly it may be the cable itself, connector, keypads, or just worn parts that are causing you trouble. Sometimes just cleaning it can renew the life in the mouse. Before jumping to conclusions on your mouse, go ahead and clean it first.

Cleaning the mouse

Shut system down and unplug mouse from port.

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While unplugging look and make sure no pins are broke or missing on your connections.

Turn mouse over and twist ball plate. You may need to push down on plate while turning.

Remove ball and clean it.

Place ball back in and put ball plate back together securely

Preventive Maintenance

Try keeping work space clean. Clean your mouse pad itself and replace it as needed. Mouse pads have a tendency of growing fur after a while and getting nylon fragments into the mouse. Make a habit of cleaning the mouse regularly and your mouse will make it for years.

v. Troubleshooting Keyboard

The keyboard seems to be one of those parts that go bad real quick when you spill soda on it. The best thing to do is keep all liquids off the desktop. Keyboards in general work well and take a good beating. Sometimes keys and key pad sensors will go bad. This is just normal wear and tear on the keyboard.

Now if you spilt a liquid on the keyboard you may want to remove one key at a time and clean underneath them. This will take a while. If this doesn't sound like a good idea then we can clean it with compressed air by blowing it under the malfunctioning key. This may not do much good if the liquid is soda or something with sugar in it. Yes, it will dry but the keyboard will have a tendency to stick. Now if a key is sticking you can pry key off with some finesse and clean with alcohol.

Another common problem is keyboard isn't sending a signal to the computer. Check connection first. If this seems to be okay then your keyboard may be faulty itself. If your keyboard is a constant problem simply replace it and forget about it.

vi. Troubleshooting Printer

Most of the troubleshooting in a printer is the software or the settings of the printer in your software.

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Laser Printers

Laser printers are the worst for getting nasty and causing all kinds of problems in printing. The first thing you should look into is cleaning the printer. Use a paint brush (not a used one) and some compressed air.

The main reason a laser printer will not work is the toner itself. The toner is loaded with iron oxide making it somewhat dirty to begin with and abrasive. The static charges that are involved in laser printing can attract dust on top of all the other problems. So keeping the printer is important.

Ink Jet

Your most typical problems with the inkjet printer aren’t so different from the laser printers. You will also get a build up of dirt, hair, paper, and any other act of god on the inside. Cleaning an ink jet printer should be done with compressed air.

Here are some easy tips when diagnosing the printer and what the problem is.

1. Check the printer cable first. 2. Check power. 3. Check and make sure printer is online. 4. Check paper, toner and ink. These are common to go out and need replacement. 5. Try a print test page. There may be a button on the printer itself that will do a test

page for you. If the page prints out you know that the problem isn't the printer itself.

6. Look at your printer settings. Make sure you are sending to the proper printer. Is the right one installed?

7. Inspect any pass through device such as parallel switchers. Inspect the cable itself. I have bought new printer cables that were faulty.

If the printer still does not work, follow the following steps:

1. Go to control panel in windows and select Printers. 2. Select your printer and then click file, properties. 3. Choose Details 4. Look and see if the printer is pointed towards LPT1 port. If not then change it.

Now if that isn't the problem and the printer is pointing towards the LPT1 port we need to look at Windows Device Manager.

1. Go to control panel windows and select Systems. 2. Select Device Manager Tab. 3. Look down the list and sport ports. Double click.

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4. Check for any exclamation points or a question mark. If this exists you may have a conflict.

5. If so double click the port with the problem and choose resources tab. 6. Under the resources tab look at the last box. Does it say "conflicts"? 7. If a conflict exist simply uncheck "automatic settings" and click "Change settings" 8. You can now change the IRQ. If unsure which to try then click one at a time and

see if it will show a conflict on the return dialog box.

If you changed an IRQ setting you will need to go into the BIOS and change this also.

1. Reboot Computer, hit delete key or corresponding setup key before windows starts.

2. Look for peripheral settings and change the settings for the LPT1 port to what you changed in the windows device manager.

vii. Troubleshooting a Scanner

The main problem with scanners is usually the parallel port itself. If you do not have the port configured correctly in the BIOS you can run into problems scanning. Another problem is simply the software. Some of the software bundles are a little less than desirable. If so try uninstalling software and reinstalling it again. This can help any corrupted files and drivers. I will explain how to do both below.

BIOS

Take a peek into your BIOS. This is done usually by hitting the delete key while boot up. Make sure and hit it while the memory is counting so not to make it to windows. When in BIOS look at some of your system resources for the parallel port. You may want to set this port for bi-directional. This can help with your problems. Also note that trying to use the printer and scanner at the same time will not work. If this seems to be a problem get a parallel switch.

Uninstall and Install

Now if you want to try re-installing the software you can do it in two ways. You can uninstall the old software or simply go through the scanners set-up programme again. This is preferred so not to lose valuable data you may have. Make sure your scanners software is in the CD-Drive prior to installing.

1. Go to start button and click settings 2. Click control panel 3. Click add/remove programmes

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4. Choose scanner software in list to remove or choose install at top of display to reinstall scanner software

5. Simply choose the D:\ or CD-ROM drive and hit next 6. This will usually bring up a setup.exe 7. Install programme 8. If asked to reboot, do so.

If you couldn't get it to work this way you can try it manually by using the Run command under the start button. If still lost on this one refer to the documentation of scanner.

viii. Troubleshooting Video Card

The Video Card can cause you some real aggravations to say the least. Problems seem to range from out of control IRQ's and bad drivers. The worst of these is having a card set to overdrive your monitor; if the monitor can’t handle it you may have even more problems. Some of the most common problems associated with the Video Card are refresh rates, resolutions settings, and colour depth settings. Thankfully most of these can be fixed by going into the control panel of Windows or getting a better monitor to support your Video Card.

Now how do you tell if your monitor is getting too much to handle from the Video Card? Here are some symptoms:

• Image's appear scrambled of distorted • Shrunken or even multiple instances of an Image • High pitched whine from the monitor • Blank Screen

If any of these are caught right off you are in good shape. When a display is left overdriven is when you can look at possible replacement. So, how do you suppose you are to fix this? The control panel is the first place we should look into.

1. With your mouse on the Desktop right click, choose properties. 2. In the Display Properties dialog choose settings 3. Click on drop down list where colour palette exist, choose a lower resolution. 4. Click "Apply", you may be asked to restart computer if so restart.

Different monitors can handle different refresh rates at certain resolutions. The recommended refresh rate is at least 85Hz for CRT monitors and resolutions range from 1024x768 to 1600x1200. A small monitor isn't going to handle a large resolution like 1600x1200 at 85Hz and if you try to select this the monitor will not display an image. Check your monitor specs to check its capabilities and install the correct monitor drivers, this will not allow the user to select a resolution/refresh the monitor cannot handle.

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Dark Screen

Now what about some other problems such as a black empty screen? This can be corrected in a few different ways or at least an attempt.

1. First check cable and make sure its tight and secure to the Video Card 2. Make sure the monitor on 3. Shut system down and make sure Video Card hasn't lost its seat. This can happen

when system has been moved. 4. Try rebooting

Drivers Drivers are the most important thing to a graphics card. As new cards and new games come out, there are bound to be slight bugs and tweaks that will be needed to make the display proper. It is recommended you keep up to date with new drivers.

ix. Sound Card Troubleshooting

The sound card can have an assortment of problems. It's outside the scope of this page to address all of them. Most of the time using windows troubleshooter should help find the problem. If there are conflicts with the system look in the systems folder in the control panel for more information.

One thing that a sound card is prone to is EMF (electromagnetic field). The electromagnetic signals from other components in the system itself can cause problems. The best way to cure this is move the sound card as far away from other components as possible. Another note about sound card (sound blaster compatible) is they need three things to run correctly.

• IRQ (Interrupt Request) • Direct Memory Access (DMA) • Memory Address

If any one of these especially the IRQ are conflicted with on another device you will have problems. The most common is an IRQ conflict. You may need to change the IRQ of the sound card. Or even change BUS types if all else fails. An overloaded system can cut down on available resources on a system very quickly.

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5. Hands-on Practices

i. System Information It is necessary to find the system information to check the capacity of the system, what programmes and devices are installed, find out the hardware trouble troubles, etc. To find the system information: 1. Right Click on My Computer and click on Properties

2. Click on the different tabs to see the system information.

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For detailed system information, go to: Start -> Programmes -> Accessories -> System Tools -> System Information.

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ii. Start up programmes

Virtually all applications you install using the default installation these days decide that they should start-up when Windows starts. It will lead to a situation where different programmes “pops” up at the system start up. This will cause the slow starting of the system.

Following is the snapshot of the system at start up with different programmes popping up before becoming ready to use:

How to “disable” these start-up programmes?

Use the "System Configuration Utility" (MSCONFIG) to identify startup programmes. MSCONFIG is available for all Win9x/Me/2K/XP users.

1. Click Start -> Run.

2. In the Open box, type msconfig followed by enter.

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3. Once displayed, click on the "Startup" tab. You will see a list of items that (if ticked) run at the system start up.

4. Disable (uncheck) the programmes that you do not want to run at start up. Click OK. Usually, the system needs to be restarted to effect the changes.

iii. Installing Programmes Installing Software from a CD-ROM

1. Press the CD-ROM drive button to open the CD-ROM drive. 2. Carefully insert the CD-ROM, label side up in the CD-ROM drive. Make sure it is

seated properly and lies flat.

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3. Press the CD-ROM drive button to close the CD-ROM drive. 4. In most cases, a window opens automatically. An installation programme starts.

Just follow the directions. 5. If no window opens, Click Start > Settings > Control Panel. Double-click 6. Add/Remove Programmes. Click Install, and then click Next. Windows

automatically looks for the installation programme on your CD-ROM. Continue to follow the instructions on the screen.

7. When you are done, carefully remove the CD-ROM from the drive and put it away.

8. Try out your new programme! Often you see a window on your desktop and you can start the programme by double-clicking the application's icon. Otherwise, choose Start > Programmes and click the programme on your programme list.

Installing Software that You Downloaded from the Internet

1. Once you have found a site that lets you download software you want, follow the instructions on the site. It is helpful to print the instructions before you download so you can have them afterwards.

2. During the download, you usually see a Download window that lets you know the progress of the download.

3. Follow the directions that you have from the Web site. The programme may install automatically or you may need to double-click the file you downloaded to start installation.

4. Try out your new programme! Often you see a window on your desktop and you can start the programme by double-clicking the application's icon. Otherwise, choose Start > Programmes and click the programme on your programme list.

iv. Uninstalling Programmes 1. Click Start > Settings > Control Panel. 2. Double-click Add/Remove Programmes 3. Select the programme you want to remove by a single click on it. 4. Click on the button "Change/Remove"; follow the instructions on the screen. Note: Delete the programmes only if you are sure what you are removing. Removing some of the programmes will make the system malfunction.

v. System Cleanup System Cleanup utility will clean the system of unnecessary files that are stored in the system like Recycle Bin, Temporary Internet files, etc.

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Steps 1. Go to Start -> Programmes -> Accessories -> System Tools -> Disk Cleanup

2. Select the drive you want to cleanup.

3. Select the options you want to cleanup and click OK.

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vi. Deleting Temp Files When Windows crashes, or locks up and you have to use Ctrl+Alt+Del to restart, some temporary files will be left on your disk. Some installation routines will also leave temporary files behind. These files will be left in your \Documents and Settings\your username\Local Settings\Temp folder. These temporary files will eat up the hard disk space. You can use Windows Explorer to find and delete these files. To be on the safe side, don’t delete files with today’s date; these files could still be in use.

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vii. Temporary Internet Files The computer system stores temporary files especially when you browse the WWW. To speed up the download time, the browser stores pages, graphics and other page elements in a cache. These temporary files will occupy space in the hard disk. It is recommended that to clean this cache from time to time:

1. From the Internet Explorer menu, select Tools > Internet Options 2. On the General tab, press the Delete Files button under the Temporary Internet

files header 3. A Window will pop-up asking you if you want to delete your Offline content. If

you don’t download Web sites with Internet Explorer and view them when you are not connected (off-line) to the Internet later, you can check the box Delete all offline content

viii. Defragmenting the Hard disk Defragmentation refers to the process of physically reorganizing files on a computer hard drive in order to store files as contiguously as possible - generally makes the system run faster after defragmentation.

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Your computer hard disk should be defragmented at least once in every month. Steps 1. Go to: Start > Settings > Control Panel. After you get the Control Panel, select “Performance and maintenance”

2. The select “Administrative tools”

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3. Finally select “Computer Management”

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4. Now you will get the Computer Management screen which looks like the one below.

Select “Disk Defragmenter” and the available disk partitions and the related information will be shown along side. 5. Select the partition you want to defragment and select “Defragment”. E.g. in the following example, Drive C is selected:

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6. After you click the “Defragment” button, the selected drive will be defragmented. It will take several minutes. But it will run in the background, meaning, you can continue with your works while the defragmentation process runs in the background.

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Annex 50. Results of post-evaluation survey on training on Internet basics, 04-08 December 2006, College of Natural Resources in Lobesa, Thimphu

Parameters

4 Exceeded

my expectations/

very good

3 Fulfilled all

my expectations/

good

2 Fulfilled

some of my expectations/

fair

1 Failed to meet my

expectations/ poor

1. Course Contents 3 (27%) 8 (73%) • Provision of new

information/ knowledge and skills

• Usefulness of information/ knowledge and skills

• Relevance to present work • Applicability to my job

2. Instructional methods 1 (9%) 10 (91%) • Effectiveness in attaining

programme objectives

• Suitability of hands-on exercises

3. Training materials 2 (18%) 7 (64%) 2 (18%) • Adequacy of content

4. Resource speaker 2 (18%) 9 (82%) • Knowledge of subject matter • Clarity of presentation • Ability to arouse interest • Ability to communicate and

teach effectively

5. Conduct of training programme 4 (36%) 7 (64%) • Training venue/environment • Overall coordination of the

course

6. Rating of the training in relation to time and cost

1 (9%) 10 (91%)

7. Overall usefulness of the training 4 (36%) 7 (64%)

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1. What aspect(s) of the training were most rewarding and useful? Parameters Number 1. File management (record easily) 6 2. Email 7 3. Search engine 6 4. PC/Security maintenance (installation of anti-virus) 4 5. E-group mailing list 1 6. CD burning 3 7. Internet operation/application 3 8. Instant messaging (chat) 1

2. What aspect(s) are least useful which could have been improved? Parameters Number 1. None (All are useful) 9 2. Software installation (need timely refresher course) 1 3. Converting files 1 3. Do you have questions, topics, or issues that the training did not address or need to be

included? Parameters Number 1. Password 1 2. None (all are useful) 9 3. More topics on Internet 1 4. In what areas of your current work will you be applying the skills and knowledge you

gained from the training? Parameters Number 1. Research/browsing/searching good information from

Internet 7

2. Exchange/sharing of information (send report by email/giving information when farmers’ ask/ exchange RNR information)

11

3. File management 2 4. Preparation of report/writing report 2 5. Maintenance and caring of equipment (virus installation) 2 6. Conducting farmers’ training 2 7. Converting files to different formats 1

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5. What are your plans after your attendance to the training programme? Parameters Number 1. Use Internet in Geog Extension Work plan Programme 1 2. Continue self-study using manual to improve Internet/

computer use 2

3. Search the Internet and/or emailing good information/field problem/photos with others (e.g. with Sector Heads)

7

4. Improve reporting system (write good reports) 4 5. Get office Internet connection with concerned official 3 6. Install all given software 1 7. Manage files/create folders 1 6. Further comments, suggestions, and recommendations about the training. Parameters Number 1. Everything is good/important 3 2. Schedule one subject per day/ 2-3 weeks training 4 3. Timely refresher course on basic use of computer 2 4. Venue should be in other countries to expose the

trainees 1

5. Provision of thumb drive to extension agents to copy info

2

6. Grateful for giving them the chance to participate in the training

1

7. Would you recommend this training to others?

Parameters Number 1. Other/All Extension Agents 8 2. Support staff 1 3. Friends not keep in touch with computer/Internet 2 4. Sector Heads hardly know about Internet 1 5. Other Geog colleagues 1

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Annex 51. Sample training certificate and the training participants

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CNR Director Dorji Wangchuk (right) awarding the certificate to a participant

Mr. Sangay Tenzin (left, standing) assisting a participant

during the training

The participants in action with Mr. Karma Dhendup (back row, standing) assisting one of them

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Annex 52. Proposed course schedule and curriculum for the five other planned training programmes for VERCON-Bhutan

Attachment 1

Course Schedule for Equipment Handling and LAN Security

(Within January 2007; 5 days)

Note

Tea Break Duration = 20 Minutes Lunch Break Duration = 1 hour

Day Morning

(9.00 am – 10.50 am) (11.10 am– 1.00 pm)

Afternoon (2.00 pm- 3.20 pm) (3.40 pm-5.00 pm)

Monday Day 1

Gaselo • LAN set-up

Gaselo • Cont. LAN set-

up

Gaselo • LAN security

(lecture-exercise)

Gaselo • LAN security

(exercise) • Certificate

distribution Tuesday Day 2

Limbu • LAN set-up

Limbu • Cont. LAN set-

up

Limbu • LAN security

(lecture-exercise)

Limbu • LAN security

(exercise) Wednesday Day 3

Limbu • Digicam

(lecture-discussion)

Limbu • Digicam

(exercise)

Limbu • 4-in-1 equipment

(lecture-discussion)

Limbu • 4-in-1

equipment (exercise)

• Certificate distribution

Thursday Day 4

Baap • LAN set-up

Baap • Cont. LAN set-

up

Baap • LAN security

(lecture-exercise)

Baap • LAN security

(exercise) Friday Day 5

Baap • Digicam

(lecture-discussion)

Baap • Digicam

(exercise)

Baap • 4-in-1 equipment

(lecture-discussion)

Baap • 4-in-1

equipment (exercise)

• Certificate distribution

Saturday Day 6

RNR RC Bajo • Digicam

(lecture-discussion)

RNR RC Bajo • Digicam

(exercise)

RNR RC Bajo • LAN security

(lecture-exercise)

RNR RC Bajo • LAN security

(exercise) • Certificate

distribution

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Trainer’s Notes A. Proposed Course Curriculum for the Digital Camera

Training Initiative A general introduction to using the digital camera and copy/edit images to the computer

Timing/Duration ½ day session Content outline and main topics covered

• General features of the digital camera (functions, accessories, dimensions/weight, environmental requirements, image size and format, shooting modes, effective pixels, frames per second) (20 minutes)

• Before operating the digital camera (safety instructions, identifying parts, determining indicators on the monitor, preparing the battery pack) (20 minutes)

• Operating the digital camera (turning power on/off, inserting and removing recording medium, shooting images, viewing/ deleting images) (2 hours)

• Copying/editing images to computer (installing/using software- e.g. Picasa) (1 hour)

• Troubleshooting and maintenance of digital camera (20 minutes)

Target audience Pilot Geog extension agents (that is, three each from Limbu and Baap) and two Bajo researchers

Learning Objectives At the end of the training, the participants will: • Be aware of the functions, features, maintenance, and safety

information of the digital camera • Be familiar with the operation workflow (preparation,

shooting, and playback) • Be able to diagnose and solve common problems • Be able to copy/edit images in the computer for publication,

e-mail, and web purposes Delivery Training activities will be delivered at the Geog extension centre

and Bajo research centre in a small-group/face-to-face, informal instruction by a combination of lecture-discussion and hands-on exercises in the context of a shared digital camera

Evidence of learning The participants should be able to demonstrate the following outcomes: • Shoot/capture at least five clear pictures related to his/her

work • Copy/edit the pictures in publication, e-mail, and web format

Resources included with the training

• Trainer’s Notes • Training manual • Exercises • Training evaluation form • Supplies and materials

Equipment needed • Digital camera supplied to Geog/Bajo research centre • Computers supplied to Geog/Bajo research centre

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Trainer’s Notes B. Proposed Course Curriculum for the 4-in-1 Equipment

Training Initiative A general introduction to using the 4-in-1 equipment (printer,

copier, scanner, and fax) Timing/Duration ½ day session Content outline and main topics covered

• General features of the 4-in-1 equipment (functions, dimensions/weight, speed/monthly volume and print quality, paper handling/media, specifications for copier/scanner/fax, consumable products required, electrical specifications, and environmental requirements) (20 minutes)

• Before operating the 4-in-1 equipment (finding suitable location for the equipment, safety instructions, identifying parts, installing the toner cartridge, connecting the power cord to an outlet, general settings guide, installing the software on the desktop, networking the desktops via LAN, connecting the USB cable) (20 minutes)

• Operating the 4-in-1 equipment (turning power on/off, basic procedure to print, copy, scan, and fax document) (3 hours)

• Troubleshooting and maintenance of 4-in-1 equipment (20 minutes)

Target audience Pilot Geog extension agents (that is, three each from Limbu and Baap)

Learning Objectives At the end of the training, the participants will: • Be aware of the functions, features, maintenance, and safety

information of 4-in-1 equipment • Be familiar with the print, copy, scan, and fax operations • Be able to diagnose and solve common problems

Delivery Training activities will be delivered at the Geog extension centre in a small-group/face-to-face, informal instruction by a combination of lecture-discussion and hands-on exercises in the context of a shared 4-in-1 equipment

Evidence of learning The participants should be able to demonstrate the following outcomes: • Print, copy, and scan at least three documents each related to

the work using his/her computer • Fax a document to the Sector Head or RNR RC Bajo

Resources included with the training

• Trainer’s Notes • Training manual • Exercises • Training evaluation form • Supplies and materials

Equipment needed • 4-in-1 equipment supplied to the Geog • Computers supplied to the Geog

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Trainer’s Notes C. Proposed Course Curriculum for LAN Security

Training Initiative A general introduction to securing the local area network (LAN) Timing/Duration 1 day session Content outline and main topics covered

• Introduction to LAN (functions, basic concepts, resources needed and other basic requirements) (30 minutes)

• LAN set-up, operation, and troubleshooting (3.5 hours) • Safety instructions/tips to maintain/secure LAN (2 hours) • Defining agency’s network security policy (objectives,

standards, and compliance requirements for information security) (30 minutes)

• Terms of reference (TOR) for the staff responsible for LAN security and maintenance (30 minutes)

Target audience The target audience will include the following: • Pilot Geog extension agents (that is, three each from Limbu,

Gaselo, and Baap) • RNR RC Bajo (that is, two Bajo researchers)

Learning Objectives At the end of the training, the participants will: • Be aware of the functions, basic concepts, maintenance, and

resources needed • Be familiar with LAN operation and security information • Be able to diagnose and solve common problems • Be able to define and draft agency’s network security policy

and TOR for assigned staff to secure/maintain LAN Delivery Training activities will be delivered at the Geog extension centre

and Bajo research centre in a small-group/face-to-face, informal instruction by a combination of lecture-discussion and hands-on exercises in the context of using agency’s LAN

Evidence of learning The participants should be able to demonstrate the following outcomes: • Create a strong password • Set-up a FireWall and system logs • Install anti-virus software programme, configure automatic

updates, and schedule scanning of files/e-mails • Record files using recordable CD-ROM as back-up • Download software updates, configure daily or weekly

automatic updates, and apply to all vulnerable applications • Incorporate good working habit in network security policy

like logging-out applications and computers after using, closing the window immediately when flash ads unexpectedly appear, or knowing how to recognize computer hoaxes and phishing scams/unknown programmes/ unfamiliar attachments

• Finalize agency’s network security policy and TOR for assigned staff to secure/maintain LAN for agency head’s approval

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Resources included with the training

• Trainer’s Notes • Training manual • Exercises • Training evaluation form • Supplies and materials

Equipment needed • Computers supplied to the Geog and LAN server supplied to Bajo research centre, both Internet-connected

- 394 -

Attachment 2

Course Schedule – Communication for Development (Within January 2007; 5 days)

Note

Tea Break Duration = 20 Minutes Lunch Break Duration = 1 hour

Day Morning

(9.00 am – 10.50 am) (11.10 am– 1.00 pm)

Afternoon (2.00 pm- 3.20 pm) (3.40 pm-5.00 pm)

Monday Day 1

• Course pre-testing with participants

• Defining development: theories/ application (Exercise: Identify community problems)

• Defining communication (Exercise: Play a game then introduce Source-Message-Channel-Receiver-Effect Model)

• Differentiating Mass Com vis-à-vis DevCom

• Field work: Community immersion (dialogue/ consult with community)

• Doing problem tree analysis

• Getting the community’s information needs and preferences/ learning needs

Tuesday Day 2

• Group discussion - Community

development needs and communication preferences

- Summaries/ feedbacks

• Approaches used in communication for development

• Introducing the elements of information, education and communication (IEC) plan

• Showcasing sample IEC project

Wednesday Day 3

• Visioning exercises in creative drawings (i.e., improving quality of life)

• Cont. visioning exercises

• Presentation- discussion of outputs and learnings

• Cont. presentation- discussion

Thursday Day 4

• Drafting individual IEC plan (hands-on)

• Cont. drafting individual IEC plan

• Cont. drafting individual IEC plan

• Cont. drafting individual IEC plan

Friday Day 5

• Presentation of individual IEC plan

T E A B R E A K

• Presentation of individual IEC plan

L U N C H B R E A K

• Presentation of individual IEC plan

TEA BREAK

• Wrap-up/ Impressions and learnings

• Certificate distribution

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Trainer’s Notes Proposed Course Curriculum for Communication for Development

Training Initiative Getting the participants to appreciate the use and importance of

communication to improve quality of life Timing/Duration 5 days session Content outline and main topics covered

• Why the need to push communication for development: Introducing concepts, theories, and practice

• For Whom? Looking at the Source-Message-Channel-Receiver-Effect (SMCRE) Model

• How best to deliver: Learning information, education, and communication (IEC) planning

Target audience The target audience will include the following: • Pilot Geog extension agents (that is, three each from Limbu,

Gaselo, and Baap) • RNR RC Bajo Regional Research Communication Officer

(RRCO)/Alternate RRCO Learning Objectives At the end of the training, the participants will:

• Be able to define communication for development • Be familiar of the nine indicators of development • Be able to understand the strategies used under the

information, education, and communication (IEC) as a major approach to Development Communication

• Develop individual IEC plan for specific products or services to be promoted

Delivery Training activities will be delivered at the College of Natural Resources in Lobesa, Thimphu employing peer-adult learning approach with the use of friendly discussions, exchange of ideas, and hands-on exercises

Evidence of learning The participants should get a score of 70% knowledge gain for the post-test and finish an IEC Plan which is doable and in context with their own learning environment

Resources included with the training

• Trainer’s Notes • Training manual • Exercises • Training evaluation form • Supplies and materials (drawing materials like crayons,

papers, pens, paste, scissors, adhesives, etc.) Equipment needed • Digital camera and recorder to document the event

• LCD projector and PowerPoint presentation • Computers

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Attachment 3

Course Schedule – Content Reformatting/Repackaging (Within February 2007; 5 days)

Note

Tea Break Duration = 20 Minutes Lunch Break Duration = 1 hour

Day Morning

(9.00 am – 10.50 am) (11.10 am– 1.00 pm)

Afternoon (2.00 pm- 3.20 pm) (3.40 pm-5.00 pm)

Monday Day 1

• Course pre-testing with participants

• Part 1 – Sentence (lecture-discussion)

• Part 2 – Grammar (lecture-discussion)

• Part 3 – Consistency and style (lecture-discussion)

• Part 4 – What to avoid in popularizing technical information (lecture-discussion))

Tuesday Day 2

• Part 5 – Common errors in writing (lecture-discussion)

• Part 6 –Repackaging and reformatting technical information to clear and effective popular writing (lecture-discussion)

• Writing a popularize technical information (technology-based (exercise)

• Cont. writing a popularize technical information (technology-based) (exercise)

Wednesday Day 3

• Writing a promotional material (i.e. agri-inputs and website links) (exercise)

• Writing clinic

• Presentation/ discussion of outputs

• Post-test, listening to participants impressions

Thursday Day 4

• Basic HTML (Lecture-discussion and exercise)

• Incorporating images in your webpage

• Creating/using meta tags (Lecture-discussion and exercise)

• Transforming technology materials to web format (Lecture-discussion and exercise)

• Transforming technology materials to web format (Lecture-discussion and exercise)

Friday Day 5

• Transforming agri-inputs materials to web format (Lecture-discussion and exercise)

T E A B R E A K

• Transforming agri-inputs materials to web format (Lecture-discussion and exercise)

L U N C H B R E A K

• Publishing for the web (Lecture-discussion and exercise)

T E A B R E A K

• Wrap-up/ Feedback

• Certificate distribution

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Trainer’s Notes A. Proposed Course Curriculum for Effective Content Writing

Training Initiative Getting the participants how to write clearly and effectively Timing/Duration 3 days session Content outline and main topics covered

• Part 1 – Sentence o Basic parts of speech o Parts of a sentence o Structure and length of a sentence o Order of a sentence o Expression of a sentence (How to correct negative

sentences and why turn them into positive expressions?) • Part 2 - Grammar

o Subject-Verb Agreement o Active-Passive Verbs o Tense

• Part 3 - Consistency and Style • Part 4 - What to avoid in popularizing technical information

o Technical terms o Acronyms o Abbreviations

• Part 5 - Common Errors in Writing o Wordiness o Wrong sentence structure o Dangling modifiers o Vague pronoun reference o Faults against parallelism o Comparisons o Consistency in punctuation, spelling, numerals, and

abbreviations o Pairs often confused o Bad writing habits

• Part 6 - Reformatting and Repackaging Technical Information to Clear and Effective Popular Writing o Writing for your readers

What’s in it for them that they should stop and read your message?

o Writing about the Product Writing the title Writing the introduction Writing the content Using Photographs, and other images or visuals Choosing colors in your images

o Writing about the website links • Part 7 – Hands-on Exercise: Writing A Promotional Material • Part 8 – Writing Clinic - Editing participants outputs and

presenting their writing strengths and weaknesses • Part 9 – Hearing Impressions about writing from participants:

Feelings and facts

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Target audience The target audience will include the following: • Pilot Geog extension agents (that is, three each from Limbu,

Gaselo, and Baap) • Five Bajo researchers • RNR RC Bajo Regional Research Communication Officer

(RRCO)/Alternate RRCO • 10 focal persons of RNR service providers

Learning Objectives At the end of the training, the participants will: • Be able to determine principles of clear and effective writing • Be able to write information materials showing the

application of principles learned during the training Delivery Training activities will be delivered at the College of Natural

Resources in Lobesa, Thimphu employing peer-adult learning approach with the use of friendly discussions, exchange of ideas, and hands-on exercises

Evidence of learning The participants should get a score of 70% knowledge gain for the post-test and finish information materials on technology, agri-inputs, and website links

Resources included with the training

• Trainer’s Notes • Training manual • Exercises • Training evaluation form • Supplies and materials

Equipment needed • Digital camera and recorder to document the event • LCD projector and PowerPoint presentation • Computers

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Trainer’s Notes B. Proposed course curriculum for Writing for the VERCON-Bhutan Website

Training Initiative A general introduction to writing content for the VERCON-

Bhutan website Timing/Duration 2 days session Content outline and main topics covered

• Basic HTML (creation of web page) (2 hours) • Incorporating images to your webpage and creating/using

meta tags (2 hours) • Transforming information materials to web format (1 day) • Publishing for the web (1.5 hours)

Target audience The target audience will include the following: • Pilot Geog extension agents (that is, three each from

Limbu, Gaselo, and Baap) • five RNR RC Bajo researchers • RRCO/alternate RRCO from Bajo • 10 focal persons from RNR service providers

Learning Objectives At the end of the training, the participants will be able to: • Be familiar with basic HTML • Be able to incorporate images to web pages • Be familiar with the use of meta tags • Be able to transform technology and agri-inputs materials

to web format • Be able to publish web pages

Delivery Training activities will be delivered at the Computer training laboratory of the College of Natural Resources in Lobesa, Thimphu. There will be a live demonstration or the use of screenshots in PowerPoint presentation in a face-to-face, informal instruction. There will be computer for each participant with exercises in a web editor, word processor, or spreadsheet

Evidence of learning The participants should be able to demonstrate the following outcomes: • Write appropriate metadata for web articles/information

materials on technology and agri-inputs • Published technology and agri-inputs web pages in the

VERCON-Bhutan website Resources included with the training

• Trainer’s Notes • Training manual • Exercises • Training evaluation form • Supplies and materials • Sample database from the agency and images of

technology and agri-input products Equipment needed • Internet-connected computers with printers

• LCD projector and PowerPoint presentation • Flash drives

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Attachment 4

Course Schedule – Use of VERCON-Bhutan Website (Within March 2007; 5 days)

Note

Tea Break Duration = 20 Minutes Lunch Break Duration = 1 hour

Day Morning

(9.00 am – 10.50 am) (11.10 am– 1.00 pm)

Afternoon (2.00 pm- 3.20 pm) (3.40 pm-5.00 pm)

Monday Day 1

General Features of VERCON-Bhutan (lecture-discussion)

Roles/responsibilities of network members (lecture-discussion)

Geog profile (lecture-discussion)

Geog profile (testing/exercises)

Tuesday Day 2

Q&A (lecture-discussion)

Q&A (testing/exercises)

Q&A (testing/exercises)

Q&A (testing/exercises)

Wednesday Day 3

Technology (lecture-discussion)

Technology (testing/exercises)

Technology (testing/exercises)

Technology (testing/exercises)

Thursday Day 4

Agri-inputs (lecture-discussion)

Agri-inputs (testing/exercises)

Agri-inputs (testing/exercises)

Agri-inputs (testing/exercises)

Friday Day 5

Directory/Links (lecture-discussion)

T E A B R E A K

Directory/Links (testing/exercises)

L U N C H B R E A K Directory/Links

(testing/exercises)

T E A B R E A K

• Wrap-up/ Feedback

• Certificate distribution

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Trainer’s Notes Proposed Course Curriculum for the Use of VERCON-Bhutan Website

Training Initiative A general introduction to using the VERCON-Bhutan website Timing/Duration 5 days session Content outline and main topics covered

• General features of VERCON-Bhutan system (profile, usefulness, advantages, design, architecture, MOA website links/differences) (2 hours)

• Roles and responsibilities of network members (2 hour) • Familiarization and hands-on exercises/testing of the

system’s features and applications (4.5 days) Target audience The target audience will include the following:

• Pilot Geog extension agents (that is, three each from Limbu, Gaselo, and Baap)

• three Sector Heads of the Geog pilot sites • five RNR RC Bajo researchers • RRCO/alternate RRCO from Bajo • 10 focal persons from RNR service providers

Learning Objectives At the end of the training, the participants will: • Be aware of the features of VERCON-Bhutan system • Be conscious of the roles and responsibilities of network

members • Be familiar with the VERCON-Bhutan system’s operation

Delivery Training activities will be delivered at the Computer training laboratory of the College of Natural Resources in Lobesa, Thimphu. There will be lecture-discussions using screenshots in PowerPoint presentation in a face-to-face, informal instruction which will be combined with hands-on exercises

Evidence of learning The participants should be able to demonstrate the following outcomes: • Draft roles and responsibilities of network members for

approval by the National Steering Committee • Upload, download, and print data/information via the

directory, links, Geog profile, technology, Q&A, and agri-inputs systems

Resources included with the training

• Trainer’s Notes • Training manual • Exercises • Training evaluation form • Supplies and materials • Sample database/technology information materials from

the agency and images of technology and agri-input products

Equipment needed • Internet-connected computers with printers • LCD projector and PowerPoint presentation • Flash drives

- 402 -

Attachment 5

Course Schedule – Basic information technology and other trainings for six Geogs a/ (Within April 2007; 27 days)

a/ Same course mechanics and curriculum of previous trainings conducted will be used for

this training Note

Tea Break Duration = 20 Minutes Lunch Break Duration = 1 hour

Week Morning

(9.00 am – 10.50 am) (11.10 am– 1.00 pm)

Afternoon (2.00 pm- 3.20 pm) (3.40 pm-5.00 pm)

Week 1

Basic information technology

Basic information technology

Basic information technology

Basic information technology

Week 2 Internet basics

Internet basics Internet basics Internet basics

Week 3 Communication for development

Communication for development

Communication for development

Communication for development

Week 4 Use of VERCON-Bhutan website

T E A B R E A K

Use of VERCON-Bhutan website

L U N C H B R E A K

Use of VERCON-Bhutan website

T E A B R E A K

Use of VERCON-Bhutan website

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Annex 53. Q&A about VERCON-Bhutan

1. What is VERCON-Bhutan?

• VERCON-Bhutan is an information and communication network of Bhutan’s Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) that supports research and extension (R&E) interaction and flow of information. It sets the ground to link R&E communities using new information and communication technologies (ICTs) complementing traditional information and communication systems.

• It is originally a conceptual model developed by the Food and Agricultural

Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations and has been adopted by the Ministry in the form of a project.

• It is a one-a-half-year project pursued under the auspices of FAO and the Royal

Government of Bhutan through the Ministry of Agriculture-Information and Communication Services (ICS).

2. What is it for?

• VERCON-Bhutan aims to catalyze the linkage between the country’s agricultural R&E communities and provide them with constant access to required information services that would enhance the national agricultural advisory services.

• Its beneficiaries includes researchers, extension agents, policy makers – and by

extension – farmers and their associations.

• It is envisioned to arm the beneficiaries with the information they need to help them intensify farm productivity, enhance food security, and protect the country’s natural resources.

• It will serve as a model to other organisation in Bhutan to demonstrate how their

beneficiaries can access the technological capacities required for meaningful linkages.

3. How does it function?

• The system initially operates through a central node via the MOA-Information and Communication Services, four satellite nodes or pilot sites (that is, Renewable Natural Resources-Research Centre Bajo and the Geog Extension Centres in Baap, Gaselo, and Limbu), and concerned RNR service providers of the Ministry. All the nodes are equipped with communication facilities and are Internet-connected except for Gaselo which will initially operate offline.

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• The network most visible outcome is a website which is part of the traditional information and communication system. Initially, it offers information services on agricultural products in the pilot sites.

• The pilot sites offer services like face-to-face consultations, phone-in/e-mail

queries, Internet access, agri-inputs resources, and a wider range of information available on VERCON.

4. Why focus on these pilot sites?

• The Ministry decided to pilot the system initially in three Dzongkhags (with one pilot Geog each) to test its applicability. It was deemed important to include Geog pilot sites near the RNR Research Centre in Bajo for management purposes.

• Eventually VERCON-Bhutan’s initial nodes will serve as catalysts. Other areas

once they have Internet connection and other communication infrastructure can become VERCON-Bhutan Access Points upon their requests.

5. What are the services offered by VERCON-Bhutan?

• Agri-Inputs information on machinery, seeds and plants, pesticides, and

livestock; • Technology information: extension documents on package of technology on

production/postproduction; • Directory services with key scientists, extension agents, and farmers; • Questions and Answers forums on grower’s problems and answers from

scientists and service providers; • Geog profile and annual updates of local RNR databases; and • Links to websites on R&E

6. How can the services of VERCON-Bhutan be accessed?

• Clients may walk-in, phone-in, or send through e-mail. • Use VERCON-Bhutan website at http://www.vercon.moa.gov.bt.

7. Where can clients access this information?

• Information and Communication Services Ministry of Agriculture Post Box 1095 Thimphu, BHUTAN Tel: +975-2-321142 or +975-2-323765 Fax: +975-2-324520 Email: p_lhamo@moa.gov.bt or vercon@moa.gov.bt

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8. How can a grower without Internet connection access VERCON-Bhutan services?

• Growers are advised to seek assistance from their nearest extension agents for

consultations via walk-in, phone-in, or email. The extension agents will provide assistance at hand if available or may seek help from concerned researchers, or visit the VERCON-Bhutan website as the case maybe. It is envisioned that R&E linkage will be further strengthened if the growers themselves will create more demand for such services.

• ICS will come up with videos and print materials containing technologies and other relevant information which will be distributed to the pilot sites.

• Other information can also be made available through RNR Research Centres such as in Bajo.

9. How can extension agents or researchers benefit from VERCON-Bhutan?

• The services earlier discussed can be used by extension agents and researchers in their decision-making process.

For instance, the extension agent can access the Technology information in the website to know latest technologies on, say, rice production or how to manage a certain rice pest. Or the Directory services to locate expert that can provide more details about the technology. On the other hand, the Q&A provides a facility to post growers’ queries needing experts’ attention for immediate solution. Meanwhile, the Agri-inputs information offers information resources on available machinery, seeds and plants, pesticides, and livestock. On the other hand, the researcher can access the Links to immediately access related R&E websites to network with other researchers or obtain new information for dissemination to extension agents. Or the Geog profile which can be used in R&D activities.

• Field-testing of VERCON-Bhutan will be undertaken with the extension agents and researchers so that they will be accustomed to the system and make full use of its services. The project will provide capacity building such as training and equipment provision as necessary.

10. Where does VERCON-Bhutan get its information?

• VERCON-Bhutan has forged close links with the following agencies of the Ministry of Agriculture and other entities as initial sources of information:

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a) RNR RC such as in Bajo – for the technology and technical assistance b) Agricultural Marketing Services (AMS) – for the weekly retail prices of

available commodities in major markets of Bhutan c) Food Corporation of Bhutan (FCB) – for the auction prices of commodities in

the auction yard of Phuentsholing d) Druk Seed Corporation (DSC) – for seed updates e) National Plant Protection Centre (NPPC) – for information on pest

management and pesticide updates f) National Soil Service Centre (NSSC) – for information on soil management g) National Post Harvest Centre (NPHC) – for information on post harvest

management h) Livestock Information Management Section (LIMS) – for livestock-inputs

resources updates such as crossbreed bulls, jersey purebred bulls, fodder seeds, vaccine, pullets, and piglets

i) Forestry Information Management Services (FIMS) for updates on forestry seedlings

j) Policy and Planning Division (PPD) – for policy updates k) Information and Communication Services (ICS) – for information on multi-

media materials l) Council for RNR Research in Bhutan (CoRRB) – for weather updates and

forecast, digital compendium, and directory of experts/scientists m) Agricultural Machinery Centre (AMC) – for information on machineries n) Geog Extension Centres – for Geog general profile and RNR database updates

• In the near future, VERCON-Bhutan may also link with the private sector for critical information and services related to transport, export/import requirements, trading/marketing, and others.

11. How relevant and accurate are the information?

• VERCON-Bhutan offers information based on a continuing information needs’ assessment with its beneficiaries. It is more useful if the system provides the current and critical information that the beneficiaries need. Eventually, the system will serve as a virtual information exchange for the Renewable Natural Resources sector stakeholders.

• VERCON-Bhutan relies solely on the contribution made by its sources of information. In any case, there is a mechanism instituted for updating and quality control. For any queries, clients can forward them directly to the information source via the traditional means or thru ICT.

12. How much will it cost to access VERCON-Bhutan services?

• At present, accessing VERCON-Bhutan information is free. But the clients are encouraged to acknowledge VERCON-Bhutan fairly.

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13. What are the limitations of the project?

• VERCON-Bhutan initially offers information on agricultural products/ commodities in the pilot sites. For the system to be able to provide timely, reliable, accurate, and relevant data, the project encourages the cooperation of information sources to regularly provide or share updates.

• The fate of VERCON-Bhutan lies on the availability and dynamic interplay between human and technological capacities. By human, it means the vibrant participation of researchers, extension agents, and focal persons of the Ministry of Agriculture service providers – and by extension – the farmers. By technological capacities, this means the presence of required but efficient ICT infrastructure.

14. How can the project be sustained?

• Institutionalize the system within the Ministry of Agriculture and at the same time forge harmonious linkage with other information sources.