18-20th December, 2024, ARDC- Samtenling, GMC: A comprehensive training of trainers (TOT) on Organic Agriculture was conducted by the National Centre for Organic Agriculture’s (NCOA), Yusipang, for 40 participants which included Gewog agriculture extension officials, Sanam Jabchorpas, and progressive farmers. The fund for the training was sourced by the Dzongkhag Agriculture Sector from the Green Environment Fund (GEF) project.
The participants were trained on the Bhutan Organic Guarantee System (BOGS), which provides guidelines on organic production and confirmatory assessment/organic certification in the country. The Bhutan Organic Standards (BOS) one of the documents under the BOGS provides a comprehensive framework for organic farming, outlining principles, objectives, and requirements for certification. It emphasizes health, ecology, fairness, and care, and emphasizes the importance of maintaining ecological balance while producing safe and nutritious food. It outlines specific requirements for organic production, including the prohibition of synthetic chemicals, the use of high-quality seeds, and a conversion period. They were also informed on different organic registration and certification systems in the country such as the Local Organic Assurance System (LOAS) and third-party certification. The LOAS Manual in Bhutan provides a framework for organic certification, aligning with BOS. It details the certification process, including the submission of application, mandatory farmer training, registration, signing the organic pledge, and field inspections.
The training session touched on the Internal Control System (ICS) Manual, which outlines the framework for implementing organic group certification in Bhutan. It serves as a guiding document for organic operators, allowing smallholder farmers to collectively meet organic standards and reducing costs associated with third-party certification. The manual also serves as a practical tool for producers, providing them with the necessary information to operate within the ICS framework and prepare for external certification. The session also discussed Organic Soil Nutrient Management technologies, which are crucial for maintaining soil health and fertility, and the use of organic amendments like compost, manure, and green manures.
These methods contribute to the long-term sustainability of agricultural systems and food security. The floor was also shared with the Organic Plant Protection Technologies, a key aspect of organic farming. It highlighted the importance of natural methods to manage pests and diseases while maintaining ecological balance. Key benefits of organic plant protection include soil health enhancement, biodiversity promotion, and the use of organic amendments and bio-pesticides.
A practical, hands-on experience session on organic bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides preparations were provided to the participants. It equipped them with the skills to create their own organic inputs, enhancing soil fertility and pest management in organic farming. The participants expressed enthusiasm for incorporating organic practices, gaining confidence in their ability to produce and apply these natural solutions. This experience reinforced the principles of sustainability and environmental stewardship in organic agriculture.
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