Dagala Yak Cooperative, a community-based organization under the Bhutan Yak Federation, comprises 39 yak-rearing households with approximately 2,400 yaks. These semi-nomadic herders, residing in Dungdro and Wangdro chiwogs in Dagala Gewog, Thimphu District, rely heavily on yak products—milk, meat, wool—and some income from tourism. In 2022, they produced an impressive 177,876 liters of milk, 7.3 metric tons of butter, 0.5 metric tons of cheese, and 12 metric tons of chugo (traditional dried yak cheese). Despite these contributions, the region has seen limited agricultural and developmental support due to its harsh weather conditions and remote location.
To enhance the livelihoods of these resilient herders, the Dagala Yak Cooperative, in partnership with the National Highland Development Center (NHDC), launched a project aimed at diversifying livestock products and providing essential training. With the support of the Bhutan Foundation’s Small Grants Program, 27 yak herders recently participated in a 10-day training (August 15–24, 2024) on hygienic cheese processing. The training introduced two high-value yak cheeses—Tomme and Gumdel—adding a new dimension to their traditional dairy practices.
One participant, Ms. Buthri, a seasoned herder of 33 years, shared her excitement: “I’ve never had training like this before. I learned so much and can’t wait to make Tomme and Gumdel cheese and share this knowledge with other herders.”
The project doesn’t stop at training. The NHDC, in collaboration with the district livestock sector, is setting up a dedicated cheese-processing facility in Dagala Gewog. Once operational, the cooperative members are optimistic about producing high-quality cheeses that can diversify their income streams and boost the local economy.
By equipping yak herders with new skills and infrastructure, this initiative is strengthening the sustainability of highland communities. The focus on value-added products like Tomme and Gumdel cheese promises to create new economic opportunities, reducing dependence on traditional income sources and securing a brighter future for yak herders in Bhutan’s highlands.
This transformative project is proudly supported by the Bhutan Foundation’s Small Grants Program.
