Three interns successfully presented their learning experiences after completing their internship at the National Plant Protection Centre (NPPC), Department of Agriculture, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.
Ms. Sonam Zangmo and Ms. Karma Deki Yangzom are studying Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (third year) at College of Natural Resources, Royal University of Bhutan, Royal University of Bhutan.
During their internship, they were engaged in the following technical and practical activities:
- Operation of fundamental entomological laboratory equipment
- Digitization, cataloging, and management of insect herbarium collections
- Practical training in insect mounting (pinning) and specimen preservation techniques
- Life cycle analysis of Spodoptera frugiperda (Fall Armyworm)
- Evaluation of insecticidal efficacy against Fall Armyworm
- Formulation and preparation of artificial diet for laboratory rearing of Fall Armyworm
- Demonstration on the use of pheromone traps and lures for pest monitoring
- SWOT analysis of the pesticide procurement and distribution framework
Ms. Dorji Dema is undertaking Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies at Norbuling Rigter College, Paro, Royal University of Bhutan. Her internship focused on both technical and institutional aspects of plant protection, including:
- Understanding basic plant protection concepts
- Digitization and inventory management of the plant herbarium
- Practical training on herbarium collection, preparation, and storage
- Survey on the pest surveillance reporting system from the field (geogs and dzongkhags) to NPPC
- Basics of weed management dynamics under Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
- Book and record keeping, including the chemical indenting system
- Learning environmental impacts of pesticides and NPPC’s role in rural development and food security
- Understanding organizational structure and working dynamics of central agencies.
The presentations reflected the interns’ strong commitment, practical learning, and exposure to both field and laboratory based plant protection activities. NPPC extends its best wishes to all three interns for their future academic and professional endeavors.
