The National Plant Protection Centre (NPPC), with funding support from the WISER AP Phase-II project under CIMMYT, conducted training on wheat disease identification and management practices for agriculture officials from major wheat growing districts. Participants included extension agents from Punakha, Wangduephodrang, Thimphu, Chhukha, Paro, Haa, Bumthang, Trongsa, and Zhemgang Dzongkhags.

The training was held at four different locations: in Punakha for officials from Punakha and Wangduephodrang; in Paro for Thimphu and Chhukha; in Haa for Paro and Haa; and in Bumthang for Bumthang, Zhemgang, and Trongsa. A total of 77 extension agents participated in the program.

The training was conducted for two days. The first day was dedicated to theoretical sessions, including pre- and post-tests to assess participants’ knowledge. All locations received lectures on identifying major and emerging wheat diseases, followed by their respective management strategies. Additionally, participants were trained on data collection using the Open Data Kit (ODK), proper sampling techniques for both live and dead plant materials, and protocols for collecting samples from alternate hosts such as barberry.

The second day focused on practical, hands-on training in nearby wheat fields. In all locations, participants were divided into groups to carry out wheat disease data recording exercises, applying the knowledge and skills acquired during the theoretical sessions.