Promotions at the National Biodiversity Centre

The National Biodiversity Centre (NBC) is pleased to announce the promotions of three of its staff members in recognition of their longstanding contributions to biodiversity conservation and institutional development.

Mr. Mani Prasad Nirola Promoted to Principal Biodiversity Officer (Bioprospecting and ABS)

Since joining NBC in January 2010 as a Biodiversity Officer, Mr. Mani Prasad Nirola has demonstrated outstanding dedication and expertise in biodiversity conservation, bioprospecting, and Access and Benefit-Sharing (ABS) frameworks. Over more than fifteen years of service, he has played a key role in developing policies and initiatives that promote the sustainable use of biological resources and ensure fair and equitable benefit-sharing.

In his new leadership role as Principal Biodiversity Officer (Bioprospecting and ABS), Mr. Nirola will continue to drive innovative strategies aimed at strengthening biodiversity protection and compliance with national and international standards.

Mr. Tshewang Promoted to Senior Biodiversity Supervisor I (Animal Genetic Resources Program)

Mr. Tshewang began his career in 1993 as a Laboratory Technician at the Royal Veterinary Epidemiology Centre, Serbithang, after completing a Laboratory Technology course. He was transferred in 1994 to the Natural Resources Training Institute (NRTI), Lobesa (now the College of Natural Resources), where he played a pivotal role in establishing the institute’s first laboratory and contributed significantly to its academic and research programs until 2002.

In 2002, Mr. Tshewang joined the National Biodiversity Centre and played an important role in establishing Bhutan’s Animal Gene Bank and the Animal Genetic Resources program. He has since been actively involved in the management of the program, overseeing both ex situ and in situ conservation of indigenous animal genetic resources. Through his technical expertise and dedication, Mr. Tshewang has made substantial contributions to the conservation and sustainable management of Bhutan’s animal genetic resources.

Mr. Dendup Promoted to Senior Biodiversity Supervisor I (Animal Genetic Resources Program)

Mr. Dendup began his career in 1990 as a Livestock Supervisor at the National Jersey Breeding Centre, Samtse, after completing a Diploma in Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry from the Royal Veterinary Institute, Serbithang. Over the past 35 years, he has served at the Regional Mithun Breeding Farm, Arong; the Calf Rearing Centre, Wangkha; and the National Nublang Breeding Farm, Tashiyangphu. He has made significant contributions to livestock breeding, farm management, and the establishment of bovine performance recording systems.

Following the transfer of the farm to the National Biodiversity Centre in 2022 under the Animal Genetic Resources Program, the facility was renamed the Centre for Nublang Conservation and Development. Mr. Dendup continues to serve the Centre with dedication, professionalism, and commitment, ensuring its smooth operation and contributing to the conservation and development of animal genetic resources.

The National Biodiversity Centre extends its sincere congratulations to Mr. Mani Prasad Nirola, Mr. Tshewang, and Mr. Dendup on their well-deserved promotions. Their expertise and commitment will continue to advance NBC’s mission in conserving Bhutan’s rich biodiversity