Thimphu | 11th November 2025: The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MoAL) officially launched the National Crop and Livestock Insurance Scheme (NCLIS) today in Thimphu marking a historic milestone in Bhutan’s agricultural sector and a significant step toward building a resilient and secure rural communities.
The launch event was graced by the Hon’ble Minister for Finance as the Chief Guest, and attended by the Hon’ble Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, Dasho Governor of the Royal Monetary Authority, CEOs of the Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan Limited (RICBL) and Bhutan Insurance Limited (BIL) and senior government officials.
The NCLIS, one of the key national initiatives of the 13th Five Year Plan, is designed to provide financial protection to farmers against losses in crops and livestock caused by natural disasters, pests, and diseases. The scheme offers a 50% government subsidy on insurance premiums to make agricultural insurance affordable and accessible to all farmers.
Funded through the Nu. 800 million support from the Government of India under the Economic Support Programme (ESP), the scheme reflects strong inter-ministerial collaboration and the enduring partnership between Bhutan and India in advancing rural livelihoods and food security.
Launched on the auspicious occasion of the 70th Birth Anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, this initiative serves as a tribute to His Majesty’s visionary leadership and lifelong dedication to self-reliance and the wellbeing of rural communities.
The Ministry expresses its sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Finance, the Government of India, and all implementing partners for their leadership, support, and cooperation in making this long-envisioned initiative a reality.
The launch of the NCLIS marks a new chapter in Bhutan’s agricultural sector, empowering farmers, strengthening food systems, and fostering a more resilient rural economy for the future.
