Nature Conservation Division

A new chapter for bear 🐻 Tshering at newly constructed Chamina Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre funded Bhutan For Life

The Nature Conservation Division is pleased to share the story of Tshering, a Himalayan black bear rescued as a three-week-old cub during Kamichhu forest fire in November, 2017 by the Divisional Forest Office, Wangdue. The cub was brought to wildlife rescue centre at NCD and was nurtured with intensive care, veterinary supervision and rehabilitation. Despite multiple release attempts into the wild, Tshering’s early dependency on human care made survival in the natural habitat difficult, leading to his permanent management under captive care.

For nearly nine years, Tshering lived at the rescue centre, growing into a healthy adult bear. With the completion of the rescue centre at Chamina, equipped with spacious natural landscaping, enrichment facilities and secure fencing, on 30th May,2026, Tshering has been relocated to a safer and enriched environment.

Tshering has adapted well to his new home, and he continues to receive proper veterinary care, nutrition and monitoring.

In addition to the relocation of Tshering, Reldri, another Himalayan black bear that was rescued as an orphaned cub by the Divisional Forest Office, Wangdue , five years ago, was also translocated from the Rescue Centre at DFO -Wangdue to the Chamina Rescue Centre on 29 May,2026.

Royal Society for the Protection and Care of Animals, Bhutan

“Welcoming our new Chief Forestry Officer”

Today, the Nature Conservation Division had the honor of welcoming our new Chief Forestry Officer, Mr. Tshering Dhendup, in a ceremony graced by the Hon’ble Lyonpo, Dasho Secretary, MoENR and the Director, DoFPS.

The event began with the sacred rituals; Lhabsang Thrusel (purification ceremony), lighting of butter lamp, Marchhang offering and Zhudrel Phuensum Leyrim (auspicious food offering), followed by the formal handing-taking and a simple cake-cutting ceremony.

Officials from other Functional Divisions, led by their respective chiefs and our valued conservation partners(WWF, BTFEC, Bhutan Foundation, BES and BFL) joined in offering Tashi Khadhar.

We are truly delighted to welcome our Chief, whose rich experiences and deep commitment will guide us in taking conservation to new heights!

Thank you everyone for making this event a memorable and meaningful one.

Hon’ble Lyonpo, MoENR Chairs 9th General Assembly of the Global Tiger Forum

Hon’ble Lyonpo Gem Tshering, Minister for Energy and Natural Resources, Royal Government of Bhutan, chaired the 9th General Assembly of the Global Tiger Forum held virtually on 16 March 2026. In his remarks, Lyonpo reaffirmed Bhutan’s strong commitment to tiger conservation and called for stronger cooperation, sustained political will, and greater on-ground action to secure the future of wild tigers and their habitats. The Assembly also endorsed Bhutan’s continued leadership of the Forum, and it was confirmed that the next General Assembly will be held in Bhutan. Director, DoFPS, and officials from the Nature Conservation Division also attended the meeting, alongside representatives from member countries and partner organizations.
Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, Royal Government of Bhutan
Department of Forests and Park Services

Our colleague, Dr. Lungten Dorji is making impactful contributions to conservation through his collaboration with WWF Bhutan .

Such initiatives exemplifies how science and education strengthen Bhutan’s Conservation movement, inspiring both youth and professionals alike.

Bhutan chaired the 21st Standing Committee Meeting of the Global Tiger Forum, reaffirming its commitment to global tiger conservation.

The Director of the Department of Forests and Park Services as Chair, emphasized the importance of ecological integrity, regional cooperation, and sustained financing to secure the future of wild tigers.

The meeting reviewed progress since the 20th SC Meeting and discussed preparations for the upcoming GTF General Assembly, including the election of the next Chairperson.

Department of Forests and Park Services WWF Bhutan

The Nature Conservation Division officially bids a heartfelt farewell to Mr. Sonam Wangdi, Chief Forestry Officer, whose service has been defined by paramount dedication, integrity, and exemplary leadership.

Under his visionary guidance, NCD witnessed remarkable growth and success. His steady leadership, strategic foresight and kindness have left an enduring impact on the Division and on all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

As Mr. Sonam Wangdi embarks on the next chapter of his professional journey with the Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation (BTFEC), we extend our warmest wishes for continued growth and never-ending success. We are confident that his experience and commitment will continue to contribute meaningfully to Bhutan’s environmental conservation efforts.

NCD will truly miss his guidance, mentorship, and the calm assurance he brought to every challenge. While we bid farewell, his legacy remains deeply woven into our work and values. We thank him for his outstanding service and wish him every success in his future endeavors.

Best wishes la Chief our a.k.a elephanter