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The Department of Forests and Park Services (DoFPS) is taking an important step towards strengthening forest management through the enhanced use of digital systems, data and technology. Rather than developing standalone systems, the initiative focuses on connecting and enhancing existing digital platforms and databases to improve data interoperability, management, analysis and accessibility. These efforts are expected to support evidence-based decision-making, more efficient public service delivery and the sustainable management of Bhutan’s forest resources.
The initiative is supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) through technical expertise, consultations and surveys conducted by JICA experts under the Basic Planning Survey. The Forest Monitoring and Information Division (FMID) of DoFPS coordinated and supported the process, including the assessment of existing digital systems and the identification of opportunities to strengthen digital integration, data management and institutional capacity.
A key milestone was achieved on 15 September 2026 with the signing of the Minutes of Meeting (M/M), with the draft Record of Discussion (R/D) attached. The documents capture the key understandings reached through the survey and consultations and outline the proposed framework and implementation arrangements for the Technical Cooperation Project.
The M/M was signed by Mr. Takashi Kaji, Director, Forest and Nature Conservation Group, Global Environment Department, JICA Headquarters; Mr. Karma Tenzin, Director, Department of Forests and Park Services (DoFPS); and Mrs. Kuenga Zam, Director, Department of Digital Transformation, Government Technology (GovTech) Agency, Royal Government of Bhutan. Mr. Sonam Tashi, Director, Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC), attended as a witness.
The signing marks an important milestone in the collaboration and reflects the shared commitment of the participating agencies to harness data and digital technologies to support stronger, more integrated and sustainable forest management in Bhutan.
As the lead implementing agency, DoFPS will work closely with GovTech, DECC and other relevant agencies to advance the proposed Technical Cooperation Project and strengthen the use of digital technologies and integrated forest information for improved forest management, monitoring and decision-making.
