Editorial

Bhutan is increasingly targeted by growing narcotics trafficking networks, particularly heroin and brown sugar. The Royal Bhutan Police has reported 20 drug trafficking cases this year alone, signaling a troubling surge in narcotics entering the country. Bhutan’s position as a transit point for international drug syndicates is a serious concern, and the question is: how do we prevent this crisis …

In a world where corruption and financial mismanagement have derailed nations, Bhutan’s commitment to fiscal discipline stands as a model for good governance. Fiscal responsibility has long been a cornerstone of Bhutan’s approach to governance, with the Royal Audit Authority (RAA) playing a pivotal role in ensuring that this principle remains at the heart of public administration. The recent Annual …

A significant exodus from the civil service has raised alarms about the future of governance. Over 2,000 civil servants have resigned, with more than 1,400 voluntarily leaving their positions due to concerns over stagnating wages, slow promotions, excessive workloads, and lack of career advancement. This crisis highlights a deeper issue: the failure of the current system to meet the needs …

The increasing reliance on digital tools for crime detection and prevention marks a significant shift in law enforcement practices in Bhutan. The Royal Bhutan Police (RBP) has partnered with Bhutan Telecom (BT) and TashiCell (TC) to enhance crime investigations through mobile tower tracking. While this initiative has proven effective in solving cases, it also raises critical concerns about privacy, data …

A nation’s civil service is not just about numbers- it is about efficiency, equity, and adaptability. While recent figures indicate growth in the workforce, they also reveal deeper structural imbalances that threaten the very foundation of good governance. For a small nation, a well-functioning and inclusive civil service is not just an administrative necessity but a prerequisite for national progress. …

The challenges faced by Bhutanese drivers on India’s Assam Highway due to the FASTag system have raised serious concerns regarding the financial and logistical difficulties hindering cross-border trade and transportation. These issues, including double toll charges and technical malfunctions, have made travel more expensive and time-consuming, particularly for freight operators and business owners. The impact is not limited to individual …

In a small yet proud nation like Bhutan, where our uniqueness is rooted deeply in our culture, language plays an indispensable role in maintaining our national identity. Dzongkha, Bhutan’s national language, is not just a mode of communication but a vital symbol of who we are as a people, reflecting our history, values, and independence. In a world increasingly dominated …

As Gelephu braces for the transformative changes brought on by the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) project, the region’s real estate market has experienced a surge in land prices. This increase reflects the anticipation surrounding the city’s future, which promises state-of-the-art infrastructure, sustainable development, and a thriving economy. However, amidst this land price boom, there is a marked division between those …

The surge in online scams in Bhutan is a growing concern that requires immediate attention and action from both authorities and the public. As digital fraud becomes more sophisticated, scammers are exploiting people’s trust and emotional vulnerabilities, leading to significant financial losses. This alarming trend calls for a collective effort to increase awareness and safeguard the public from further harm. …

Bhutan’s fiscal plan for the year 2024-2025, amounting to Nu 97,654.829 million, presents an ambitious roadmap aimed at addressing immediate needs while laying the foundation for sustained long-term development. With significant investments earmarked for infrastructure and green initiatives, such as the Gyalsung program and the Green Power Readiness Enhancement Project, the government is positioning the nation for future growth. Yet, …