Editorial

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, …

On December 26, 2024, a new chapter in Bhutan’s development was written with the introduction of the Application of Laws Act 2024 for Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). This significant legal milestone, presented under the guidance of His Majesty the King at the revered Machhen Lhakhang, marks a bold step towards transforming GMC into a dynamic and prosperous business hub, harmoniously …

The Economic Stimulus Program (ESP) worth Nu 15 Billion, introduced for post-pandemic economic recovery, was heralded as a lifeline for domestic production, employment generation, and bolstering foreign currency reserves. However, while its objectives are laudable, its execution has laid bare systemic inefficiencies that hinder its transformative potential, particularly for the private sector. One of the most significant hurdles facing businesses …

The Gyalsung program, initiated under the visionary leadership of His Majesty The King, represents a transformative milestone in Bhutan’s journey towards national unity, discipline, and a prosperous future. The success of the first cohort of Gyalsups has set a commendable precedent, earning praise from His Majesty and admiration from citizens across the nation. As we celebrate their achievements, it is …

The issue of vehicle quotas in Bhutan, which first emerged in the 1980s, has resurfaced in recent parliamentary deliberations, prompting much-needed debate about fairness, economic priorities, and the long-term sustainability of government policies. Initially introduced to address the limited pool of government vehicles, the lack of public transport, and to ensure mobility for civil servants, vehicle quotas have now become …