Editorial

In the arena of political discourse, the promises made by politicians during the heat of a campaign often raise eyebrows and elicit skepticism from an informed electorate. The grandeur of these pledges, while enticing, frequently veers into the realm of the implausible. The question that lingers is whether these political vows are pragmatic or merely tactical maneuvers to secure votes. …

Bhutan, where the pursuit of happiness is a national mantra, a recent glimpse into the challenges faced by retirees prompts a thoughtful examination of policies affecting their twilight years. Retirement, traditionally synonymous with relaxation and independence, unveils a more complex narrative marked by financial strains and emotional solitude.The government’s laudable 2002 initiative aimed to secure a stable financial future for …

Bhutan’s journey into nationhood unfolds as a captivating narrative of upheaval and change. The passing of the Zhabdrung marked a period of decline for both the country and its governance, thrusting Bhutan into turmoil and internal. Over almost two centuries, Bhutan grappled with the challenge of producing a capable leader to navigate the nation through chaos. A pivotal historical shift …

The attrition rates, as revealed in the November 2023 report, have surged to unprecedented levels, demanding immediate attention and strategic intervention to safeguard the stability and effectiveness of the government workforce. The statistics are stark and, in many ways, indicative of underlying challenges that need careful consideration. From January to November 2023, the attrition rate rose to a staggering 14.3%, …

Bhutan’s democratic journey has witnessed a commendable surge in civic engagement, with citizens actively participating in the electoral process. The recent Fourth Parliamentary Elections in 2023, however, have raised concerns as they experienced a slight decline in voter turnout compared to the 2018 elections. In this critical examination, it is imperative to explore the strengths and weaknesses of the electoral …

As the calendar inches closer to November 30, the date of the fourth National Assembly election, a palpable sense of anticipation and civic responsibility sweeps across the nation. With every passing day, citizens are gearing up to exercise their democratic right, a gift bestowed upon them from the golden Throne-the power to shape the future of their beloved country through …

In a notable departure from conventional educational trajectories, Bhutan could become the unexpected focal point for academic pursuits, as exemplified by the recent enrollment of two 16-year-old Australian students. Their choice challenges the prevailing narrative where Bhutanese students predominantly seek educational experiences abroad, redirecting attention to the unique educational landscape that Bhutan offers. Choosing to reside on campus for an …

In the heart of the capital, a rising tide of discontent among commuters is signaling a disconcerting trend in the taxi service industry. Passengers are expressing dissatisfaction with what appears to be a systematic issue of taxi drivers allegedly overcharging, particularly targeting those unfamiliar with the local fare norms. This not only poses a financial burden on passengers but also …

The recent report by the Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan, detailing the country’s external reserves from October 2022 to July 2023, presents a critical snapshot of the nation’s financial standing amidst global uncertainties. The data portrays a mixed picture, highlighting the need for careful management and strategic planning to ensure the long-term economic stability of the nation. The initial numbers …

Growing discontent is increasingly evident among private sector employees regarding the current postal ballot system in Bhutan. The private workforce is increasingly questioning the fairness of a system that seems to heavily favor civil servants, thus raising serious concerns about unequal treatment under the law. This disparity in voting rights has prompted some individuals to put forward practical and thoughtful …