Editorial

As Bhutan enters the fiscal year 2023-24, while there have been positive signs of progress, such as a reduction in the fiscal deficit due to increased revenue mobilization, Bhutan faces challenges with a projected widening fiscal deficit, driven by reduced grant estimates. The total public debt has risen to alarming levels, reaching 136.8 percent of GDP, primarily attributed to hydropower …

Corruption is a corrosive force that eats away at the foundations of a nation’s progress and prosperity. In Bhutan, recent reports from the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) have shed light on both positive developments and persistent challenges in our ongoing battle against corruption. As a nation that values Gross National Happiness, it is crucial that we remain steadfast in our pursuit …

In an era marked by unprecedented challenges, a beacon of hope is emerging in Bhutan’s handicraft industry. This sector, once heavily reliant on tourism, faced a daunting decline due to the pandemic and subsequent changes in tourism policies. However, a remarkable resurgence, centered around cultural T-shirts, is breathing new life into the industry, offering a ray of hope for artisans …

In the intricate embroidery of a nation’s development, the public sector stands as a formidable thread, woven into the very fabric of the nation’s welfare and progress. At the heart of this sector are the diligent civil servants, working tirelessly to steer the ship of governance towards the shores of national prosperity. In Bhutan, the Royal Civil Service Commission has …

In 1974, Bhutan opened its doors to tourism, a significant milestone after centuries of isolation. As it embraced this new era, the government meticulously adopted a high-value, low-volume tourism policy. The intention was clear: to harness the benefits of tourism while shielding the nation from the potential detriments of mass influx. However, recent policy changes have ignited a debate on …

On August 18th, Bhutan witnessed a momentous occasion that will be etched in the annals of its history. Tshering Penjor, a determined student from Yangchen Gastsel Higher Secondary School in Thimphu Dzongkhag, stepped into the spotlight as the first Bhutanese athlete to embrace the world of adaptive sports, utilizing a running blade. This breakthrough is not just a stride forward …

As Bhutan steers its path from a least developed nation to a developed one, a disconcerting reality lingers- the arduous journeys undertaken by students from remote villages in pursuit of education. The concept of development transcends mere economic progress; it embodies the realization of every child’s inherent right to easy access to education, irrespective of the geographical barriers they encounter. …

Cervical cancer has emerged as the most common cancer in women and stands as one of the leading causes of death among Bhutanese women. Between 2014 and 2018, the country reported over 300 cases of cervical cancer, and the total recorded cases have now reached a staggering 18,313 by 2022. These statistics are deeply concerning, and it is time for …

The recently released National Integrity Assessment (NIA) 2022 paints a concerning picture of corruption in our country. According to the report, Abuse of Power, Bribery, and Embezzlement stand as the top three perceived prevalent forms of corruption. Among them, Abuse of Power consistently remains the highest alleged corruption offense, with a significant number of complaints qualifying for investigation. This disturbing …

In recent times, Bhutanese consumers have displayed a commendable shift towards locally produced vegetables and fruits due to their organic and chemical-free nature. This shift reflects a growing awareness among citizens about the benefits of consuming fresh and healthy food. However, despite the surge in demand for these products, the prices remain exorbitant, mainly due to the challenges posed by …