BHUTAN TODAY The New Perspective
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Sonam Deki
In an unprecedented move, the newly elected Prime Minister wasted no time in setting the governmentโs reform agenda into motion on the very first day in office. A high-level meeting with Cabinet Ministers resulted in the issuance of four executive orders and ten pivotal directives aimed at a broad spectrum of policy areas from economic development to educational reform.
Among the executive orders, the Prime Minister mandated the immediate cessation of the Nu.10 collection at the Phuntsholing pedestrian terminal, signaling a move towards easing daily burdens on the citizens. Further, the establishment of the Economic Development Board (EDB) was ordered, with its first meeting scheduled within a month, emphasizing the governmentโs commitment to economic rejuvenation.
A high-level task force has been formed to draft an implementation plan for the ambitious 15 Billion Economic Stimulus Plan, with a deadline set for March 1, 2024. This stimulus plan is part of a broader strategy to invigorate the economy in the wake of challenges. Additionally, the government seeks to address the regularization of contract employees through the establishment of a dedicated committee, aiming for a comprehensive study report within a month.
The Prime Ministerโs Office (PMO) outlined several directives targeting key areas of concern. The Ministry of Finance has been tasked with revising the Tenancy Agreement for Changjiji colony residents and developing plans for more low-income housing, with progress reports due by March 1, 2024.
Education reforms are also on the agenda, with the Ministry of Education and Skills Development directed to evaluate the feasibility of making Saturdays school-off days and to review the Individual Work Plan of teachers for potential improvements.
The Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Employment faces a comprehensive review of business regulatory processes, the Foreign Direct Investment Policy, and the development of an action plan to boost tourist arrivals, including a special focus on border towns. These initiatives aim at revitalizing the private sector and enhancing tourism as a critical economic pillar.
Infrastructure development is not left behind, with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport commissioned to conduct feasibility studies on constructing five airstrips in strategic locations, enhancing national connectivity.
The PMO emphasized that these initiatives, derived from the Peopleโs Democratic Party’s Manifesto, represent a commitment to address pressing issues through immediate action. The establishment of the EDB and the economic stimulus task force is seen as proactive measures to tackle economic challenges head-on.
The government has pledged to implement these initiatives within a reasonable timeframe, emphasizing efficiency and the well-being of its citizens. Regular updates on the progress of these pledges will be provided, maintaining transparency and accountability in governance.
“While the specific completion timeline for each initiative may vary, the government is committed to ensuring that the initiatives are implemented and deliver results for the benefit of the citizens, feasible and contributing to the well-being of the people,” the PMO said.
Highlighting the equal importance of each initiative, the PMO stated that every pledge contributes to the nation’s collective well-being and development, aligning with the principles of Gross National Happiness and sustainable development. The government remains dedicated to fulfilling each pledge, demonstrating a robust start to its term in office.
“There is no one pledge that is more important than the other. That is the reason all 13 of them had to be initiated on the very first day in office. Each of the 13 pledges holds significant importance as they collectively contribute to the well-being and development of the nation, in line with the principles of Gross National Happiness and sustainable development. The government is dedicated to fulfilling each pledge with equal importance, as outlined in the People Democratic Party’s Manifesto,” PMO further added.
In a bold first day, the Prime Minister has set a clear direction for the governmentโs term, with an emphasis on economic revitalization, regulatory improvement, and social welfare, laying the groundwork for what many hope will be a transformative tenure.
