Monica Rai

Salvaging contaminated pork ?

There are approximately 67 tonnes of pork contaminated by the African Swine Fever (ASF) virus stored in three cold storages in Phuentsholing. Usually any contaminated pork is carefully disposed away by the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA), but the pork importers requested BFDA consider alternatives to the disposal. According …

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FAO launches USD 83M Country Programming Framework

On 15 May 2024, the Prime Minister (PM), Dasho Tshering Tobgay, officially launched the FAO Country Programming Framework (CPF) for 2024–2028 at the Bhutan Agrifood Trade and Investment Forum. The strategic document, developed collaboratively between FAO and the Royal Government of Bhutan (RGoB), aligns closely with Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan …

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Farmers in Pemaling Gewog, Samtse struggle against persistent fruit drop

Samtse’s orange orchards, once the largest orange-producing region, is now battling a relentless enemy known locally as “Jaruwa” or fruit drop. This pervasive issue, caused by the citrus/chinese fruit fly known scientifically as Bactrocera minax (Enderlein) threatens the orange farmers’ livelihood, yet they remain steadfast and hopeful despite the odds. Heran Chettri …

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The PEMA initiative takes mental health forward

May is Mental Health Awareness Month Despite the absence of definitive studies on the causes of mental health conditions within the nation, The PEMA Secretariat acknowledges the global recognition of the multifaceted nature of mental health issues. With this understanding, the country has integrated mental health components into its National Health Survey …

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Taktichu bridge inaugurated and open to traffic

On the 24 April 2024, the newly constructed Taktichu bridge along the Thimphu-Phuentsholing highway was officially opened to traffic, offering a vital lifeline for commuters. The inauguration ceremony was jointly presided over by the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Chandra Bahadur Gurung, and the Ambassador of India to Bhutan, Sudhakar …

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Why NCHM could not predict the hailstorm in Tsirang

The recent hailstorm wreaked havoc on the agricultural sector in Tsirang, adding to a series of extreme weather events that have affected Bhutan this year. The hailstorm struck on 10 April, causing significant damage to crops and leaving locals grappling with the aftermath. In February, the country was under the …

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