Monica Rai

Estonia’s e-Governance Journey: Lessons for Bhutan

During a recent press meet with the European Union delegations, Estonia’s Ambassador to New Delhi, Marje Luup, shared invaluable insights into her country’s remarkable progress in e-Governance and cybersecurity. She emphasized that this success is largely due to the right attitude and support from the political leadership, highlighting how a …

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Carbon-Linked Bonds: A Potential Path to Climate Financing

In a recent discussion highlighting Bhutan’s innovative financial strategies to combat climate change, experts examined the potential of carbon-linked bonds (CLBs) as a means to attract private sector investment and bolster the country’s environmental commitments during the final day of Bhutan Innovation Forum. These bonds, linked to future carbon prices, …

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How Ireland uses its diaspora

During a recent press meet with the European Union delegations, Kevin Kelly, the Ambassador of Ireland to India, said, “Over the past three decades, Ireland has transitioned from being a nation of mass emigration to welcoming citizens and migrants who support its growing economy.” He said that as a result, …

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Lyonchhen attends 79th UN General Assembly, engages with global leaders

Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay arrived in New York on 20 September to participate in the high-level week of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Leading the Royal Government of Bhutan (RGoB) delegation, which included the Foreign Minister, Cabinet Secretary, Finance Secretary, and senior officials, the Prime …

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The economic costs of social exclusion of vulnerable groups

Social exclusion, particularly of vulnerable groups, such as LGBTQI+ individuals and people with disabilities (PWD), poses significant economic challenges for both individuals and society. The consequences of exclusion extend far beyond the immediate impact on affected individuals; they stifle innovation, reduce productivity, and place an undue burden on healthcare systems. …

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Tsento hydro project in Paro for power generation and water supply

The 33 MW Parochu Integrated Multipurpose Hydropower Plant (IMHP), located in Tsento Gewog, Paro, is progressing steadily and has raised hopes, not only for increased energy generation but also for providing solutions to water shortages in the region.  IMHP is positioned to address multifaceted needs, blending hydropower development with water …

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Slow Decline of Bhutan’s apple industry

4,314 MT of apples exported in 1996 dropping to 1,622 MT by 2023 The apple industry in Bhutan, concentrated in key areas like Bumthang, Paro, Thimphu, and Haa, is currently facing multiple challenges, from climate change to market fluctuations. The overall production and export trends indicate a slow decline, raising …

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