The centuries-old Bhutanese tradition of hoisting 108 prayer flags for the deceased has come under fresh scrutiny for its environmental impact. During a recent session of the National Assembly (NA), the Member of Parliament (MP) from Nganglam Constituency, Lamdra Wangdi, questioned the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Gem Tshering, …

In a unanimous decision, the National Council (NC) has endorsed sweeping changes to the Rural Life Insurance Scheme (RLIS), opting for a gradual and flexible approach to increasing coverage while making room for greater inclusion. Rather than backing the government’s pledged Nu 150,000 insurance sum outright, NC chose a more …

In a nation where baseball is still finding its footing, 17-year-old Thinley Jamtsho is blazing a trail that could redefine Bhutanese sports. A Class 11 Arts student at Dechencholing Higher Secondary School, Thinley has become the first Bhutanese player selected to participate in the prestigious MLB China Development Center Summer …

As part of its strategic efforts to enhance public service delivery, the Royal Government of Bhutan has officially launched the Integrated Service Center (ISC) and the enhanced 1199 Public Service Contact Center (PSCC). These initiatives, under the Public Service Delivery Division (PSDD) of the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), are key …

In the remote highlands of Lunana, Bhutan is confronting one of the most pressing threats brought on by climate change: glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). Thorthormi Lake, once part of a vast glacier system, is now a growing body of water fed by rapidly melting ice. Rising temperatures heighten the …

A recent inspection by the Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (CCAA) has revealed high overall compliance among businesses in Samtse, but the authority has also flagged minor issues that require immediate attention to maintain consumer trust and safety. The nine-day surveillance, carried out from 23rd to 31st May 2025, covered …

As monsoon rains continue to cause widespread damage to farm roads across Bhutan, Local Governments (LGs) are finding it increasingly difficult to manage the financial burden of restoration using their existing block grants. The issue, highlighted in a written question submitted by the Member of Parliament from the Kilkhorthang-Mendrelgang Constituency, …

With the monsoon season arriving from July to September, Bhutan once again faces the annual challenge of keeping its road network safe and passable. Heavy rains often trigger landslides, flash floods, and debris flows, particularly in southern regions with fragile geology. These natural events cause roadblocks and accidents, affecting travel …

The issue of land tax on private farmland used for public infrastructure has resurfaced as a major concern following a formal submission in Parliament by the Member of Parliament from Sergithang-Tsirangtoe Constituency. The MP raised the matter in light of ongoing grievances from private landowners who are still required to …

In a renewed effort to improve accountability in Bhutan’s vehicle market, the Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (CCAA) has launched a collaborative initiative with automobile dealers to strengthen consumer protection through clearer and fairer Terms and Conditions (T&Cs) in vehicle sales and services. The automobile sector continues to generate a …