Developer

Can we build energy-efficient houses?

Before we know it, it is winter again! Almost! And like all winters this winter will be unforgivingly cold. Of course, some people think winter cold is far less severe than the extreme summer heat the likes of which you experience in Phuentsholing or Gelephu. The reason they give is …

Read More »

Land acquisition and management

If there is a survey of people who have lost the most land to public projects then the residents of Hejo would surely top the list. While the older generation saw land going to the  Golf course, Indian Embassy and the National Assembly, the current generation is seeing additional land …

Read More »

Vegetable vendors and sustainability of agriculture

Agriculture is important for the socio-economic development of the country. More than 65% of the population is engaged in the sector and it contributes more than 20% of the country’s GDP. Sustainable development of agriculture is the key to food security and alleviation of poverty in Bhutan. Today, the sector …

Read More »

Modi’s Audacious Gamble on Black Money

A scheme to capture large rupee notes raises questions about New Delhi’s economic literacy. Even for a risk-taker, Narendra Modi’s abrupt announcement last week that his government was voiding India’s two highest value currency bills is an audacious gamble. Between them, the demonetized 1,000 rupee ($14.80) and 500 rupee ($7.40) bills …

Read More »

BBIN reality check

The BBIN is a sub-regional initiative of India, including Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal after Pakistan pulled out of a SAARC Motor vehicle agreement. Though Bhutan had nothing much to gain or do with the agreement, the government played along to be a part of India’s sub-regional diplomatic effort. However, the …

Read More »

Trump’s election and the Paris Agreement fall out on Bhutan

One of the very real consequences of a President Donald Trump will soon be felt in the upcoming winter session of our Parliament when the government introduces ‘The Paris Agreement’ on climate change for ratification. The Paris Agreement is a global climate agreement to restrict increase in global temperature well …

Read More »

Hydro relations

Bhutan, over the decades has taken great care to nurture and strengthen its relationship with India mainly due to India’s economic assistance to Bhutan. The assistance started as aid in the early 1960’s that supported our five year plans. However, starting with Chukha and Tala India started playing an equally …

Read More »

We need Potholes Org

This is in continuation of my earlier article last week where I mention that with the onset of winter the potholes on some sections of our roads “are finally giving us true pictures of how deep they are as the water in them dry up.” Like the dust in the air, …

Read More »

Wildlife encroachment into urban territories increasing

Tanden Zangmo/ Thimphu Wildlife encroaching human habitation is increasing every year according to a report maintained by the Wildlife Rescue and Animal Health Section (WRAHS) at Taba, Thimphu. Last year there were 80 incidents of wildlife being rescued from human habitation according to the report. This year, as of October, …

Read More »

Millennials and Youths as vessels for Buddhism in Bhutan?

Bhutan as a state has undergone dramatic changes in less than a decade. We have transited to democratic constitutional monarchy in a most peaceful manner under the glorious reign of His Majesty The Fourth King and His Majesty The King. Generally, it is quite difficult to remain optimistic in the …

Read More »