ABOUT TOWN

The introduction of Cambridge-aligned textbooks for Classes 9 and 11 has marked a significant shift in Bhutan’s education system, with a stronger focus on conceptual learning, critical thinking, and real-world application. While the transition is still in its early stages, teachers are beginning to observe both opportunities and challenges in …

Electricity tariffs from the upcoming Yungichhu and Burgangchhu hydropower projects are expected to be higher than Bhutan’s older large hydropower plants, reflecting the relatively higher construction costs per megawatt and smaller project sizes. However, the tariffs are likely to remain comparable to those of newer hydropower developments. According to the …

The Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN) is proving that the path to wildlife conservation runs through the hearts and economies of local communities. By transforming potential threats like illegal fishing into sustainable ventures such as climate-smart agriculture and professional entrepreneurship, RSPN has turned residents into the primary guardians …

According to the Ministry of Finance (MoF), several eligible sole proprietorship businesses remain outside the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system, prompting the Department of Revenue and Customs (DRC) to intensify targeted outreach, education, and enforcement efforts to improve compliance. As of 19th March 2026, a total of 3,612 businesses …

Rising costs driven by currency fluctuations, taxes, and global shipping disruptions are putting pressure on importers and retailers, with businesses passing the increased expenses on to consumers. A retailer, Tandin, said, “Usually, we get one month credit from the importers, and then we pay our dues to them. But recently, …

Headline inflation rose to 5.76 percent in January 2026, the highest level recorded in the past two years, driven by increases in both food and non-food prices. Food inflation increased to 7.33 percent in January. Within the food category, the index for food and non-alcoholic beverages rose by 6.10 percent, …

After more than a decade, TEDxThimphu is set to return to Bhutan, bringing back a global platform for the exchange of ideas and thought-provoking conversations. TEDxThimphu brings together speakers from diverse backgrounds to deliver powerful talks that aim to spark dialogue and encourage innovative solutions to global and local challenges. …

The Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA) is planning to strengthen its tobacco control framework through proposed amendments to the Tobacco Control Act of Bhutan that would explicitly regulate e-cigarettes and other emerging nicotine products, while introducing stronger measures to protect minors from tobacco use. The proposed changes are being …

The Giant African Land Snail (Achatina fulica) infestation, first detected in Gyalpozhing, Mongar in 2008, continues to affect communities in eastern Bhutan, with the invasive species now established in Lingmethang and surrounding areas. Saling Mangmi Tshering Norbu said, “When the Giant African Land Snail first emerged in Gyalpozhing in 2008, …

Lead poisoning, a serious public health concern and can have severe health impacts, particularly on children.  In Bhutan, concerns around lead exposure have grown following findings from the 2024 National Blood Lead Level Survey, which revealed alarming levels of lead among children. Lead Focal Person, Karma Wangdi, said that Bhutan …