Elephants in Bhutan are not only a symbol of strength and wisdom, but also revered as integral part of the country’s biodiversity. However, with rising human-wildlife conflict, particularly in the southern plains, the relationship between humans and these giants is increasingly fraught with tension. As the country continues to develop, …
Read More »MoIT working on strengthening supply chain and point of sale for EVs
In a move to tackle challenges related to electric vehicle (EV) maintenance and related issues Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Chandra Bdr Gurung, shared that the ministry is focusing on strengthening the supply chain and Point-of-Sale (POS) infrastructure. Lyonpo Chandra Bdr Gurung said that this involves a comprehensive review of …
Read More »Indian SIM cards still evade Bhutanese citizens
Earlier in June 2024 in response to a question by this paper, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, D.N Dhungyel, announced that in February 2024, the Government of India had issued a circular regarding the amendment in their Know Your Customer (KYC) instructions for the issuance of SIM …
Read More »From a difficult childhood to gold medals: The inspiring journey of Dr Dechen Wangmo
Doctor Dechen Wangmo, at just 27 years of age, has achieved what many can only dream of: a medical degree with an extraordinary distinction of nine gold medals from the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) in Sri Lanka. Her journey from a humble beginning to becoming a celebrated …
Read More »What Gelephu Mindfulness City could mean for Bhutanese
By Chablop Passu The world has made remarkable strides in the last few decades, advancing more in the last fifty years than it did in the previous fifty thousand. But this progress has come at a significant cost. We have traded much for it: wars, environmental destruction, cultural erosion, and …
Read More »Nu 1 billion study abroad program faces criticism
In response to a question during the monthly meet-the-press the Prime Minister (PM) clarified on the government’s plan to allocate Nu 1 billion to support one child from each eligible family to study abroad. The eligibility criteria were designed to benefit economically disadvantaged families, those who have not sent any family …
Read More »Remodifying token distribution: Ministry of Health’s plan to reduce wait times
Amid growing concerns over the limited number of tokens in hospitals and clinics, the Ministry of Health (MoH) has identified several key reasons for the token limitation, alongside the measures being taken to address the issue. According to MoH, one of the primary reasons for token limitation is the number …
Read More »MoESD plans to replace the Moderation Exercise with the BPST
The Ministry of Education and Skills Development (MoESD) has announced plans to replace the Moderation Exercise, a current performance evaluation method, with the Bhutan Professional Standard for Teachers (BPST) aiming to reduce teacher workload and improve job satisfaction. Lyonpo Yeezang De Thapa explained that the discussions with the RCSC and …
Read More »Bhutanese products can command premium prices abroad: Frankenberg
At the recent Bhutan Innovation Forum (BIF), one of the discussions revolved around the theme of mindful innovation and entrepreneurship, highlighting how cultivating awareness, emotional regulation, and a realistic understanding of the business landscape can drive success. Alex Von Frankenberg, Managing Director of The High-Tec Gründerfonds, opened the dialogue by …
Read More »The world of AI and Augmented Reality: Can Bhutan Benefit?
The panel discussion on the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) in Bhutan, included AI’s role in enhancing efficiency and personalization, and AR’s ability to bridge digital and physical worlds. The panelists highlighted the importance of ethical AI, aligning with Bhutan’s values of Gross National Happiness (GNH), …
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