THE NATION

Commercial properties across Thimphu are facing significant challenges in renting out spaces, with some property owners struggling to repay their loans. Businesses report a decline in revenue by 50 to 70 percent, depending on the type of business. Namgay Dorji, a building owner in the Changlam core town area, said, …

With higher dependence on imported edible oils, the local vegetable oil industry faces an uphill battle. Local producers advocate for healthier, chemical-free oils amidst a market flooded with cheaper, imported alternatives. The World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2023 deadline for eliminating industrially produced trans fats looms, our local vegetable oil industry …

The construction sector in Thimphu Thromde faces significant challenges due to frequent disruptions in the supply of sand, a critical material for building and infrastructure projects. These disruptions, primarily occurring from May to October, have led to delays, increased costs, and potential compromises in construction quality, according to a recent …

In the recent Question Hour Session of the Parliament, the persistent issue of helicopter fare subsidies for the residents of Nubri and Yaksa Chiwog under Tsento Geog was once again brought to light. Despite being authentic natives of highland regions, these residents are not eligible for subsidized helicopter fares, unlike …

Third Telecom player to be allowed to boost competition During the recent question hour in the National Assembly, Kengkhar Weringla Constituency’s MP Dorji Wangmo raised concerns about Bhutan’s high internet charges and poor connectivity. She queried about the timeline and extent of these reductions, and how the government plans to …

Radhi Sakteng MP, Tashi Tenzin, during the Question Hour session of the 15th Sitting of the 4th Parliament, said that in efforts to enhance public service delivery efficiency, previous governments have established community service centers (CSCs) in over 200 gewogs since 2011. Currently, there are more than 350 online services …

During the 5th Meet the Press, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, along with the Ministry of Finance, addressed pressing questions about the establishment of the Crop and Livestock Compensation Trust Fund. Given the critical importance of supporting farming communities against climate-related losses, the government is developing an insurance scheme …

The Special Olympics Asia Pacific office made a special visit to Bhutan last month, as a strategic move to reclaim its reach and foster inclusivity for individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) in the region. This visit underscores the importance of rebuilding and expanding the Special Olympics programs that were severely …

Lyonpo Chandra Bdr Gurung, Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, revealed that the ministry will prioritize the improvement of the Dzongkhag roads with the total estimated budget of Nu. 4.869 bn in the 13th FYP.   From July 2024, the management of Dzongkhag roads will be taken over by the Department of …

Concerns regarding water scarcity for irrigation and the distribution of machinery were raised by MP Namgay R Dorji from Punakha Constituency during a recent National Council session. Emphasizing the critical need for reliable irrigation sources, MP Namgay highlighted that numerous farmlands in Bhutan remain fallow due to the lack of …