Bhutan Daily News 09-11-23
- Saidpiece
- Nov 10, 2023
- 4 min read
Narrowing Disparities: Decline in the Urban-Rural Youth Unemployment Gap in Bhutan
The disparity in youth unemployment rates between urban and rural areas in Bhutan has been steadily decreasing. The Labor Market Information Bulletin 2023 reveals that the gap between urban and rural youth unemployment has decreased from approximately 19 percent in 2013 to around 13 percent in 2022.
Unusual Birth: Calf with Extra Limb Born in Uesuna, Paro
A peculiar occurrence has been reported in Uesuna, Paro, where a calf was born with an additional limb, leaving its owners both bewildered and alarmed. Despite the anomaly, the calf appears to be in good health. District Veterinarians attribute the condition to a genetic disorder, noting that similar incidents have occurred in the past.
Thimphu Police Apprehend Four Drug Dealers, Uncover Main Suppliers in Recent Operations
In recent operations, Thimphu police successfully arrested four individuals involved in drug trafficking, with two of them identified as key suppliers. The arrests were carried out on Monday, with three individuals apprehended initially, followed by the arrest of the fourth person on the subsequent day.
The Narcotic Drugs and Other Vices Division credited the success of the operation to valuable tip-offs received from the public. The sequence of arrests began with the capture of a drug dealer from Babesa, leading to the identification and apprehension of the two main suppliers. Notably, these suppliers, who do not use drugs themselves, had previously faced charges for drug distribution and were out on bail.
The arrest of the fourth individual is reported to be unrelated and treated as a separate case by the police. Alongside the arrests, law enforcement seized substantial amounts of drugs and cash from the individuals involved in the illicit activities.
Election Commission of Bhutan Announces End to Door-to-Door Campaigns for NA Elections
In a departure from previous parliamentary elections, including the recent National Council Election, the upcoming National Assembly Elections will not feature door-to-door campaigns. The Election Commission of Bhutan cited the decision as a measure for the convenience of both candidates and voters, aiming to respect privacy and prevent corruption. This move aligns with the Rules on Elections Conduct and has been made in consultation with various stakeholders.
Phub Dorji, the Director of the Secretariat of ECB, explained, "All the voters have expressed that door-to-door campaigning is not desirable, and even political parties and candidates share this sentiment. Despite previous assertions that democracy necessitates door-to-door campaigning, ongoing discussions in stakeholder meetings consistently raised concerns. Consequently, the decision was made to discontinue this practice, with smaller meetings or gatherings at the village level being introduced as an alternative.
Revival of Construction: Gewog Centre Road to Laya Resumes in Gasa
After a hiatus caused by budget constraints, the construction of the Gewog Centre road leading to Laya in Gasa has recommenced. While over half of the road was completed several years ago, progress was impeded due to financial limitations. Presently, the focus is on completing the remaining six-kilometer stretch of the road.
Growing Discontent: Public Vent Frustrations over Sluggish Internet Speeds in Bhutan
A wave of frustration is sweeping through Bhutan as numerous individuals voice their discontent with the sluggish Internet speeds in recent times. Social media platforms are inundated with complaints from subscribers dissatisfied with both mobile networks and broadband services. Many have expressed that the slow Internet connection is impeding their online activities, including following the National Assembly Elections Primary Round public debates.
His Majesty The King Concludes Official Visit to India with a Grand Welcome in Mumbai
The final leg of His Majesty's eight-day Official Visit to India concluded with a warm reception in Mumbai, Maharashtra. His Majesty The King was graciously received by the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis.
Later in the day, His Majesty had a meeting with the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde, who paid a courtesy call. In the evening, a dinner in honor of His Majesty was hosted by the Governor of Maharashtra, Ramesh Bias.
During the Mumbai visit, His Majesty also engaged in discussions with prominent business leaders of India, further fostering connections and strengthening ties between the two nations.
Promoting Inclusive Education: Bhutan's Monastic Institutions Embrace Disability Equality Initiatives
In Bhutan, individuals with disabilities have historically faced exclusion from the mainstream education system, often finding refuge in monastic institutions. Recognizing the growing presence of people with disabilities in these institutions, several monastic establishments shared their insights with Bhutan Broadcasting Service (BBS). To enhance the ability of monastic institutions to provide comprehensive support and care, the Monastic Council for Education and Research Secretariat, under the Central Monastic Body, organized a two-day Disability Equality workshop in Thimphu.
Bhutan's Ambassador to EU Presents Credentials, Acknowledges EU Development Assistance
Tshoki Choden, the newly appointed ambassador of Bhutan to the European Union, formally presented her credentials to the President of the European Council. During the meeting, the ambassador conveyed warm greetings from His Majesty The King, Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, and the Chair of the Interim Government of Bhutan to the President.
In a news release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, the ambassador expressed gratitude for the development assistance provided by the European Union to Bhutan. She also acknowledged the EU's commitment to continue partnering with Bhutan beyond its Least Developed Country (LDC) graduation.
The European Union holds significance as a key development partner for Bhutan. Under the Multi-annual Indicative Programme (MIP 2021-2027), the EU has pledged €31 million for the first phase (2021-2024). The focus areas include Climate Change, Green Growth and Self-reliant Bhutan, and Digital Transition as a catalyst for change in education and public service delivery.
Financing Agreements for two projects, "Promoting Inclusive, Sustainable and Resilient Agri-food Systems in Bhutan" (€15 million) and "Strengthening Good Governance and Digitalisation in Bhutan" (€9.3 million), have already been signed. Further assistance for the remaining period of MIP 2021-2027 will be announced after the mid-term review in 2024.
The European Union initiated its support for Bhutan's development projects in 1982, and diplomatic relations between the EU and Bhutan were officially established on August 9, 1985.
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