Bhutan Daily News 21-01-24
- Saidpiece
- Jan 21, 2024
- 3 min read
1. Surge in Spring Chilli Cultivation in Sergithang Gewog
Farmers in Sergithang Gewog, Tsirang, are turning to the cultivation of spring chilli on a larger scale covering around 140 acres. This shift is attributed to the desire to counter the decline in income from vegetable sales. Spring chilli, known for early market availability, is seen as a strategic choice by farmers to enhance their financial returns.
2. Paro District Administration Partners with Zeus for Stray and Homeless Dogs
In a bid to manage expenses related to free-roaming dogs, Paro District Administration hands over a dog shelter in Jizhignag, Dopshari Gewog, to Zeus for Stray and Homeless Dogs. The shelter, currently housing approximately 200 dogs, was incurring a monthly expenditure of 150,000 ngultrum for their sustenance.
3. Increasing Interest in STEM Subjects Among Bhutanese Girls
Bhutan observes a growing interest among girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects. The fifth Girls STEM Camp, held in Phuentsholing, received an overwhelming response with 400 applications. However, only 20 girls were selected to maintain the camp's standards, highlighting a positive trend in girls' engagement with STEM disciplines.
4. Climate-Smart Agriculture Thrives in Dagana with Mega Greenhouse
A couple in lower Gangzur, Tsendagang Gewog, Dagana, has become notable for practicing climate-smart agriculture. The construction of Bhutan's first mega greenhouse has played a crucial role in their success. The greenhouse enables them to overcome climate challenges and thrive as innovative farmers, contributing to domestic agricultural production.
5. Newborn Screenings for Defects Implemented in Bhutan
To ensure the healthy growth of newborns, the National Referral Hospital and other healthcare facilities are conducting screenings for apparent defects right after birth. The screenings cover various aspects, including heart, vision, and hearing. While awareness of the importance of such screenings has increased, follow-up participation remains a concern for thorough defect detection and correction.
6. Bhutanese Taekwondo Team Excels in 9th Invitational Championship
A Bhutanese Taekwondo team achieves notable success at the 9th Invitational Taekwondo Championship organized by the Alipurduar district of India in Jaigaon. The team secures 17 gold, seven silver, and three bronze medals, earning the third position in the championship. Kezang Choden from Bhutan receives the best fighter title in the senior female category.
7. Bhutan and India Sign INR 15 Billion Loan for Gyalsung Infrastructure Project
Dasho Chhewang Rinzin, Interim Advisor of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, and Ambassador Sudhakar Dalela sign a Memorandum of Understanding for a loan of INR 15 billion dedicated to the Gyalsung Infrastructure Project. This financial support from the Government of India is an extension of the INR 2 billion grant provided in 2023, contributing to the development of infrastructure at Gyalsung Academies.
8. Punakha Implements Mandatory Drug Testing for Local Government Leaders
In a proactive approach to governance, local government leaders in Punakha implement a mandatory drug-testing program for all members. This initiative, undertaken by eleven gups, eleven mangmis, and fifty-five tshogpas, underscores the commitment to transparency and ethical conduct, setting a precedent for accountable governance.
9. Education Transformation Budget in the 13th Plan Estimated at Nu 30 Billion
The draft 13th Plan allocates an estimated 12 percent of the Nu 250 billion capital budget, equivalent to Nu 30 billion, for education transformation. This substantial budgetary allocation reflects the priority placed on enhancing the education sector to meet evolving needs and standards.
10. Exemption from Gyalsung Training for College and Vocational Education Pursuers in 2024
For the 2024 intake, individuals aspiring to pursue college or vocational education are granted exemption from the mandatory year-long Gyalsung training program. This decision aims to accommodate educational pursuits and aligns with the evolving options available to Bhutanese youth.
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