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𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗻𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲 𝗨𝗦𝗗 𝟭𝟬𝗯𝗻 𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝘆: 𝗔𝗗𝗕 The country needs to make investments in areas, which has high productivity and revenue efficiency to achieve the ambitious target of becoming a 10-billion-dollar economy by 2034. This is according to the Asian Development Bank’s Vice President of Operations, Shixin Chen who says the country must see sustained growth in the coming years. He added that developments in the 13th Five-Year plan are crucial in achieving the 10-billion-dollar economy goal. The vice president is in the country to take stock of the ADB operations in Bhutan and to discuss possible future engagements with the government. 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘀 𝗔𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗺𝗶𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘀𝘆𝗺𝗽𝘁𝗼𝗺 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗶𝘀𝗲, 𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗱: 𝗔𝗗𝗕 Since the mid of last year, tens of thousands of Bhutanese have migrated to Australia on student visas. Unofficial counts place the estimate at over 30,000. Despite the rise in emigration, figures from the Royal Monetary Authority show remittances from Australia have been trending downward for the past three years. The Asian Development Bank, ADB’s vice president of operations says the country needs to devise comprehensive short, medium, and long-term strategies to retain people in the country. 𝗔𝗜 𝗶𝗻 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝘁𝗚𝗣𝗧 The introduction of the ChatGPT around November last year was a game changer around the globe. ChatGPT is an Artificial Intelligence, AI chatbot technology founded by the company OpenAI which can write essays, scripts, and poems and solve computer coding in a human-like way. It can even have conversations and admit mistakes. In this story, our reporter Sonam Yuden explores how ChatGPT is revolutionizing the way students and teachers learn and teach in the country and shaping the future of education. BFF Academy FC cemented their position on top of the table by defeating South Druk United FC in an emphatic 5-nil win in the Pepsi Bhutan Premier League qualifiers today. Meanwhile, with back-to-back losses, South Druk United FC sits in the fourth position staring at the bottom half of the points table having played a game more. On Monday afternoon, Thimphu Raven FC will face Tsirang FC at the Royal Thimphu College football ground in Thimphu. A seven-day Pitristhi Puran is underway at Tashiding Gewog in Dagana by the Hindu Dharma Samudaya of Bhutan. It is being organized by a private individual and his family from the same gewog. The prayer ceremony is for the salvation of the departed souls and for the well-being of the nation. Launch of duty-free gold to Bhutanese nationals and tourists alike. JOINT PRESS RELEASE FOR THE 12TH EXPERT GROUP MEETING ON BHUTAN-CHINA BOUNDARY ISSUE The 12th Expert Group Meeting (EGM) on the Bhutan-China Boundary Issue was held in Thimphu, Bhutan from 24th to 25th May 2023. The Bhutanese delegation was led by Mr. Letho Tobdhen Tangbi, Secretary of the International Boundaries, and the Chinese delegation was led by H. E. Mr. Hong Liang, Director-General of the Department Boundary and Ocean Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China. The two sides reviewed the positive consensus reached at the 11th EGM in Kunming, China and held frank and constructive discussions to take forward the implementation of the Three-Step Roadmap. They expressed satisfaction on the progress made in the implementation of the Roadmap during the 12th EGM in Thimphu. The two sides expressed their confidence in the Three-Step Roadmap and reiterated the importance of increasing the frequency of their meetings to make further progress in its implementation. They agreed to hold the next EGM in Beijing at an early date. The two sides also agreed to hold the 25th Round of Bhutan-China Boundary Talks as soon as possible at mutually convenient dates. The meeting was held in a warm and friendly atmosphere in keeping with the close ties of friendship and cooperation between Bhutan and China. 𝗗𝗼𝗦𝗧, 𝗕𝗖𝗖𝗜, 𝗗𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗔𝗞 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗜𝗡𝗗𝗨𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗬 𝗝𝗢𝗜𝗡 𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗗𝗦 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗠𝗨𝗧𝗨𝗔𝗟 𝗚𝗥𝗢𝗪𝗧𝗛 In a significant move towards promoting local industries, a memorandum of understanding was signed on May 26, 2023, at the headquarters of BRO Project Dantak. The agreement was reached between Project Dantak and AHA Oxy Gases Pvt. Ltd, Pasakha, for the supply of acetylene and oxygen. These essential gases will be utilized for construction works undertaken by Project Dantak in Bhutan. The primary objective of this MoU is to encourage the growth of local businesses allowing them to directly participate in the development of Bhutan. By engaging with indigenous firms, Project Dantak aims to foster mutual growth and stimulate the economy. The MoU signing was overseen by Tandy Wangchuk, President of the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI). Speaking on the occasion, he said that such initiatives are in alignment with the vision of His Majesty for the development of Bhutan. As the President of BCCI, he firmly believes that this is the right time to forge such agreements, as they will undoubtedly contribute to the well-being of the people of Bhutan. During the signing ceremony, Mr. Udai Kumar Pondyel, the General Manager of AHA Oxy Gases Pvt. Ltd, expressed his gratitude to Project Dantak for providing this opportunity. He assured the attendees that his company would be committed to the timely supply of oxygen and acetylene, which would be crucial for the construction activities carried out by Project Dantak in Bhutan. The Chief Engineer of Project Dantak also shared his thoughts on the significance of such agreements. He stated that these MoUs are designed to promote local industries, both in the public and private sectors, for the mutual growth of all agencies working towards betterment of Bhutan. By partnering with local businesses, Project Dantak hopes to create a conducive environment for growth and prosperity. He mentioned that based on similar MoUs signed by Dantak with Lakhi SRPL for supply of steel, DCCL for supply of cement and other local suppliers for aggregate and sand, a new technology class 70, double lane bridge is being constructed in record time of less than two months. The MoU between Project Dantak under the aegis of the Department of Surface Transport and AHA Oxy Gases Pvt. Ltd, is a testament to the commitment of the government and its partners to foster local economic growth. By encouraging collaboration between users and industry, the government of Bhutan is paving the way for a self-sufficient and prosperous future. This development serves as a stepping stone towards realizing the vision of a thriving Bhutanese economy, with indigenous businesses playing a vital role in its progress. With the active participation of local firms, Bhutan is poised to achieve sustainable development and enhance the overall well-being of its citizens. Drukair signed a purchase agreement with Airbus Helicopter for a H130.

𝗣𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲’𝘀 𝗗𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗰𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘆 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝟮𝟭 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 The People’s Democratic Party, PDP, has announced 21 candidates for the upcoming National Assembly Elections. With the addition of the 21 new candidates, the PDP now has confirmed 42 candidates so far out of the 47 National Assembly constituencies. 𝗡𝗮𝘇𝗵𝗼𝗲𝗻 𝗟𝗮𝗺𝘁𝗼𝗲𝗻 𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗲𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗻-𝗭𝗵𝗲𝗺𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗴 For 33-year-old Sangay Pema and her three daughters who live in Zhemgang, rough days are behind them. Thanks to Nazhoen Lamtoen’s “Building Social Protection for the Vulnerable Children” project, the family has been sustaining themselves from the grocery shop the CSO opened for them three years ago. Sangay got married as a teenager, but the marriage was short-lived. She then had to live with her three daughters in a small house, fending for the family all by herself. 𝗘𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗱𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗺𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀’ 𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗹-𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 In a move towards prioritising student health and wellbeing, Bhutan’s educational institutions are set to adopt and implement the Health and Wellbeing Programme across the country. The initiative, led by The Pema Center Secretariat in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Skills Development and the Ministry of Health, aims to address physical and mental health concerns among students, with a particular focus on early intervention and prevention. 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐚-𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐥𝐞𝐲 𝐃𝐞𝐦 𝐛𝐨𝐰𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐂𝐮𝐩 Para-shooter, Kinley Dem, missed out on a spot in the finals of the 10-metre-rifle event at the Changwon 2023 World Shooting Para Sports World Cup today. Kinley Dem stood in 16th position out of the 22 participants. Only the top eight advanced to the finals. Despite the loss, Kinley Dem managed to secure the minimum qualification score required to qualify for the Asian Para Games, scheduled to take place in October of this year. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝟭𝟮𝟬-𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗻𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗚𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗽𝗵𝘂 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗳𝗳 𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 The construction of the much-anticipated 120-unit residential colony for healthcare professionals of Gelephu Central Regional Referral Hospital staff has once again been postponed. Initially scheduled for completion in September last year, it was delayed due to the pandemic. The construction deadline was extended till September this year. However, it has now been extended until the end of the year again. 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝘁𝘀𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗲𝘀𝗰𝗼𝗽𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀 A group of students from Samtse College of Education have joined forces with international astronomers to construct a Panoptes telescope. Panoptes telescopes are low-cost, robotic devices designed specifically for detecting planets beyond our solar system. The collaborative initiative, known as Project Panoptes, aims to inspire a new generation of teachers and students. 𝗕𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗼𝗼 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗳𝘁-𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗳𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗵𝘂𝗴𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗼𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀 The members of the Norbugang Non-Wood Forest Product Group will now be able to capitalize on the huge bamboo resources available in the district. A two-week bamboo craft-making training was conducted recently. The group is now planning to start making bamboo products and selling them. 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐠𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐜𝐡𝐡𝐮𝐤𝐡𝐚 𝐟𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐫’𝐬 𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐤𝐡𝐚 Farmers in rural villages and monkeys do not see eye to eye. While electric and chain-link fencing can keep many wild animals at bay, monkeys are a different challenge altogether. In Punakha’s Goenshari Gewog, monkeys have a keen taste for potatoes. Tired of the monkey menace, the farmers of Draghhukha are now using tigers to guard their crops against monkeys. Well, not real tigers, but stuffed tigers. And this technique has been successful so far. Just don’t tell the monkeys. 𝗣𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗱𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗰𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗹 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 The National Pension and Provident Fund and the Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan Limited signed an agreement with the Royal Civil Service Commission to digitalise the enrolment and claim process of the pension and provident fund in Thimphu today.Hereafter, civil servants will be able to avail themselves of the services online. The services are expected to be made available for members outside of civil service as well.

𝗡𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗮𝘅𝗶 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗮𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗸 𝗲𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲, 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗴 With the increasing number of taxi drivers in Kanglung in Trashigang, the existing parking space has become congested and poses a risk to commuters. The lack of a proper taxi stand has become a concern for both taxi drivers and commuters. Currently, around 20 taxi drivers park their vehicles near the Sherubtse College gate along the highway. In the ongoing Pepsi Bhutan Premier League qualifiers, Tensung FC in red jersey ran riot against South Druk United FC, winning the game 10 - 2 this afternoon. With 10 points, Tensung FC is second in the points table, trailing table-toppers BFF Academy and Namlha FC by one point. On Friday, the BFF Academy will take on South Druk United FC at 2:00pm at the Royal Thimphu College football ground in Thimphu. Gyalse Trulku Jigme Tenzin Wangpo administered the blessings of Zhabdrung Da Nangmai Tshe-Wang at Sharli Pangkha Goenpa in Wangdue Phodrang’s Gase Tshogom Gewog today. More than 2,000 devotees gathered to receive the blessing. It was bestowed for the longevity of human beings and the well-being of all sentient beings. Sharli Pangkha Goenpa is about an hour’s drive from the Gase Tshogom Gewog office. 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 Dr. Mimi Lhamu Mynak, joins as the President of National Medical Services. Prior to her appointment, Dr. Mimi served as a Paediatrician as well as the Head of the Department of Paediatric at the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital. With more than 22 years of extensive experience in the clinical field, Dr. Mimi brings valuable expertise to her new position. 𝐓𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐢𝐧𝐳𝐢𝐧, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 _𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐡𝐮 Tshewang Rinzin is the PDP’s candidate for South Thimphu. He is a former Member of Parliament, National Council of Bhutan and a former Dzongdag. He started his career as Computer Programmer at His Majesty's Secretariat in 1983 and served till 1989. Later, he switched his career and began teaching in 1994 at Drukgyel Central School at Paro. He served both in the schools and education sectors. Later he was appointed as the first Weringla Drungpa, Mongar. Subsequently, he was appointed as Dzongda and served at Chukha, Trongsa and Thimphu Dzongkhags. He, therefore, brings forth a wealth of experience and expertise in policy formulation and program implementation. Tshewang has an M.A. in Educational Administration from the University of New England in Armidale, Australia. He also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the National Institute of Education (NIE) in Samtse and a Postgraduate Diploma in Computer from BRC, Chandigarh, India. He has also attended the Senior Executive Leadership Programme (SELP) at the Royal Institute of Governance and Strategic Studies (RIGSS) in Phuntsholing. Mandarin oranges and apples, Bhutan's two main export revenue crops, have gotten the agreement of saw millers to supply 400,000 boxes to exporters. The most expensive price last year was Nu 57.68 per kilogram. The widening work on the Moshi-Tshelingkhor road stretch of the Trashigang– Samdrupjongkhar highway has reduced travel time and improved driving experience, resulting in a 30-minute reduction in travel time. Commuters celebrated the long-awaited widening work on the Trashigang– Samdrupjongkhar highway. The lack of access to menstrual hygiene products in remote schools poses a challenge for boarding schoolgirls, leading to them carrying pads in their bags for two to three days during their periods. During emergencies, the school store provides pads, and some students receive them from friends and teachers. In many societies, menstrual hygiene remains a challenge, leading to physical and emotional pain for girls and women. Lack of access to products and facilities affects millions worldwide. In Bhutan, a study revealed that menstrual hygiene issues affected school attendance, while teachers struggled to support special needs students. Efforts are being made to raise awareness, distribute menstrual products, and construct inclusive toilets. The movement to destigmatize menstruation is gaining traction, with schools and organizations supporting the cause.

𝗔𝗹𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝟰𝟬% 𝗕𝗵𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆, 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗚𝗡𝗛 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗲𝘅 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 If the 2022 GNH Index report released by the Centre for Bhutan and GNH Studies is anything to go by, Bhutanese are generally happy. The report states an increase in the GNH index by 3.3 per cent compared to 2015. The increase shows improvements in housing, positive emotions, income, schooling, services, and literary indicators in the last seven years. However, as happy as the Bhutanese are, the report saw a significant decrease in cultural participation, Driglam Namzha, healthy days, and political participation indicators. 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗴𝗴𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘂𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀: 𝗗𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗹𝗮 𝗚𝗲𝘄𝗼𝗴 𝗽𝗹𝗲𝗮 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 With unsuitable lands, the people of Dagala Gewog in Thimphu are requesting the government for land replacement. The people complain that their lands which are registered as dry lands are neither suitable for agriculture nor for constructing houses. The issue was raised in the recent Dzongkhag Tshogdu yet again. 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗕𝗵𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗻 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗦𝗔 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲𝘀 The tourism industry is one of the hardest hit sectors in the country by the COVID pandemic but recent reports suggest that it is gradually recovering. Amidst all the policy reforms aimed at the revival of the tourism sector, tour guides are now working on standardising their Daily Subsistence Allowance, DSA, and professional fees. With the increase in the Sustainable Development Fee, the guides are now calling for a hike in their wage as well. 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗣𝗵𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗵𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗞𝗵𝗼𝘁𝗼𝗸𝗵𝗮 𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀 𝘂𝗽𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗱, 𝗪𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗱𝘂𝗲 𝗣𝗵𝗼𝗱𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴 The recently concluded Dzongkhag Tshogdu in Wangdue Phodrang decided to conduct a feasibility study to upgrade Phetakha Primary School in Athang Gewog and Khotokha Primary School in Bjena Gewog. The decision was reached after some local leaders informed the House that there is enough population to maintain the enrolment of students and adequate facilities in the two schools. 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘂𝗽𝘀𝗲𝘁 𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝘀𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗚𝗲𝘄𝗼𝗴 The People of Tsamang Gewog in Monggar are not happy with the stone extraction work carried out along their Gewog Centre road. They are now accusing the gup of issuing the public clearance to the construction company without consulting them. They say the stone extraction works are not only damaging the road but are also posing risks to travellers due to falling boulders and landslides. 𝗔𝗮-𝗣𝗼𝘄 𝗜𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗴𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝗚𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗽𝗵𝘂 With the scorching summer temperatures above 30 degrees in Gelephu, what could be more refreshing than ice cream? Aa-Pow Ice Cream, locally made in Gelephu Gewog’s Pelrithang Khamaed is offering a delightful solution. Started manufacturing in March of this year, Aa-Pow Ice Cream now delivers its product door-to-door in and around Gelephu and in Sarpang. According to the Department of Surface Transport’s regional office in Lingmithang, the Gyalpozhing Nganglam primary national highway will remain closed to traffic until further notice. The bailey bridge collapsed along with a ten wheeler dumper truck. The bridge over Drangmechhu connects Pema Gatshel and Monggar. The incident happened at around 2:30 PM today. However, the driver escaped unhurt. The truck was traveling towards Nganglam from Gyalposhing. The police are investigating the cause of the collapse. In ongoing Pepsi Bhutan Premier League, a closely contested match between Namlha FC and Tsirang FC saw Namlha FC win the match two - one. Namlha FC led the match one - nil at the halftime break. Namlha FC doubled their lead midway through the second half. Tsirang FC managed to pull one goal back in the 72nd minute of the match but Namlha's defense stood firm to take their team across the final whistle. With the three points, Namlha FC is just behind BFF Academy in the points table on goal difference. The two teams are the only undefeated teams in the league so far. Tomorrow, Tensung FC will take on South Druk United FC at the RTC football ground. The new UNICEF Representative to Bhutan, Andrea James presented her credentials to Foreign Minister Dr Tandi Dorji at the Gyalyong Tshokhang today. Prior to the current assignment to Bhutan, Andrea James was the chief of National Committee Relations, at UNIECF in Geneva. Starting with a water supply programme in Bhutan in 1974, UNICEF has supported Bhutan in its efforts to bring about significant improvements to the lives of Bhutanese. The UNICEF country office was established in 1990.

In a world plagued by violence and discrimination against individuals with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, expressions, and sex characteristics, the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOT) holds immense significance. Since its inception in 2004, this annual event has been a powerful platform to raise awareness about the challenges faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, two-spirit, and intersex (2SLGBTQI+) people, advocating for inclusivity and equality. Bhutan has actively embraced this cause since 2016, actively involving communities, stakeholders, and allies to foster a nurturing environment for the 2SLGBTQI+ population across various sectors. The theme for IDAHOT 2023, "Together always: united in diversity," urges individuals worldwide to come together and strive for the advancement of laws and policies that safeguard the rights and dignity of the 2SLGBTQI+ community. It acknowledges the importance of inclusivity, emphasizing the need for broader participation and engagement from the general population. This resonant theme challenges the notion that 2SLGBTQI+ issues are isolated struggles, emphasizing the power of collective action to drive positive change. Despite the varying levels of marginalization and discrimination faced by Bhutanese 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, the impact of prejudice reverberates throughout the community. It affects their overall well-being, limits opportunities, and even puts their lives at risk. From a governmental standpoint, discrimination and marginalization have far-reaching economic and social implications. For instance, when discrimination acts as a barrier, citizens are unable to contribute to the workforce and economy, rendering the government's investment in free healthcare and education less effective. Overcoming these challenges is pivotal for the collective progress and prosperity of the nation. At the forefront of addressing 2SLGBTQI+ issues comprehensively is the Bhutan National Gender Equality Policy (NGEP). By integrating the concerns of the 2SLGBTQI+ community into its framework, the NGEP envisions a just, equal, and progressive society where all individuals have equal opportunities, benefits, and rights to reach their full potential and contribute to Bhutan's socio-cultural, economic, and political development. Serving as a guiding framework, the NGEP reaffirms the government's commitment to achieving substantive equality and fosters inclusive and sustainable socio-economic growth. Furthermore, it enables the development and implementation of targeted interventions based on gender, sexual orientation, and sex characteristics. To better protect and support 2SLGBTQI+ individuals in Bhutan, specific policy changes must be considered. Recognizing and facilitating gender identity change for transgender individuals, with the assistance of relevant agencies, is a crucial step towards enhancing their political participation and affirming their rights and identities. Additionally, within the education domain, there is a pressing need to prioritize creating inclusive environments that address the high dropout rates among girls and 2SLGBTQI+ students. Supporting the 2SLGBTQI+ community in Bhutan necessitates open dialogue and understanding between 2SLGBTQI+ individuals and their heterosexual counterparts. It requires approaching discussions on 2SLGBTQI+ issues with an open mind and a genuine willingness to bridge the gaps in understanding. By fostering empathy and initiating dialogue, significant strides can be made in creating an inclusive society that upholds the happiness and well-being of all citizens. For Bhutan, a nation whose developmental philosophy and core values revolve around happiness, addressing 2SLGBTQI+ issues is not only crucial but also an obligation. Bhutan's pursuit of Gross National Happiness (GNH) places it in a unique position to lead by example and create an inclusive society where the happiness of every single citizen is valued. Bhutan has the potential to serve as a model from which other countries can learn from. Tenzin Gyeltshen, Executive Director, Pride Bhutan: "Celebrating Diversity"

𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗯𝗶𝗼𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗹𝗮𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗕𝗶𝗼𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗗𝗮𝘆 To reduce the financing gap in the country’s efforts in biodiversity conservation, four biodiversity finance solutions were launched today in commemoration of International Biodiversity Day in Thimphu. The financial solutions fall under the global biodiversity finance initiative, which involves 41 countries. The solutions will be implemented by the finance ministry, tourism department, the Department of Forests and Park Services, Bhutan for Life, WWF Bhutan, and the Royal Society for Protection of Nature. 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘂𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗹𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗮𝗱𝘃𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗺𝗲𝗻’𝘀 𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 If you were wondering what the group of dapper men riding bikes between Thimphu and Paro yesterday were, they are the members of the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride or DGR. It is an annual fundraising campaign conducted on the 21st of May globally to raise awareness of men’s mental health and prostate cancer. This is the second time the Bhutanese DGR community took part in the event. Like last year, the group of 60 bikers has been able to raise about Nu 50,000 this year, which will be deposited directly to the DGR’s office in Australia. 𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝟭𝟳𝟴 𝗕𝗵𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗛𝗜𝗩/𝗔𝗜𝗗𝗦: 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗜𝗗𝗦 𝗖𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗮𝘆 Since the detection of the first HIV AIDS case in the country in 1993, the country lost about 200 people to the deadly virus. Globally, the virus has claimed the lives of approximately 38 million people. To remember the lives lost to HIV AIDS, Lhak-sam, Pride Bhutan, and the Bhutan Kidney Foundation came together to mark the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Day at Geynekha in Thimphu, yesterday. In the ongoing Pepsi Bhutan Premier League Qualifiers, Thimphu Raven FC notched up their first win of the season, today, to climb above Phuentsholing City FC in the points table. A first-half strike from Thimphu Raven FC’s foreign player, Anthony Amoh, was enough to see off Phuentsholing City FC. BBF Academy sits top of the table with 11 points while Samtse FC are still without a win. The top four teams will be promoted to the BOB Bhutan Premier League scheduled to kick off in July. Tomorrow, Namlha FC will take on Tsirang FC at 2 PM in the RTC football ground in Thimphu. Students of Kamji Central School won the highest number of gold medals in the annual Phuentshogling Regional Taekwondo Tournament conducted over the weekend. They were given cash prizes, medals, and trophies. With over 200 participants from different schools in Chhukha, the number almost doubled this year as compared to previous years. The Phuentshogling Sports Association organised the event. 𝗘𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗹-𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻 𝗕𝗵𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗻 The Druk Journal, a publication that engages Bhutanese society through conversation and exchange of views relevant to Bhutan, released its spring issue on the theme, Ensuring Mental Well-being in Bhutan in April this year. The issue carries 14 articles by local and international writers, discussing the shift from traditional mindset which saw mental issue as an incurable malady to more sophisticated acknowledgement of mental health as a critical aspect of human well-being. 𝗡𝗔 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝗻 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 The National Interest Analysis for Ratification of the United Nations Convention on Rights of the Persons with Disabilities bill will be tabled during the ninth session of the third Parliament. This is to advance, safeguard and ensure that all persons with disabilities fully and equally enjoy all human rights and fundamental freedoms and to promote respect for these groups. According to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Optional Protocol document developed by United Nations, persons with disabilities include those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairments which in interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others. Gross National Happiness Report 2022 Launched While people living in urban areas are significantly happier than rural dwellers, there are more happy people living in rural regions than in urban: 56.8% of happy people live in rural areas, and 43.2% live in urban areas. This was revealed in the Gross National Happiness Report 2022 that was launched today at the Centre for Bhutan and GNH Studies. The book highlights that the period between 2015 and 2022 witnessed an increase in GNH, reflecting Bhutan's steadfast commitment to fostering an environment conducive to happiness and wellbeing. GNH increase was driven primarily by improvements in housing, income, schooling, services, and literacy, but also by positive emotions – which increased despite the pandemic. However, several indicators deteriorated, reflecting other impacts of the pandemic, including healthy days, cultural and political participation, mental health, and Driglam Namzha. The 2022 GNH Index, with a value of 0.781, reflects a growth rate of 3.3% compared to the 2015 GNH Index of 0.756, faster than previous growth. The GNH Index in 2010 was 0.743. The GNH value ranges from 0 to 1 where a higher value represents greater wellbeing and happiness. By gender, although there has been a positive trend in the GNH index for both males and females since 2010, the rate of improvement among females has surpassed that of males, both in 2015 and in 2022, indicating equalizing changes. But females still have lower GNH. The GNH 2022 survey interviewed 11,052 respondents aged 15 years or older who were randomly selected from randomly sampled households. A face-to-face in-person interview was conducted using Computer Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) methods. The detailed findings of the 2022 GNH Index are published in the book GNH 2022 by Ura et al. This comprehensive publication provides detailed insights into the measurement, analysis, and policy implications of the GNH Index for 2022 and also covers changes in happiness over time. Kindly visit the office or website to avail the full report. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Bhutan Office supported the 2022 GNH Index Survey. Sharing the importance of the GNH Report for policymakers and conveying unconditional support for such a survey, Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering accompanied by Opposition Leader Dorji Wangdi and Chief Representative of JICA Bhutan Tomoyuki Yamada launched the report. 𝗔𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘂𝗴𝘂𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗵𝘂 The Ambassador of Austria to Bhutan, Katherina Wieser, who was in Bhutan on an official visit, inaugurated the Austrian Honorary Consulate in Thimphu on 16 May. The Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Dr Dasho Tandi Dorji also attended the ceremony. Karma Lotey who was appointed as first Honorary Consul of Austria to Bhutan said Austria has been a partner to the Kingdom of Bhutan since 1970. According to Karma Lotey, the development relationship began as early as 1989. In the 1970s, several people were sent to Austria for training in the field of tourism. He said it marks a significant turning point for Austria as the Kingdom of Bhutan opened its Honorary Consulate for the first time. Students of Kamji Central School won the highest number of gold medals in the annual Phuentshogling Regional Taekwondo Tournament conducted over the weekend. They were given cash prizes, medals, and trophies. With over 200 participants from different schools in Chhukha, the number almost doubled this year as compared to previous years.

𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗸𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝘆 Bhutan’s first satellite Bhutan-1 CubeSat was launched in 2018 marking a milestone in Bhutan’s space science and technology journey. Likewise, Project Panoptes was started in 2019 in line with His Majesty’s personal passion and interest to pursue technology for the benefit of Bhutanese society. As part of Project Panoptes, six astronomers who are in Bhutan delivered a lecture to interested students and took them for a stargazing exercise in Thimphu yesterday. 𝗘𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗶𝘁 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗗𝗵𝗼 𝗡𝗮𝗺𝗸𝗵𝗮𝗶 𝗞𝗮𝘄, 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘀𝗸𝘆 𝗽𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗸 – 𝗗𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗮 Amidst the lush forests of Karna Gewog in Dagana, devotees visiting the Dho Namkhai Kaw, also known as the Sky Pillar Rock, can now enjoy improved public amenities. The Dagana Forest Division has repaired the footpath and constructed essential facilities, including toilets, water supply and canopies to enhance the pilgrimage experience. This revered site holds great spiritual significance to many. 𝗗𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗼𝗳 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗿𝘆 𝗧𝘀𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗺 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 – 𝗖𝗵𝗵𝘂𝗸𝗵𝗮 Concerns are growing within the business community of Tsimasham in Chhukha as the town experiences a decline in commercial activity and development. Residents, desperate to rejuvenate their small town, have reportedly made multiple appeals to the district administration for assistance. They attribute the downturn to the opening of the Chhukha – Damchu bypass. 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗾𝘂𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗺𝗶𝗱𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗿𝘆 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗭𝗵𝗲𝗺𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗴 Every year, teachers quit their profession in numbers leaving the education ministry with a big problem: finding new teachers to fill the gap. But what is really concerning is teachers leaving in the middle of the academic year. In Kikhar Extended Classroom in Zhemgang, a lone contract teacher has taken the responsibility of teaching some seventeen students from classes pre-primary to three, all in one classroom. 𝗗𝗲𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴’𝘀 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝘀𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀, 𝗦/𝗝𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗸𝗵𝗮𝗿 In a bid to empower women and offer them a fresh avenue for income generation, the Dewathang Gewog Administration has established a weaving center, which was inaugurated recently. The center now serves as a valuable platform for women to acquire new skills. Currently, 15 women from Dewathang Gewog in Samdrup Jongkhar are enrolled in a two-month tailoring course at the center, expanding their capabilities beyond weaving. As the country recovers from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bhutan's economic prospects according to the UN’s World Economic Situation and Prospects report are not very encouraging. However, according to Dr Hamid Rashid, the chief of Global Economic Monitoring at the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, this scenario could be changed as a result of the reforms the country is currently undertaking. Speaking at the Royal Institute for Governance and Strategic Studies' Friday Forum in Thimphu recently, Dr Rashid also pointed out a huge scope for improvement in the country's agriculture sector. He also talked about how Bhutan's high dependence on hydropower and tourism makes the country's economy more vulnerable. 𝗘𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗯𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗯𝘂𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗲𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀 The Department of Tourism has initiated a bus beautification project of five public transport buses travelling to the eastern districts. The five buses display the authentic culture and tradition of each of the five districts. Vibrant colours and eco-tourism promotion messages are being displayed on the buses. According to the tourism department, the beautification is intended to promote biodiversity and Bhutan as a model eco-tourism destination. 𝐌𝐢𝐭𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐢 𝐀𝐬𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧’𝐬 𝐄𝐧𝐢𝐤𝐤𝐢 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐚: 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐱 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐫 Sangay Chezom Sherpa of Damphu Middle Secondary School (MSS) won the Grand Prix Award. She is currently studying in Class VII. In recognition of her outstanding and remarkable achievement in the Mitsubishi Asian Children’s Enikki Festa (2021-2022) art competition, the National Federation of UNESCO Associations in Japan (NFUAJ) has awarded Sangay with Nu.164,900 (USD 2000) as prize money along with the Grand Prix Award Plaque, a medal, 3 sets of colors, a set of color pencils, a drawing book and a bag. NFUAJ has awarded a cash prize since she could not attend the Award Ceremony in Japan due to the pandemic situation. Additionally, NFUAJ has also awarded the school with Nu.20000 (USD 200) to organize the award ceremony. 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗱 𝗡𝘂𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗕𝗵𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗲𝘅𝗮𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗘𝗹 𝗣𝗮𝘀𝗼 Bhutanese students who attend The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), had a record 13 graduates from the university this week. Their degrees ranged from business and chemistry to computer science and physics. UTEP is the only university in the United States with architecture that is inspired by the country of Bhutan. The campus has been greatly enriched by the growing number of Bhutanese students who are completing undergraduate and graduate degrees in the university.

𝗕𝗖𝗦𝗘𝗔 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝘀𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗕𝗵𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗰𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀 𝗫 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗫𝗜𝗜 𝗰𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗯𝘆 𝗢𝘅𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗱 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 The Bhutan Council for School Examinations and Assessments, BCSEA is working on getting the University of Oxford’s recognition for Bhutan’s class X and XII certificates. BCSEA says the recognition is important for Bhutanese students who want to study abroad. Currently, these certificates face acceptance challenges from the University of Oxford and other international institutions. 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗲: 𝗨𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗺𝗼𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗻𝘂𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗺𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝘀 If you have lost your SIM card and got a new one, updating your old number on your social media and bank accounts is crucial. This is because telco companies and banks would still be sending vital information such as One Time Password, OTP and verification codes among others to the old number. That’s because Bhutan Telecom and Tashi Infocomm recycle the deactivated or lost mobile numbers and give them to new customers. Banks and SIM card sellers are increasingly getting complaints related to this issue. 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗕𝗲𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘆: 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗯𝗲𝗲𝘀 Today is World Bee Day, a day designated to raise awareness of the importance of bees. As tiny as they may seem, bees play a gigantic role in our environment and their significance cannot be underestimated. They are responsible for pollinating 90 per cent of the world’s wildflower plants and 35 percent of the global crop production. In this story, we take a look at the ecological and economic benefits of bees. 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐲𝐬 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐡𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐠𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 A fire that broke out opposite to the Amochu Temporary Shelter Housing in Phuentshogling at around 4 AM today destroyed a temporary one-storey house. Belongings of a restaurant and an office worth Nu 1.5 M were lost to the fire. No casualties have been reported as there was no one in the structure during the time of the incident. Police firefighters prevented the fire from spreading to the nearby houses. Although the cause of the fire is unknown, sources said the house owner suspects the fire to have started from faulty electric wiring. Police are investigating the case. 𝗗𝗿𝘂𝗸 𝗧𝗵𝘂𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗴𝗽𝗮 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝘄𝗼 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗳𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 The Druk Thuendrel Tshogpa unveiled two new female candidates today. The new candidates will represent two constituencies of Haa and Paro. With this, the party has declared 29 candidates so far, for the upcoming parliamentary elections. The water pipe bursting problem in Norbugang village of Norbugang Gewog in Pema Gatshel is finally solved recently. This is after the Dungkhag office installed a gate valve to control water pressure. The electric water pump facility built below the village with over Nu 2 M in January this year through the Water Flagship Programme started bursting due to excessive water pressure. In the past, the villagers of around 40 households had to carry water on their backs from a pond located around half an hour’s walk from the village. In the ongoing Women’s National League Qualifiers match played at the RTC football ground in Thimphu today, Ugyen Academy Women's FC in blue defeated Transport United Ladies 4 - nil. There are eight teams competing in the league. Six teams will qualify for the Bhutan Women’s National League. Tomorrow at six in the evening, Thimphu Women's FC will take on Samtse Women's FC at Samtse. 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐲𝐬 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐤𝐡𝐚 A two-storey traditional house was razed to the ground in a fire early this morning at Gumkarmo of Lingmukha Gewog in Punakha. All four occupants managed to escape safely and there were no casualties. According to the Police, the fire started in a nearby hut and spread to the house. The cause of the fire is believed to be poor electric wiring and overheating of a washing machine in the hut. Firefighters were able to contain the fire from spreading it to other houses. 𝐓𝐰𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐠𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐣𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐤𝐡𝐚, 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐭𝐬𝐞 𝐓𝐰𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐠𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐣𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐤𝐡𝐚, 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐭𝐬𝐞 Two students of Dorokha Lower Secondary School in Samtse were found safe after going missing in the jungle. The incident unfolded yesterday when the two young girls aged 13 and 9 planned to skip school and enjoy a picnic in the wilderness. However, their adventurous plan took an unexpected and dangerous turn when they lost their way. Fortunately, the Police in Dorokha rescued them at 9 PM yesterday. Besides a few leech bites, the girls did not suffer any major casualties. As per the statement with the police, the girls confessed that their plan was to skip school and have a picnic in the jungle.

𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗻 𝘀𝘂𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗵𝘂 The Thimphu Police have detained three suspects on suspicion of promoting prostitution engaging a minor. They were arrested about two weeks ago. The victim is a 16-year-old girl who is currently being kept in a place of safety. 𝗕𝗵𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗻, 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝗸𝘀 𝗠𝗼𝗨 𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗳𝘁 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 Bhutan and Singapore signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, on an aircraft accident and incident investigation today in the capital. The MoU was signed between Bhutan’s Infrastructure and Transport Ministry and Singapore’s Transport Ministry. Besides building closer ties between the two ministries, the signing will strengthen cooperation in aircraft accident and incident investigations. The signing also means Bhutan will receive aircraft accident investigation training from Singaporean experts. It will also enable sharing of aviation-related information and expertise between the two countries. 𝗠𝗼𝗨 𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗞𝗢𝗧𝗥𝗔 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗖𝗖𝗜 𝗼𝗻 𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 To strengthen and develop business relations between Bhutan and Korea, the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency, KOTRA, and the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, BCCI, renewed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2019. The MoU signed today in Thimphu will allow the two countries to collaborate on trade, provide investment opportunities, and promote mutually beneficial economic cooperation. 𝗖𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗹 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺 𝗡𝘂 𝟭𝟰.𝟮 𝗠 𝗮𝘀 𝗳𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗲 𝗧𝗔/𝗗𝗔 More than Nu 14 M was falsely claimed as travel and daily allowances or TA/DA by civil servants from July of last year till May this year. This is according to statistics maintained by the Royal Audit Authority. The Authority was able to track these claims through the Check Post Management System (CPMS), which they started using for audit purposes at the end of last year. 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗣𝗲𝗹𝗿𝗶 & 𝗗𝘇𝗼𝗺𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗳𝗮𝗿𝗺 𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗱𝘀 𝗯𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸𝘁𝗼𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗱, 𝗦𝗮𝗿𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗴 The people of Dechhen Pelri in Samtenling Gewog and Dzomlingthang in Gelephu Gewog under Sarpang want their farm roads blacktopped. They say repeated laying of base courses on their farm roads and minor maintenance every year is a waste of government resources. The two farm roads are connected to Gelephu Thromde’s internal road. 𝗧𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗵𝗼𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴’𝘀 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝗻𝗱 The construction of two 150,000-liter water reservoirs in Samtse’s Tashichhoeling Gewog is set to alleviate the long-standing water shortage in the area. The residents of Tashichhoeling have been grappling with the persistent issue of limited access to clean water for years. In the ongoing Pepsi Bhutan Premier League qualifying match played at the RTC football ground in Thimphu, BFF Academy FC defeated Samtse FC 11 - 1 today. BFF Academy scored six goals in the first half and added another five in the second half. With the win, BFF Academy FC is still undefeated in the league so far. Meanwhile, Samtse FC find themselves languishing at the bottom of the table, having suffered four consecutive losses. Out of the eight competing teams, only four will advance to take part in the BoB Bhutan Premier League, which is scheduled to kick off in July. On Monday, Thimphu Raven FC will take on Phuentshogling City FC. The third Project Management Committee meeting on the Government of India's Project Tied Assistance to Bhutan in the 12th Five-Year Plan was held in the capital yesterday. Officials from India's foreign affairs and external trade ministry, the Embassy of India in Bhutan, Project DANTAK, the finance ministry, and project implementing agencies attended the meeting. During the meeting, the management committee members looked at completed and ongoing projects to gain a comprehensive understanding of the practical challenges and on-ground situations faced by various projects. In the 12th Five-Year Plan, 82 Project Tied Assistance projects were approved. 38 projects, totalling over Nu 8bn are completed. The remaining projects are currently at different stages of implementation, with some nearing completion. The Central Monastic Body led by Dorji Lopen of the Zhung Dratshang left to their summer residence at Tashichhidzong in Thimphu from Pungthang Dewa Chhenpoi Phodrang today. They will be residing in Thimphu for the next six months. The tradition of maintaining a summer and winter residence was first introduced by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in the 17th century.

𝗛𝗶𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗝𝗲 𝗞𝗵𝗲𝗻𝗽𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗞𝗮𝗯𝘂𝗺 The two-weeklong oral transmission of His Holiness the Je Khenpo’s own Kabum, a self-composed collection of teachings and practices concluded today. His Holiness administered a Tsepaa Mey Wang at Autsho Central School in Lhuentse. More than 10,000 devotees gathered to receive the blessing. His Holiness also inaugurated the Trashigang and Trashi Yangtse districts’ Moelam Chenmo books. His Holiness will preside over a three-day Moenlam Chenmo at Autsho Central School from tomorrow. 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝟱𝟮,𝟬𝟬𝟬 𝘁𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵𝘀, 𝗗𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝘀𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 Over the past eight months, Bhutan has received more than 52,000 tourists. This according to the Tourism Department is signifying a positive trend in the tourism industry’s resurgence. Among the international tourists, a significant number of them were those who paid the new Sustainable Development Fee or SDF rate, surpassing those who paid the old rate. 𝗔 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗼𝗶𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗲𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗱𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝘆 𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗸 𝘁𝗼 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 Normally, boiling water is considered one of the best methods to ensure its safety for drinking. However, a recent study has revealed that storing boiled water for extended periods may pose a risk to health. According to lab-based research by the Centre for Bhutan and GNH Studies along with the Royal Centre for Disease Control, water stored for more than 48 hours develops a parasite which can lead to serious infections. 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗼 𝗗𝗧 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝘀𝗸 𝗘𝗖𝗕 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗲 𝗽𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘁 𝗳𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗺𝗼𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗵𝘀 The Paro Dzongkhag Tshogdu will write to the Election Commission of Bhutan to continue the postal ballot facilitation and mobile facilitation booths for the upcoming elections. The DT members say the move would help increase voter turnout. The postal ballot facilitation and mobile facilitation booth facilities were removed during the recent National Council Elections. In football, in the ongoing Pepsi Bhutan Premier League Qualifiers played at the RTC football ground in Thimphu, BFF Academy FC defeated Phuentsholing City FC five - two to regain the top spot in the qualifiers. Meanwhile, after two consecutive losses, Phuntsholing City FC is struggling to break into the top four, where promotion to the BOB Bhutan Premier League is up for grabs. Tomorrow, Tensung FC will take on Tsirang FC at two in the afternoon. 𝗗𝗚𝗣𝗖 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁-𝟭 In a positive development, the officials of the Druk Green Power Corporation or DGPC have successfully restored the Wind Turbine Unit-1 at Ruebisa in Wangdue Phodrang, after it was shut down for several months due to a high voltage issue. Despite a lack of professional wind turbine engineers in the country, DGPC was able to resolve the problem and put the turbine back into service starting last week. However, the Unit-2 remains inactive since February 2021 due to a different issue. One of its blades has broken apart from the rotor hub. Discussions are currently underway with the company that supplied the equipment to determine the best procedure for repairing this turbine. 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗼𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘃𝗶𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗶𝘀𝗺 The majority of children with autism brought in for treatment so far this year are those with virtual autism. This is according to records maintained with the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in Thimphu. 200 cases of autism have been reported this year alone. Virtual autism is an acquired condition in children due to overexposure to screens during their infancy. It can be cured if a child seeks professional help before the age of six, but it becomes a lifelong condition if it is not addressed during the critical age. 𝗥𝗧𝗔 𝗵𝗼𝘀𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁-𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗺𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗿𝗲 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗻 ‘𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲’ To commemorate Her Majesty the Queen Mother Sangay Choden Wangchuck’s 60th Birth Anniversary, a first-ever musical theater performance on ‘Grease’ in the country was hosted at the Royal Textile Academy in Thimphu yesterday. Grease is a timeless classic musical that has captured the hearts of audiences around the world. 𝗠𝗮𝗻 𝗱𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝗰𝗵𝗵𝘂, 𝗣𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗸𝗵𝗮 Rescuers in Punakha fished out the body of a 24-year-old male DeSuup from the Mochhu last night. He had drowned trying to save another friend who was drowning in the river while swimming. The incident happened when seven male DeSuups undergoing robotics training at the Phaduna DeSuung Skilling Programme went to wash their clothes by the river.

The 9th session of the third parliament will begin on June 8th, with a number of important bills and reports up for discussion. Among them are the Pay Revision Bill 2023, the National Digital Identity Bill 2023, and the Tax (Amendment) Bill of Bhutan 2023, as well as the BIMSTEC Charter and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Additionally, the parliament will review reports from the Public Accounts Committee and consider disputed provisions in the Forest and Nature Conservation Bill of Bhutan 2021 and the Civil Liability Bill of Bhutan 2022. 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀’ 𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽𝘀 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗻𝘂𝘁𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗴𝗮𝗿 In a promising initiative that links farms to schools, farmers of Yangkhartshing and Bazor villages in Monggar are supplying vegetables to the students of Dradmetse Central School. The programme has not only enabled farmers to sell their produce without marketing issues, but it has also allowed the students to consume healthy and nutritious food. Our reporter Karma Wangdi has more on this innovative approach towards promoting food nutrition. 𝗣𝗵𝘂𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗴𝗹𝗮𝗿𝘆 Police in Phuentshogling have arrested three suspects for allegedly burglarizing shops in Phuentshogling town. The men were arrested on Saturday. The suspects aged between 20 and 25 allegedly stole goods worth more than Nu 100,000 from three shops. While two of the robberies took place last month, one incident happened recently. Police say all three suspects have tested positive for drugs. 𝗗𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗮’𝘀 𝗽𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘁𝘆 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝟯𝟯.𝟯% 𝗶𝗻 𝟮𝟬𝟭𝟳 𝘁𝗼 𝟵.𝟵% 𝗶𝗻 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟮 Dagana district has made significant strides in reducing poverty over the last five years. According to the Poverty Analysis Report of 2022, the district has a 9.9 per cent poverty rate meaning that 10 out of every 100 people are living in poverty. But in 2017, the district’s poverty rate stood at 33.3 percent. District officials attribute this advancement to improved agriculture and livestock sectors, and farmers taking more interest in farming works. The poverty rate is derived using the poverty line which is the minimum level of income needed to secure the necessities of life. The match between Samtse FC and Thimphu Raven FC ended in a two-two draw in today’s match of the ongoing Bhutan Premier League qualifiers. Both teams currently sit at the bottom of the table. Eight teams are competing in the qualifiers of which only four will go through to take part in the BOB Bhutan Premier League. BFF Academy FC will take on Phuentshogling City FC tomorrow. 𝗠𝗼𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝘃𝗲𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝘀 𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗳𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗴𝗮𝗿 A family of four has been killed in a motor vehicle accident in Monggar. The incident took place yesterday evening near Phakhardrang along the Monggar-Trashigang highway. The Alto car they were traveling in veered off around 350 meters below the road. The family of four consisting of a couple, their son and their grandson were traveling to Monggar from Phongmey in Trashigang. The cause of the accident has not been ascertained. 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝘇𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗸𝗵𝗮𝗴 𝗧𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗴𝗱𝘂 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗱𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗚𝗲𝘄𝗼𝗴 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗲𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘆 𝗵𝗼𝗿𝘀𝗲𝘀 The Trashigang Dzongkhag Tshogdu has decided to let Gewog offices either translocate or auction stray horses found roaming in their areas. Free-roaming horses have been causing nuisances in the district for almost half a decade now. This is especially rampant in Phongmey and Lem Chiwogs under Phongmey Gewog. 𝗕𝗵𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗱𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗝𝗮𝗶𝗴𝗮𝗼𝗻, 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗮 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗼𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗱𝗿𝘂𝗴𝘀 A Bhutanese man is under police custody in Jaigaon, India for possession of drugs. The man in his thirties was arrested yesterday. According to sources, Jaigaon police discovered more than four thousand capsules of Spasmo Proxyvon or SP Plus capsules from the apprehended truck the suspect was driving. Police also found nearly one hundred bottles of Onerex cough syrup. Meanwhile, the Royal Bhutan Police is trying to find out his accomplices. Celebrating AFC Grassroots Day at Woochu Sports Arena Today, Paro Football Club, in collaboration with the Bhutan Football Federation (BFF), organized a remarkable celebration of AFC Grassroots Day. The event brought together over 260 enthusiastic students from four schools, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with passion for the beautiful game. Supported by more than 60 dedicated volunteers, the day was a resounding success. The Woochu Sports Arena buzzed with excitement as the young football enthusiasts showcased their skills and love for the sport. The day was filled with an array of fun-filled activities and thrilling competitions among the participating schools. It was a true testament to the spirit of grassroots football, where young talents flourish and friendships are forged.

𝗕𝗵𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗻 𝗧𝟮𝟬 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝘀𝗵 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯, 𝗮 𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗵𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗲𝗻’𝘀 𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 Nine teams are battling it out at the Jigmethang Cricket Ground in Dechencholing, Thimphu to win the Bhutan T20 Smash 2023. This is the first time the T20 league is hosting 40 matches. Apart from winning the league, players have a grander price in sight, a spot in the senior men’s team to play the T20 World Cup Qualifiers in July in Malaysia. 𝗥𝗕𝗣’𝘀 𝗖𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁: 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝗼𝗳 𝗺𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱 For nearly four decades, the Royal Bhutan Police Canine Unit has been on the front lines of tracking down criminals. From drug busts to highway checks, the highly trained dogs are always ready to serve and protect. Let’s find out more about these crime-fighting canines and their role in keeping the country safe in this story. 𝗠𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲 𝗶𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗟𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗽𝘀 The picturesque Laya Gewog in Gasa lies secluded among the mighty Tsendagang, Masagang, and Gangchentag mountain peaks. But despite its remoteness and behind its secluded beauty, Laya is grappling with the same global issue, waste. In an effort to reduce waste along the trail to Laya, a cleaning campaign was organized yesterday. 𝗣𝗵𝘂𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴’𝘀 𝗠𝗲𝗴𝗮 𝗗𝗿𝘆 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘀 Despite numerous challenges faced during the pandemic, the construction of the mega dry port at Pasakha in Phuentshogling is on track. As of now, almost 45 per cent of the work is complete. Officials are hopeful that the dry port will be fully functional in the next two years. 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗚𝗲𝘄𝗼𝗴𝘀 The local leaders in Trashigang are asking for a fire brigade in Rangjung Town to cater to any fire emergencies for eight gewogs in upper Trashigang. At the moment, the firefighting service comes from Trashigang town, which is about 18 kilometers from Rangjung. The local leaders raised the issue during the recently concluded Dzongkhag Tshogdu. The district has only two firefighting trucks. 𝗥𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗞𝗶𝗱𝘀’ 𝗔𝘁𝗵𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗗𝗮𝘆, 𝗭𝗵𝗲𝗺𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗴 More than a hundred and thirty students from seven rural schools in Zhemgang gathered at Buli Central School to mark the Kids’ Athletic Day, yesterday. The day encourages schools to give children the chance to participate in athletics, be active, and learn new physical skills. It was another day of goal fest in the ongoing Women's National League Qualifiers. RTC Women's FC took full advantage of their home ground as they put 19 goals past a hapless Gelephu City Women's FC. RTC Women's FC scored 10 goals in the first half before adding another nine goals by the end of the match. This is the fourth match of the Women's National League Qualifiers. A total of 28 league matches will be played. Next weekend, Ugyen Academy Women's FC will host Transport United in Punakha on Saturday, while Thimphu Women's FC will travel to Samtse to play Samtse Women's FC on Sunday. 𝟭𝟵𝘁𝗵 𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗙𝗮𝗯 𝗟𝗮𝗯 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗵𝘂 This summer, the 19th edition of the Fab Lab Conference—the largest and most strategic digital fabrication event in the world—will finally set foot in Bhutan. The Fab Foundation is a non-profit organization that promotes and supports the growth of digital fabrication around the world. In collaboration with MIT's Center for Bits and Atoms, Druk Holding and Investments, and the Fab City Global Initiative, the Foundation will host FAB23 Bhutan from July 16 to July 28 in Thimphu. 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗱 𝗕𝗵𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗲𝘅𝗵𝗶𝗯𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗮𝗶𝘄𝗮𝗻 Zimbiri is the third Bhutanese artist to exhibit her work in a solo exhibition for the past one month in Taipei. The exhibition, titled “Tall Tails” opened at the Taipei Expo Dome on May 4 as part of an “Art Solo Fair” where over 70 galleries participated to showcase the works of select artists. Tall Tails is a collection of exquisite paintings of tigers done in natural mineral pigments. The majestic creatures in black and orange-yellow against backgrounds of black and beige are painted in a distinct style that lends an element of mysticism and fantasy to the works.