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1. Market Surveillance Reveals Non-Compliance in Central Districts A 15-day market surveillance in Bumthang, Trongsa, and Zhemgang central districts by authorities discovered non-compliance by business owners in December. The surveillance, conducted by the Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority, Bhutan Food and Drug Authority, and Bhutan Standards Bureau, aims to address issues identified in their monthly redressal and surveillance exercise. 2. Chhukha District Triumphs in 17th National Inter-District Taekwondo Championship Chhukha district clinches victory in the 17th National Inter-District Taekwondo Championship, marking the event's return after a three-year hiatus due to the COVID pandemic. The finals took place in Phuentshogling. 3. Introduction of GEMS Program in Bhutan for Science and Math Learning The Great Exploration in Math and Science (GEMS), a hands-on participatory science and math program developed at the University of California, is now in Bhutan. Athang Learning Institute, a private software development and training academy, brings GEMS to Bhutan to motivate students and teachers in learning science and mathematics. 4. Bird-Watching Trail along Trans Bhutan Trail to Boost Tourism A birding trail along the Trans Bhutan Trail in Monggar is under development to attract more tourists. With over 70% of the work completed, the project, funded by the Global Environment Facility, aims to enhance tourism, create job opportunities, and improve the living standards of local communities. 5. Challenges Faced by Bhutanese Movie Industry Amid Changing Audience Tastes The Bhutanese movie industry struggles to attract audiences, with a drastic decline in cinema hall attendance over the past three years. Factors such as the rise of OTT platforms and changing audience preferences contribute to the challenges faced by the industry, leading to closures of movie theatres and financial losses for producers. 6. Semthuen Zhidhey Zhabtok: Youth Initiative Addressing Social Issues\ Semthuen Zhidhey Zhabtok, a youth group comprising more than 230 members, takes initiatives to address social issues and help the underprivileged community. Formed last year, the group operates without a steady source of income, emphasizing the joy of giving back to the community. 7. Lack of Proper Vegetable Market Affects Farmers and Consumers Despite the interest and promise in vegetable farming in Panbang Dungkhag, Zhemgang, the lack of a proper vegetable market poses challenges for both farmers and consumers. The farmers face difficulties in selling their produce, impacting their income, and consumers also face limitations in accessing fresh vegetables. 8. Gelephu Landmark Water Project Resolves Drinking Water Scarcity Gelephu Thromde residents experience relief from the annual scarcity of drinking water in winter, thanks to the Gelephu Landmark Water Project. The project has resolved the water issue, providing residents with a sufficient and reliable water supply. 9. Oyster Mushroom Cultivation Boosts Income in Dewathang Gewog Oyster mushroom cultivation becomes a lucrative source of income for farmers in Dewathang Gewog, Samdrup Jongkhar. Following training, ten farmers now cultivate mushrooms on a commercial scale, showcasing the potential of mushroom farming. 10. People's Democratic Party Dominates National Assembly Elections In the recent National Assembly Elections 2023-2024 general round, the People's Democratic Party secures victories in 30 constituencies, emerging as the dominant force. The Bhutan Tendrel Party positions itself as the opposition party, securing support in seventeen constituencies. The People's Democratic Party receives a total of 179,652 votes, while the Bhutan Tendrel Party secures 147,123 votes.

1. New Hope in Mushroom Cultivation for Chong-Geykha-Dophulakha Chiwog A group in Chong-Geykha-Dophulakha Chiwog, Phuentshogling Gewog, explores oyster mushroom cultivation, offering new opportunities for unemployed youths and elderly members. The group, including those who can no longer work on farms, recently took their first harvest to the market. 2. Relief for Tshetedna Village with Improved Farm Road Residents of Tshetedna village in Punakha, who endured poor road conditions for over a decade, finally find relief. The government improved the seven-kilometer farm road by laying Granular-Sub-Base (GSB), enhancing transportation convenience and livelihood prospects for locals. 3. Land Management Project in Lhuentse Addresses Gungtong Issue In Lhuentse, a land management project initially aimed at making farming less laborious evolves into a measure to address gungtong (empty houses) issues. With over 300 gungtongs and around 2,000 acres of fallow farmland, the project aims to retain people in villages. 4. Surge in Motor Vehicle Accidents in Bhutan in 2023 Bhutan experiences a notable increase in motor vehicle accidents in 2023, with over a thousand reported cases. Loss of control and drink driving emerge as the primary causes, according to data maintained by the Royal Bhutan Police. 5. Bhutan Honored with Outstanding Destination Excellence Award Bhutan earns the 'Outstanding Destination Excellence Award' from National Geographic Traveler China, solidifying its status as an exceptional travel destination in the Chinese market. The award was presented at the magazine’s 18th Golden Award in December. 6. Grant Contract Signed for Secondhand Fire Engines Project Ambassadors of Bhutan and Japan sign a Grant Contract for the Project for Reusing Secondhand Fire Engines in Thimphu, Sarpang, Haa, and Samtse. The project, funded by the Government of Japan, aims to procure four secondhand fire engines for fire and rescue services in Bhutan. 7. Oathbar Mountain Horticulture Promotion Project's Cauliflower Plantation Kinzang Wangdi initiates a cauliflower plantation project under the Oathbar Mountain Horticulture Promotion Project in Gangtozhing, Goenshari, Punakha. The farm, holding an organic certification, focuses on cultivating various organic crops, fruits, and vegetables. 8. Consumer Complaints and Resolutions by CCAA in December 2023 The Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (CCAA) reports 12 consumer complaints in December 2023, with six successfully resolved. Complaints primarily involve breaches of business terms and conditions, with one notable case related to alleged inaccurate weight in the sale of produce. 9. Women Voters Abstain from Voting in Sarpang Despite their numerical presence, women voters in Sarpang abstain from voting for various reasons, according to data on voting patterns in the dzongkhag. 10. Samdrupjongkhar Town's Hustle and Bustle During Elections The recent elections bring buses, cars, pickup trucks, and crowds to Samdrupjongkhar town, evoking a sense of déjà vu for residents and business owners as the town experiences increased activity.

1. Royal Meetings in Brunei His Majesty The King met with the Sultan of Brunei, His Majesty Hassanal Bolkiah, and the Prime Minister of Singapore, His Excellency Lee Hsien Loong, during their visit to Brunei for the royal wedding of Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Princess Anisha Rosnah. The Royal Wedding was attended by leaders from around the world. 2. Election-Related Cases Surge Over 60 election-related cases were filed with the Election Commission of Bhutan during the fourth National Assembly Elections, including 30 cases reported to the Office of the Media Arbitrator. The ECB imposed fines for violations of electoral rules in 25 cases. 3. Taxi Drivers Appeal to High Court Taxi drivers dissatisfied with the Thimphu district court’s judgment regarding electric vehicles purchased from Kuenphen Motors have taken their case to the High Court. The appeal follows the dismissal of their compensation claim in December. 4. Safety Concerns Along Tsirang Highway Businesses operating along the highway in Tsirang await action on road safety concerns. With an increase in road accidents, shopkeepers advocate for safety measures such as speed breakers or zebra crossings to be implemented. 5. Rural Waste Management Success in Paro Residents in rural parts of Paro have transitioned from improper waste disposal to proper waste management, thanks to a local waste management company. The initiative, started by a villager, addresses the community's waste disposal challenges. 6. Student Employment in Pema Gatshel In Pema Gatshel, students from Gashari village are benefiting from a fruitful orange season by taking up temporary jobs as fruit pickers in orange orchards. The initiative allows students to utilize their vacation time meaningfully and earn money for educational expenses. 7. Nationwide Hazelnut Grafting Program The Mountain Hazelnuts Venture launched a nationwide grafting program in Dagana to improve hazelnut fruiting. The initiative aims to replace non-productive hazelnut varieties with those better adapted to Bhutan's climate, covering 4,000 acres by 2027. The company covers all associated expenses. 8. Academic Success at Sakteng Lower Secondary School Sakteng Lower Secondary School in Trashigang Dzongkhag achieved a remarkable 100 percent pass rate in Class VIII Common Examination 2023. The principal attributes this success to the collaboration of dedicated teachers, supportive parents, and engaged community members. 9. Substance Abuse Interception in Phuentsholing Police at the Sanglam Pedestrian Terminal Gate in Phuentsholing intercepted a substance abuse case. A 27-year-old man with a work permit was found in possession of marijuana, emphasizing law enforcement's dedication to combat illegal activities and ensure public safety. 10. "Healing with Happiness" Art Exhibition in Paris The "Healing with Happiness" Art exhibition opened in Gallery Bookstore IMPRESSIONS in Paris, running from January 12 to February 3. The exhibition showcases artistic expressions centered around the theme of healing and happiness.

1. Royal Wedding Extravaganza in Brunei Congratulations to His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anisha Rosnah binti Adam on their marriage. Their Majesties attended the Royal Bersanding Ceremony at Istana Nurul Iman in Bandar Seri Begawan, graced by world leaders and dignitaries, including the King and Queen of Malaysia and the Presidents of Indonesia, Singapore, and the Philippines. 2. Nationwide Grafting Program for Hazelnuts Mountain Hazelnuts Venture launched a nationwide grafting program in Dagana to improve hazelnut fruiting. The initiative aims to replace non-productive hazelnut varieties with those better adapted to Bhutan's climate, covering 4,000 acres by 2027. The company covers all expenses for this climate-adaptation grafting project. 3. Drug Testing Reveals Positive Cases in Thimphu Nine men, aged 16 to 33, tested positive for drugs during a random check at the Thimphu city bus parking. This follows a similar incident in Paro and Chuzom where 21 individuals, including a trafficker, were found positive during a drug check. 4. PDP's Immediate Actions as New Government As the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) prepares to lead Bhutan’s fourth democratically elected government, they outlined 13 pledges to be endorsed immediately after the formation of the new cabinet. The pledges were part of the party's campaign for the 2023-2024 National Assembly Elections. 5. Potato Cultivation Challenges in Bumthang’s Domkhar Chiwog The community in Domkhar Chiwog, Bumthang, faces persistent challenges in potato cultivation, impacting their primary economic activity. Although there are no official reports of declining production in other parts of the district, Domkhar Chiwog residents have noticed a drop in both quality and quantity of their potato harvest. 6. Prosperous Orange Season in Zhemgang Orange growers in Zhemgang are enjoying a prosperous season, fetching double the earnings compared to the previous year. Oranges remain a significant source of income for villagers in lower Zhemgang. 7. Pork Shortage Woes in Tsirang Despite Tsirang's reputation for producing substantial livestock products, including pork, residents face a shortage in their local market. Meat shop owners from distant districts purchase pork directly from piggery farms in Tsirang at higher prices, leaving locals with insufficient supply. 8. Conclusion of Medicine Buddha Drubchen in Lhuentse The fifth Medicine Buddha or Sangay Menlha Drubchen, presided over by His Holiness the Je Khenpo, concluded at Namdroling Goenzin Dratshang in Lhuentse. Around 200 monks participated in the four-day ceremony, with a Medicine Buddha Thongdrel unfurled at the closing event for the nation's wellbeing. 9. Futsal Ground Boosts Entertainment in Lhamoi Dzingkha Dungkhag Lhamoi Dzingkha Dungkhag in Dagana celebrates the construction of its first futsal ground, providing entertainment and engagement for residents and youths. 10. Cardamom Yield Decline in Gongdu Gewog, Monggar Gongdu Gewog in Monggar, a major cardamom-producing region, faces a decline in spice yield due to fungal diseases and pest attacks, particularly in Dagsa-Kumadzong Chiwog, a major contributor to Gongdu Gewog’s cardamom production.

1. Increasing Visitors at the Royal Heritage Museum, Trongsa Since its establishment in 2008, the Royal Heritage Museum in Trongsa has witnessed a growing number of visitors, with over 11,000 in the last three years. To attract more locals, the museum plans additional temporary exhibitions, aiming to educate Bhutanese on the significance of ancient artifacts. 2. Progress on East-West Highway Expansion The final contract package for the East-West Highway is expected to conclude next month. The blacktopping between Namling and Yongkola in Monggar is underway, extending the completion timeline. The next Five-Year Plan will address an additional 18-kilometer stretch for widening and blacktopping. 3. Challenges in Winter Chilli Production in Phangyuel Gewog Chhungen Chiwog in Phangyuel Gewog relies on winter chilli production for income, but some farmers express disappointment with poor yields and reduced quality, leading to a decline in market prices. 4. Investigation into Mysterious Death in Thimphu A man in his early 30s was found dead in Babesa, Thimphu, with the cause yet to be determined. The forensic team suspects hypothermia, given no external injuries. The deceased had a history of alcohol use and other medical conditions, leaving the case under investigation. 5. PDP's Election Strategy in Samdrupjongkhar The People’s Democratic Party strategically uses its success in 39 constituencies during the primary elections as a central element in its campaign for the general elections conducted on January 9. 6. Successful Operation Against Cannabis Trafficking in Gedu Gedu Police effectively halt cannabis trafficking in the region, arresting a 24-year-old man in Padhichu, Bongo. A significant amount of dry cannabis is seized, leading to ongoing efforts to trace the trafficking route and identify associated abusers. 7. Official Results of National Assembly Elections Official results confirm the People’s Democratic Party winning 30 seats, becoming the ruling government, and the Bhutan Tendrel Party with 17 seats as the opposition party in the fourth National Assembly elections. 8. Rise in Sexual Violence Cases in Bhutan Bhutan observes an increase in sexual violence cases, with 137 recorded in 2023 compared to 112 in 2022, reflecting a 22.32% rise. 9. Tsirang Votes for Experience in National Elections Voters in Tsirang prioritize experience and past successes in their choice of a political party, emphasizing the importance of selecting an experienced party, particularly during economic downturns. 10. Influence of Party President in Trashigang Elections Bhutan Tendrel Party (BTP) secures victories in all five constituencies in Trashigang, attributing the success to the influence of the party president. The BTP candidates won through both postal ballots and Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

1. Historic Victory Marks Second Term for PDP In a landmark moment for Bhutan's young democracy, the People's Democratic Party (PDP) has swept 30 constituencies, securing a historic second term as the ruling government. This landslide victory across the western, central, and southern regions establishes the PDP as the fourth democratically elected government in Bhutan, with the Bhutan Tendrel Party taking on the role of the Opposition with 17 seats. 2. Election Results Reveal New Landscape The bustling poll day of yesterday culminated in the PDP emerging as the frontrunner, while the BTP secured victory in 17 constituencies. The Election Commission of Bhutan officially announced the results today, confirming a new political chapter for the nation. 3. Unexpected Twists in Leadership In a surprising turn of events, both vice presidents from both parties faced unexpected defeats in their respective constituencies. This shake-up in leadership adds an intriguing dimension to the new political landscape. 4. Bhutan's Economic Outlook Brightens Every household in Bhutan can look forward to a promising future, with the consolidated 13th Five-Year Plan document projecting the annual average income to nearly double to 2.5 million ngultrum (USD 30,000) by 2029. This significant rise offers a brighter economic horizon for the entire nation. 5. Global Recognition for Bhutan's Democracy Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his warm congratulations to the newly elected PDP and its president, Tshering Tobgay, acknowledging the successful democratic process in Bhutan. 6. BTP Takes Up the Mantle of Opposition With 17 constituencies, primarily from the east and one from the central region, the BTP will play a crucial role as the official Opposition party in the fourth government, ensuring a vibrant and balanced political scene. 7. Royal Bhutan Police Crack Down on Drug Trafficking In a bid to combat the alarming rise in drug-related cases, the Royal Bhutan Police (RBP) are intensifying their efforts to dismantle trafficking networks. With a shift towards a more compassionate approach focused on addiction rehabilitation in collaboration with the Substance Use Disorder Unit, the RBP aims to tackle the drug epidemic and break the stigma surrounding it. 8. Meticulous Handling of Election Results The Election Commission of Bhutan emphasized the importance of transparency and accuracy in handling the ongoing election results. Their meticulous process involves communication with Returning Officers across 47 Demkhongs, rigorous cross-checking, and validation at the National Result Counting Center. This ensures the credibility and trust in the electoral process. 9. Unveiling Poverty Trends The National Statistics Bureau (NSB) shed light on the shifting dynamics of poverty in Bhutan through its 2022 Poverty Analysis Report. Drawing insights from the Bhutan Living Standards Survey, the report highlights significant spatial disparities and a changing geography of poverty compared to previous years, informing targeted interventions and poverty reduction strategies. 10. Preserving the Lolay Tradition In the face of modernity, the cherished cultural celebration of "Lolay" stands at a crossroads. This age-old practice, woven into the fabric of Bhutanese identity, faces the risk of fading away. Recognizing its significance, efforts are underway to revive and preserve this unique tradition, ensuring its continuity for future generations.

1. Preserving Tradition and Livelihood in Monggar Efforts in Gongdu Gewog to preserve bamboo crafting and enhance villagers’ livelihoods are supported by the Queen’s Project Office. The formation of a Dagsa Tsharzo Detshen by farmers, aided by the office, has 13 members. 2. Closure of International Border Gates Gelegphu and Phuentshogling international border gates have closed at 6 PM today and will remain shut until 6 PM tomorrow. 3. Bhutan Gears Up for General Elections Tomorrow marks the general round of the Fourth National Assembly Elections in Bhutan. Over 6,000 officials, including security personnel, are deployed across 812 polling stations. Polls will open at 8 AM and close at 5 PM. 4. Winter Break Activities for Students While many students use the winter vacation for leisure or studies, a growing number engage in sports coaching. Federation officials note an increasing trend in student participation in such coaching activities. 5. Consumer Price Index Report The National Statistics Bureau’s report reveals a year-on-year Consumer Price Index (CPI) of 4.60% for November 2023, indicating a nearly five per cent rise in costs compared to the same period in 2022. 6. AI's Impact on Cybersecurity Despite AI's positive impact, its negative influence in cyberspace is growing, causing harm through misinformation and deepfake videos. A story highlights the mental health impact of an AI-generated deepfake video and the legalities surrounding cybercrimes. 7. Transmission of Buddhist Text by His Holiness His Holiness the Je Khenpo concluded a 10-day oral transmission of Gongdue, attended by various significant figures from Zhung Dratshang and monks from six eastern districts. 8. Electrification Milestone in Garsabi Garsabi village, previously without power, received electricity for the first time on January 4, 2024, marking a transformative moment for its two households and aligning with broader development initiatives. 9. Forest Fire in Changidhaphu, Thimphu A forest fire in Changidhaphu, Thimphu, broke out around 2:40 PM but has been brought under control with no reported casualties. The cause remains unknown. 10. Voter's Dilemma in Dagana A 71-year-old man from Gozhi gewog aims not to miss voting this time, despite his dilemma in supporting one candidate over another in his constituency, Drukjegang-Tseza.

1. Gelephu Mindfulness City's Impact on Commercial Farmers Commercial farmers in Darjaythang village, Sarpang, anticipate benefits from the Gelephu Mindfulness City's development, hoping for improved marketing opportunities for their winter crops. 2. Cable TV Service Issues in Trashigang Residents across multiple Gewogs in Trashigang face persisting problems with unreliable cable television services, particularly crucial during the election period. 3. Scout Leadership Training for Students Over 60 students underwent leadership training at Gyalposhing Higher Secondary School in Monggar, focusing on instilling values of patriotism and enhancing leadership skills. 4. Resumption of Domestic Flights at Gelephu Airport Gelephu International Airport has resumed domestic operations after a four-year hiatus due to the pandemic, with limited capacity for smaller ATR aircraft. 5. ECB's Intercepted Vehicles Allegedly Ferrying Voters The Election Commission intercepted vehicles suspected of ferrying voters to different districts but couldn't establish conclusive evidence, allowing them to proceed. 6. Preparations for National Assembly General Elections Polling officials and security personnel were dispatched to various constituencies, gearing up for the National Assembly General Elections on January 9. 7. Focus on Registered Postal Voters for General Elections Attention shifts to the significance of the 117,114 registered postal voters, who are anticipated to play a decisive role in the upcoming general elections. 8. Training and Preparation of De-suups for Emergencies De-suung offices organized a 3-day training for an Emergency Response Team (ERT) to assist deployments, respond to emergencies, and enhance support services for De-suups. 9. Closure of Southern Border Gates During Elections Southern international border gates will remain closed during the National Assembly elections, advising the public to plan travel accordingly. 10. Concerns Over Lack of Public Holidays in Specific Sectors Employees in the hospitality and retail sectors express dissatisfaction over inadequate public holidays compared to other industries, citing feelings of deprivation and unfairness.

1. RTC Women's FC Triumph in Bhutan Women's National League RTC Women’s FC clinched their first Bhutan Women’s National League title, securing victory with a 3-2 win against Gelephu Academy Girls and concluding the season on 31 points. 2. ECB Investigation on Alleged Voter Ferrying The Election Commission of Bhutan intercepted vehicles allegedly ferrying voters to different districts. After an investigation, no conclusive evidence was found, allowing the vehicles to proceed. 3. Media Arbitrator's Action Against Defamatory Content The Office of the Media Arbitrator issued warnings to individuals for sharing defamatory videos and hate speech regarding political parties, ordering the removal of the content. 4. Enforcement of Media Regulations The Office of the Media Arbitrator fined an individual and issued reprimands and warnings to others for violating ECB rules, spreading hate messages, and defaming the Bhutan Tendrel Party. 5. Trade Issues Addressed in Bhutan-Bangladesh Dialogue Bhutanese exporters proposed railway connectivity to tackle entry-exit port shortages in trade with Bangladesh. Discussions also included an extension for using uncertified packing boxes in orange exports. 6. Cultural Practices Between Haa and Paro Despite geographic distance, cultural ties persist between Haa and Paro districts, exemplified by the shared tradition of offering the first harvest to Haa’s local deity, Chungdu. 7. Farming Challenges in Khebishing and Bahkaphai The presence of stones on farmlands creates unique farming hurdles for the people of Khebishing and Bahkaphai villages in Balam Gewog, Monggar. The Balam Gewog Administration is managing over 60 acres of farmland to address this issue. 8. ECB's Handling of Voter Ferrying Allegations The Election Commission intercepted vehicles allegedly ferrying voters to different districts based on credible information but couldn't establish conclusive evidence. Passengers were allowed to proceed, and local Election Authorities emphasized exercising voting rights without bias. 9. Expansion of Gelephu Airport to International Level Gelephu Special Administrative Zone is set to upgrade its airport to an international standard, with expansion works slated to commence in March. 10. Infrastructure Promises in Anticipation of Gelephu Mindfulness City Candidates from Bhutan Tendrel Party (BTP) and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Panbang pledge to construct a national highway from Panbang to Tareythang in Sarpang, coinciding with expectations surrounding the Gelephu Mindfulness City.

1. Challenges in Women's Political Participation Gender biases persist as Bhutanese women encounter hurdles in contesting parliamentary elections, with limited representation from both BTP and PDP, reflecting societal norms and skepticism about female leadership. 2. Poverty Disparities Among Districts The National Statistics Bureau's Poverty Mapping Survey highlights significant variations in poverty rates across gewogs in Monggar, Zhemgang, and Chhukha districts, signaling diverse living standards. 3. Voting Constraints for Overseas Bhutanese Nearly 500,000 voters are expected to participate, but Bhutanese abroad, accompanying dependents, are unable to cast votes, sparking disappointment among some, notably a group in Australia. 4. Fuel Shortage Gripping Lhamoi Dzingkha Dungkhag Lhamoi Dzingkha Dungkhag in Dagana faces acute fuel shortages, recently culminating in residents returning empty-handed or with minimal fuel from the sole local depot. 5. Worrisome Water Source Depletion Salibi village in Gongdue Gewog relies on Weringla Lake for water needs. However, its dwindling levels prompt concerns. The Gongdue Gewog Administration plans to revive the lake to safeguard this crucial resource. 6. Underutilization of Cold Storage Facilities Despite government efforts to build Cold Storage Facilities for surplus produce, farmers in Wangdue Phodrang remain hesitant. Only three individuals have utilized these facilities in the past five months. 7. Livestock Predation Woes in Wogmanang Chiwog Asiatic wild dog attacks in Wogmanang Chiwog, Trashi Yangtse, lead to cattle losses, distressing farmers without any compensation scheme for their losses. 8. Election Promises in Sarpang Candidates contesting Shompangkha Constituency's seat vow to explore Yenlag Thromde and mini-hydropower stations, highlighting these promises in a public debate. 9. Partnership for Construction Sector Training Bhutan's collaboration with Japan's JICA aims to train civil engineers and technicians for five years, seeking to bolster the country's construction sector. 10. PDP President's Agricultural Commitment PDP President Tshering Tobgay pledges to establish an auction yard in Bumthang, emphasizing agricultural support during his campaign.

Royal Audience for Civil Service Graduates On January 4, 2024, His Majesty The King held an audience for graduates entering the civil service during their oath-taking ceremony at Tashichhodzong’s Kuenrey. His Majesty addressed the 652 graduates, who are about to join various civil service agencies, about our national goals and the initiatives to achieve them. He urged the graduates to give their best efforts for the progress and prosperity of the country. RTC Women’s FC Wins Bhutan Women’s National League 2023 RTC Women’s FC emerged as the champions of the Bhutan Women’s National League 2023. They clinched their first-ever title by defeating Gelephu Academy Girls 3-2, with a game still left to play. After 14 games, RTC Women’s FC accumulated 31 points, with 10 wins, one draw, and three losses. The championship trophy will be officially presented to them on Saturday. This season, the tournament saw the participation of six teams. Enhanced Safety Measures in Phuentshogling Thromde As part of its efforts to improve safety, the Phuentshogling Thromde has installed approximately 180 CCTV cameras within and around the Thromde. The Comprehensive CCTV Network, which was launched recently, is a component of the Safe City Project initiated by the police following a royal command. Royal Audience for Newly Selected Civil Servants A total of 652 newly selected Civil Servants, comprising 326 females and 326 males, received a Royal Audience from His Majesty The King at the Kuenray of Tashichhodzong. This is the second batch of newly recruited Civil Servants in the Professional and Management Category (PMC) that received a Royal Audience on their Oath-taking day. Love Across Jowo Durshing This is a story of how an Olep man met a Monpa girl with assistance from famous footballers Ronaldo Nazario and Zinedine Zidane. The Oleps of Rukha in Wangduephodrang and the Monpas of Jangbi in Trongsa are brought together in a single frame, symbolizing the rich history shared between the country’s two oldest tribes. Successful Narcotics Interception at Phuentsholing Main Gate On the morning of January 4th, 2024, the Integrated Check Post (ICP) police at Phuentsholing main gate made a significant interception of an individual carrying illegal narcotics. The individual, a 33-year-old named Tashi Wangdi from Bumthang, was found with 7400 capsules of SPM-PRX+. He admitted to obtaining the illegal substances from an unidentified dealer at a supermarket in Jaigaon, India, for Nu. 65000. The narcotics were ingeniously hidden within his vehicle’s bonnet, raising concerns about the advanced smuggling techniques used in such illegal activities. The case has been transferred to the Phuentsholing Police Station for further investigation. The ICP at Phuentsholing is committed to maintaining the integrity of the region’s borders and strictly enforcing the laws of the land. This successful interception demonstrates the unwavering dedication and vigilance of our law enforcement personnel. The ICP encourages public cooperation and support in this endeavor to prevent the entry of illegal substances into our region. Revolutionizing Bhutan’s Health Sector The Ministry of Health (MoH) launched the Health Sector Transformation on January 9, 2023. On the same day, a new agency called National Medical Services was established with the aim of providing a unified and renewed stewardship for clinical services management in the country. Wooden Crate Shortage Concerns Mandarin Exporters in Gelephu Mandarin exporters in Gelephu are facing a shortage of wooden crates during the peak of the export season. This has raised concerns about potential delays in exports and damage to their produce. Concerns Over Distance to Alternative Polling Station in Punakha Residents of Lunana and Laya, who have migrated to warmer Punakha and Wangdue in keeping with tradition, express concerns that the alternative polling station is far from their temporary winter residence. People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Continues Campaign in the East The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president continued the campaign in the east, campaigning in Lhuentse and Mongar in recent days. In Lhuntse, the president pledged to construct a bypass from Gayzam Chu in Bumthang to Autsho in Lhuntse.

1. Promises for Road Maintenance in Gasa Candidates from both BTP and PDP in Gasa committed to maintaining the Tarshithang-Gasa road if elected, promising to widen and blacktop the road for the benefit of the community. 2. Success of Elephant Deterrent Measures Darjaythang village in Sarpang installed electric fences and trenches, significantly reducing elephant intrusions into settlements, creating a safer environment. 3. Farmers in Jomtsang Village Alter Cultivation Human-wildlife conflict and irregular rainfall led farmers in Jomtsang village to refrain from cultivating kidney beans, impacting the region's bean production, a vital income source. 4. Plea for a Bridge at Aja Ney Visitors at Aja Ney in Monggar emphasized the necessity of a motorable bridge over Sherichu for better travel convenience, citing the poor condition of the current bridge. 5. Conservation Efforts and Economic Alternatives in Berti Berti in Zhemgang, designated as a habitat for the endangered White-bellied Heron, emphasizes environmental conservation. The Berti Eco Lodge, managed by the community, aims to balance conservation, generate income, and raise environmental awareness. 6. Plans for Airports in Pemagatshel Candidates in Nanong_Shumar constituency, Pemagatshel, proposed exploring domestic airport projects to benefit the eastern region's six dzongkhags, aiming to boost tourism and local economy. 7. Inauguration of Phuentsholing Safe City Project The Royal Bhutan Police, in collaboration with stakeholders, launched the Safe City System in Phuentsholing, featuring advanced surveillance technology and a budget of Nu. 11.6 million for enhanced community safety. 8. Postal Ballot Collection Challenges Some teachers on winter vacation haven't collected their postal ballots, leading to delivery at local shops due to the closure of gewog offices during weekends. 9. WWF Bhutan's Conservation Impact WWF Bhutan's conservation efforts positively impacted over 65,000 individuals across 12 districts, reflecting resilience and adaptability in their conservation journey. 10. Challenges with Geo-Information Policy Implementation The National Land Commission Secretariat faces issues with government agencies regarding compliance with the Geo-Information Policy, citing concerns about transparency, communication, resource duplication, and compromised data quality during surveying and mapping processes.