Opinion

As a committed supporter of the current government, I feel compelled to voice my disappointment over an issue impacting the everyday lives of countless Bhutanese citizens. The ESP loan program, designed to support Bhutanese businesses and aid economic growth, has instead become a significant source of frustration and disappointment. The lofty promises to empower small business owners, farmers, and entrepreneurs …

As Bhutan embarks on a transformative journey to develop the Gelephu Mindful City (GMC), it’s essential to recognize that this ambitious project is more than just an economic endeavour. Rooted in the principles of the Gross National Happiness (GNH), the city’s vision reflects a commitment to harmonious development that balances economic prosperity with cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. However, as …

As Bhutan strides toward its ambitious goal of becoming a carbon-neutral nation by 2030, it faces a critical juncture in its transportation sector. The time has come to replace fuel-driven vehicles with electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen-powered alternatives, ensuring our future is both green and sustainable. This transformation is not merely an environmental necessity; it is a vital public health …

When the collateral-free Economic Stimulus Plan (ESP) loan scheme was launched in May 2024 with a tantalizing interest rate of just 4%, there was a palpable buzz of excitement throughout the country. Many aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners saw it as a golden opportunity to realize their dreams and stimulate economic growth. However, the enthusiasm quickly transformed into frustration …

It is deeply concerning to hear the recent statement from the Thrompen of Phuentsholing Thromde on BBS regarding the potential revival of an incinerator unit. The idea of making such a harmful facility operational again, despite its well-known adverse health effects, is baffling. Studies have consistently shown that incinerators are associated with significant health risks, including cancer, congenital anomalies, infant …

Bhutan is blessed with abundant water resources, distinguishing it from many nations facing water scarcity. However, despite this blessing, Bhutan is not immune to environmental degradation, climate change, and poor resource management. The signs are already clear-water sources are drying up, streams that once flowed freely have become seasonal, and springs that used to sustain communities have diminished. While Bhutan’s …

Discussion around the topic of rabies is almost exclusively related to the dangers it poses to humans from dog bites. And it’s no wonder, because if a rabid bite is left untreated it is almost always fatal. Indeed, human deaths from rabies-almost always caused by dog bites-account for an estimated 59,000 fatalities each year. In most countries of South Asia …

Bhutan’s Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP), officially launched in May 2024 with significant backing from the Government of India, represents a bold effort to rejuvenate the nation’s economy after the disruptive impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. The program’s objective is clear: to bolster domestic production, create jobs, and support businesses that have been hit hard by the pandemic. However, the recent …

In the rapidly developing world we live in today, the construction industry is at the forefront of innovation, constantly evolving to meet the needs of growing populations and urbanization. One critical area of focus is the choice of construction materials, particularly when considering sustainability, durability, and environmental impact. Historically, timber was the go-to material for many construction projects, especially in …

Bhutan stands out on the global stage as one of the few countries with carbon-negative status, meaning it absorbs more carbon dioxide than it emits. This remarkable achievement, coupled with its reputation as an environmental champion, has positioned Bhutan as a model for sustainable development. However, despite these accolades, the country faces significant challenges in waste management, which, if addressed …