Editorial

Bhutan stands at a crucial economic juncture. The signs of industrial expansion may look promising at a glance, especially with rising electricity output and infrastructure development. But the surface narrative conceals deeper systemic issues that call for critical introspection and timely intervention. Beneath the optimistic numbers lies a reality of structural inefficiencies, weak manufacturing performance, business closures, and an industrial …

Bhutan stands at a pivotal moment in its demographic journey. The country’s population is aging rapidly, reflecting significant progress in health care and living standards. While increased life expectancy is a clear mark of development, it also signals emerging challenges that demand urgent and thoughtful action. Bhutan is poised to become an aging society within a few years, and the …

Urban housing in Bhutan is undergoing a quiet but powerful transformation. The shift from individual homes to stacked flats in multi-owner buildings is not merely architectural. It is a social and legal evolution that demands urgent attention. What has grown unchecked in recent years is now showing visible signs of structural and administrative stress. The rise in shared living spaces …

The planned expansion of Paro International Airport marks a significant step toward improving the country’s aviation safety and meeting growing demand for air travel. Upgrading infrastructure to meet international standards is essential for enhancing connectivity, supporting economic growth, and ensuring passenger safety. These developments reflect a broader ambition to position the nation as a reliable and accessible destination in a …

The comprehensive town development plan for Nganglam reflects a timely and strategic approach to balanced regional growth. By prioritising infrastructure, industrial investment and integrated urban planning, the initiative addresses both immediate needs and long-term objectives. This form of guided development is not only relevant to Nganglam but offers valuable lessons for every dzongkhag. What sets this effort apart is its …

The recent wave of outward migration, particularly to Australia, has stirred renewed debate on whether the country is witnessing a genuine case of brain gain or simply masking deeper structural challenges through rising remittances. While the World Bank’s latest update paints an optimistic picture of diaspora-driven development, a closer examination suggests that the story is more complex and demands urgent …

As global markets move toward cleaner, smarter and more resilient systems, the thoughtful integration of renewable energy with blockchain technology presents a practical economic pathway for smaller nations seeking sustainable development. The transition is not about chasing trends but about leveraging existing strengths to build economic independence and future relevance. Renewable energy, particularly hydropower, has long been considered a pillar …

Bhutan’s challenging terrain has long shaped the country’s development priorities. Roads remain the backbone of connectivity, but they are often vulnerable to monsoon disruptions and landslides. In this context, the government’s decision to explore domestic airstrips is a practical and forward-thinking step. With technical assessments completed for two sites in Samtse and Samdrup Jongkhar, the initiative represents a broader shift …

In a country that has long prided itself on decentralization and citizen-centric governance, it is deeply troubling that numerous gewogs across the country are functioning without the very personnel who make local governance possible. While national leaders continue to advocate for greater autonomy and service delivery at the grassroots, their words ring hollow when basic administrative roles such as Gewog …

In the vast sweep of our nation’s history, there are moments that define generations- not just by what leaders do, but by how the people respond. Today, Bhutan stands at such a moment. With the launch of the Gelephu Mindfulness City Nation Building Bond (GNBB), His Majesty The King has offered every Bhutanese citizen within the country a rare and …