Titled “Empowering Monastic Communities in Bhutan through Stroke Prevention by Enhancing Awareness, Early Detection and Promoting Healthy Lifestyles,” the initiative seeks to address the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and the limited culture of preventive health screening in the country.

According to officials from the Bhutan Stroke Foundation (BSF), many Bhutanese do not undergo regular health screenings unless they fall ill, resulting in missed opportunities for the early detection and management of stroke risk factors.

The project specifically targets monks and nuns residing in monastic institutions nationwide and aligns with Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) philosophy, which emphasizes holistic well-being and sustainable social development.

The initiative has five key objectives: raising awareness on stroke prevention, conducting stroke risk assessments and early detection, promoting healthy lifestyles, building local capacity, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.

The project is being implemented in collaboration with Zhung Dratshang, NCD programme members, focal persons from the Civil Society Organizations Authority (CSOA), volunteers from Apollo, the Faculty of Nursing and Public Health (FNPH), Arura Nursing College, and the technical team from BSF. Health coordinators from various monastic institutions will also play a key role in implementation.

Funded by the Government of India, the project has received a grant of Nu. 64.41 million. Of the total budget, Nu. 27.43 million has been allocated for the first year, Nu. 15.50 million for the second year, Nu. 10.38 million for the third year, and Nu. 11.10 million for the fourth year.

The project will be implemented in four phases over the next four years. The first phase will focus on baseline stroke risk assessments, followed by awareness campaigns and lifestyle interventions. The third phase will involve follow-up monitoring of high-risk individuals and validation of data to support evidence-based stroke prevention strategies. The final phase will continue risk assessments while focusing on project reporting and evaluation.

Under the implementation plan, the BSF team will lead awareness programmes, health screenings, and data management activities. Volunteers and technical experts will assist in conducting health assessments across monastic institutions.

BSF Executive Director Rinchen Khandu said the project would help protect the lives of monks and nuns dedicated to the spiritual path.

Project Manager Kinley Dema said significant groundwork has already been completed. The team has developed a Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) system to collect and manage health data from monastic institutions. Necessary equipment and materials required for implementation have also been procured.

The project is expected to improve understanding of stroke symptoms, causes, and prevention measures among monks and nuns. It also aims to encourage healthier lifestyles, reduce stroke risks, establish a sustainable health promotion network within monasteries, and strengthen the capacity of monastic communities to manage their own health.

To ensure effective implementation, the project will adopt a comprehensive monitoring and reporting framework that includes regular field assessments, stakeholder engagement, quarterly review meetings, and performance tracking. Progress will be documented through quarterly and annual reports, mid-term and final evaluations, financial audits, and a final project report.

In the coming months, the project team will begin conducting awareness programmes and health screenings in monastic institutions across the country. Representatives from each institution will also be trained to use the CAPI system for data collection and reporting. The BSF team will provide continuous support and follow-up, particularly for individuals identified as being at high risk of stroke.

BSF Technical Advisor Dr. Tashi said the project would contribute to reducing the country’s healthcare burden by promoting prevention and early intervention.

There are currently 261 monastic institutions in Bhutan, with a combined population of 13,126 monks and 1,153 nuns.

Sangay Rabten, Thimphu

Speaking at the Bhutan Agrifood Trade and Investment Forum (BATIF) 2.0 held recently, Director of the Department of Agricultural Marketing and Cooperatives (DAMC), Tashi Dorji, said the country offers a unique combination of premium agricultural products, strategic market access, and a rapidly evolving policy environment aimed at scaling up investment.

He noted that Bhutan’s high-altitude farming systems, pristine environment, and growing portfolio of geographical indication (GI)-tagged products provide a strong branding advantage in international markets. Cardamom alone generated about Nu. 2 billion in export earnings in 2025.

Bhutan also benefits from duty-free access to key regional markets, including India and Bangladesh, while expanding trade linkages with the European Union, Singapore, Thailand, the Middle East, and Japan.

“Reforms across the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment, the Ministry of Finance, and the Royal Monetary Authority reflect a coordinated national strategy rather than isolated interventions,” Tashi Dorji said. “The goal is to transform the agrifood sector into a major driver of growth.”

Following Bhutan’s graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in December 2023, the government has placed agriculture at the centre of its diversification agenda under the 13th Five-Year Plan (2024–2029), which targets a doubling of the agrifood economy.

Policy reforms have further strengthened investor confidence. The Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Rules and Regulations 2025 now allow up to 100 percent foreign equity ownership in agriculture and livestock ventures, up from the previous 74 percent cap.

Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Bhutan’s economy, employing 41.7 percent of the national workforce in 2024 and contributing Nu. 39.6 billion, or 14.15 percent of GDP. Labour productivity in the primary sector has tripled since 2013, marking the strongest growth among all sectors.

Despite this progress, Bhutan continues to face a widening agricultural trade deficit. In 2024, the agri-trade gap stood at around Nu. 9 billion, with imports of Nu. 13.7 billion against exports of Nu. 3.9 billion. Key imports include rice, edible oils, dairy products, and cheese, with rice alone accounting for Nu. 2.91 billion.

To address this imbalance, the 13th Five-Year Plan sets ambitious targets. Agrifood GDP is projected to rise from Nu. 31 billion to Nu. 50 billion by 2029, requiring annual growth of 8.89 percent. Agricultural exports are expected to double from Nu. 3 billion to Nu. 6 billion, while rice and vegetable self-sufficiency is targeted to increase from 30 percent to 80 percent.

These goals are supported by an investment plan of Nu. 14.98 billion. About 72 percent will be directed toward smallholder resilience through productivity improvements, irrigation, electric fencing, and crop and livestock insurance. A further 13.5 percent is allocated to commercial-scale farming, while 12 percent will support access to finance, insurance, and business development services.

Domestic investment indicators are also improving. The GDP-to-public expenditure ratio has increased from 3.31 to 5.49, reflecting improved efficiency in public spending. The government also plans to expand Internal Control Systems (ICS) among farmer groups and cooperatives from eight to 50 by 2029, alongside the establishment of three federations for dairy, poultry, and cardamom producers.

Financial inclusion is expected to deepen further through the Royal Monetary Authority’s Financial Inclusion National Action Plan (FINAP), which aims to expand digital financial services in rural and agricultural communities.

Foreign investment interest is also rising. As of December 2025, Bhutan had 135 approved FDI projects valued at Nu. 73.76 billion, up from 121 projects the previous year.

To support future expansion, 11,557 acres of land across eight dzongkhags have been identified for agricultural investment. The National Land Commission Secretariat has approved 274 fallow land lease applications, while the FDI Rules 2025 formalise extendable 30-year state land leases for investors.

Institutional support is being strengthened through DAMC’s market facilitation services, Invest Bhutan’s one-stop coordination platform, blended finance mechanisms under the Ministry of Finance, and financial inclusion programmes led by the Royal Monetary Authority.

However, challenges remain. The Asian Development Bank’s Country Partnership Strategy 2024–2028 identifies the absence of a single-window approval system as a key barrier to investment. Stakeholders also cite the Nu. 20 million minimum FDI threshold, high lending rates, and limited agricultural financing products as constraints.

Several reforms are already underway, including the rollout of national crop and livestock insurance schemes, expanded credit access facilities, and ongoing legislative improvements to enhance the investment climate.

Tashi Dorji said BATIF 2.0 marks an important step in translating policy intent into real investment outcomes.

“Bhutan’s agrifood sector is entering a defining phase. The partnerships and investments forged today will shape the future of food systems, rural livelihoods, and inclusive economic growth,” he said.

Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Secretary Thinley Namgyal said Bhutan has developed a 21st-century economic roadmap and is actively engaging potential investors to realise its agrifood transformation agenda.

Sangay Rabten, Thimphu

The direction was highlighted during an event held earlier this week in Thimphu, organised by the Embassy of India, Thimphu, in partnership with the GovTech Agency, and in collaboration with the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), Government of India.

GovTech Secretary Jigme Tenzing said space technology is becoming increasingly central to evidence-based policymaking as Bhutan deepens its digital transformation agenda.

He pointed to India’s rapidly expanding commercial space ecosystem, now home to hundreds of startups, as an example of how private sector participation can transform a traditionally state-led sector.

Indian Ambassador to Bhutan Sandeep Arya said the global space sector is undergoing rapid change, driven by lower satellite costs, improved computing power, and the expanding use of geospatial data.

He said India’s experience over the past six years shows that opening the sector to private participation can accelerate innovation, reduce costs, and expand applications.

“This model can support Bhutan as well through concrete applications aligned with its national priorities,” he said, adding that space-based services, combined with local digital talent, could emerge as a new pillar of economic growth.

The ambassador also highlighted earlier cooperation initiatives such as the South Asia Satellite and India–Bhutan satellite collaborations, which have already supported communication and imaging services in Bhutan.

He said future cooperation could expand into hydropower risk monitoring, flash flood prediction, agricultural insurance, infrastructure planning, and road safety in mountainous terrain.

Kiran Pradhan, Chief Programme Officer in the Division of Telecom and Space under GovTech, said Bhutan is moving from exploratory engagement to structured national capacity-building in the space sector.

He said Bhutan’s space journey began with STEM-based initiatives and has gradually expanded into satellite development experiments, joint missions, and the establishment of ground stations in educational institutions.

Bhutan is already using satellite data for weather forecasting, remote sensing, disaster communication, and broadcasting services through international partnerships.

“We are now moving toward building in-house capability, not just using external systems,” he said, adding that a 10-year strategy is being developed to build a sustainable space ecosystem that contributes to GDP growth and skilled job creation.

He said the national objective is to create opportunities for Bhutanese youth both domestically and internationally.

At the event, Indian space technology companies presented a range of solutions tailored to Bhutan’s geography and development needs, particularly in climate resilience and geospatial intelligence.

One company proposed an AI-powered system to monitor glacial lakes and terrain deformation to strengthen early warning systems in flood-prone mountain regions. The platform uses satellite imagery, InSAR analysis, and exposure modelling to track climate risks in real time.

Spatial Logics proposed a similar AI-based glacial lake monitoring framework aimed at strengthening climate resilience and protecting downstream communities and infrastructure from glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs).

Another firm presented a geo-AI platform using satellite data and conversational analytics to support environmental management, climate-resilient agriculture, and faster decision-making for government agencies.

Additional proposals included space-based data platforms and satellite-enabled systems aligned with Bhutan’s Space Strategy 2034 and the National Digital Infrastructure (NDI), with applications in natural resource monitoring, hydropower catchment management, and infrastructure resilience.

Other solutions featured integrated satellite, drone, and field-based monitoring systems for disaster management, forestry, water resources, hydropower assets, and cultural heritage preservation, alongside capacity-building and joint development with Bhutanese partners.

Companies also highlighted the potential of integrating Bhutan’s local datasets into AI-driven platforms to improve resource planning and climate adaptation.

Kiran Pradhan said future engagement will focus on business-to-business partnerships, pilot projects, and integration of satellite-based solutions into government systems.

The Indian Ambassador emphasized that space cooperation should now move toward long-term implementation supported by stronger policy alignment and institutional coordination, rather than standalone initiatives.

Nidup Lhamo, Thimphu

Today, as dawn breaks over the Himalayas, Jigme is deep into preparation for the biggest race of his life.

Every week he runs approximately 120 kilometres through Bhutan’s mountains and valleys. In the coming weeks, that mileage will increase further as he enters the peaking phase of his training programme, pushing his body and mind to the edge in preparation for one of the world’s most prestigious ultra-trail races.

On August 28, Jigme will stand at the starting line of the CCC, one of the flagship races of the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) World Series Finals in France.

The race is no ordinary competition.

Covering 100 kilometres through the heart of the Alps, the route begins in Italy, traverses Switzerland, and finishes in France. Along the way, runners face relentless climbs, technical descents, rapidly changing mountain weather, and physical exhaustion that pushes even elite athletes to their limits.

For most runners around the world, simply reaching the starting line is considered an achievement.

For Jigme, earning that opportunity required years of dedication.

He was not invited. He was not given a free entry. He qualified.

In December 2025, Jigme competed in the UTMB World Series Major in Chiang Mai, Thailand, one of the most competitive ultra-trail races in Asia. Racing against 1,600 runners from nearly 90 countries, he delivered a remarkable performance, finishing 41st overall and 11th in his age category.

He completed the gruelling 100-kilometre course in 12 hours and 55 minutes, securing his place among the world’s best and earning qualification for the UTMB World Series Finals.

For a runner from a small Himalayan kingdom, it was a significant milestone.

However, the bigger story is not about one athlete qualifying for a race. It is about what that qualification says about Bhutan itself.

Bhutan is known around the world for its pristine mountains, rich culture, Gross National Happiness, and commitment to environmental conservation. However, it is still relatively unknown in the world of elite endurance sports.

Jigme hopes to change that.

“This UTMB World Series Finals race is very important to me because I hope to carry our country’s flag and represent Bhutan on a global platform,” he says.

“I want people from around the world, especially those who have never heard about Bhutan, to know our country through this journey.”

Those words reveal the deeper purpose behind every kilometre he runs.

The race is also not merely a contest between athletes. It is an opportunity to introduce Bhutan to a global audience and to demonstrate what determination, discipline, and perseverance can achieve.

For Bhutan, his participation represents something equally important.

The kingdom possesses all the natural ingredients required to become a globally recognized destination for trail running and mountain sports. Its dramatic landscapes, high mountain passes, ancient footpaths, and pristine forests offer terrain that many international runners spend thousands of dollars travelling abroad to experience.

In many ways, Bhutan is a natural ultra-trail arena.

Athletes like Jigme are helping to showcase that potential to the world.

“This race means much more than competition,” he says.

“I want to open new doors of opportunity, especially for the youth of Bhutan. I will give my very best in this race. I may not win, but I believe our younger generation can achieve even greater things in the future. They can make a living through this sport, inspire others, and make Bhutan known and respected around the world.”

His words reflect a larger vision.

At a time when many young Bhutanese are searching for opportunities and new pathways, sport has increasingly emerged as a source of inspiration, discipline, and possibility. Around the world, trail running has grown into a professional industry supporting athletes, coaches, race organizers, tourism operators, equipment manufacturers, and content creators.

Jigme believes Bhutanese youth can become part of that movement.

His journey demonstrates that athletes from Bhutan can compete internationally despite limited resources and geographical isolation. It sends a powerful message that dreams do not depend on where one comes from but on how relentlessly one pursues them.

Behind such ambitions lies a lifestyle built on sacrifice.

Elite endurance athletes are forged not only on race day but in countless unseen hours of preparation. For Jigme, that means maintaining strict discipline in training, recovery, and nutrition.

His diet is simple and uncomplicated, clean, home-cooked meals that provide the fuel required for the immense physical demands of ultra-running.

“I make sure I get my daily requirements of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats,” he explains. “As my training volume is high, I eat a lot. Just as importantly, I make sure I rest well so that I can recover and continue training the following day.”

The glamour of international competition often hides the reality behind it: the lonely training runs, the aching muscles, the sacrifices made by family members, and the discipline required day after day, month after month.

Like any athlete pursuing a dream on the world stage, Jigme’s journey has not been a solitary one.

He acknowledges the support of those who have stood beside him throughout the years.

“I am grateful to Yab (Dasho Dhondup Gyaltshen) for his support and guidance, which motivates me and inspires me to work even harder. I am also thankful to my family and friends for their continued support and encouragement.”

As the countdown to August begins, confidence is growing. Months of disciplined preparation are beginning to bear fruit.

“The way training is going, I feel comfortable and confident that I can give my best,” he says.

Soon, the Mountain Man of Bhutan will leave the familiar peaks of the Himalayas for the towering Alps of Europe.

When he stands on the start line alongside some of the world’s finest endurance athletes, he will not merely be representing himself.

He will represent every Bhutanese runner who has trained on mountain trails before sunrise. He will represent a nation whose landscape has shaped resilient people for generations. He will represent the possibility that Bhutan’s mountains can become known not only for their beauty but also for producing world-class endurance athletes.

And when he crosses from Italy into Switzerland and then into France, carrying the Dragon  across three nations and 100 kilometres of some of the world’s toughest terrain, he will be carrying something far greater than race equipment and months of training.

He will carry the hopes of a nation, the spirit of Bhutan’s mountains, and a belief that even from one of the world’s smallest countries, extraordinary dreams can reach the highest peaks.

Ugyen Tenzin, Thimphu

That interpretation, however, is incomplete. In reality, “non-essential spending” is not simply about cutting development. It is fundamentally about efficiency, prioritisation, and fiscal discipline. It is about effective translation of public resources into outcomes.

One of the most persistent sources of inefficiency lies in project implementation delays. If there is one lesson repeatedly reinforced in Bhutan’s development experience, it is that delays are among the most expensive forms of public expenditure. The experience of the Punatsangchhu-I Hydroelectric Project stands as a clear example. Despite this experience, similar inefficiencies continue to appear, especially across infrastructure sectors.

Road construction in urban centres and national highways often follows a familiar and troubling pattern. Roads are dug up and left incomplete for months. Hillsides are cut and exposed for extended periods. Work sites remain inactive long after disruption to public life has already been caused. The financial cost is compounded by social inconvenience, traffic congestion, safety risks, and environmental degradation.

When examined more closely, these delays are often attributed to procedural constraints such as procurement rules, tendering timelines, and approval processes. We see work beginning in unsuitable seasons, including during monsoon periods, not because it is technically appropriate but because administrative cycles and procurement timelines dictate implementation schedules.

This raises a deeper and more uncomfortable question: are Bhutan’s existing procurement and implementation systems truly designed for efficiency?

If projects are delayed because procedural frameworks require rigid sequencing regardless of seasonal or technical realities, then the issue is no longer administrative alone. It becomes systemic. Rules intended to ensure accountability and transparency may, in practice, be contributing to cost escalation and inefficiency when they lack flexibility.

In a country like Bhutan, where public investment remains a central driver of development, efficiency is not optional. It is a fiscal necessity.

Improving efficiency requires a fundamental shift in how development is planned and executed. For example, projects must be aligned more closely with seasonal and technical realities rather than administrative convenience. Procurement systems must balance transparency with flexibility, ensuring that rules do not unintentionally create delays. Accountability mechanisms must focus not only on whether funds are spent, but whether projects are delivered on time and within cost. Above all, there must be a shift in mindset from viewing budgets as allocations to be spent to seeing them as outcomes to be delivered.

Without such changes, Bhutan risks remaining trapped in a cycle where projects are continuously initiated, budgets are fully utilised, but completion is delayed, and costs steadily escalate.

The fiscal pressures Bhutan faces today are not driven solely by limited revenue. They are equally shaped by inefficiencies in how public resources are managed and deployed.

Thus, the debate on long-term fiscal sustainability  must move beyond whether to cut spending. The more urgent question is how to ensure that every ngultrum spent delivers maximum value, on time, and without avoidable delay.

In that sense, “non-essential spending” is not just a technical budgetary term. It is a reminder that efficiency itself is the most essential form of public spending discipline Bhutan must now embrace.

It is often said that a single idea, when grounded in purpose and conviction, can inspire, rally, and bring people together across boundaries that geography and circumstance might otherwise keep apart. This is precisely what is unfolding today around the vision of His Majesty The King, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, as the world increasingly rallies around Bhutan in anticipation of the raising of 108 Jangchub Chortens at the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC).

What began as a deeply spiritual and nation-building vision has now evolved into a global movement of participation, drawing support from individuals, corporate houses, and well-wishers both Bhutanese and non-Bhutanese. The initiative is steadily becoming a symbol of shared spiritual engagement in an increasingly fragmented world. From Bhutanese living abroad to international supporters with no direct ancestral ties to the country, contributions are flowing in. More than 50 of the 108 sacred stupas envisioned under the project have already secured sponsorship from global diaspora networks.

The past few days alone has seen a noticeable surge in enthusiasm. Bhutanese individuals living outside Bhutan have stepped forward to make offerings, reaffirming their enduring connection to the homeland despite distance. On a broader global scale, the latest contribution has come from TKI Perpetual Co. Ltd. of the Kingdom of Thailand, which has joined the “Journey to 108” with a commitment to sponsor three chortens under Project 108. Their participation adds to the growing list of international contributors who are engaging with the initiative as more than a construction effort, but as a shared act of devotion and goodwill.

Alongside these individual and corporate contributions, the 108 Project Crowdfunding Campaign continues to receive strong and sustained support from well-wishers across Bhutan and around the world. As of 2nd June 2026 the campaign had raised Nu. 4,280,116 from 1,309 donors within Bhutan, alongside USD 10,502 from 95 donors overseas.

For many observers, the scale and diversity of participation reflect something beyond fundraising. Senior citizen Goembo Dorji described the phenomenon as akin to a modern Bodhisattva moment, where a collective sense of virtue and aspiration draws people toward a common spiritual purpose. He noted that Bhutan has emerged as a land of the Dharma on the international stage, while His Majesty has achieved global recognition as a Dharma King. This has created a rare convergence of faith, trust, and action that is seldom witnessed in the modern world.

“It is maturity of Bhutan as the land of the Dharma in the international arena and acknowledgment of the Dharma King. We haven’t seen anything like this happen in the modern world,” he said.

Others point to the centrality of trust in enabling such widespread participation. Former civil servant Sangay Dorji emphasized that the willingness of people, especially non-Bhutanese to contribute meaningfully to the project is rooted in confidence in the vision and leadership guiding it.

“It will be difficult to find people who are not Bhutanese to wholeheartedly support a project if they do not believe in the cause and the merits of participating,” he said, underlining that “trust is at the center of everything.”

He added that the rapid pace of engagement is itself noteworthy. “It is because of the trust in His Majesty’s vision and leadership. And it is amazing that we are seeing this kind of participation and support in a very short span of time.”

For Bhutanese living abroad, the project carries an emotional dimension that extends beyond religion or philanthropy. Chimi, currently based in Canberra, Australia, described the moment as both a personal and national reflection.

“This is a moment of pride and a moment of retrospection,” he said. “While Bhutanese from all parts of the world are in solidarity, seeing those from other countries follow our King just makes me proud. It indicates the level His Majesty has reached as a global leader, as the leader of the 21st Century.”

He further reflected on the broader implications for Bhutan as a nation. “It is time for all Bhutanese to think where we have reached as a nation and to take advantage of the existing times. Our Kings have worked so hard for this. His Majesty continues to work, and we have to think where we can place ourselves for the good of the nation.”

According to Chimi, “Project 108 is increasingly being seen not merely as a construction of sacred structures, but as a collective expression of aspiration, identity, and faith.” “It is a rare instance where spiritual vision, national development, and global participation intersect in a single narrative.”

Ugyen Tenzin, Thimphu

The assurance came from the Minister for Energy and Natural Resources, Lyonpo Gem Tshering, during a National Council session in response to members’ questions on Bhutan’s progress in waste management and the implementation of the Zero Waste Bhutan 2030 initiative.

Council members also sought clarification on the performance and accountability of waste management infrastructure, including incinerators and Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), as well as measures being taken to manage electronic waste (e-waste) and used electric vehicle (EV) batteries.

Responding to the concerns, Lyonpo Gem Tshering said the government continues to pursue the initiative through sustained awareness and advocacy programmes across the country.

“We have been conducting awareness programmes in schools, communities, and dzongkhags to encourage responsible waste segregation, recycling, and sustainable waste management practices,” the Minister said. “These efforts will be further strengthened in the coming years.”

He stressed that public participation remains central to the government’s waste management strategy, noting that behavioural change and proper waste segregation at source are essential to reducing the volume of waste reaching landfills.

As waste generation continues to rise with urbanisation, changing lifestyles, and increased consumption, the Minister acknowledged the need for stronger waste management systems and infrastructure nationwide.

On the performance of incinerators and Material Recovery Facilities, Lyonpo said the Ministry is working closely with local governments to improve the operation, maintenance, and monitoring of waste management facilities.

“We are strengthening the management and oversight of waste facilities to ensure they are effectively utilised and remain sustainable in the long term,” he said.

The Minister also addressed concerns over electronic waste, which is emerging as one of the country’s fastest-growing environmental challenges.

“Efforts are underway to strengthen systems for the collection, storage, and disposal of electronic waste in collaboration with international partners,” Lyonpo Gem Tshering informed the House.

With Bhutan aggressively promoting electric mobility as part of its climate commitments, the Minister said preparations are also being made to address the future management of used EV batteries.

“As the number of electric vehicles increases, we are exploring appropriate mechanisms for the management of EV batteries to ensure environmental safety,” he said.

The Minister further informed members that the government is expanding EV charging infrastructure across the country and plans to import 1,000 electric vehicles as part of Bhutan’s transition to cleaner and more sustainable transportation.

Highlighting Bhutan’s environmental credentials, Lyonpo Gem Tshering noted that the country’s status as a carbon-negative nation continues to attract international recognition and support.

“Bhutan’s strong environmental record enables us to access financial and technical assistance from development partners, which supports our waste management and environmental initiatives,” he said.

Discussions in the House also touched on hospital waste management, waste disposal challenges in rural areas, and the adequacy of waste collection services and vehicles across the country.

Waste management remains one of Bhutan’s most pressing environmental concerns. Municipal authorities continue to grapple with challenges related to waste segregation, collection, transportation, recycling, and final disposal, even as waste volumes increase each year.

The Zero Waste Bhutan 2030 initiative was launched to reduce dependence on landfills and promote sustainable waste management practices through waste reduction, recycling, reuse, and greater environmental awareness.

Electronic waste has emerged as a particular concern due to the rapid growth in the use of mobile phones, computers, and household electronic appliances. Improper disposal of such waste can release hazardous substances that threaten both public health and the environment.

Similarly, the growing adoption of electric vehicles is bringing new policy challenges, particularly regarding the safe recycling, reuse, and disposal of lithium-ion batteries. The government has been exploring international best practices to develop environmentally sound management systems for these batteries.

The National Council’s deliberations underscored the need for stronger infrastructure, improved public participation, enhanced accountability, and continued government support if Bhutan is to remain on track toward achieving its Zero Waste Bhutan 2030 goals.

Sherab Dorji, Thimphu

The MP highlighted recent reports and public feedback indicating that many tourists entering Bhutan through Phuentsholing have been experiencing prolonged waiting times while completing Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) payments and entry permit formalities.

Pointing to the government’s efforts to promote tourism as a key driver of economic growth and employment, the MP asked the Ministry of Home Affairs about the main reasons behind the congestion and the long-term measures being planned to improve entry process.

“Recent reports and public feedback indicate that many tourists entering Bhutan through the Phuentsholing Integrated Check Post and permit processing terminal are facing long queues and delays in completing SDF payment and entry permit formalities,” he said.

He asked the Home Minister to explain the causes of the delays and outline plans to ensure a faster, smoother and more visitor-friendly experience for tourists entering the country.

Responding to the questions, Home Minister Tshering said that the Ministry is fully aware of the issue and has been closely monitoring the situation.

“The Ministry is aware of the concerns, especially following the incident on May 24 when many tourists experienced delays in obtaining permits,” the Minister said.

According to the Home Minister, the unusually high number of visitors on that particular day was one of the key reasons for the congestion. He informed Parliament that more than 2,000 tourists arrived at the Phuentsholing entry point on May 24, which was significantly higher than the average daily figure of around 1,000 tourists.

“The number of tourists on that day was more than double the normal daily arrivals, which put additional pressure on the processing system,” the Minister said.

The Minister also shared statistics on tourist arrivals and revenue collection to the house. Between May 17 and May 24, more than 9,000 tourists entered Bhutan through the Phuentsholing entry point, generating approximately Nu 94.8 million in revenue.

In addition, the Minister said that a total of 116,380 people entered the country through the checkpoint during the same period. This included 60,541 non-Bhutanese nationals and about 56,000 Bhutanese citizens.

Highlighting the government’s efforts to improve services, Lyonpo Tshering said several measures have already been implemented to reduce waiting times and enhance the visitor experience.

“We have installed 13 e-gates at the Phuentsholing entry point and 12 e-gates at Paro. Altogether, there are about 30 e-gates operating across the country to facilitate faster processing,” he said.

The Home Minister further noted that the government has introduced a range of online services as part of Bhutan’s ongoing digital transformation efforts.

“The introduction of online services has made our services more vibrant, convenient and faster for users,” he said, adding that technology will continue to play a key role in improving service delivery.

The Minister assured Parliament that the Ministry remains committed to addressing the challenges at the Phuentsholing terminal and will continue to strengthen infrastructure, technology and service delivery systems to ensure a more efficient and welcoming entry process for visitors entering Bhutan.

With tourism playing an increasingly important role in the country’s economic recovery and job creation, the government hopes that these improvements will help provide a seamless experience for tourists while supporting the sector’s continued growth.

Sherab Dorji, Thimphu

The Bill is aimed at accelerating investment in Bhutan’s renewable energy sector through targeted, time-bound tax incentives designed to reduce project costs, improve tariff competitiveness, expand energy infrastructure, and strengthen the country’s long-term energy security.

Presenting the Bill to the House, the Deputy Chairperson of the Economic and Finance Committee and Member of Parliament for Gangzur-Minjey Constituency, Loday Tsheten, said the proposed legislation seeks to create a more attractive investment environment for renewable energy development while ensuring accountability and transparency in the administration of incentives.

Under the Bill, approved renewable energy projects will be eligible for exemptions from indirect taxes on direct inputs used in the construction, installation, and establishment of renewable energy facilities. The legislation also provides for exemptions from Property Ownership Transfer Tax where applicable.

The proposed law covers a wide range of renewable energy technologies, including hydropower, solar, wind, biomass, geothermal energy, biofuels, green hydrogen, and other renewable energy sources that may be approved by the relevant ministry in the future.

During deliberations, Members of Parliament examined the Bill’s objectives, scope, eligibility criteria, and implementation mechanisms, with particular attention given to ensuring that tax incentives are granted transparently and deliver tangible economic and environmental benefits.

Lawmakers emphasized the need for clear approval procedures, robust monitoring systems, and strong accountability measures to ensure that exemptions are directed toward genuine renewable energy investments and do not result in unintended revenue losses.

“The Bill is intended to create a supportive environment for renewable energy development while ensuring that incentives are administered responsibly and fairly,” the Committee stated during its presentation.

A key area of discussion focused on the roles and responsibilities of ministries and agencies tasked with implementing the proposed exemptions. Members stressed the importance of effective inter-agency coordination to ensure proper oversight, compliance, and monitoring of projects receiving tax benefits.

Recognizing the need to balance investment promotion with fiscal prudence, the Bill incorporates safeguards aimed at preventing abuse of incentives and protecting public resources. Members noted that while tax exemptions can stimulate investment, innovation, and economic activity, they must be accompanied by strong governance mechanisms.

Following its review, the Economic and Finance Committee recommended several amendments, including refinements to eligibility provisions, clarification of approval procedures, and stronger oversight measures governing the administration of tax exemptions.

The Committee also proposed revisions to the Dzongkha text of the Bill to improve legal clarity, consistency, and alignment with the English version. These recommendations were endorsed by the House during the Third Reading.

The legislation forms part of Bhutan’s broader strategy to diversify its renewable energy portfolio beyond conventional hydropower. While hydropower remains the backbone of the country’s energy sector, policymakers have increasingly highlighted the importance of expanding into complementary renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, biomass, and emerging technologies including green hydrogen.

Members observed that a more diversified renewable energy sector would enhance energy security, attract private investment, create employment opportunities, and support Bhutan’s long-term sustainability and climate goals.

The Bill is also expected to strengthen private sector participation in renewable energy development by providing a clearer and more predictable policy framework for investors.

Several Members underscored the importance of ensuring that any tax concessions granted under the law generate meaningful national returns through increased investment, job creation, technological innovation, and environmental benefits.

Following detailed deliberations, the National Assembly endorsed the Committee’s recommendations and adopted the Bill.

Once enacted, the Renewable Energy Tax Exemption Bill of Bhutan 2026 is expected to provide the country’s first dedicated legal framework for renewable energy tax incentives, supporting Bhutan’s transition toward a more diversified, resilient, and sustainable energy future.

Sherab Dorji, Thimphu

To mark World Environment Day 2026, the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) launched a documentary film and a compendium of bioeconomy case studies showcasing how biodiversity-based enterprises are strengthening livelihoods, enhancing climate resilience, and promoting sustainable development across the Hindu Kush Himalaya.

The launch comes amid rising climate pressures across mountain regions, where communities are confronting accelerating glacial retreat, erratic rainfall, biodiversity loss, shifting agricultural cycles, and increasing economic vulnerability. These changes are reshaping traditional livelihoods and intensifying the need for resilient, locally driven development models.

Spanning eight countries and covering over 4.2 million square kilometres, the Hindu Kush Himalaya is among the world’s most important mountain systems. It holds the largest volume of ice outside the polar regions and supports more than 35,000 plant species, sustaining millions of people in both mountain and downstream communities.

ICIMOD’s new knowledge products highlight how a sustainable and inclusive bioeconomy can transform this ecological wealth into viable livelihoods. The documentary, “Exploring Green and Inclusive Entrepreneurship in Nepal and Bhutan,” features entrepreneurs and community groups in Nepal and Bhutan who are developing green enterprises rooted in biodiversity, traditional knowledge, and innovation.

Alongside the film, ICIMOD also released the compendium “Promoting Sustainable Bioeconomy Practices: Case Studies from the Hindu Kush Himalaya,” which documents 13 case studies from Bhutan, China, India, and Nepal. It highlights bioprospecting, circular bio-innovation, climate-resilient textiles, medicinal and aromatic plant enterprises, sustainable forest-based industries, and nature-based entrepreneurship models.

The compendium offers practical guidance for policymakers, researchers, development practitioners, and ent repreneurs seeking to scale biodiversity-based enterprises. It emphasizes how mountain bioeconomy initiatives can simultaneously support biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, gender-inclusive livelihoods, and rural economic diversification.

ICIMOD defines  bioeconomy as economic activity based on renewable biological resources, including medicinal plants, forest products, and other nature-derived materials. It notes that such systems offer critical pathways for mountain communities to diversify income sources while ensuring ecological sustainability.

The publications were developed under the Himalayan Resilience Enabling Action Programme (HI-REAP), supported by UK International Development through the Climate Action for a Resilient Asia initiative. HI-REAP bridges biodiversity conservation, enterprise development, and climate resilience through startup incubation, policy engagement, and support for community-based enterprises.

The launch also featured nature-based business solutions developed by women-led enterprises supported under the programme, underscoring the growing role of women entrepreneurs in advancing sustainable development across mountain regions.

The event brought together governments, development partners, investors, and practitioners to explore how proven bioeconomy models can be scaled, replicated, and integrated into policy and investment frameworks across the region.

ICIMOD Director General Pema Gyamtsho said modern lifestyles are increasingly disconnected from nature. “Everything around us is becoming artificial, from the clothes we wear to the systems we depend on. It is important we reflect, reduce our environmental footprint, and rebuild a relationship with nature for the wellbeing of future generations,” he said.

One of the featured enterprises, Bio Bhutan, showcased its work in promoting nature-based products, sustainable sourcing, and community-driven value chains under the HI-REAP initiative. The enterprise noted that mentorship and technical support strengthened its packaging, labelling, and understanding of integrating biodiversity conservation with enterprise development.

Speaking to Business Bhutan, Ugyen, promoter of Biobhutan said conservation and economic development must go hand in hand to ensure long-term sustainability. Similarly, ICIMOD’s Rural Enterprise and Value Chain Specialist Anu Joshi Shrestha noted that the future economies of mountain countries such as Bhutan and Nepal must be greener, more inclusive, and more resilient.

The event was supported by the United Kingdom.

Sangay Rabten, Thimphu