New Tourism Push Taps Into Rural Livelihoods
In a bold tourism reform, Bhutan has introduced a special eco-tourism visa that allows travelers to stay in remote villages, promoting rural income and sustainable tourism. The program is aimed…
His Majesty the King attends the Parliamentary closing ceremony
The Philippine government is investigating subspecializations and educating two psychiatrists at KGUMSB to address the country’s mental health needs. PEMA Helpline Services provides telecounseling services for people who don’t need…
Health Ministry & PEMA Secretariat expand access to mental health care
Bhutan’s Health Minister acknowledges mental health issues, promoting public awareness and involving the PEMA Secretariat in a comprehensive response, recognizing interconnected factors. PEMA Secretariat collaborates with health ministry to embed…
Selective healthcare graduates exempted from BCSE preliminary exam
Agency: The Royal Civil Service Commission (RCSC) has announced that from the 2025 Bhutan Civil Service Examination (BCSE) onward, candidates with specific Bachelor’s degrees in curative and clinical health sciences…
Bhutan’s progress in reducing poverty is at risk from climate shocks and service shortages
The World Bank’s Poverty and Equity Assessment 2024 warns that Bhutan’s poverty reduction efforts are at risk due to climate shocks and service gaps. The report highlights the vulnerability of…
The Norbugang Industrial Park is almost way to complete
With an overall advancement rate of 76%, the Norbugang Industrial Park in Samtse has seen an acceleration in development. The project, which is nearing completion and is valued at Nu…
How Fixed Deposit Interest Income will be taxed from the effective date
Agency: With the National Assembly (NA) endorsing a 10% tax on interest income from fixed deposit interest income above Nu 300,000, the big question is how will the tax be…
Bhutan Launches First Drone-Based Forest Monitoring System
Bhutan has launched a nationwide drone surveillance system to monitor its forest cover and protect biodiversity hotspots. The drones, equipped with infrared cameras and AI analysis, will track illegal logging…
Irrigation driven by solar energy becoming essential for rural lives & food security
A coalition of government agencies, researchers, and development partners is exploring renewable energy-powered irrigation systems to tackle food insecurity, rural joblessness, and climate vulnerability in the Philippines, with pilots in…
Bhutan Launches Digital Nomad Visa to Boost Tourism Recovery
Bhutan has introduced a special “Digital Remote Work Visa” aimed at attracting professionals to live and work remotely from the country. The move comes as part of Bhutan’s post-COVID strategy…