Chencho Dema

Punakha — Two men, cousins, died on the spot when the truck they were travelling in veered 120 metres off the road near Jumja, around six kilometres before reaching Gedu from Phuentsholing yesterday.  

According to police, they were residents of Trashigang. The driver, a 23-year-old, and his 34-year-old cousin brother were on their way to Thimphu. 

The jumbo truck was carrying dry fish from Phuentsholing and now remains in total damage. 

The accident is suspected to have been caused by foggy weather and rain. 

The police said that visibility at Jumja is currently very poor due to fog, and the region has experienced continuous rainfall for the past few days.

Meanwhile, the bodies of the deceased have been handed over to their respective relatives. 

Sherab Lhamo

For close to a year now, the surviving victims of the helicopter crash had been going around in circles – from one office to the next, from one official to another, trying to get the rightful insurance claims. 

On March 3, 2023, at 2:45pm the helicopter operated by Drukair crashed at Wangchey, Lunana, as Gyem Gyeltshen and his family were travelling from Khuruthang to Wachey resulting in the death of his wife and four-year-old daughter. Gyem Gyeltshen, his elder daughter and the pilot survived the crash.

As per the insurance contract, Gyem Gyeltshen should be receiving a maximum of USD 200,000 per death, under the passenger voluntary settlement. However, he had not received anything so far as the responsible stakeholders – the Drukair, Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan (RICB), the reinsurer who hired Hallman Fenwick William (HFW) and their local lawyers, remained entangled in misinformation, disinformation, and overall lack of communications. 

Hallman Fenwick William (HFW) had appointed Cheda, a Bhutanese lawyer, as their legal counsel in Bhutan to coordinate the settlement. 

The international Reinsurance Companies were QBE Insurance Group Limited located in Australia and Best Meridian International Insurance Company SPC.

Following the crash, On July 19, 2023, Drukair had sent an official letter to RICB Chief Executive Officer seeking directives and a timeline for the settlement of passenger liability claims. The letter also mentioned that the insurance contract has coverage of USD 200,000 per death under passenger voluntary settlement.

A follow-up email was sent on August 15, 2023, to RICB requesting for the release of the amount to Drukair for further disbursement to the immediate family members. 

Three days later, RICB responded stating that they had received a report from the Broker that a reserve fund of USD 400,000 had been created for the two deceased passengers as per the policy. 

It also mentioned that USD 200,000 per passenger was the maximum limit of the claim and the claim shall be offered considering the nationality of the passengers, local law of Bhutan, age of the passengers, employment of the passengers, dependency on how many family members they were supporting, the financial status of the passengers. But if the deceased was the sole breadwinner then the settlement amount would differ.

Again on September 7, 2023, Drukair wrote to the CEO of RICB to expedite the pending settlement of passenger liability, as it could potentially lead to anticipated legal actions from the deceased family members and regulatory bodies.

To which RICB responded by stating they were working closely with the Broker and Legal representative Mr Cheda. They also requested from Drukair on the modality of payment.

On August 4, 2023, Reinsurer instructed HWF to settle the two death cases at USD 10,000 each including funeral expenses through an email Drukair had received from HFW.

In an email by the Reinsurer ( international Reinsurance Companies QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited and Best Meridian International Insurance Company SPC), Drukair was required to submit a court order indemnifying the legal heir for both the deceased.  The Reinsurers had agreed that the settlement offer may be extended to the husband through them or their local counsel Mr Cheda. The settlement would be subject to confirmation of the legal heirs. If agreed to, the HWF would instruct Mr Cheda to reach out to the family on Drukair’s behalf. 

Following this, the Drukair had permitted to get directly in touch with the family of the deceased regarding the claim settlement. 

Gyem Gyeltshen told Kuensel that Drukair told him to contact Mr Cheda regarding the insurance as they had submitted the responsibility to him.

About two and a half months ago, Gyem Gyeltshen met up with the lawyer Cheda in Punkha and was offered USD 10,000 for each deceased, As Cheda told him he was not eligible to receive more. Thinking it to be true, Gyem provided him with a bank account number for the transfer of the money. 

However, Gyem did not sign any documents, nor were there any disagreements regarding the amount of the claims. He said he was also not aware that he would be getting USD 200,000 per victim. He came to know about it only when he visited the RICB office a few days ago to follow up on the insurance claims. 

The CEO and officials from Drukair and Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan Limited (RICB) in a meeting on January 29 decided a meeting between all stakeholders ( RICB, Drukair, legal representative of the reinsurer (provides insurance to insurance companies) and the affected party) will meet on February 6 to decide the way forward. 

Chencho Dema

A 33-year-old man met a tragic end as he was fatally stabbed by a friend under the influence of alcohol in Bajothang, Wangdue in the early hours yesterday. 

According to police, both the deceased and the suspect were in attendance at a ritual hosted by the suspect’s cousin sister in Bajothang. Following the ritual, they partook in drinking and gambling activities.  

A dispute arose between the suspect and the deceased during a gambling session over money, and ended up fighting. Others at the house stopped the fight and separated them. 

The deceased was escorted out of the room. However, upon returning to retrieve his slippers, he met the suspect once again.

They fought again and the deceased fell to the floor. The suspect used a Rambo knife to fatally stab the deceased on the side of his navel before fleeing the scene, leaving the weapon behind.

Wangdue police received a report of the incident at 4am when a relative of the deceased called to inform them. The victim succumbed to his injuries on the way to the hospital.

The 28-year-old suspect was apprehended half an hour later, walking along the road in town. During questioning, he told police that he was en route to the police station to surrender.

The suspect, employed at a meat shop in Bajothang, and the deceased, a driver for a meat vehicle of the shop.

The suspect has been charged with voluntary manslaughter, a second-degree felony as per the Penal Code (Amendment) Act of Bhutan 2011. This charge carries a prison term of nine to fifteen years.

Thinley Namgay

Neychen Rinchen Bumpa in Kurtoed, Lhuentse, stands as a revered religious site, drawing increased attention from pilgrims across Bhutan. Despite the challenging ascent and the chilly climate, 30 to 40 devoted individuals make the pilgrimage daily. The journey requires a minimum of four hours, with some enduring six hours of uphill trekking from the base at Kuenzangling temple.

The surge in visitors, predominantly Bhutanese nationals, over the last three years is attributed by locals to improved road conditions in Kurtoed, the establishment of a guest house, the availability of drinking water, and well-maintained washrooms at the site. Contrastingly, in the past, meditators at Rinchen Bumpa relied on rainwater.

Villagers foresee a further rise in visitors, particularly tourists, if there are ample homestays and an enhanced road connection between Mongar and Lhuentse. 

Lhuentse boasts numerous significant religious sites, but locals often inquire specifically about visits to Rinchen Bumpa, given its sacred nature.

Neychen Rinchen Bumpa was blessed by Guru Rinpoche in the 8th century

Under the guidance of Khenpo Gembo Dorji, nine dedicated monks at Rinchen Bumpa balance their studies with responsibilities like meal preparation and maintaining guest rooms.

Khenpo Gembo, residing here for nine years, expressed his commitment to ensuring a comfortable stay for all pilgrims, stating, “Those who lack bedding and provisions, we provide for them.”

Encouragingly, people from diverse backgrounds visit Rinchen Bumpa seeking blessings. Khenpo Gembo is overseeing road construction from Kuenzangling to Ney, aiming to shorten the distance. Cleanliness and well-kept footpaths contribute to a pleasant environment.

Rinchen Bumpa, the site where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the eighth century, holds spiritual significance. Praying from Guru Rinpoche’s meditation spot is believed to fulfill aspirations and lead to nirvana.

The cliff of Neychen Rinchen Bumpa, resembling a stupa, has three layers symbolising the blessings of Choeku, Longku, and Trulku (Buddha, Avalokiteshvara, and Guru Rinpoche). Despite enduring forest fires in 1998 and 2003, the cliff revealed Dzongkha letters and mantras, a testament to its sacred nature.

Beneath Rinchen Bumpa’s cliff lie several other sacred sites, taking more than three hours to cover. Visitors are intrigued by the emergence of mythical religious scripts when the early sunrays illuminate a carved stone, believed to be the archery target of Rahula, the dharma protector.

A pilgrim from Wangdue affirmed, “Neychen Rinchen Bumpa is worth visiting despite the lengthy journey. It is spiritually fulfilling, and the place exudes serenity.”

The blessings of khandros Yeshey Tshogyal and Momo Tashi Kheydron, along with those of prominent Buddhist masters, add to the site’s sanctity. Numerous imprints and sacred relics of Guru, Dakinis, and Buddhist masters provide further spiritual resonance.

Prophecies suggest hidden treasures of Guru Rinpoche and Khandros await discovery in the future. Adjacent to Rinchen Bumpa, a temple housing a wish-fulfilling Guru statue and sacred relics stands. The surrounding mountains, diverse flora, and fauna contribute to the enchanting journey towards this sacred site.

… 3,681 recovering addicts have been through here

YK Poudel 

In the face of rising substance abuse cases nationwide, the Happiness Centre in Phuentsholing has been instrumental in aiding the recovery of 3,681 individuals struggling with addiction since its establishment in February 2019.

Thirteen clients are availing the service at the centre including two females. The age groups of the recovering addicts range between 10 and 70 years. 

Determined to make a difference in the lives of others, 45-year-old Bhup Dhoj Ghalley from Samtse started the centre as the Project Director. 

Currently, there are 13 recovering addicts at the service

The centre located in Phuentsholing has been sustaining for six years now, providing post-treatment services to individuals with Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) and Alcohol Use Disorders (AUDs). “However, the centre is facing challenges with inadequate funds,” said Bhup Dhoj Ghalley.

“There is no exact record yet for the past three years we have been investing through our small sources and raising funds,” he said.

According to him, locals and sponsors have been supporting the centre with ration, vegetables, clothes and some amount is managed from the cafe owned by the centre. “For example, we are currently coordinating the Himalayan Beats Music Festival under the Nazhoen Lamtoen to raise some amount. This way, we have some seed funds for the programmes planned,” he said.

The centre is in the thromde area identified to be developed in the 13th Plan so it has to be relocated. “The location of the centre is near the border where various kinds of drugs are available. So the relapse rate is high. If the centre is here, we can stay focussed and reach out to more,” he said. 

The centre has five staff some of whom are recovering addicts and peer counsellors. 

Bhup Dhoj Ghalley said that Bhutan lacks policies that assist people recovering from SUDs and AUDs. “The Narcotics Act 2018 has to be revisited with effective reintegration programmes such as capacity building and skills development programmes for the recovering addicts,” he said.

Ghalley said that in Bhutan if the government wants to improve the issues of substance abuse and illegal business, adequate investment has to be made on the recovering addicts who are coming forward. “The policymakers have to view SUD and AUD as a medical health issue rather than criminalising the survivor,” he said. “Aftercare facilities and acceptance in the society is limited, this is one of the main causes of relapse and crimes.”

Happiness Centre is affiliated with Nazhoen Lamtoen, supported by Phuentsholing Thromde, RBP, the local business community of Phuentsholing, and recovering members.

According to the record with the police, the recorded cases increased to 1,566 in 2023 from 761 in 2022. In 2021, the police reported only 331 cases of substance abuse.

Our experience with tourism since the Covid-19 pandemic can be likened to a chilip (tourist) with an upset stomach, delighting in close encounters with Blood pheasant at Thrumshingla, between Bumthang and Mongar.

Throughout this tumultuous period, all stakeholders in the industry nearly dismantled the walls of reform in pursuit of business. The vision was clear – tiny Bhutan aspired to be an exclusive destination, restricting mass tourism and promoting high-value tourism. The greed of money didn’t allow it. We realized it after the Covid pandemic. With much risk, the tariff was revised. In the form of a sustainable development fee, visiting Bhutan became expensive.

Numbers alone were not good even if they benefited tour agents, hotels and allied businesses. Small Bhutan without infrastructure couldn’t let tourists experience the hype we created. Tourists started complaining of seeing too many of themselves at the same spot. Something had to be done. The only way to restrict was through revising fees even if against the will or want of many.

Besides all the drama, Bhutan recorded its record revenue from the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) last year, amounting to around USD 26 million. The country received more than 103,000 tourists, exceeding the projected tourism arrival target. The revenue earned last year exceeded pre-pandemic and SDF revision visit years.

These figures underscore the effectiveness of our reforms. If we advocate for evidence-based decision-making, this serves as a promising start. Given time to resonate with visitors and industry insiders, these reforms will benefit both our nation and those seeking unique experiences. Our aim through these reforms isn’t to stifle tourism or obliterate business opportunities but to boldly position Bhutan as an exclusive destination by discouraging mass tourism.

To remind ourselves, we have not reduced the SDF from USD 200 to 100. It is, as of now, a promotional rate and remains effective until August 2027 if it is not changed. What’s imperative is periodic evaluations to inform further policy adjustments. Policies will inevitably evolve with changing circumstances. However, the unwavering commitment to the High-Value Low-Volume policy, conceived decades ago upon opening our doors to tourism, remains steadfast.

The target this year is 300,000 tourists, nearly half the population of the country. If they are all SDF-paying visitors, it is a good sign that although expensive, Bhutan remains a favourite tourist destination. We can attend to 300,000 tourists.

Meanwhile, what we can decide is on regional tourists visiting our border towns. Letting in our friends from the bordering towns of Guwahati, Siliguri, or as far as Kalimpong or Darjeeling without the SDF could be a good option. Samdrupjongkhar is a ghost town according to hoteliers. What matters for them is visitors from Assam and Bengal and not the dollar-paying tourists. The wish that SDF could be waived for them to visit the bordering towns makes sense. The SDF can be levied to tourists crossing beyond Dewathang in Samdrupjongkhar, Rinchending in Phuentsholing or Sarpang in Gelephu.  

… construction industry awaits resurgence

Lhakpa Quendren 

Setu Bahadur Gurung, the proprietor of T.N.G Construction in Gelephu, has revitalised two long-idle JCBs for the Gelephu International Airport development project.

These machines, dormant for almost two years due to the adverse impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, found a new purpose in the airport venture, sparing his construction company from prolonged inactivity.

Expressing relief, Setu Bahadur Gurung said, “If not for the airport development project, my machines would have remained idle. Even though I don’t have loans to repay, it was a great relief for the construction companies.”

For the last five months, six JCBs, including Setu Bahadur Gurung’s, have been actively engaged in clearing about 1,800 acres of land, marking substantial progress toward the total clearance goal of 2,500 acres.

The clearing initiative commenced in Samtenling and has extended to the opposite side of the Workshop in Gelephu thromde.

Manber Tamang, a JCB operator with a 15-year tenure in the same construction company, emphasized the positive impact of this newfound activity. “Without work, it is challenging for both the employees and the owners,” he said.

The post-pandemic period was particularly arduous, with a scarcity of construction projects leading to reduced working days, affecting both workers and employers in the sector.

Anticipating a positive turn, contractors in Sarpang, where some construction machinery remains idle, are optimistic about the opportunities presented by the upcoming Gelephu project.

Tobden Construction’s proprietor Chencho Gyeltshen highlighted the immense potential of the Gelephu city development project to drive growth in the construction industry, stating, “I believe construction firms can play a pivotal role in contributing to this economic development endeavor.”

“The development project will have a lasting impact on the local construction industry, including safety and timing, which we are currently lacking,” he added, emphasising the creation of job opportunities and the fostering of innovation in construction techniques and technologies.

Chencho Gyeltshen said the Gelephu Mindfulness City is the only hope for returning to normalcy. “Almost all the construction companies in Gelephu and Sarpang have remained idle for about 10 months now.”

“We have been sustaining ourselves because of the loan deferment measures. Otherwise, we would have faced bankruptcy,” he added. “If it were not for the upcoming development project in Gelephu, we would have to request another deferment.”

In addition, the ongoing construction moratorium in Sarpang, initiated in May 2023, has also impacted construction companies in Gelephu.

Currently, the construction of buildings or sheds using cement and concrete bricks is prohibited.

An equipment rental contractor said that around seven of his chain excavators have remained without work for about two years, with some machinery now rusting due to prolonged inactivity. 

In Gelephu, there are about 30 construction companies, including six large-class established construction firms.

CAB prepares

The President of the Construction Association of Bhutan (CAB), Tashi Wangyal (PhD), said numerous discussions have occurred with stakeholders and contractors to ensure their readiness to serve whenever called upon.

“We are also working on our abilities and positioning to serve His Majesty’s grand vision of Gelephu Mindfulness City, which can absorb every single construction firm and subsidiary company.”

As for the Gelephu Mindfulness City development, Tashi Wangyal believes the construction industry is crucial in terms of relevance. “We are positive we can deliver and look forward to serving in building our national infrastructures.”

“I always urge fellow contractors to upgrade skills, build capacity, and use this lean time to improve ourselves, worthy of taking up projects and delivering as envisioned by our King,” Tashi Wangyal said. “We must prioritise quality enhancement and time management in all aspects.”

The president also said that lean periods for the construction sector tend to occur during planning and government transition times, as all registered construction firms rely on government capital expenditures for projects.

Also, the construction industry across the country has been affected by a moratorium imposed on construction by the Central Bank because of the stretched foreign reserve limits at the moment.

Thinley Namgay

The surge in mediated disputes, a substantial 6,256 cases last year, underscores the growing traction and indispensability of the Nangkha Nangdrig (mutual internal settlement) system in alleviating the burden on the courts.

The cases found resolution through the concerted efforts of 205 gewogs, thromde thuemis, paralegals, and court-annexed mediation units (CAMU), as outlined in the 2023 Bhutan National Legal Institute’s (BNLI) annual report.

Nangkha Nangdrig has transitioned seamlessly into a mainstream justice service, offering accessible, pertinent, and prompt services, ultimately slashing the time expended by litigants and the courts.

The report accentuates how Nangkha Nangdrig has not only streamlined justice services but has also nurtured a restorative judicial approach, enriching the legal landscape.

In its current iteration, Nangkha Nangdrig applies to an array of cases encompassing matrimonial, monetary, contractual, land, inheritance, and defamation issues. The pivotal role played by CAMUs in the last five years has been instrumental in fortifying justice services since October 2019.

According to the 2023 Annual Report of the Royal Courts of Justice, out of the 7,549 cases on record across the nation, CAMUs played a crucial role in resolving 1,926 disputes.

This constitutes nearly 26 percent of the cases settled through CAMUs in 2023. Of the 1,926 cases resolved by CAMUs last year, matrimonial cases led the tally with 1,223, followed by 396 monetary cases and 64 land cases, among others.

A granular look at dzongkhag courts reveals that Thimphu’s family and child bench took the lead with 349 mediated cases, trailed by Paro with 177 and Mongar with 176. Among the 15 Drungkhag courts, Gelephu mediated 73 cases, followed by Tashicholing with 47 and Wamrong with 43.

Comparatively, the courts had successfully resolved 1,474 and 994 cases in 2022 and 2021, respectively, through the facilitation of CAMUs. In 2023, a commendable total of 3,945 disputes were tactfully negotiated and settled by local functionaries within the Gewogs.

The Court-Annexed Mediation System operates by having judges refer suitable civil cases to the CAMU for judicial mediation, marking a pivotal step towards a more efficient and accessible legal process.

This flourishing culture of Nangkha Nangdrig echoes through the centuries, underlining its enduring significance in the bedrock of the Bhutanese legal system.

Staff Reporter

Bhutan received the Special Travel Destinations Award during the 2023 Voyage magazine award ceremony on January 31.

This marks Bhutan’s second tourism award in China within a month.

The award ceremony showcased various travel trends, emphasising eco-tourism, nature-oriented adventures, and sustainable travel while highlighting Bhutan as a distinctive and attractive destination for Chinese travellers.

The evaluation of the 2023 Voyage Awards involved a professional judging panel consisting of travel industry experts, media professionals, and key opinion leaders.

The editor-in-chief of Voyage Magazine China, Dong Jun, said that the award reaffirms Bhutan’s position as an exceptional travel destination that seamlessly blends cultural authenticity with environmental responsibility.

Dong Jun, who visited Bhutan in 2017, said that Bhutan was a unique destination.

“Here, you feel the strong blend of nature and culture, along with the serene mindset of the local people. There’s one moment that I’ve always remembered. It was the last day of my trek along the Druk Path, arriving at the Le Méridien Hotel covered in mud. I apologised to the doorman for being muddy, and he replied, ‘No need to feel sorry, we are so proud of you,” Dong Jun said.

Voyage is a prestigious luxury travel magazine in China, which stands out for its unique angles to explore global destinations.

Director General of the Department of Tourism, Dorji Dhradhul said that this prestigious award reaffirms Bhutan’s steadfast commitment to providing unmatched travel experiences and showcases the country’s unique charm.

He said that Bhutan is a prime destination for Chinese tourists seeking genuine encounters, with its peaceful landscapes, monastic architecture, and the welcoming nature of its people, offering a haven for those desiring calm and a deeper insight into a culture that emphasises living in harmony with the environment.

YK Poudel

Bidha, 59, from Shemagangkha chiwog in Chapcha and her villagers are busy preparing the fields and sowing potatoes. The farmers are hopeful of a good harvest even though access to nearby markets is a challenge.

According to Bidha, she sows potatoes in an acre of her land yet the produce was not as expected. “It takes about 40 people to complete the entire process between land preparation and the harvest,” she said.

“I take it to Phuentsholing expecting a good price yet the production is decreasing annually. Last year was demotivating. We could not sell potatoes as expected and many rotted at the storage house,” she said.

Moreover, she said that the cultivation of potatoes is not that difficult work for farmers who have been doing it for ages.

“The challenge is that the gewog administration has not reached out to the farmers to study the required improvements and support needed,” she said. “If the gewog officials could be more proactive and get seeds for us, do proper research about post-harvest management and support the farmers, it would motivate the farmers to help in better production.”

“The new government has promised to deliver better support and facilities, so we are waiting,” she said.

Similarly, Rinzin Dorji, a farmer from Shemagangkha said that he sows potatoes in three acres and reaped about 400 metric tonnes of potatoes last year employing power tillers.

“During land preparation, we plough for three times, accounting between Nu eight and nine thousand,” he said. “Between sowing potatoes and harvesting, over 150 farmers are required.”

“It has been about three years that the selling price has not met the expenditure we made. When the price is unfavourable, the farmers are at great loss unable to meet the expenditure made,” he said.

Rinzin Dorji said that most farmers in Shemagangkha and across the country need the government’s attention.

“Modern technology, access to market and favourable prices, protection from pests and diseases and post-harvest management is a challenge the farmers are facing today,” he said.

Giving suggestions to the improvement of the agricultural sector he said that the gewog used to support the farmers by providing some seeds and assistance. “Nevertheless, it was ineffective. The farmers should be assisted in terms of modern technology such as power tillers, access to market and price negotiations, and protection from pests and diseases through study will motivate the farmers,” he said.

He acknowledged the improvement in the post-harvest management process, which is improving over the years through the construction of cold storage has helped the farmers at a local level.

Tshogpa of Shemagangkha chiwog, Dawa Gyem said that the chiwog has about 120 farming households. “Shemagangkha has been one of the highest producers of potatoes with each household producing between 2 and 4 tonnes of potatoes.”

“The farmers also cultivate carrots and other vegetables yet it’s grappling with modern technology such as green-house and power tillers for the farmers,” she said. “Earlier, Chapcha gewog used to provide a few varieties of vegetable seeds to the farmers. It has stopped in recent years.”

Among the roots and tubers, potato has been one of the highest cash crops exported to India. Bhutan produced 31,146 metric tonnes (MT) of potatoes in 2022, which was 7,427MT less than in 2021 (a decrease of 19 percent).

Most of the major potato-producing dzongkhags had lower harvests in 2022: Wangdue harvested 10,323MT, Paro harvested 2,942MT, and Mongar harvested 2,626MT.

Between 2018 and 2022, the country harvested potatoes from 44,278MT from 11,131 acres in 2018 to 31,146MT from 7,820 acres in 2022.

The number of potato growers decreased to 33,096 in 2022 from 33,737 in 2021.

Yangyel Lhaden

Once considered the most valuable asset for the highlanders, the yak rearing is no longer preferred today resulting in a decline in the yak population and a declining households engaged in it.

The highlanders would instead prioritise cordyceps collection which was lucrative, while the motorable road had reached just around the corner.

Consequently, the Layaps had been abandoning yak herding and records with the livestock department showed that out of 283 households in Laya, only 54 households were currently engaged in rearing yaks, amounting to a total of 2,930 yaks in the gewog.

In 2021, 63 households in Laya reared yaks, which decreased to 56 households in 2022.  There were 39,453 yaks in the country in 2013 which decreased to 38,642 yaks in 2021.

“People fail to grasp that cordyceps will deplete, but our yaks will not,” a 72-year-old man from Lungo said. “We no longer harvest cordyceps as abundantly as before, and who is to say they won’t disappear entirely one day? Yaks, which have sustained us for generations, will endure. It is disheartening to witness people selling off their yaks.”

Alternative income like cordyceps and road connectivity have made highlanders of Laya abandon yak rearing

Layaps sell their yaks to Lunaps for a price between Nu 20,000 and Nu 50,000 for a yak.

“Since there is no motorable road to Lunana, we depend on yaks to carry our supplies from Sephu and Laya,” Dawa Tshering from Lunana said.

In addition, horses had been replacing yaks for Layaps, with most households now only owning horses which cost between Nu 120,000 and Nu 200,000.

“We use horses as beasts of burden, and since the motorable road is just three hours away, horses are more convenient for us,” Namgay, a Layap said. “We are now highlanders without yaks—bjob yak mimi.”

Karma Yangdey from Lungo rears yaks. Along with her husband and a toddler child, she moves to the mountains in the summer and stays in Lungo during winter. She leaves her elder daughter with her grandparents in Lungo to attend school during the summer.

The highlanders who own horses move to Punakha for their horses during winter since horses can’t survive the harsh winter.

“It is challenging to rear yaks due to the lack of water in the mountains, threats from wildlife, and the need to stay away from home for months,” Karma Yangdey said. “Despite the challenges, I will not sell my yaks, as there is a deep connection between the yaks and the highlanders, and our cordyceps are also not as abundant as before.”

Yaks also played a crucial role in managing highland ecosystems through grazing, and abandoning yak rearing could lead to changes in vegetation, which could affect local biodiversity and the overall health of the ecosystem, according to a report on the impact of leaving yak rearing in the highlands by the livestock department.

The report also points out that yak grazing habits control vegetation and prevent soil erosion. Since yaks were adapted to high-altitude environments, they were a source of greenhouse gas emissions. Abandoning yak rearing could alter carbon and methane emissions in these regions and affect their contribution to climate change, according to the report.

The report highlights the urgent need for controlled burning of bush-dominated rangelands, the need for roofing for calves in winter herds, the supply of pipes to address acute water shortages in winter herds, chain-link fencing to protect calves from snow leopard attacks, and the need of training budget for community animal health workers to improve yak rearing practices.

KP Sharma

The Education and Skills Development Minister Dimple Thapa, is getting ready to call Saturday off as a school day as well as the mandatory Individual Work Plan for the teachers.

However, she has much bigger issues at hand – from the high rate of teacher attrition, and its consequence on the widening shortages of trained teachers, to national-level concerns on the quality of education.

But, besides being the lone female minister, she also holds to the promise of ushering in a positive transformation within the education sector.

“I am optimistic about handling challenges like teacher attrition and shortages because we have already come up with strategies to tackle it,” Lyonpo added.

Hailing from the Ugyentse-Yoeseltse constituency in Samtse, Lyonpo Dimple Thapa, holds a Master of Science in Mountain Forestry from the University of BOKU, Austria, and a Bachelor of Science in Forestry from Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry in India.

Before her resignation in April 2022, Lyonpo Dimple Thapa was the Chief Forestry Officer for the Territorial Divisional Office in Tsirang.

Her civil service journey began as a Forestry Officer in 2005 and she has since held various responsibilities within the Department of Forests and Park Services.

Lyonpo Dimple Thapa said that she is honoured to lead the Ministry of Education and Skill Development, considering it an important and sacred responsibility. “I am delighted that I am appointed based on my capabilities,” she said.

The minister said that her foremost priority is a comprehensive overhaul of the long-overdue education system, aiming for substantial improvements. She committed to addressing the systemic issues and implementing effective reforms to ensure a robust and quality education for all.

While some have raised doubts about her ability to effectively transform the education sector due to her background in a different field, Lyonpo Dimple Thapa remains optimistic and assertive in her capability to efficiently manage the ministry.

“Coming from a different background doesn’t make any difference to me.”

Lyonpo added that it gives her opportunity to learn new things.

The Centenary Farmers’ Market (CFM) procurement issue, the Royal Audit Authority pointed out, rings many bells. Auditors might have uncovered irregularities in procuring the scrubber machine, and price disparity, at the CFM, but it is not an isolated case.

Such occurrences are widespread, even if they elude auditors’ scrutiny. The issue today is not so much about the irregularities, but rather procurement issues deeply entrenched in our system. Any purchase by a government agency, a corporate body, or a state-owned enterprise is strictly regulated to ensure there is fairness and transparency. However, from a closer look, these regulations seem to defeat their intended purpose.

Private businesses – suppliers in this case – thrive on government procurement rules. For decades and, even now, we insist on quotations to ensure transparency and perhaps, to avoid collusion. The rule was made when the government was the sole procuring agency, heavily dependent on suppliers or what we may call middlemen.

A lot has changed, but not our procurement system. With advancements in technology and choices abundant, some of our rules are obsolete, some even counterproductive. For instance, government agencies still float quotations for air tickets for an official or a group to travel from Paro-Bangkok and Paro. What we are not realizing is that this system is outdated and expensive. With a credit card, anyone can book a flight from Paro-Singapore-Perth, Australia. It is more reliable if not cheaper. Why should we rely on ticketing agents unless it is for “supporting the private sector.”

Our procurement rules are proving to be more expensive now. Government agencies are paying more for the same service that can be availed at a far better rate and quality. The notion is that when it is a government, corporate or SOE  that is procuring, the price should be higher. Perhaps, this is because it is Zhungi mangul (government fund).

In the private sector, where business owners spend their own money, procurement is not an issue. They get the best rates if not the best quality. They buy from the cheapest without compromising quality. Why can this not be done in the government or public sector? It will save time and money besides improving efficiency.

Why and how we procure should matter. Nobody wants to overpay or endure delays. With the emphasis on cost-cutting and profit maximization, all procuring agencies are prudent with their spending. However, our procurement rules sometimes hinder that. A laptop bought on a cost-sharing basis ( cost borne by the employee and company) is far cheaper when it is left to the employee to choose and buy. The supplier will always charge the Zhung or corporation more to maximise profit.

There is a misconception that the E-procurement system will resolve these issues. This is untrue.

Even the much-touted E-procurement system is not foolproof. We have seen in the recent past how it could be manipulated by procuring agencies themselves to award works or contracts to their people, or in one case, to the procurement officer himself.

… as arrivals surpass five-digit figures

Dechen Dolkar

Bhutan recorded its record revenue from the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) last year, amounting to around USD 26 million.

In the same period, the country welcomed more than 103,000 tourists, exceeding the projected tourism arrival target.

The Department of Tourism (DoT) reported that 70 percent of these visitors were from India, each contributing an SDF of 1,200 rupees (INR). The remaining 30 percent consisted of international guests who paid the full SDF.

In 2018, SDF earnings stood at USD 24 million, followed by USD 25 million in 2019. However, due to the impact of the pandemic, 2020 saw a decrease to USD 3 million, followed by a gradual recovery in 2022 with earnings of USD 6.5 million.

DoT Director General Dorji Dhradhul, said that the trend this year is very promising and the outlook for 2024 is very good. He said that they anticipate a robust tourist season, particularly if the influx of visitors from China, India, and the broader Asian region increases as projected.

“We continue to focus on promoting Bhutan as a top tourism destination and raising awareness, working with the tourism industry to facilitate the ease of doing business, and making necessary improvements and interventions to ensure that all guests to Bhutan have a wonderful experience,” he said, adding that they are expanding our promotional efforts to new markets, while also capitalizing on the resurgence of the Asian tourism industry.

The top 10 source markets for Bhutan in 2023 included India, the USA, the UK, Singapore, China, Germany, Vietnam, Malaysia, Australia, and Canada. While tourism rebounded, new and existing markets such as China, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, and Russia exhibited promising growth.

According to the department, the government aims to welcome 300,000 tourists by 2024, adopting a proactive stance.

The Chairman of the Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators (ABTO), Kinley Gyeltshen said that they not only aim to increase visitor numbers but also to elevate the quality and sustainability of the travel experiences.

Similarly, the Chairman of Hotel and Restaurants Association of Bhutan (HRAB), Jigme Tshering said that 2024 is looking promising, and looking forward to higher occupancies and higher value bookings this year compared with last year.

“We are encouraging our members to be more proactive with their marketing efforts, to attend travel fairs, and to use online marketing,” he said.

January arrivals in Bhutan are also looking strong, with 4,414 guests arriving in Bhutan in January, almost double the number of guests who arrived in January 2023 (2,670 arrivals).

The top markets arriving in January 2024 were from India, the US, China, the UK, Brazil, Australia and Germany.

Despite the winter season, the Director General said that they have witnessed good arrivals from several major source markets this January, nearly matching the pre-pandemic numbers.

He said that conversations with numerous tourists revealed their surprise at how good Bhutan is as a winter destination, characterized by mostly sunny days and chilly evenings.

He urged tourism service providers to creatively promote Bhutan as a winter destination alongside existing itineraries and travel packages.

Thukten Zangpo

The wood-based industries, represented by the Association of Wood-based Industries (AWBI), expect to commence timber extraction and export from March or April this year.

This initiative is part of the government’s medium-term plan for timber extraction, targeting 10.7 million cubic feet annually for the years 2024 to 2026, aimed at earning foreign exchange and offset trade balance.

An assessment report from the Department of Forests and Park Services (DoFPS) under the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (MoENR), titled “Stop-gap Interventions of Sustainable Timber Management,” identified a potential area of 208,065 hectares for silvicultural thinning, capable of yielding a total log volume of 10.7 million cft annually.

To achieve this, the government plans to involve private parties to create an experiential learning process related to export and securing markets.

The Natural Resources Development Corporation Limited (NRDCL) and Bhutan Board Products Limited (BBPL) will be allocated 50 percent of the extracted volume in both log and sawn form, with the remaining 50 percent going to private loggers, represented by AWBI. Out of the 10.7 million cft volume, both NRDCL, BBPL, and AWBI will be allocated to extract 5.35 million cft each annually.

In preparation, AWBI requested non-members to form a united consortium on January 29 this year to achieve the extraction target.

AWBI’s president, Phuntsho Wangdi, clarified that the association does not represent all wood-based industries in the country.

Interested industries with license holders, such as furniture units, handicraft units, charcoal manufacturing units, and wood chips production units, can join the project. Despite AWBI having 100 members, figures from the Department of Industry show 1,112 wood-based industries in the country, including 821 furniture units and 165 sawmills.

Phuntsho Wangdi said that the primary objective of forming a united consortium is to seize this economic opportunity from the government, demonstrating commitment and competency in the sustainable management of natural resources by optimising the value chain based on emerging market potential.

He added that the private sector submitted the timber extraction plan to the government in November last year and is ready to commence once approval is granted by the DoFPS under MoENR.

The private loggers’ cable cranes, previously engaged with NRDCL for the pilot phase of timber extraction operations until December last year, are available after the contractual agreement expired this year.

Bhutan initiated a pilot project for timber extraction and export, targeting a volume of 315,000 cubic cft or 0.315 million cft. NRDCL and BBPL were allocated to extract 140,000 cft and 175,000 cft, respectively.

Phuntsho Wangdi stated that timber extraction is not a challenge for the private sector due to prior experience.

However, meeting the target in the first year may be challenging due to logistical arrangements and market opportunities. He emphasised the need to break the monopoly and meet the government’s objectives of 3As—availability, accessibility, and affordability.

The private sector also needs to improve infrastructure and procure new equipment for timber extraction.

India is a major importing country for wood and wood-based products regionally and globally, making it Bhutan’s primary export destination, mainly through Phuentsholing.

Bhutan imported wood and wood-based products worth Nu 4.42 billion in 2021 and Nu 4.28 billion in 2022, with charcoal constituting 80 percent, amounting to Nu 3.48 billion.

Chencho Dema

PUNAKHA – Perched majestically at 2,350 meters, Nangsoel Goenpa crowns a mountain, offering a tranquil haven with a sweeping panorama of the upper Punakha valley.

This three-storey lhakhang not only captivates visitors with its breathtaking vistas but is also currently undergoing a meticulous restoration process.

Nestled in Sedchena village of Goenshari, Punakha, the monastery presents a visual feast with Dochula to the south, Namgyel Tse to the east, Thankargang mountain to the west, and the picturesque Gasa region to the north. To the southeast, charming hamlets and terraced fields complete this picturesque landscape.

Accessible by road, the journey to goenpa transcends a mere travel experience; it mirrors a pilgrimage, offering a serene escape approximately 34 kilometers away from the Punakha Dzong.

Lam Tandin Gyeltshen, the custodian of Nangsoel Goenpa, shared its rich history. Built in the 1350s by Drupthob Barawa Gyeltshen Pelzang, over 250 years before Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel’s arrival in Bhutan, it stands as one of the oldest monasteries in Punakha.

Ancient stupas at Nangsoel Goenpa

Drupthob Barawa (1310-1391), founder of the Barawa Kagyu sect of Vajrayana Buddhism, crafted and managed several monasteries in western Bhutan. The monastery has since witnessed the grace of esteemed spiritual leaders throughout the centuries.

In the 17th century, Nangsoel Goenpa served as the winter retreat for the revered Chari Drubchen Rigzin Dorji Chheowang. His disciple, Kunzang Dorji Rechen, not only renovated the monastery but also founded the esteemed meditation institute, Nangsey Jampaling Drubdhey. Lama Sangay Rinchen, the reincarnation of Kunzang Rechen, continued this legacy by dedicating himself to preserving the sacred heritage of the monastery.

During the 60th Je Khenpo Jamgon Ngawang Thinley’s visit, he described Nangsoel Goenpa as “Ganden,” a heavenly realm, underlining its spiritual significance and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Local lore narrates that the 9th Je Khenpo Shakya Rinchen engaged in meditation at the monastery. During his stay, a severe smallpox epidemic gripped nearby villages. Motivated by profound empathy, Shakya Rinchen harnessed his meditative strength, absorbing the suffering onto himself. Astonishingly, the villagers recovered, and Shakya Rinchen bore visible smallpox scars—a lasting testament to his extraordinary sacrifice.

Nangsoel Goenpa is believed to be situated on a sacred mound inhabited by Tshering Chenga, the embodiment of the five longevity sisters in Buddhism. The Goenpa is renowned for its Boomi Chorten, believed to be blessed by Khandro Boom (Hundred thousand Dakinis). Surrounding the monastery are ancient stupas in four cardinal directions, one in the east constructed using Lama Sangay Rinchen’s ashes.

Just below the monastery lies a historic rock, believed to be where Drubthob Barawa triumphed over a demoness. The rock bears imprints of the demoness’s flayed skin, the Lama’s footprint, and the whip (Techha) used to subdue her. On a neighbouring mountain are imprints resembling the demoness’s five fingers—a lasting memorial of Lama Barawa’s pivotal moment.

Nangsoel Goenpa safeguards revered relics, including conch shells once owned by Shakya Rinchen, traditionally sounded to ward off natural calamities. The lhakhang houses the hallowed robes of Kunzang Rechen and Sangay Rinchen, accompanied by their effigies, as well as a statue commemorating Barawa Gyeltshen Pelzang and Shakya Rinchen. Ancient statues of Buddha Shakyamuni, Tshepame (Amitayus), Mithrukpa (Akshobhya), and Tshering Chenga grace the sacred space.

Despite resource constraints, ongoing restoration work led by Lama Tandin Gyeltshen seeks to preserve the monastery’s history and cultural heritage. Facing financial challenges, the restoration project strives to safeguard the sanctity of this ancient monastery, a beacon in the region’s history.

Dechen Dolkar

The Centenary Farmers’ Market (CFM) has reported a shortfall in income of more than Nu 6 million (M), according to the Annual Audit Report for the fiscal year 2022-23.

According to the audit report, the CFM management procured a Hakomatic ride-on scrubber cleaning B910 machine in 2014 for which the management paid Nu 2.2 million. This according to auditors indicates a significant price disparity compared to the price paid for a similar machine with minor differences in features supplied to Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital by the same supplier.

The report mentioned that despite the minor differences in features, there is a cost difference of Nu 1.530M, which is over 288 percent more.

It was also pointed out that the CFM management did not take any initiative to explore and ascertain the reasonableness of the rates from the dealers and manufacturers in the market. Instead, they accepted the rate quoted by the supplier leading to exorbitant costs to the government. However, the auditors stated that they could not rule out the possibility of collusive practices in the procurement of those machines.

The case was forwarded to the Anti-Corruption Commission for investigation. The CFM management responded that the amount would be recovered and deposited in the account.

The audit also pointed out that the non-functional ride-on scrubber cleaning machine due to missing spare parts like squeegee, brushes, and battery. This situation has persisted since 2019, hindered by the Covid-19 pandemic’s impact on spare part procurement.

A review of machine usage revealed that it had operated for only 362 hours from September 17, 2014. The expenditure incurred did not provide value for money.

Similarly, CFM has a revenue loss of Nu 2.182 million due to deferred contract awarding for parking fee collections from July 2019 to August 2021.

The report states that Kuenchap Enterprise was eventually awarded the contract for collecting the parking fees at a quoted amount of Nu 118,179 per month for 36 months.

However, due to land lease issues pending with Thimphu Thromde regarding the occupation of State land by CFM for parking, the contract award was put on hold. In the meantime, CFM continued to collect parking fees for 26 months, resulting in a revenue loss.

It was pointed out that there is a significant difference between the monthly rate offered by the private firm and the monthly collections accounted for by the CFM.

The report also pointed out that Thimphu Thromde had not restricted the CFM management and issued any notice restricting the use and collection of parking fees.

CFM also had outstanding rent amounting to Nu 2.634 million from various vegetable vendors and showroom proprietors for using the spaces for the store and showroom from the financial year 2018-19 until 2020-21.

The audit recommended expediting the collection of outstanding rent along with applicable penal interest.

The management responded that some of the vendors had already cleared the dues.

Lhakpa Quendren

SARPANG – In the village of Lharing, Gakiling Gewog, Sarpang, 43-year-old Leela Maya Jaisi, now in her seventh year of commercial vegetable farming, diligently tends to her farm from dawn till late at night. Recently recovering from surgery in Thimphu, she shares her farming journey and the challenges she faces.

Leela Maya transitioned from self-consumption to commercial farming, and purchased a 50-decimal dry land in Senggey gewog from vegetable sales. As one of the 36 active members of the local vegetable farming group, she owns six acres, dedicating 3.50 acres to commercial vegetables, with the rest used for poultry farming, areca nut, and teak trees.

Leela Maya Jaisi and Padam Lal Khatri have been in commercial farming for seven years

Her diverse vegetable crops, including broccoli, cauliflower, tomatoes, potatoes, chilies, radishes, and beans, thrive in subsidised greenhouses provided by the government. Notably, ginger cultivation on 50 decimals proved highly profitable, yielding Nu 150,000 this season.

Despite earning between Nu 10,000 to 20,000 weekly during peak seasons, Leela Maya acknowledges challenges. Water scarcity, addressed through a rainwater harvesting system, and the need for high-quality seeds pose ongoing difficulties.

“We sell the vegetables in Gelephu, without having to travel to Thimphu and other markets. Now, I have to work hard because the Gelephu project will open up new opportunities for agriculture,” she said with excitement.

Her farming not only sustains her family of five but also complements her husband Padam Lal Khatri’s poultry farm with 1,500 chicks. While Padam Lal sells eggs in Thimphu every 10 to 12 days, he eagerly anticipates the opportunities the upcoming Mindfulness City in Gelephu will bring, eliminating the need to travel to Thimphu for sales.

With the current egg market price at Nu 3,100 per carton, Padam Lal’s income, after expenses, is about Nu 4,000 weekly. The couple’s dedication to farming, even during the late night, exemplifies their commitment. They plan to expand their poultry farm in alignment with the future prospects in Gelephu.

Optimistic about the opportunities ahead, Padam Lal expresses confidence that the Gelephu project will eliminate extra expenses associated with trips to Thimphu. The couple, recognised for their unmatched passion by neighbours, not only saves money but also invests in their sons’ education, embodying resilience and hope in their pursuit of agricultural success.

Thinley Namgay

The senior national men’s cricket team of Bhutan is set to make history as they compete against Indonesia in their inaugural face-off at the Asian Cricket Council’s (ACC) Men’s Challenger Cup today in Bangkok, Thailand.

In Group A, Bhutan is joined by Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and Cambodia, while Group B consists of Singapore, Japan, Thailand, and the Maldives. This edition of the tournament introduces a fresh challenge for Bhutan as they are also scheduled to play against Cambodia for the first time.

The team, comprising 14 players and three officials, arrived in Thailand on January 30 to embark on their cricket journey. Vice Captain Ranjung Mikyo Dorji exudes confidence in winning the initial game and performing admirably throughout the tournament.

Notably, cricket is not widely popular in Indonesia and Cambodia, excluding Saudi Arabia. However, Mikyo points out the presence of expats in the teams of Indonesia and Cambodia, which could potentially impact the dynamics of the matches.

“I am confident of winning. This time, Team Bhutan has a good mix of seniors as well as youngsters,” Mikyo added.

Bhutan Cricket’s Chief Executive Officer, Damber S Gurung, shared insights into the team’s preparation, mentioning that they engaged in nine friendly matches in Assam, India, against local clubs.

This initiative aimed at helping the team acclimate to the warm environment, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. Gurung expressed confidence in the leadership of captain Thinley Jamtsho, an all-rounder, and coach Kencho Norbu, a seasoned former national player.

The stakes are high in this tournament, as the top two teams will secure a spot in the prestigious 2024 ACC Men’s Premier Cup. Additionally, the competition plays a crucial role in the qualification pathway for the 2025 Asia Cup.

The tournament, set to conclude on February 11, brings back memories of Bhutan’s performance in the first edition last year. In March, Bhutan faced Bahrain, Iran, and the Maldives, securing victory against the Maldives and finishing second in the group stage.

In a society where discussions on gender-based violence (GBV) have historically focused on women as victims, a significant shift is occurring. The recent revelation by the Respect, Educate, Nurture, and Empower Women (RENEW) organisation sheds light on a stark reality—domestic violence is no longer a gender-biased issue, and male victims are emerging from the shadows to seek help.

The courageous act of a 27-year-old man, who reached out to RENEW to share his experience and seek assistance, exemplifies the changing narrative. He spoke of the economic challenges in his marriage that led to emotional abuse on him. His story serves as a poignant reminder that domestic violence affects individuals of all genders, dispelling the long-standing notion that men are less likely to seek help in abusive situations, particularly within intimate partner relationships.

The statistics provided by RENEW are eye-opening and challenge preconceived notions. In the past year alone, 69 out of the 788 reported cases of GBV involved male victims seeking assistance. The trend continues, with 70 and 61 male victims seeking help in 2022 and 2021, respectively. These numbers emphasise the urgency of acknowledging and addressing the plight of male victims, as they grapple with various forms of abuse, ranging from emotional and economic to physical.

RENEW has been at the forefront, offering a comprehensive range of services to male survivours, including counselling, livelihood training, legal and medical aid, shelter services, and psycho-social support. Despite this, societal expectations and perceptions often deter men from seeking help. The prevailing notion that men should be stoic and resilient in the face of abuse needs to be dismantled, creating an environment where victims feel safe to break their silence.

Misconceptions surrounding RENEW’s services contribute to the under-reporting of male survivours. RENEW officials are quick to dispel these myths, emphasising that the organisation supports all genders. An urgent call is made to men, women, and children alike to come forward without hesitation, ensuring that no one is left to suffer in silence.

The issue of domestic violence transcends individual victim; it impacts families as a whole. Officials from community service centres stress the importance of addressing root causes such as communication breakdowns, lack of understanding, and family interference. Fostering healthier relationships is key to reducing the incidence of gender-based violence.

As a society, it is imperative that we collectively acknowledge and address the reality of male victims of domestic violence. Breaking down stereotypes and encouraging open conversations are crucial steps towards providing support without bias.

The commendable commitment of RENEW to serve all genders underscores the need for collective responsibility to ensure that victims, irrespective of their gender, can access the support they need to break free from the chains of domestic violence.

It is time to shatter the silence and stand united against all forms of domestic violence, regardless of gender.