BBSCL

The six-day annual Punakha Dromchoe and Tshechu attracted over 3,300 tourists this year, generating more than Nu 1.6 M in tourist fees for the district. This marks a threefold increase compared to last year, when around 1,100 tourists contributed over Nu 540,000 in revenue. Held annually in the courtyard of Punakha Dzong, the Punakha Tshechu and Dromchoe are vibrant cultural...

After more than a decade, winter cropping is making a comeback in Phangyuel Gewog, Wangdue Phodrang, thanks to the restoration of the irrigation water supply. Farmers have begun cultivating crops and vegetables, ensuring greater self-sufficiency. They say this has not only boosted summer agriculture but has also revived winter cropping, offering them new opportunities to improve their livelihoods.  The fields,...

The Royal Audit Authority’s review report on the Local Government Development Grant found that most local government funds are being allocated to farm roads and Lhakhang development. The report states that key sectors such as education, health, and livestock are given the least priority. The 2024 Annual Grant Guideline prioritises projects with economic and social benefits that will boost local...

The Indonesian province of Bali, one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, is considering adopting a tourism policy similar to Bhutan’s. They are planning to introduce a daily tourist fee to manage the growing number of visitors and its adverse impacts. As Bali considers implementing a daily tourism levy identical to Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), Bhutanese tourism officials...