BBSCL

Growing perilla was once a common practice for the farmers of Gomder Gewog in Samdrup Jongkhar. However, over the years, interest in perilla cultivation has waned, and it is on the brink of disappearance. Today, only one villager in Bazor village continues to grow the herb. Some 20 years ago, farmers in Bazor village used to grow perilla abundantly. Perilla,...

Delays in fully commissioning the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project are expected to affect economic growth in 2024. The country’s economy is now projected to grow by five per cent this year, over one percentage point lower than earlier estimates. The finance ministry, in its latest macroeconomic situation report, said that the downward revision was mainly due to the PHPA-II commissioning delay...

The Lingzhi Dzong, a historically significant fortress in north Thimphu, was officially inaugurated today. Indian Ambassador to Bhutan, Sudhakar Dalela, inaugurated the dzong following its extensive renovation in October. Restoration work, part of the Lingzhi Dzong Conservation Project, began in 2018 after the Dzong was severely damaged in the September 2011 earthquake. The dzong was renovated with the funding support...

Sheep-rearing, once a key livelihood for the people of  Sakteng Gewog in Trashigang, is gradually declining. Today, only 40 households rear sheep for wool to weave their traditional dresses. However, feral dogs are posing a significant threat. The dogs kill 30 to 40 sheep each year, further discouraging the rearing practice. The feral dogs hide in bushes and along the...