BBSCL

In Samdrup Jongkhar’s Langchenphu Gewog, areca nut leaf sheaths are being transformed into biodegradable plates and cups. These eco-friendly alternatives are replacing plastic at celebrations. This shift has helped reduce pollution and promote a cleaner and greener community. Without the areca nut plate and cup-manufacturing unit, the areca nut sheaths were discarded openly. Now, they are collected and processed into...

The National Health Survey 2023 reveals that areca nut consumption among Bhutanese aged 15 to 69 rose to nearly 60 per cent last year, marking a three per cent increase since 2019. The health ministry attributes the rise to the product being cheap, easily available and culturally accepted in the country. To address this, the ministry plans to introduce measures...

The wait is almost over for the residents of Tashichhoeling Dungkhag in Samtse as the new 20-bed hospital nears completion. 96 per cent of the work is complete. Worth some Nu 500 M, the facility is set to bring improved healthcare services and renewed hope to the community when it opens in April next year. The new hospital is located...

The health ministry said they are closely monitoring the situation regarding Mpox along the country’s borders. The ministry has strengthened surveillance at airports and border areas, ensuring that health facilities are prepared to detect and manage potential cases. Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organisation in August. Nepal...