BBSCL

An unidentified predator has been attacking goats in Dogaag Chiwog of Gozhi Gewog in Dagana. Livestock farmers suspect the predator to be a leopard. In more than a month, it has attacked 19 goats.   Since the 20th of last month, the predator has attacked goats belonging to 13 households. Of these, 14 goats have died and five are critically...

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...

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,...

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...