BBSCL

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...

A decade ago, the people of Khangma Chiwog in Pema Gatshel’s Yurung Gewog began growing cardamom to boost their income and improve their livelihood. While the crop helped them make money, it didn’t meet their expectations. However, cardamom prices have doubled this year, bringing farmers significant financial relief. The residents of Khangma Chiwog began cultivating cardamom about ten years ago...

In its latest report, the Royal Audit Authority revealed several audit issues concerning the laying of Granular Sub-Base (GSB) on farm roads. These include the rapid appearance of potholes, erosion, and GSB washouts shortly after project completion. The report also highlighted the use of improperly graded GSB materials and inadequate compaction. The authority stated that such practices compromise road durability...

In Samdrup Jongkhar, residents of Langchenphu Gewog are turning moringa leaves into a source of income. Farmers in the gewog sell the leaves to a youth-led enterprise that processes them into moringa tea. The Moringa tree, which is also called ‘the miracle tree’ or ‘the tree of life’, is considered one of the most nutrient-dense plants. The tree, known to...