BBSCL

Bhutan loses acres of forest to fire every year, raising concerns about the impact on biodiversity, climate, and the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities. The country witnessed an increasing number of forest fires for three consecutive years. According to the Department of Forests and Park Services, 99 per cent of forest fires are caused by human negligence. Despite countless fire prevention...

Farmers of Thasa and Kompa chiwogs of Dagana’s Laja Gewog will finally have access to reliable irrigation water starting this year. The irrigation water scheme for the two chiwogs is nearing completion. This is expected to boost agricultural production, especially rice yield and improve farmers’ livelihoods. Farmers in Thasa Chiwog are currently busy threshing paddy grown mostly using rainwater and...

The Chithuen Phendhey Association, a civil society organisation, and individuals recovering from substance use disorders are calling for systemic reforms in the country’s response to drug abuse. Speaking at a recent community-led advocacy network summit in Phuentshogling, they highlighted rising drug issues and shifting patterns of drug use in the country. Plans are underway to appeal to the Prime Minister’s...

The pass percentage for classes XII and VIII students dropped last year. The class XII pass rate has decreased by over 1.3 per cent, while the class VIII pass rate dropped by more than 4.5 per cent as compared to 2023. The Bhutan Council for School Examinations and Assessment announced the results today. The class XII pass percentage stood at...