BBSCL

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...

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 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...

The people of Shali village in Pema Gatshel’s Shumar Gewog celebrated the consecration of their newly renovated two-storey community, Lhakhang. The reconstruction began in 2020 and was completed in August this year, costing Nu 6 M. The new Lhakhang provides a spacious hall and better facilities for community rituals. Shortage of space was a problem for the people while conducting...