BBSCL

The country's public debt rose by over Nu 5bn in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the second quarter. The finance ministry's quarterly Public Debt Situation Report reveals that as of September, the total public debt surpassed Nu 290bn. Of this amount, external debt accounts for a significant 92 per cent. Total public debt refers to the total amount...

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...

Quinoa farmers can now look forward to a better market for the product. Locally known as Ashi Heychum, the crop’s marketability will be improved as food-based entrepreneurs in the country are trained to enhance their skills in value addition and food product development. This means growers can sell their produce in various product forms. This is expected to encourage large-scale...