BBSCL

Non-performing loans or NPLs with the financial institutions surged to a staggering more than Nu 8bn by October this year. This is a jump of over Nu 1.16bn in just a year. Of the sectors, trade & commerce tops the list while the forestry and logging sector saw a sharp decline. Any loans that are overdue by 91 days or...

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...

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...

More than 45 children from remote schools across the country are taking part in the AFC Social Responsibility Programme, titled "Bridging the Gap," in Thimphu. The five-day initiative, organised by the Bhutan Football Federation is to cultivate a strong sense of responsibility and awareness among young football enthusiasts. The children are from five remote schools in the country. For most...