WÒRDS FÒR YÒU

In today's digital world, social media has become an undeniable part of our lives, both personally and professionally. While these platforms offer a plethora of benefits, they also pose unique challenges, especially when it comes to finding a job. Many countries are witnessing a rise in employers turning to social media to assess potential candidates. This makes it crucial for job seekers to understand the potential consequences of defamatory content posted online. The Growing Trend of Social Media Screening While Bhutan might not have fully embraced this practice yet, social media screening is becoming increasingly common in recruitment processes worldwide. Employers leverage these platforms to gain insights into a candidate's personality, values, and potential fit with the company culture. This trend underscores the importance of maintaining a positive online presence. The Harms of Defamation Defamation, the act of spreading false information that damages someone...

Sonam Choki's heartfelt appeal sheds light on a common yet often misunderstood aspect of human behavior: the fervent admiration and respect that children often hold for their leaders. In the case of her son, the young boy's eagerness to meet and interact with his king was a manifestation of this genuine affection, not a deliberate act of disrespect. It is crucial to recognize that children often approach life with a sense of wonder and excitement. Their understanding of social norms and etiquette may be limited, especially in high-pressure situations like a public event. The young boy's actions, while perhaps not in perfect accordance with protocol, were driven by a genuine desire to connect with someone he admired. Moreover, the rapid spread of information on social media can often amplify negative reactions. The harsh and judgmental comments directed at the boy were a stark reminder of the potential for online platforms to be misused. It is important to rememb...

The Hon’ble Minister of Agriculture and Livestock successfully concluded a five-day engagement at the World Food Forum 2024, held from October 13 to 17. During the forum, the Minister held strategic bilateral meetings with key international partners, focusing on advancing Bhutan's agricultural development, climate resilience, and sustainability goals. A key outcome of these discussions was the introduction of the Bhutan AgriSustain Fund, a visionary initiative designed to revolutionize Bhutan's agri-food sector. The AgriSustain Fund aims to address major challenges such as climate change impacts, market access for smallholder farmers, and human-wildlife conflicts. With Bhutan's agricultural sector contributing 14% to GDP and facing projected productivity losses of up to 20% by 2050 due to climate change, this fund is positioned to play a pivotal role in enhancing the sector's resilience. In addition to his central role at the World Food Forum, the Minister d...

Sydney, Australia – In a historic move aimed at strengthening ties with the Bhutanese diaspora, His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck embarked on a royal visit to Australia. The visit, which coincided with the significant Bhutanese community residing Down Under, was a poignant reminder of the nation's global reach and the enduring spirit of its people. A Nation of Skilled Emigrants Bhutan, known for its pristine landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has seen a steady stream of its citizens migrate overseas in search of better economic opportunities. Over 35,000 Bhutanese have found a new home in Australia, contributing to the vibrant multicultural tapestry of the country. Among them are skilled professionals, including doctors, engineers, and experts in various fields, who often found limited remuneration and recognition within Bhutan. A Royal Call to Return and Contribute Recognizing the significant contributions of the Bhutanese diaspora, His Majest...

Just one month into the inaugural training of the Gyalsung Academies, the first batch of Gyalsups (cadets) is already showing remarkable transformation. Initial homesickness and uncertainty have given way to a sense of belonging and purpose as the cadets adapt to the structured and demanding academy life. A typical day for a Gyalsup begins at 5 a.m. with a rigorous physical training session, followed by breakfast in the Cadet Mess. These communal meals foster camaraderie and reinforce essential dining etiquette. The day continues with a mix of academic lessons, including Driglam Namzha and specialized courses, and physical activities such as games, Zumba, and judo. Evenings are dedicated to personal hygiene, relaxation, and preparation for the following day. The strict routine, which includes early lights out, is a significant departure from the more relaxed lifestyles many of the cadets are accustomed to. Gyalsup Tandin Wangmo from Pemathang Academy noted that she used to ...

Dechen Wangmo, a Bhutanese medical graduate from Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) in Sri Lanka, has achieved a historic feat by winning nine astonishing gold medals at the university's General Convocation 2024. Dechen Wangmo's exceptional performance across various medical disciplines is a testament to her dedication, intelligence, and hard work. Her nine gold medals include:  Gold Medal for Biochemistry  Gold Medal for Cell Biology  Gold Medal for Anatomy   Gold Medal for Medicine   Gold Medal for Paediatrics   Gold Medal for Psychiatry   Gold Medal for Overall Best Performance (Second MBBS Examination)   Gold Medal for Overall Best Performance (Final MBBS Examination)   Gold Medal for Best Performance in MBBS Degree Program Dechen Wangmo's achievement has brought immense pride to Bhutan and inspires young people aspiring to pursue medical careers. Her dedication and success highlight the potential of Bhutanese students to...

Bhutan is grappling with a growing concern over the alarming rate of outmigration, particularly among its skilled professionals. The exodus, primarily to Australia, is raising serious questions about the country's development and future prospects. A significant brain drain is underway as Bhutanese doctors, teachers, and technical experts seek better opportunities abroad. This trend is attributed to limited career prospects, economic challenges, and a lack of meaningful work within the country. Experts warn that the loss of talent is hindering Bhutan's progress and could have long-term consequences for its development. To address this crisis, the government is urged to implement urgent measures to create a more attractive environment for its citizens. Diversifying the economy and making it more inclusive are key priorities. By providing ample opportunities for everyone, Bhutan can encourage its skilled professionals to stay and contribute to the nation's growth. ...

His Majesty The King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck concluded a historic visit to Australia, leaving an indelible mark on the Bhutanese diaspora and the Australian public.  Accompanied by Her Majesty The Queen Jetsun Pema, Crown Prince Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, Prince Ugyen Wangchuck, and Princess Sonam Yangden Wangchuck, the Royal Family embarked on a week-long tour from October 10th to 17th. One of the most significant events of the visit was the Royal Audience held in Perth on October 16th and 17th at HBF Stadium. A staggering 19,000 Bhutanese gathered for the event, surprising organizers and attendees alike. On October 17th, another 6,000 people joined the audience, showcasing the enduring bond between Bhutan and its diaspora. His Majesty expressed his astonishment at the overwhelming turnout, noting that the gathering was comparable to the national day celebrations at Changlimithang Stadium. The event served as a powerful testament to the deep affection and loyalty that Bhutane...

Samdrupjongkhar, Bhutan: The border town of Samrang in Samdrupjongkhar, despite sharing a common border and name with an Indian town in Assam, has been lacking a formal checkpoint for an extended period. This has resulted in significant inconveniences for residents and businesses in the region. Currently, the only border crossing is a simple iron gate guarded by Royal Bhutan Police personnel. This makeshift arrangement has made it challenging for people to cross the border, especially with restrictions on vehicle movement. Local residents and business owners have expressed their frustration over the lack of an integrated checkpoint. The restrictions on vehicle movement have increased transportation costs and hindered trade activities. According to Rinzin, a local businessman, the restrictions were imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic and have continued to impact small businesses in the four gewogs of Samdrupcholing dungkhag. "Now, we have to route everything through th...

His Majesty The King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck concluded his visit to Canberra, Australia, on October 14, 2024. During his stay, he met with the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese, and addressed a large gathering of the Bhutanese community. His Majesty emphasized the importance of community engagement and Bhutan's development initiatives, including the Gelephu Mindfulness City.                                                                           Key Points:   Meeting with Prime Minister:  His Majesty met with Prime Minister Albanese on October 14, discussing bilateral relations and areas of cooperation between Bhutan and Australia.   Addressing the Bhutanese Community:  His Majesty addressed a gathering of approximately five thousand Bhutanese residents in Canberra...

In a groundbreaking move, Pandorabiz.com, the leading e-commerce company in Bhutan, has become the first and only business in the country to accept Bitcoin as a payment method. The CEO, founder, and mentor of Pandorabiz.com, Mr. Sandeep Rai Chamling, voiced his conviction that in this advanced modern and digital world, digital currencies should be embraced as a mode of payment. With the increasing popularity and widespread adoption of cryptocurrencies, Pandorabiz.com has recognized the importance of embracing this new financial frontier. In addition to Bitcoin (BTC), the company also accepts USDT (Tether) and pi, further expanding the range of digital payment options available to its customers. By accepting these cryptocurrencies, Pandorabiz.com aims to provide its customers with greater convenience and flexibility when it comes to making purchases online. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, Mr. Chamling believes that it is vital for businesses to adapt and keep u...

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has extended his heartfelt congratulations to  Tshering Tobgay  on his recent election as the next Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Recognizing Tobgay's leadership qualities, President Muizzu expressed his belief that Bhutan would achieve further progress under his guidance. In his congratulatory message, President Muizzu emphasized the importance of close collaboration between the Maldives and Bhutan. He expressed his eagerness to work closely with Prime Minister-elect Tshering Tobgay to enhance and strengthen the already strong bilateral relations between the two countries. President Muizzu highlighted that the existing bond between the Maldives and Bhutan is built on mutual trust and goodwill, contributing to the success of both nations. He expressed his hope that this enduring friendship will continue to thrive and flourish in the years to come.

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama has sent a warm message of congratulations to Dasho Tshering Tobgay, the Prime Minister-Elect of Bhutan. In his letter, the Dalai Lama acknowledged the historic relationship between the Tibetan and Bhutanese people, and commended Bhutan's progress in democratic governance. "As Tibetans, we share a historic relationship with the Bhutanese people, and as someone strongly committed to democratic values, I have followed your country's commendable development in democratic governance, under the farsighted leadership of the Druk Gyalpo, over the past several years,"wrote the Dalai Lama. The spiritual leader also expressed his confidence in Dasho Tshering Tobgay's leadership and his hope that Bhutan's unique combination of modernization and preservation of tradition will continue to thrive under his tenure. "Bhutan today is developing along modern lines, while preserving its traditional religion and culture. I am sure...

In a historic turn of events, the People's Democratic Party  has emerged triumphant in the 2024 general elections, securing a resounding victory and earning the mandate of the people to form the ruling government. Led by their esteemed President, Dasho Tshering Tobgay, the PDP has been entrusted with the responsibility of steering the nation towards a brighter future. The election results reflect the unwavering faith placed by the citizens in the policies and vision of the PDP. The party's commitment to addressing the pressing needs of the people, promoting inclusive growth, and implementing progressive reforms resonated with voters across the nation. As the newly elected ruling government, the PDP and President Dasho Tshering Tobgay are now tasked with the responsibility of fulfilling the promises made during their campaign. The nation eagerly anticipates the implementation of their envisioned policies, which are aimed at bolstering the economy, improving h...

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has emerged victorious in the general elections held on Sunday, securing a fifth term in office. The ruling Awami League, led by Hasina, has managed to secure over 50 percent of the seats, according to an Election Commission spokesperson. However, the elections were marred by a boycott led by an opposition party that Hasina branded as a "terrorist organization." Hasina's leadership has been credited with propelling Bangladesh towards rapid economic growth, uplifting the country from a state of grinding poverty. Despite these accomplishments, her government has faced criticism for alleged human rights abuses and an aggressive crackdown on opposition voices. The election result comes amidst controversy and concerns raised by international organizations regarding the fairness and transparency of the electoral process. Critics argue that the opposition boycott has undermined the credibility of the election, raising dou...

Bhutan finds itself on the edge of history today as citizens eagerly await the outcome of the 4th national election's final round. The race has reached a fever pitch between the People's Democratic Party - PDP and the Bhutan Tendrel Party - BTP, both of whom are optimistic about securing victory with their ambitious plans to revive the economy. The PDP, determined to reclaim power, has unveiled a groundbreaking stimulus plan worth Nu.15 billion, with a primary focus on rejuvenating the economy and empowering local businesses. The initiative includes a range of key highlights, such as special loan schemes and support for downstream industries, accelerated support for startups and Cottage and Small Industries (CSIs), promotion of export businesses, liquidity injection into financial institutions, and special measures catered to various sectors. Notably, the PDP's plan places a major emphasis on the empowerment of Cottage and Small Industries (CSIs), recognizing th...

In the midst of his final campaign push for the General Election 2023, the President of the People's Democratic Party - PDP, Dasho Tshering Tobgay, took a moment to express his gratitude and convey essential messages to the people of Bhutan.  With deep respect and heartfelt thanks, Dasho Tshering Tobgay acknowledged and appreciated the unwavering support received from the citizens who had rallied behind him and the PDP. Their unwavering commitment and dedication had been instrumental throughout the campaign journey. Over the course of the intense 26-day campaign, Dasho Tshering Tobgay and his team had tirelessly worked, dedicating approximately 16 hours each day. They traversed the country, conducting a total of 65 meetings across 47 constituencies. Regardless of the election's outcome, Dasho Tshering Tobgay expressed his pride and satisfaction in his team of 47 candidates and the dynamic individuals at the party office, who had left no stone unturned in their effor...

On the morning of January 4th, 2024, Phuentsholing main gate's Integrated Check Post (ICP) police effectively intercepted an individual in possession of illegal narcotics. The suspect, Tashi Wangdi from Bumthang and aged 33 years old, was found carrying a significant quantity of contraband. Specifically, he had on his person 7400 capsules of SPM-PRX+. During interrogation, he admitted to procuring these substances from an anonymous dealer at a supermarket located in Jaigaon in India for Nu.65000. It is noteworthy that the illicit narcotics were skillfully hidden within the bonnet of his vehicle registered under license number BP-1-3572. This raises concerns about the sophisticated techniques employed by smugglers engaged in such unlawful activities. In response to this major seizure operation, authorities have transferred custody to Phuentsholing Police Station for further investigation. Law enforcement personnel are diligently pursuing leads to uncover both networks an...

In a momentous event on January 4, 2024, a total of 652 newly selected Civil Servants were granted a Royal Audience by His Majesty The King at the Kuenray of Tashichhodzong. The group consisted of an equal number of 326 females and 326 males, marking a significant step towards gender equality in the civil service. This gathering marked the second cohort of newly recruited Civil Servants in the Professional and Management Category (PMC) who had the honor of receiving a Royal Audience on the day of their Oath-taking. After the Royal Audience, the Officials proceeded to take the Oath of Allegiance, which was presided over by Ven. Tshogki Lopen of the Zhung Dratshang. The ceremony took place in the presence of the Commission and senior officials from the Ministry of Education and Skills Development, highlighting the importance of commitment and dedication in serving the nation. In addition to the Oath, the Officials were presented with their Appointment Order by the Commission,...

Shahid Kapoor, the renowned Bollywood actor, and his family chose Bhutan as their destination to ring in the New Year. The family was drawn to Bhutan's unique culture and its breathtaking natural beauty. During their stay, they resided at the exquisite Six Senses Hotel in Thimphu. To make their visit even more special, Shahid Kapoor and his family received a warm welcome from none other than His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen of Bhutan. The meeting was marked by a memorable photo capturing the esteemed royal couple alongside Shahid Kapoor and his family. This delightful encounter not only added to the Kapoor family's unforgettable trip but also served as a testimony to the close ties between the Indian film industry and Bhutan. The shared admiration for culture, nature, and the warmth of the Bhutanese people made this New Year celebration an unforgettable experience for the Kapoor family. As they bid farewell to Bhutan, Shahid Kapoor and his family expre...