WÒRDS FÒR YÒU

In today's hyper-connected world, social media has become an indispensable tool for communication, networking, and self-expression. However, this digital revolution has also introduced new challenges, particularly in the realm of employment. As employers increasingly leverage social media to screen potential candidates, understanding the implications of online defamation becomes paramount. While the prevalence of this practice may vary across regions, including potentially Bhutan, the global trend towards social media screening necessitates a proactive approach to managing one's online presence. The Evolving Landscape of Recruitment: The Rise of Social Media Screening The days of relying solely on resumes and cover letters are fading. Employers are now turning to social media platforms to gain a more holistic view of applicants. They seek insights into a candidate's personality, values, communication style, and cultural fit. This shift underscores the critical need for...

Sonam Choki's poignant appeal regarding her son's interaction with the King highlights a crucial, yet often overlooked, aspect of human development: the unadulterated admiration children often hold for figures of authority and inspiration. Her son's eagerness to connect with his King stemmed from genuine affection, a sentiment frequently misunderstood in the context of rigid social expectations. This incident offers a valuable opportunity to examine societal responses to childhood innocence and the power of empathy. The Wonder of Youth: Navigating a World of Adults Children approach the world with a sense of wonder and unbridled enthusiasm. Their understanding of complex social dynamics, particularly in formal settings, is still developing. While it's essential to guide children in understanding appropriate behavior, it's equally vital to recognize that their actions are often driven by pure intentions, not malice or disrespect. The young boy's be...

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. Bhutan showcased its commitment to sustainable agriculture at the World Food Forum 2024, launching the AgriSustain Fund. This initiative will address climate change impacts, improve market access for smallholder farmers, and mitigate human-wildlife conflict, crucial given agriculture's 14% GDP contribution and projected climate-related productivity losses. The Minister engaged in key bilateral meetings, advocating for Bhutan's agricultural development. He also championed youth involvement in agrifood systems transformation during a keynote address and inaugurated Bhutan's WFF chapter booth, featuring an SDG-focused game. The forum provided a platform for strengthening partnerships and highlighting Bhutan's leadership in sustainable agriculture.

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 find limited remuneration and recognition within Bhutan. His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck's recent royal visit to Australia served as a powerful testament to Bhutan's expanding global reach and the enduring connection between the nation and its diaspora. The visit, timed to coincide with the presence of a substantial Bhutanese community in Australia, underscored the King's commitment to engaging with and valuing the contributions of his citizens abroad. Australia has become home to over 35,000 Bhutanese, many o...

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 ...

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...