Archive for February, 2008



Bhutan News archive for 19 February 2008

Tuesday 19 February 2008 @ 8:06 am

Buddhism, Bhutan’s Buddhist art focus of Feb. 24 gathering (Honolulu Advertiser)
Bhutanese Buddhism scholars, representatives from Bhutan and organizers of “The Dragon’s Gift: The Sacred Arts of Bhutan” exhibition at the Honolulu Academy of Arts, will present a symposium at Doris Duke Theatre on Feb. 24.

Sunday, February 17, 2008 (Chennai Online)
Thimphu, Feb 18 The prices of petrol and diesel have shot up in Bhutan, with the country’s trade officials attributing the hike to an increase in dealers’ commission in India.

Bhutanese to pay more for petrol, diesel (Hindustan Times)
The prices of petrol and diesel have shot up in Bhutan, with the country’s trade officials attributing the hike to an increase in dealers’ commission in India.

10th RTM in Thimphu (Kuensel)
16 February, 2008 - A wide range of issues, including the 10th Five Year Plan (2008-2013) and its strategies and priorities, will be discussed in the Tenth Round Table Meeting (RTM) to be held in Thimphu from 17-18 February.

The Year of the Female Hog (Kuensel)
Yearender : Part II Sports One of the most talked about sporting moments of the Hog year was Karma Wangchuk, a caddie and a class-V drop-out, winning the India House Maruti Golf Tournament.

The Year of the Female Hog (Kuensel)
18 February, 2008 - When we look back at the year just gone by, the most memorable image that stays on our minds is the moment when His Majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo greeted His Majesty the King on National Day. Their Majesties bowed to each other, their Royal Scarves lowered in the traditional gesture of respect.

Anna Ford’s heaven on earth (Daily Telegraph)
Broadcaster Anna Ford loves the other-worldy feeling of Bhutan and the palpable sense of peace that hangs over the tiny kingdom.

Lifestyle diseases in ascendancy (Kuensel)
18 February, 2008 - Non-communicable diseases (NCD) or lifestyle diseases may not have appeared among the top ten diseases in the country, but they were increasing at an alarming rate and were an unwelcome addition to infectious diseases, which were still of grave concern to the health of the Bhutanese, say health officials.

‘Bio disc’ makes waves in Bhutan (Kuensel)
18 February, 2008 - There is a shop in Phuentsholing town that offers customers ‘treated’ water, that supposedly tastes sweeter and is expected to make one feel more energetic and positive.

From the Incas to the kewa datshi (Kuensel)
15 February, 2008 - In concluding the series on potato in Bhutan, we look at how potato is seen in the Bhutanese print media. The discussion is largely based on what was printed in the three Bhutanese newspapers during the year 2007.

A PitStop For The Daily Circuit

19 February, 2008 - Lasts long. Really long … ring a bell? Of course, it’s the Amaron battery ad, which we see almost every day on TV! Even if you’d forgotten this ad, you’ll now be reminded of it because you will be seeing these batteries in green more often.

Ten questions

19 February, 2008 - Ugyen, 43, from Kabesa, Thimphu has been living in Babesa right beside the expressway for almost a year now. A witness of many accidents on the expressway, this is what he has to say about the area he lives in.

1. What do you do for a living?
I run a restaurant.

Wamrong - Boomtown in the boondocks

Despite its regularisation as a township, trade centre faces uncertain future

19 February, 2008 - For the thousands of students, who did their schooling or college in Trashigang dzongkhag, Wamrong is one place that will forever be etched in their memories.

Oops! We blooped
19 February, 2008 - With the boar making way for the rat with the start of another lunar cycle, we at Kuensel also took stock to see how we fared through the year as aspiring writers and journalists.

The Year of the Female Hog
Yearender : Part I

18 February, 2008 - When we look back at the year just gone by, the most memorable image that stays on our minds is the moment when His Majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo greeted His Majesty the King on National Day. Their Majesties bowed to each other, their Royal Scarves lowered in the traditional gesture of respect. There could not have been a more powerful symbol of a kingdom in transition.

The Year of the Female Hog
Yearender : Part II
Sports

One of the most talked about sporting moments of the Hog year was Karma Wangchuk, a caddie and a class-V drop-out, winning the India House Maruti Golf Tournament.

Karma Wangchuk, 18, triumphed over Major A K Gupta, a seasoned golfer, in the finals to take home a Maruti Zen Estilo.

On Intellectual Rebirth — The Ground Reality
18 February, 2008 - Without, colours have waned.
Only remnants of autumn remain, a few fragrances and memories. They’ll fade too; it’s only a matter of time and tears. And then?

Farm road to end Pakhay-Tenjury isolation

A vote of thanks from the villagers to the Swiss delegation

18 February, 2008 - For Ran Maya of Tenjury village, Shompangkha gewog, going shopping for essentials takes up an entire day. And most of the time goes into walking.

‘Bio disc’ makes waves in Bhutan

18 February, 2008 - There is a shop in Phuentsholing town that offers customers ‘treated’ water, that supposedly tastes sweeter and is expected to make one feel more energetic and positive.

Lifestyle diseases in ascendancy
18 February, 2008 - Non-communicable diseases (NCD) or lifestyle diseases may not have appeared among the top ten diseases in the country, but they were increasing at an alarming rate and were an unwelcome addition to infectious diseases, which were still of grave concern to the health of the Bhutanese, say health officials.




Bhutan News archive for 18 February 2008

Monday 18 February 2008 @ 9:02 am

Buddhism, Bhutan’s Buddhist art focus of Feb. 24 gathering (Honolulu Advertiser)
Bhutanese Buddhism scholars, representatives from Bhutan and organizers of “The Dragon’s Gift: The Sacred Arts of Bhutan” exhibition at the Honolulu Academy of Arts, will present a symposium at Doris Duke Theatre on Feb. 24.

Sunday, February 17, 2008 (Chennai Online)
Thimphu, Feb 18 The prices of petrol and diesel have shot up in Bhutan, with the country’s trade officials attributing the hike to an increase in dealers’ commission in India.

Bhutanese to pay more for petrol, diesel (Hindustan Times)
The prices of petrol and diesel have shot up in Bhutan, with the country’s trade officials attributing the hike to an increase in dealers’ commission in India.

10th RTM in Thimphu (Kuensel)
16 February, 2008 - A wide range of issues, including the 10th Five Year Plan (2008-2013) and its strategies and priorities, will be discussed in the Tenth Round Table Meeting (RTM) to be held in Thimphu from 17-18 February.

The Year of the Female Hog (Kuensel)
18 February, 2008 - When we look back at the year just gone by, the most memorable image that stays on our minds is the moment when His Majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo greeted His Majesty the King on National Day. Their Majesties bowed to each other, their Royal Scarves lowered in the traditional gesture of respect.

The Year of the Female Hog (Kuensel)
Yearender : Part II Sports One of the most talked about sporting moments of the Hog year was Karma Wangchuk, a caddie and a class-V drop-out, winning the India House Maruti Golf Tournament.

Anna Ford’s heaven on earth (Daily Telegraph)
Broadcaster Anna Ford loves the other-worldy feeling of Bhutan and the palpable sense of peace that hangs over the tiny kingdom.

Lifestyle diseases in ascendancy (Kuensel)
18 February, 2008 - Non-communicable diseases (NCD) or lifestyle diseases may not have appeared among the top ten diseases in the country, but they were increasing at an alarming rate and were an unwelcome addition to infectious diseases, which were still of grave concern to the health of the Bhutanese, say health officials.

‘Bio disc’ makes waves in Bhutan (Kuensel)
18 February, 2008 - There is a shop in Phuentsholing town that offers customers ‘treated’ water, that supposedly tastes sweeter and is expected to make one feel more energetic and positive.

From the Incas to the kewa datshi (Kuensel)
15 February, 2008 - In concluding the series on potato in Bhutan, we look at how potato is seen in the Bhutanese print media. The discussion is largely based on what was printed in the three Bhutanese newspapers during the year 2007.

The Year of the Female Hog
Yearender : Part I

18 February, 2008 - When we look back at the year just gone by, the most memorable image that stays on our minds is the moment when His Majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo greeted His Majesty the King on National Day. Their Majesties bowed to each other, their Royal Scarves lowered in the traditional gesture of respect. There could not have been a more powerful symbol of a kingdom in transition.

The Year of the Female Hog
Yearender : Part II
Sports

One of the most talked about sporting moments of the Hog year was Karma Wangchuk, a caddie and a class-V drop-out, winning the India House Maruti Golf Tournament.

Karma Wangchuk, 18, triumphed over Major A K Gupta, a seasoned golfer, in the finals to take home a Maruti Zen Estilo.

On Intellectual Rebirth — The Ground Reality
18 February, 2008 - Without, colours have waned.
Only remnants of autumn remain, a few fragrances and memories. They’ll fade too; it’s only a matter of time and tears. And then?

Farm road to end Pakhay-Tenjury isolation

A vote of thanks from the villagers to the Swiss delegation

18 February, 2008 - For Ran Maya of Tenjury village, Shompangkha gewog, going shopping for essentials takes up an entire day. And most of the time goes into walking.

‘Bio disc’ makes waves in Bhutan

18 February, 2008 - There is a shop in Phuentsholing town that offers customers ‘treated’ water, that supposedly tastes sweeter and is expected to make one feel more energetic and positive.

Lifestyle diseases in ascendancy
18 February, 2008 - Non-communicable diseases (NCD) or lifestyle diseases may not have appeared among the top ten diseases in the country, but they were increasing at an alarming rate and were an unwelcome addition to infectious diseases, which were still of grave concern to the health of the Bhutanese, say health officials.

Kolors - A rock ‘n roll rainbow album

MUSIC REVIEW 18 February, 2008 - Listening to “Kolors,” the newest Dzongkha album in town, is like entering a pool of beautiful bikini-clad women; you never want to take your eyes, or ears, off them. It is instantly inviting.

.

18 February, 2008 - Ambassadors Daniele Smadja of the EU Commission, Ann Ollestad of Norway and Chalermpol Thanchitt of Thailand presented their credentials to His Majesty the King on February 15 at the Trashichhodzong, Thimphu

Of ballots and bombs
COMMENTARY 18 February, 2008 - Losar, this time around, is genuinely about new beginnings, on several fronts. This year will usher in democracy as well as the coronation of a dynamic fifth king. It will also celebrate the centenary of our monarchy. It is all about change. Change isn’t a happenstance. It is inadvertently brought about by people and circumstances, be they good or bad. Almost all democracies have revolutionary roots giving ours a unique status, inasmuch as it was gifted by a king to his people. It was intended to be a peaceful transformation, devolving power to the people. It has mostly been so save for a few stray incidents, caused by elements with no cause but to disrupt this process. A series of bomb blasts in a nonviolent nation will neither derail nor undermine Bhutanese espousal of democracy. The ultimate oxymoron can be found in the groups claiming responsibility for the blasts. Who in their right minds would want anything but democracy, the most sought and sound form of government today. Well, that is not a difficult question to answer either.

10th RTM in Thimphu
16 February, 2008 - A wide range of issues, including the 10th Five Year Plan (2008-2013) and its strategies and priorities, will be discussed in the Tenth Round Table Meeting (RTM) to be held in Thimphu from 17-18 February.




Bhutan News archive for 17 February 2008

Sunday 17 February 2008 @ 9:52 am

Buddhism, Bhutan’s Buddhist art focus of Feb. 24 gathering (Honolulu Advertiser)
Bhutanese Buddhism scholars, representatives from Bhutan and organizers of “The Dragon’s Gift: The Sacred Arts of Bhutan” exhibition at the Honolulu Academy of Arts, will present a symposium at Doris Duke Theatre on Feb. 24.

10th RTM in Thimphu (Kuensel)
16 February, 2008 - A wide range of issues, including the 10th Five Year Plan (2008-2013) and its strategies and priorities, will be discussed in the Tenth Round Table Meeting (RTM) to be held in Thimphu from 17-18 February.

From the Incas to the kewa datshi (Kuensel)
15 February, 2008 - In concluding the series on potato in Bhutan, we look at how potato is seen in the Bhutanese print media. The discussion is largely based on what was printed in the three Bhutanese newspapers during the year 2007.

PDP on door-to-door campaign (Kuensel)
16 February, 2008 - The People’s Democratic Party will be go from house to house when they kick off their formal campaigning on Sunday, February 17, from Thimphu, say party officials.

Audit unearths RICBL irregularities of more than Nu 15 million (Kuensel)
16 February, 2008 - A special supplementary audit report released this week on the Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan’s (RICBL) credit and investment department revealed irregularities amounting to more than Nu 15 million.

Can Mumbai go the Toto way? (Hindustan Times)
AHindustan Times survey shows 68% Maharashtrians in Mumbai reject Raj’s politics of hate, 49% say his rants are ruining the city. See graphics Recently, I found myself part of a captive audience watching a documentary on the Totos, a people belonging to an Indo-Bhutanese tribe living in the predictably named enclave of Totopara in the northern West Bengal district of Jalpaiguri.

Who Knew There Was Water There? (New York Times)
Hiking the mountains of Bhutan is one of the unlikely trips you can take when signing up for a cruise vacation these days.

India to propose amendments in Asian Highway routes (New Kerala)
New Delhi, Feb 14 : The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for proposing to the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific of the United Nations (UNESCAP) to link Bhutan by extending the Asian Highway-48.

Henry’s Happenings (Tenterfield Star)
From August 3 we have had three visiting principals, Jit Bahadur Gurung, Sonam Peljor, Chimmi Tshwang, from Bhutan. Bhutan is a small country in the Himalayas in between China, India and Nepal. They have been wondering around our school taking part in events.

Business Math - students’ biggest bugbear (Kuensel)
16 February, 2008 - A students who appeared in the class XII Bhutan higher secondary education certificate (BHSEC) examination in December 2007, performed poorly in Business Mathematics and in English, according to officials of the Bhutan Board of Examinations (BBE), which declared the results this week.

10th RTM in Thimphu
16 February, 2008 - A wide range of issues, including the 10th Five Year Plan (2008-2013) and its strategies and priorities, will be discussed in the Tenth Round Table Meeting (RTM) to be held in Thimphu from 17-18 February.

Draft outlay - Nu 141.692 billion
Poverty rate to be reduced from one in four to one in six
16 February, 2008 - The Tenth Plan (July 2008 –June 2013) outlay is estimated at Nu 141.692 billion, according to the draft plan document released by the GNH commission.

Militant camp in Samdrup Jongkhar
16 February, 2008 - Two members of the Communist Party of Bhutan, based in Nepal, were apprehended from a militant camp in the forest at Nunai under Samdrup Jongkhar dzongkhag, which a Royal Bhutan army patrol came across on February 15.

Business Math - students’ biggest bugbear
16 February, 2008 - A students who appeared in the class XII Bhutan higher secondary education certificate (BHSEC) examination in December 2007, performed poorly in Business Mathematics and in English, according to officials of the Bhutan Board of Examinations (BBE), which declared the results this week.

Audit unearths RICBL irregularities of more than Nu 15 million
16 February, 2008 - A special supplementary audit report released this week on the Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan’s (RICBL) credit and investment department revealed irregularities amounting to more than Nu 15 million.

PDP on door-to-door campaign

16 February, 2008 - The People’s Democratic Party will be go from house to house when they kick off their formal campaigning on Sunday, February 17, from Thimphu, say party officials.

DPT kicks off campaign from Trongsa

16 February, 2008 - The Druk Phuensum Tshogpa formally launched its election campaign yesterday from the central dzongkhag of Trongsa, reiterating that it would not make false promises on the campaign trail.

Next Sunday’s debate: More (or less) of the same?
COMMENTARY 16 February, 2008 - -
The second debate between the Druk Phuensum Tshogpa (DPT) and Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) on Sunday, February 17, will deal with “The Strategy, Plan and Programmes of the Party for the Kingdom in the Next Five Years” and is likely to be less interesting than the first. At the same time, it may be more important, perhaps even crucial. Not only because of the high number of voters across the country who will be watching the debate, but also because people will finally get a overview of what each party promises to do for them.

Postal ballot application deadline -February 18
16 February, 2008 - For the National Assembly elections on March 24, registered postal voters can vote by post only if their applications for postal ballot reach the dzongkhag election officials by Monday, February 18, according to election commission officials.

Fuel prices up
16 February, 2008 - Starting today, the price of petrol will be dearer by Nu 1.87 and diesel by Nu 1.05, the first hike of the year. With the increased rate revised by Trade Department, the overall price of petrol rose to Nu 42.82 and diesel to Nu 31.77 in the capital. The price of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene remains the same.




Bhutan News archive for 16 February 2008

Saturday 16 February 2008 @ 10:43 am

10th RTM in Thimphu (Kuensel)
16 February, 2008 - A wide range of issues, including the 10th Five Year Plan (2008-2013) and its strategies and priorities, will be discussed in the Tenth Round Table Meeting (RTM) to be held in Thimphu from 17-18 February.

From the Incas to the kewa datshi (Kuensel)
15 February, 2008 - In concluding the series on potato in Bhutan, we look at how potato is seen in the Bhutanese print media. The discussion is largely based on what was printed in the three Bhutanese newspapers during the year 2007.

PDP on door-to-door campaign (Kuensel)
16 February, 2008 - The People’s Democratic Party will be go from house to house when they kick off their formal campaigning on Sunday, February 17, from Thimphu, say party officials.

Audit unearths RICBL irregularities of more than Nu 15 million (Kuensel)
16 February, 2008 - A special supplementary audit report released this week on the Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan’s (RICBL) credit and investment department revealed irregularities amounting to more than Nu 15 million.

Who Knew There Was Water There? (New York Times)
Hiking the mountains of Bhutan is one of the unlikely trips you can take when signing up for a cruise vacation these days.

India to propose amendments in Asian Highway routes (New Kerala)
New Delhi, Feb 14 : The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for proposing to the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific of the United Nations (UNESCAP) to link Bhutan by extending the Asian Highway-48.

Henry’s Happenings (Tenterfield Star)
From August 3 we have had three visiting principals, Jit Bahadur Gurung, Sonam Peljor, Chimmi Tshwang, from Bhutan. Bhutan is a small country in the Himalayas in between China, India and Nepal. They have been wondering around our school taking part in events.

Business Math - students’ biggest bugbear (Kuensel)
16 February, 2008 - A students who appeared in the class XII Bhutan higher secondary education certificate (BHSEC) examination in December 2007, performed poorly in Business Mathematics and in English, according to officials of the Bhutan Board of Examinations (BBE), which declared the results this week.

Militant camp in Samdrup Jongkhar (Kuensel)
16 February, 2008 - Two members of the Communist Party of Bhutan, based in Nepal, were apprehended from a militant camp in the forest at Nunai under Samdrup Jongkhar dzongkhag, which a Royal Bhutan army patrol came across on February 15.

India to seek changes in two Asian Highways (New Kerala)
New Delhi, Feb 14 : India Thursday decided to propose to a UN agency to extend two Asian Highways (AH) for better connectivity with Bhutan, Bangladesh and Nepal.

10th RTM in Thimphu
16 February, 2008 - A wide range of issues, including the 10th Five Year Plan (2008-2013) and its strategies and priorities, will be discussed in the Tenth Round Table Meeting (RTM) to be held in Thimphu from 17-18 February.

Draft outlay - Nu 141.692 billion
Poverty rate to be reduced from one in four to one in six
16 February, 2008 - The Tenth Plan (July 2008 –June 2013) outlay is estimated at Nu 141.692 billion, according to the draft plan document released by the GNH commission.

Militant camp in Samdrup Jongkhar
16 February, 2008 - Two members of the Communist Party of Bhutan, based in Nepal, were apprehended from a militant camp in the forest at Nunai under Samdrup Jongkhar dzongkhag, which a Royal Bhutan army patrol came across on February 15.

Business Math - students’ biggest bugbear
16 February, 2008 - A students who appeared in the class XII Bhutan higher secondary education certificate (BHSEC) examination in December 2007, performed poorly in Business Mathematics and in English, according to officials of the Bhutan Board of Examinations (BBE), which declared the results this week.

Audit unearths RICBL irregularities of more than Nu 15 million
16 February, 2008 - A special supplementary audit report released this week on the Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan’s (RICBL) credit and investment department revealed irregularities amounting to more than Nu 15 million.

PDP on door-to-door campaign

16 February, 2008 - The People’s Democratic Party will be go from house to house when they kick off their formal campaigning on Sunday, February 17, from Thimphu, say party officials.

DPT kicks off campaign from Trongsa

16 February, 2008 - The Druk Phuensum Tshogpa formally launched its election campaign yesterday from the central dzongkhag of Trongsa, reiterating that it would not make false promises on the campaign trail.

Next Sunday’s debate: More (or less) of the same?
COMMENTARY 16 February, 2008 - -
The second debate between the Druk Phuensum Tshogpa (DPT) and Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) on Sunday, February 17, will deal with “The Strategy, Plan and Programmes of the Party for the Kingdom in the Next Five Years” and is likely to be less interesting than the first. At the same time, it may be more important, perhaps even crucial. Not only because of the high number of voters across the country who will be watching the debate, but also because people will finally get a overview of what each party promises to do for them.

Postal ballot application deadline -February 18
16 February, 2008 - For the National Assembly elections on March 24, registered postal voters can vote by post only if their applications for postal ballot reach the dzongkhag election officials by Monday, February 18, according to election commission officials.

Fuel prices up
16 February, 2008 - Starting today, the price of petrol will be dearer by Nu 1.87 and diesel by Nu 1.05, the first hike of the year. With the increased rate revised by Trade Department, the overall price of petrol rose to Nu 42.82 and diesel to Nu 31.77 in the capital. The price of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene remains the same.




Bhutan News archive for 15 February 2008

Friday 15 February 2008 @ 11:35 am

From the Incas to the kewa datshi (Kuensel)
15 February, 2008 - In concluding the series on potato in Bhutan, we look at how potato is seen in the Bhutanese print media. The discussion is largely based on what was printed in the three Bhutanese newspapers during the year 2007.

India to propose amendments in Asian Highway routes (New Kerala)
New Delhi, Feb 14 : The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for proposing to the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific of the United Nations (UNESCAP) to link Bhutan by extending the Asian Highway-48.

India to seek changes in two Asian Highways (New Kerala)
New Delhi, Feb 14 : India Thursday decided to propose to a UN agency to extend two Asian Highways (AH) for better connectivity with Bhutan, Bangladesh and Nepal.

Wild ginseng grows endangered (Kuensel)
14 February, 2008 - It has been used in traditional Bhutanese medicine and in many Asian cultures as a nourishing stimulant to increase mental and physical efficiency, lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels and also to address sexual dysfunction in men.

Museum and Gallery Listings (New York Times)
Selective listings from art critics of The New York Times.

5,000 mile long ‘genetic corridor’ to help in conservation of tigers (New Kerala)
Washington, Feb 14 : The Wildlife Conservation Society and the Panthera Foundation have announced plans to establish a 5,000 mile-long “genetic corridor” from Bhutan to Burma, which would be the next step in saving the rapidly declining tiger populations.

mechanical marvel: paro is the perfect pal (The News-Press)
The words “cuddly” and “robot” may be an awkward match, but no one tells that to Paro the robotic seal as they scratch his furry white head.

DPT lays its cards on the table (Kuensel)
13 February, 2008 - The Druk Phuensum Tshogpa promises ‘growth with equity and justice’ if elected on March 24 to form the first government in a democratic Bhutan.

Kurichhu shutdown to catch up on maintenance (Kuensel)
14 February, 2008 - The 60 MW Kurichhu hydropower station in Gyalpoizhing, Mongar, has shut down for eight days starting February 11, to allow Bhutan Power Corporation Limited (BPCL) to do maintenance work on substations and transmission lines in the eastern region.

Cabinet okays AH-2, AH-48 amendments (Express India)
The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved proposed amendments…

From the Incas to the kewa datshi
PART VI: The Potato and the Press

15 February, 2008 - In concluding the series on potato in Bhutan, we look at how potato is seen in the Bhutanese print media. The discussion is largely based on what was printed in the three Bhutanese newspapers during the year 2007.

What the rat has in store…

14 February, 2008 -The lunar calendar is said to be the longest chronological record in history. According to a Buddhist legend, Lord Buddha summoned all the animals to come to him before he departed from Earth. Only 12 animals came to bid him farewell and as a reward he named a year for each one in the order they arrived. The animal ruling the year in which you were born exercises a profound influence on your life. As the Chinese say, “ this is the animal that hides in your heart.”

Ten questions

14 February, 2008 -Kinzang, 52, from Thimphu, has been living near the vegetable market in the city since she was born. This is what she has in store for Losar.

1. What do you do for living?
I have a house, which I rent out. I use the earnings from the rent on my expenses.

Looking for a team
14 February, 2008 -As our election process moves into the next phase - the official campaign period - many of us are asking how it will differ from the past months. And, if we have not already decided, we will be asking ourselves whom we will vote for.

Be IT savvy - Secure your Password
14 February, 2008 -Our grandparents didn’t need it, our parents were thrilled seeing it used in espionage- and technology-related movies, we now use it often, and our kids most probably won’t be able to start their day without it. What is it?

Ten questions

14 February, 2008 -Rekash Pradhan, 12, from Chargaray Samtse is a class VI student of Jigmi Losel primary school. A regular table tennis player and member of BTTF, this is what he has to say about the game he is most passionate about.

1. How long have you been playing table tennis for?
I have been playing it for three years now

Ping Pong- the growing game!!!

14 February, 2008 -Loud cheering from the jumpy crowd, sweat dripping down the napes of the two contenders lobbying the ball till one stomps his foot to smash the ball in the opponent’s face and the energy oozing from them until the last minute were some of the highlights of the Bhutan Olympic Committee Funakoshi Table Tennis finals played on January 27.

A place for youth

14 February, 2008 -The spring of 2008 will offer Thimphu’s youth a permanent opportunity to spend their free time away from the numerous video-gaming parlours and hanging around the clock tower-square.

Kurichhu shutdown to catch up on maintenance

Day-off, night-on power for 8 dzongkhags for 8 days

14 February, 2008 - The 60 MW Kurichhu hydropower station in Gyalpoizhing, Mongar, has shut down for eight days starting February 11, to allow Bhutan Power Corporation Limited (BPCL) to do maintenance work on substations and transmission lines in the eastern region.

Wild ginseng grows endangered

Giving home-grown ginseng a shot (in the dark!)

14 February, 2008 - It has been used in traditional Bhutanese medicine and in many Asian cultures as a nourishing stimulant to increase mental and physical efficiency, lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels and also to address sexual dysfunction in men.




Bhutan News archive for 14 February 2008

Thursday 14 February 2008 @ 12:32 pm

India to seek changes in two Asian Highways (New Kerala)
New Delhi, Feb 14 : India Thursday decided to propose to a UN agency to extend two Asian Highways (AH) for better connectivity with Bhutan, Bangladesh and Nepal.

Wild ginseng grows endangered (Kuensel)
14 February, 2008 - It has been used in traditional Bhutanese medicine and in many Asian cultures as a nourishing stimulant to increase mental and physical efficiency, lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels and also to address sexual dysfunction in men.

mechanical marvel: paro is the perfect pal (The News-Press)
The words “cuddly” and “robot” may be an awkward match, but no one tells that to Paro the robotic seal as they scratch his furry white head.

Kurichhu shutdown to catch up on maintenance (Kuensel)
14 February, 2008 - The 60 MW Kurichhu hydropower station in Gyalpoizhing, Mongar, has shut down for eight days starting February 11, to allow Bhutan Power Corporation Limited (BPCL) to do maintenance work on substations and transmission lines in the eastern region.

DPT lays its cards on the table (Kuensel)
13 February, 2008 - The Druk Phuensum Tshogpa promises ‘growth with equity and justice’ if elected on March 24 to form the first government in a democratic Bhutan.

Debate leaves something to be desired (Kuensel)
NEWS ANALYSIS 13 February, 2008 - The Sunday debate between the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) president, Sangay Ngedup, and Druk Phuensum Tshogpa (DT) president, Jigmi Thinley, barely lived up to the audience’s expectation and was hardly a model of Bhutanese political discourse.

Conservationists Plan Genetic Tiger Corridor Across Asia (Environment News Service)
NEW YORK, New York , February 13, 2008 (ENS) - The Wildlife Conservation Society and the Panthera Foundation today announced plans to establish a 5,000 mile-long “genetic corridor from Bhutan to Burma” that would allow tiger populations to roam as freely across landscapes as it is their nature to do.

Two die of suspected poisoning (Kuensel)
13 February, 2008 - The Paro police have detained a 42-year-old man in connection with the suspected poisoning of two men, who died at around 6 pm on February 9 in Jishigang under Shari gewog, Paro.

‘Genetic corridors’ are next step to saving tigers (PhysOrg)
The Wildlife Conservation Society and the Panthera Foundation announced plans to establish a 5,000 mile-long “genetic corridor” from Bhutan to Burma that would allow tiger populations to roam freely across landscapes. The corridor, first announced at the United Nations on January 30th, would span eight countries and represent the largest block of tiger habitat left on earth.

“Genetic Corridors” Identified as Next Step to Saving Tigers (Newswise)
The Wildlife Conservation Society and the Panthera Foundation announced plans to establish a 5,000 mile-long “genetic corridor” from Bhutan to Burma that would allow tiger populations to roam freely across landscapes.

What the rat has in store…

14 February, 2008 -The lunar calendar is said to be the longest chronological record in history. According to a Buddhist legend, Lord Buddha summoned all the animals to come to him before he departed from Earth. Only 12 animals came to bid him farewell and as a reward he named a year for each one in the order they arrived. The animal ruling the year in which you were born exercises a profound influence on your life. As the Chinese say, “ this is the animal that hides in your heart.”

Ten questions

14 February, 2008 -Kinzang, 52, from Thimphu, has been living near the vegetable market in the city since she was born. This is what she has in store for Losar.

1. What do you do for living?
I have a house, which I rent out. I use the earnings from the rent on my expenses.

Looking for a team
14 February, 2008 -As our election process moves into the next phase - the official campaign period - many of us are asking how it will differ from the past months. And, if we have not already decided, we will be asking ourselves whom we will vote for.

Be IT savvy - Secure your Password
14 February, 2008 -Our grandparents didn’t need it, our parents were thrilled seeing it used in espionage- and technology-related movies, we now use it often, and our kids most probably won’t be able to start their day without it. What is it?

Ten questions

14 February, 2008 -Rekash Pradhan, 12, from Chargaray Samtse is a class VI student of Jigmi Losel primary school. A regular table tennis player and member of BTTF, this is what he has to say about the game he is most passionate about.

1. How long have you been playing table tennis for?
I have been playing it for three years now

Ping Pong- the growing game!!!

14 February, 2008 -Loud cheering from the jumpy crowd, sweat dripping down the napes of the two contenders lobbying the ball till one stomps his foot to smash the ball in the opponent’s face and the energy oozing from them until the last minute were some of the highlights of the Bhutan Olympic Committee Funakoshi Table Tennis finals played on January 27.

A place for youth

14 February, 2008 -The spring of 2008 will offer Thimphu’s youth a permanent opportunity to spend their free time away from the numerous video-gaming parlours and hanging around the clock tower-square.

Kurichhu shutdown to catch up on maintenance

Day-off, night-on power for 8 dzongkhags for 8 days

14 February, 2008 - The 60 MW Kurichhu hydropower station in Gyalpoizhing, Mongar, has shut down for eight days starting February 11, to allow Bhutan Power Corporation Limited (BPCL) to do maintenance work on substations and transmission lines in the eastern region.

Wild ginseng grows endangered

Giving home-grown ginseng a shot (in the dark!)

14 February, 2008 - It has been used in traditional Bhutanese medicine and in many Asian cultures as a nourishing stimulant to increase mental and physical efficiency, lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels and also to address sexual dysfunction in men.

Kheng faces acute shortage of Dzongkha teachers
14 February, 2008 - Promoting the national language has become an uphill task in the central district of Kheng with its schools facing a shortage of Dzongkha language teachers.




Bhutan News archive for 13 February 2008

Wednesday 13 February 2008 @ 1:29 pm

mechanical marvel: paro is the perfect pal (The News-Press)
The words “cuddly” and “robot” may be an awkward match, but no one tells that to Paro the robotic seal as they scratch his furry white head.

DPT lays its cards on the table (Kuensel)
13 February, 2008 - The Druk Phuensum Tshogpa promises ‘growth with equity and justice’ if elected on March 24 to form the first government in a democratic Bhutan.

Debate leaves something to be desired (Kuensel)
NEWS ANALYSIS 13 February, 2008 - The Sunday debate between the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) president, Sangay Ngedup, and Druk Phuensum Tshogpa (DT) president, Jigmi Thinley, barely lived up to the audience’s expectation and was hardly a model of Bhutanese political discourse.

Two die of suspected poisoning (Kuensel)
13 February, 2008 - The Paro police have detained a 42-year-old man in connection with the suspected poisoning of two men, who died at around 6 pm on February 9 in Jishigang under Shari gewog, Paro.

“Genetic Corridors” Identified as Next Step to Saving Tigers (Newswise)
The Wildlife Conservation Society and the Panthera Foundation announced plans to establish a 5,000 mile-long “genetic corridor” from Bhutan to Burma that would allow tiger populations to roam freely across landscapes.

‘Genetic corridors’ are next step to saving tigers (PhysOrg)
The Wildlife Conservation Society and the Panthera Foundation announced plans to establish a 5,000 mile-long “genetic corridor” from Bhutan to Burma that would allow tiger populations to roam freely across landscapes. The corridor, first announced at the United Nations on January 30th, would span eight countries and represent the largest block of tiger habitat left on earth.

Monkin’ around (The Lantern)
Kezang Dorjee from the Drukpa Mila Center creates the “Wheel of Dharma,” his 18th sand mandala since he moved to the U.S. from Bhutan in 2004. Dorjee worked on the symbol Thursday through Saturday in Hagerty Hall’s World Media and Culture Center.

Climate Change threatens future power supply from Bhutan to India (Deepika)
New Delhi, Feb 10 (UNI) Climate Change, caused by Global Warming, is going to affect power supply to India from the neighbouring Himalayan state of Bhutan in a big way in the very near future.

Militants apprehended (Kuensel)
13 February, 2008 - Six militants were caught by a Royal Bhutan Army patrol in Singay block, Sarpang dzongkhag, between February 5-7.

Border sealed and sterilised against bird flu entry (Kuensel)
13 February, 2008 - As an additional measure to prevent the outbreak of bird flu, the Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority (BAFRA) on February 9 started using disinfectants at all entry points along the southern border with India.

As the discourse begins
COMMENTARY 13 February, 2008 - As debates go, the exchange between the presidents of the People’s Democratic Party and the Druk Phuensum Tshogpa on Sunday was not a debate. In fact, it was not really an exchange either. It was an interpretation of their party manifestos.

Militants apprehended
13 February, 2008 - Six militants were caught by a Royal Bhutan Army patrol in Singay block, Sarpang dzongkhag, between February 5-7.

DPT lays its cards on the table
13 February, 2008 - The Druk Phuensum Tshogpa promises ‘growth with equity and justice’ if elected on March 24 to form the first government in a democratic Bhutan.

The Phuensum Tshogpa manifesto, running up to 40 pages, revolves around the Gross National Happiness (GNH) development philosophy and strengthening the four pillars of GNH to achieve the theme.

Debate leaves something to be desired

The PDP and DPT presidents: Fighting the good fight with a smile

NEWS ANALYSIS 13 February, 2008 - The Sunday debate between the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) president, Sangay Ngedup, and Druk Phuensum Tshogpa (DT) president, Jigmi Thinley, barely lived up to the audience’s expectation and was hardly a model of Bhutanese political discourse. Yet the debate could prove consequential because the race is likely to be close.

Rehab centre closes down under a cloud
13 February, 2008 - After repeated advice from friends and family, Dorji Phuntsho on January 14 this year joined Rewa (meaning hope), the only rehabilitation centre in the country, to battle his alcohol addiction.

Two die of suspected poisoning
13 February, 2008 - The Paro police have detained a 42-year-old man in connection with the suspected poisoning of two men, who died at around 6 pm on February 9 in Jishigang under Shari gewog, Paro.

Border sealed and sterilised against bird flu entry

Disinfecting incoming traffic, vehicular and on foot

13 February, 2008 - As an additional measure to prevent the outbreak of bird flu, the Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority (BAFRA) on February 9 started using disinfectants at all entry points along the southern border with India.

Class XII results out
BBE RESULTS 12 February, 2008 - Bhuwan Giri, a science student from Motithang Higher secondary school, has topped the Bhutan Higher Secondary Education Certificate (BHSEC) class XII examination 2007 with an average score of 88.75 percent.

Post-mortem of poor performance
CLASS 10 RESULTS UPDATE 12 February, 2008 - Only 32 percent of students scored above 60 percent in the 2007 class X Bhutan Certificate of Secondary Education Examination prompting education officials to call it one of the worst performances in recent years.

Fire guts two houses in Jimthang

The absence of a motor road was a major setback in tackling the fire

12 February, 2008 - About fifty farmers, saw mill workers and 30 fire-fighters saved a house from a fire, which gutted two traditional houses at about 11 am in Jimthang, Thimphu on Wednesday, February 6.




Bhutan News archive for 12 February 2008

Tuesday 12 February 2008 @ 2:17 pm

Climate Change threatens future power supply from Bhutan to India (Deepika)
New Delhi, Feb 10 (UNI) Climate Change, caused by Global Warming, is going to affect power supply to India from the neighbouring Himalayan state of Bhutan in a big way in the very near future.

Bhutan again blames refugees for bomb blast (Nepalnews. com)
Bhutanese authorities have blamed the Communist Party of Bhutan, reportedly based in Nepal, for having hand in the second blast that took place in south-west Bhutan on the night of February 3.

Class XII results out (Kuensel)
BBE RESULTS 12 February, 2008 - Bhuwan Giri, a science student from Motithang Higher secondary school, has topped the Bhutan Higher Secondary Education Certificate (BHSEC) class XII examination 2007 with an average score of 88.75 percent.

Fire guts two houses in Jimthang (Kuensel)
12 February, 2008 - About fifty people - farmers - saw mill workers and 30 fire-fighters saved a house from a fire, which gutted down two traditional houses at about 11 am in Jimthang, Thimphu on Wednesday last.

Preparatory study to improve rural power supply (Kuensel)
12 February, 2008 - In an effort to help accomplish Bhutan’s goal of ‘electricity for all by 2020’, a preparatory study on ‘improvement of efficiency for rural power supply’ was signed between the department of energy (DoE), Bhutan Power Corporation (BPC) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on Tuesday 5 February.

Post-mortem of poor performance (Kuensel)
CLASS 10 RESULTS UPDATE 12 February, 2008 - Only 32 percent of students scored above 60 percent in the 2007 class X Bhutan Certificate of Secondary Education Examination prompting education officials to call it one of the worst performances in recent years.

Explosion rocks Bhutan again (Gulf Times)
THIMPHU: A powerful explosion rocked Bhutan yesterday while two more bombs were defused, the latest in a string of blasts in the otherwise peaceful and isolated Himalayan kingdom, officials said.

Halfway around the world … (East Tennessean)
While most of us were preparing for the holidays or maybe just celebrating being out of school for the semester, 15 students and faculty members from the storytelling graduate program embarked on an adventure to a place where most foreigners never go. On Dec.

South Asia’s democratic gambit (Asia Times)
This year promises to be pivotal in South Asia’s transition to democracy. While India is frequently touted as the “world’s largest democracy”, its international neighborhood is one of “democracy deficit”.

Climate risks concern Everest climber (UPI)
Dawa Steven Sherpa already has climbed Mount Everest in Nepal but the 23-year-old wants to do it again to draw attention to the dangers of global warming.

Class XII results out
BBE RESULTS 12 February, 2008 - Bhuwan Giri, a science student from Motithang Higher secondary school, has topped the Bhutan Higher Secondary Education Certificate (BHSEC) class XII examination 2007 with an average score of 88.75 percent.

Post-mortem of poor performance
CLASS 10 RESULTS UPDATE 12 February, 2008 - Only 32 percent of students scored above 60 percent in the 2007 class X Bhutan Certificate of Secondary Education Examination prompting education officials to call it one of the worst performances in recent years.

Fire guts two houses in Jimthang

The absence of a motor road was a major setback in tackling the fire

12 February, 2008 - About fifty farmers, saw mill workers and 30 fire-fighters saved a house from a fire, which gutted two traditional houses at about 11 am in Jimthang, Thimphu on Wednesday, February 6.

Trashiyangtse: The ultimate eco tourism destination

What could prove to be golden geese for the valley

12 February, 2008 - If you visit Trashiyangtse towards the end of 2008, expect an enormous signboard welcoming you to the dzongkhag.

As you move on, several more boards will inform you about trails and places you are approaching. On reaching the town, a beautiful park will greet you, along with a host of other natural attractions.

Preparatory study to improve rural power supply
12 February, 2008 - In an effort to help accomplish Bhutan’s goal of ‘electricity for all by 2020’, a preparatory study on ‘improvement of efficiency for rural power supply’ was signed between the department of energy (DoE), Bhutan Power Corporation (BPC) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on Tuesday 5 February.

Much to be done
12 February, 2008 What should we do at the end of a year? Look ahead to the new year.

Bhutan, this year, has special reason to do so. We have been eagerly awaiting historic events like the celebrations of a centenary of the Bhutanese Monarchy, the parliamentary elections, and the Coronation of His Majesty the King, all scheduled for 2008. Our future, therefore, is already here.

Sonam Dukpa jailed for three years nine months
11 February, 2008 - The proprietor of SD Eastern Bhutan Coal and Ferro Silicon Company, Sonam Dukpa, has been sentenced to three years and nine months in prison without bail for unlawfully demolishing a badminton court within the police premises without any right or reasonable ground and for tarnishing the image and the credibility of the Royal Bhutan Police.

Supreme Court construction still on
11 February, 2008 - Putting to rest rumours that the construction of the Supreme Court had been called off judiciary officials said on Wednesday that its construction would begin as soon as the inter-ministerial tender committee completes evaluating the re-tendered bids.

From the astrologer
11 February, 2008 - The Male Earth Rat Year, which began from February 8, will be blessed with timely rainfall and the country’s leaders and people will enjoy good health according to the datho (astrological calender) com-piled by the Institute of Astrology in Pangrizampa, Thimphu.

The final lap
commentary 11 February, 2008 - Ordinarily, asking a party candidate who will win the race is the ultimate exercise in futility. Even if candidates wanted to be honest, they are still not the people to ask a horse-race question, because their perspective is warped by their tshogpas and supporters always telling them how great they are do-ing. The only thing you learn from the question is how skillfully a candidate can turn it to his advantage. To gloat over his lead or preach about substance versus process, or action versus words.




Bhutan News archive for 11 February 2008

Monday 11 February 2008 @ 3:16 pm

Climate Change threatens future power supply from Bhutan to India (Deepika)
New Delhi, Feb 10 (UNI) Climate Change, caused by Global Warming, is going to affect power supply to India from the neighbouring Himalayan state of Bhutan in a big way in the very near future.

Bhutan again blames refugees for bomb blast (Nepalnews. com)
Bhutanese authorities have blamed the Communist Party of Bhutan, reportedly based in Nepal, for having hand in the second blast that took place in south-west Bhutan on the night of February 3.

Explosion rocks Bhutan again (Gulf Times)
THIMPHU: A powerful explosion rocked Bhutan yesterday while two more bombs were defused, the latest in a string of blasts in the otherwise peaceful and isolated Himalayan kingdom, officials said.

From the astrologer (Kuensel)
11 February, 2008 - The Male Earth Rat Year, which began from February 8, will be blessed with timely rainfall and the country’s leaders and people will enjoy good health according to the datho (astrological calender) com-piled by the Institute of Astrology in Pangrizampa, Thimphu.

Sonam Dukpa jailed for three years nine months (Kuensel)
11 February, 2008 - The proprietor of SD Eastern Bhutan Coal and Ferro Silicon Company, Sonam Dukpa, has been sentenced to three years and nine months in prison without bail for unlawfully demolishing a badminton court within the police premises without any right or reasonable ground and for tarnishing the image and the credibility of the Royal Bhutan Police.

Three held in foiled ULFA hijack plot (rediff.com)
The arrests were made on the basis of confessions made by arrested ULFA cadre Manoj Tamuly, who was allegedly trained by an Inter Services Intelligence operative.

Police unearth hijack plan of Ulfa in Assam (Deepika)
Guwahati, Feb 10 (UNI) The United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) was planning to hijack an Air India plane in Guwahati, senior police officials today said.

The final lap (Kuensel)
commentary 11 February, 2008 - Ordinarily, asking a party candidate who will win the race is the ultimate exercise in futility.

His Majesty confers Red Scarf to the Gyalpoi Zimpon (Kuensel)
11 February, 2008 - His Majesty the King conferred the Red Scarf to Gyalpoi Zimpon Penjore at the Tashichhodzong on February 7.

NEPAL: Thousands of Bhutanese refugees ready to resettle in third countries (AlertNet)
Source: IRIN The international community is working actively with the Nepalese government to help resettle thousands of Bhutanese refugees in Europe and North America, with the USA alone accepting at least 60,000 refugees, according to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR).

Sonam Dukpa jailed for three years nine months
11 February, 2008 - The proprietor of SD Eastern Bhutan Coal and Ferro Silicon Company, Sonam Dukpa, has been sentenced to three years and nine months in prison without bail for unlawfully demolishing a badminton court within the police premises without any right or reasonable ground and for tarnishing the image and the credibility of the Royal Bhutan Police.

Supreme Court construction still on
11 February, 2008 - Putting to rest rumours that the construction of the Supreme Court had been called off judiciary officials said on Wednesday that its construction would begin as soon as the inter-ministerial tender committee completes evaluating the re-tendered bids.

From the astrologer
11 February, 2008 - The Male Earth Rat Year, which began from February 8, will be blessed with timely rainfall and the country’s leaders and people will enjoy good health according to the datho (astrological calender) com-piled by the Institute of Astrology in Pangrizampa, Thimphu.

The final lap
commentary 11 February, 2008 - Ordinarily, asking a party candidate who will win the race is the ultimate exercise in futility. Even if candidates wanted to be honest, they are still not the people to ask a horse-race question, because their perspective is warped by their tshogpas and supporters always telling them how great they are do-ing. The only thing you learn from the question is how skillfully a candidate can turn it to his advantage. To gloat over his lead or preach about substance versus process, or action versus words.

His Majesty confers Red Scarf to the Gyalpoi Zimpon
11 February, 2008 - His Majesty the King conferred the Red Scarf to Gyalpoi Zimpon Penjore at the Tashichhodzong on February 7.

Retiree numbers hit all time high
6 February, 2008 - The number of retirees from both the civil and armed forces combined reached an all time high of 2,174 people in 2006-07, with a number of civil servants resigning to join politics and the army trimming its strength, according to the NPPF’s seventh annual report.

The downside of rising life expectancy
6 February, 2008 - It is as yet years away but could most likely happen if measures are not taken. As Bhutanese live longer, with better medical care, the pension plan will reach a stage where the benefits it pays out would be more than the contribution it receives.

From the Incas to the kewa datshi
PART V: Potato driving socio-economic changes
Potato and rural income

6 February, 2008 - For many regions, especially those above 2500 m, potato is presently the only economic cash crop available. Not having potato would, not only reduce the income of the farmers but might even have hampered the possibilities of sending their children to school. For households at elevations above 2,900 m (Ura, Phobji and Gangte) the value of potato typically represents over 80 percent of the agriculture production and accounts for almost 100 percent of the agriculture products sold. In these locations it is not unusual for a household to sell potato worth Nu. 2 -300,000 annually.

Bomb blast in Samtse
Breaking news 4 February, 2008 -
Twelve days after four bombs exploded in four different dzongkags, another bomb exploded in Samtse last night.

There is such a thing as a free lunch!

The snowball ticket to a free meal

4 February, 2008 - Here’s a way to get a free meal in Bumthang at the height of winter.
If you relish red rice with shakam (dried beef), ezay (traditional pickle) and suja (butter tea), put together small quantities of all these ingredients that would make a meal.




Bhutan News archive for 10 February 2008

Sunday 10 February 2008 @ 4:16 pm

Climate Change threatens future power supply from Bhutan to India (Deepika)
New Delhi, Feb 10 (UNI) Climate Change, caused by Global Warming, is going to affect power supply to India from the neighbouring Himalayan state of Bhutan in a big way in the very near future.

Bhutan again blames refugees for bomb blast (Nepalnews. com)
Bhutanese authorities have blamed the Communist Party of Bhutan, reportedly based in Nepal, for having hand in the second blast that took place in south-west Bhutan on the night of February 3.

Explosion rocks Bhutan again (Gulf Times)
THIMPHU: A powerful explosion rocked Bhutan yesterday while two more bombs were defused, the latest in a string of blasts in the otherwise peaceful and isolated Himalayan kingdom, officials said.

Police unearth hijack plan of Ulfa in Assam (Deepika)
Guwahati, Feb 10 (UNI) The United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) was planning to hijack an Air India plane in Guwahati, senior police officials today said.

NEPAL: Thousands of Bhutanese refugees ready to resettle in third countries (AlertNet)
Source: IRIN The international community is working actively with the Nepalese government to help resettle thousands of Bhutanese refugees in Europe and North America, with the USA alone accepting at least 60,000 refugees, according to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR).

Letters (Washington Post)
Michael Getler’s review of Jacob Weisberg’s The Bush Tragedy (Book World, Jan. 20) cites what Weisberg describes as my “conspiracy theories” about Saddam Hussein’s involvement in 9/11.

Declaration By United Revolutionary Front, Bhutan (Scoop.co.nz)
After careful study of the manifestation of the political development in Bhutan and the future impact, we have come to the conclusion that all the new changes which so much is being hyped is just cosmetic and in reality is not going tobenefit all the Bhutanese except a small section.

XO As A Tool To Preserve Language/Culture (LinuxElectrons)
The first dialect to be setup for use on the XO is Limbu. This is a Tibeto-Burman language spoken by more than 300,000 people in eastern Nepal as well as parts of Myanmar, Bhutan and India.

Bomb attack in Bhutan ahead of first polls: police (AFP via Yahoo! News)
A powerful explosion rocked the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, the latest in a string of blasts ahead of landmark elections next month, a police spokesman said.

Bomb hits Bhutan ahead of election to end royal rule; No injuries reported (AP via Yahoo! Malaysia News)
A bomb blast hit the tiny Himalayan nation of Bhutan, and local officials Tuesday blamed communist rebels living as refugees in neighboring Nepal and seeking to disrupt next month’s elections.

Retiree numbers hit all time high
6 February, 2008 - The number of retirees from both the civil and armed forces combined reached an all time high of 2,174 people in 2006-07, with a number of civil servants resigning to join politics and the army trimming its strength, according to the NPPF’s seventh annual report.

The downside of rising life expectancy
6 February, 2008 - It is as yet years away but could most likely happen if measures are not taken. As Bhutanese live longer, with better medical care, the pension plan will reach a stage where the benefits it pays out would be more than the contribution it receives.

From the Incas to the kewa datshi
PART V: Potato driving socio-economic changes
Potato and rural income

6 February, 2008 - For many regions, especially those above 2500 m, potato is presently the only economic cash crop available. Not having potato would, not only reduce the income of the farmers but might even have hampered the possibilities of sending their children to school. For households at elevations above 2,900 m (Ura, Phobji and Gangte) the value of potato typically represents over 80 percent of the agriculture production and accounts for almost 100 percent of the agriculture products sold. In these locations it is not unusual for a household to sell potato worth Nu. 2 -300,000 annually.

Bomb blast in Samtse
Breaking news 4 February, 2008 -
Twelve days after four bombs exploded in four different dzongkags, another bomb exploded in Samtse last night.

There is such a thing as a free lunch!

The snowball ticket to a free meal

4 February, 2008 - Here’s a way to get a free meal in Bumthang at the height of winter.
If you relish red rice with shakam (dried beef), ezay (traditional pickle) and suja (butter tea), put together small quantities of all these ingredients that would make a meal.

Local deity sparks off water war

4 February, 2008 - Fights for water during the transplanting season are common in Bhutan but for Lhadon, 59, from Trong Pam in Zhemgang, her battle is for drinking water. And it has been dragging on for three years.

Song and dance duo wins global award (again)

4 February, 2008 - Fondly known as Tashi among his colleagues, Toshihiro Tanaka, deputy resident representative of UNDP, entered Bhutan four years ago, a stranger yearning to learn about the country’s tradition and culture.

Embezzler gets 5 years

4 February, 2008 - The Zhemgang district court sentenced the former branch assistant of Bhutan Development Finance Corporation Limited (BDFCL) in Zhemgang to five years in prison for embezzling about Nu 800,000 of the corporation’s funds.

Breeding a new fungi-resistant maize variety at Lingmethang

Maize trials are on in the fields of Mongar

4 February, 2008 - Researchers with the Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre in Wengkhar, Mongar, have initiated a programme to come up with a maize variety to resist the turcicum leaf blight and gray leaf spots fungal diseases, that were reported in the past two years.

13 Bhutanese for Mumbai BPO

3 February, 2008 - Thirteen young Bhutanese will start their working careers in the Indian city of Mumbai working for a Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) company or what is commonly known as a call centre.