KUENSEL THAT THE PEOPLE SHALL BE INFORMED

T U E S D A Y, A P R I L 1 6 , 2 0 2 4 • N u 2 0

Businesses Weather
call for policy
reforms for THIMPHU
economic
development 22
MAX
4
MIN
Thukten Zangpo

The business community has

asked the government for policy
TRASHIGANG
reforms after stating that they are
facing location-specific chal-
lenges with a limited consumer
base that hinders their growth.
27
MAX
11
MIN
The business community
of the nine central and east-
Lyonpo Tshering opened an exhibition titled “Art and Buddhism” at the National Museum
Inside
ern dzongkhags, along with
Phuentsholing, shared this in Paro yesterday. The Museum Division under the Department of Culture and Dzongkha
during the consultative meeting Development, Ministry of Home Affairs, initiated the Artist Collaboration Programme to
and awareness sessions con- promote community engagement and foster collaboration between the museum and artists. HOME
ducted by the Bhutan Cham-
ber of Commerce and Industry
(BCCI) and the Voice for Green
Change Partnership (V4GCP)

BCTA enforces stricter

Project between April 1 and 10.
Businesses expressed a pro-
active approach to promoting

regulations on vehicle
3
tourism in central and eastern
Bhutan. They suggested imme- 350 scouts trek
diate interventions to facilitate ancient
tourist entry and exit through
Samdrupjongkhar and Ngan-
glam, as well as enabling local
advertisements Trans-Bhutan Trail

…driving institutes protest HOME

airlines to establish direct
flights between these regions Sherab Lhamo those belonging to the three emphasised. However, phone
and key international hubs. armed forces, are prohibited numbers are prohibited from
Business representatives Bhutan Construction and from displaying inappropriate being included in these dis-
stated that such policy adjust- Transport Authority (BCTA) billboards, banners, and stick- plays. This restriction is in
ments would naturally attract has started taking actions ers on the vehicle’s bonnet, place to prevent the displays
investments in tourism infra- against the display of stickers windows, and rear, regardless from being used for advertis-
structure and enhance business and banners on vehicle bodies of whether they are registered ing purposes.

7
services. in accordance with the Road with BCTA. In response, driving insti-
According to the press re- Safety Transport Regulations of This measure, he said, was tutes expressed their discon- Tshering Peldon:
lease from the BCCI and V4GCP, 2021, specifically Section 423. implemented to prevent dis- tent and has written a letter to Making history at
policymakers often cite the lack Driving institutes have tractions for other drivers on the Ministry of Infrastructure Everest Base Camp
of amenities as a barrier to tour- been notified about these mea- the road. and Transport.
ism development. sures, causing dissatisfaction According to the official, The representative of the
However, it is increasingly among them. vehicles are allowed to display driving institutes said that ap-
evident that inadequate policies Section 423 of the Road billboards, banners, and stickers proval was obtained from the
are equally responsible for the Safety Transport Regulations on both sides of the vehicle once Quality and Standardisation
region’s underperformance in stipulates that inappropriate they receive approval from the Division under the erstwhile
this sector. billboards, banners, and stickers relevant authority. The letters Ministry of Labour and Human
They want the dzongkhag on vehicle exteriors are prohib- on these displays should be no Resources.
administrations to develop en- ited, with exceptions requiring larger than 10 centimetres, and This approval, he argued,
ticing tourism packages in re- approval from the Authority. the color can be chosen freely. was sought to enhance the safe-
www.kuenselonline.com
sponse to any shift in tourism An official from BCTA clari- These displays are intended ty of driving school vehicles.
policies. Pg 2 fied that all vehicles, including to carry social messages, he Pg 2
HOME
PAGE 2 Tuesday, April 16, 2024 | KUENSEL

Businesses call for policy reforms for economic development

From Pg 1 vate sector.
BCCI and V4GCP recognise Another concern raised by
the immense potential of cen- businesses was on the selection
tral and eastern Bhutan to offer of Thromde Thuemi, mandated
unique and captivating tourism by existing laws. Currently,
experiences, according to the Thromde Thuemis are elected
press release. by business communities with-
However, the key lies in fos- out requisite business experi-
tering participatory and inclu- ence, leading to bureaucratic
sive decision-making processes inefficiencies and disconnects
that engage both industry ex- with business needs.
perts and local communities in Concerns were also raised
product development. about improving access to fi-
Insufficient development nance and the operations of
policies, extending beyond tour- state-owned enterprises (SOEs).
ism, would lead to challenges These concerns are perceived as BCCI meets with the business representatives of nine dzongkhags
such as rural-urban migration, detrimental to local businesses’
Meanwhile, the State Min- plants near industrial clusters to consider deferring loan repay-
land degradation, and labour interests. Additionally, there is
ing Corporation Limited imports ensure a reliable power supply, ments for an additional three
shortages otherwise, the press a call to review the mandate of
machine and vehicle spare parts, thereby sustaining domestic to five years to alleviate finan-
release states. SOEs.
lubricants, stationery, and other industries. They noted that in- cial burdens, particularly since
Businesses representa- The representatives high-
items that are readily available in dustries are currently facing in- businesses in central and eastern
tives also raised concerns over lighted that the retail opera-
local markets. consistent power supply, which Bhutan are still grappling with
thromde policies where it had tions of the Food Corporation of
Businesses also urged the hampers their operations. the aftermath of the Covid-19
impacted business investments Bhutan Limited (FCBL) directly
government to tackle fronting The exporters are calling pandemic.
due to inadequate land alloca- compete with small retailers,
issues at the border, especially for streamlined export routes The issues raised by the busi-
tion and short lease periods. which undermines their viabil-
after the widespread occurrence to Bangladesh, citing tariff and ness community from Phuent-
They call the government ity. They expressed the view that
of fronting and the preference of non-tariff barriers that hinder sholing will be separately sub-
to review these policies to align FCBL should function primarily
Bhutanese customers to shop trade. They believe that enhanc- mitted to the Prime Minister.
them with the macroeconomic as a wholesaler to benefit small
across the border. ing trade facilitation measures The consultative meeting,
aspirations outlined by the pri- retailers.
They attributed this trend to will unlock the full potential of supported by the European
ineffective policies. Bhutan’s export sector and foster Union and led by the Handicrafts
Additionally, businesses economic growth. Association of Bhutan, aimed to
BCTA enforces... proposed investing in small hy- Additionally, businesses are foster a sustainable, inclusive,
dropower and renewable energy requesting the government to and resilient economy.

NOTICE INVITING TENDER

BHUTAN POWER CORPORATION LIMITED
Distribution Department
Distribution & Customer Services Division
Electricity Services Division
Phuentsholing, Bhutan
City buses have been able to make a minimum of BPC/ESD/PLG/W-22/2024/214
Nu 30,000 yearly through advertisement
Tender No. : BPC/ESD/PLG/W-22/2024/213
From Pg 1 BCTA for advertisements on Work Name : Labor Contract for Right of Way (RoW) Clearing and Pole Painting
The representative also their buses.
He added that from the
of Distribution System under ESSD Tsimalakha and Lhamoizingkha
highlighted the costs involved,
stating they incurred approxi- revenue generated from these (Package C).
mately Nu 3,500 to Nu 4,500 per advertisements, CBS’s reliance The Electricity Services Division, Bhutan Power Corporation Limited (BPC),
vehicle to display the stickers. on government funding has de- Phuentsholing, re-invites sealed bids from Small Class National Contractors
Removing the stickers, they say, creased from 50 to 30 percent.
The advertisements dis- with W4 (Power and Telecommunications) Category having valid trade license
could cost around Nu 3,000 more
per vehicle. played on the buses have a maxi- and registered with the Construction Development Board (CDB) for the above-
The representative said that mum time limit of one month mentioned work package. The bid details are as provided below:
displaying information about from the date of approval or until
a) Sale of bid document 16 April 2024 to 3rd May 2024
the driving schools and contact the relevant event they are pro-
numbers on vehicles serves as moting is concluded. b) Cost of bid document Nu. 1,000.00 (Non-refundable)
a cost-effective way to promote The smart card systems, al- c) Bid security Nu. 44,097.00
their business and presence in lowing buses to be hired and dis- d) Place of Sale ESD, BPC, Phuentsholing
the market. playing advertisements were the e) Date of submission 6 May 2024 (12:00 hours)
The representative said that only sources of revenue for CBS.
f) Place of submission ESD, BPC, Phuentsholing
Section 423 does not clearly de- He said the advertisement
fine what constitutes appropriate revenue is based on sharing g) Opening date 6 May 2024 (15:00 hours)
billboards, banners, and stickers, basis, currently, Samuh is doing h) Place of opening BPC Conference Hall, Phuentsholing
nor does it provide clear guide- the marketing, designing, print- A complete set of bidding documents may be purchased from the office of the
lines for exceptional cases. ing stickers and pasting it to the Chief Divisional Manager, ESD, BPC, Phuentsholing upon submission of copies of
Director of City Bus Services city buses. From which CBS is
getting some percentage of the
valid trade licence, CDB registration certificate and tax clearance certificate along
(CBS), Pasang Tshering, said
that CBS had obtained approval profit. He said yearly they have with a written application. For any queries, contact +975-5-254429/252100.
from the Bhutan InfoComm and made around a minimum of
Chief Divisional Manager
Media Authority (BICMA), and 20,000 to 30,000 yearly.
 HOME
Tuesday, April 16, 2024 | KUENSEL PAGE 3

RCSC plans to implement

performance dashboard
…the issue of assessments and due recognition has been at the heart of many RCSC reforms
Dechen Dolkar since been refined to encom- The official also said that tivity in performance assess- fessionals took place from
pass essential areas for objec- PD played a crucial role in ment, which has often been January 30 to February 2,
The Royal Civil Service tive performance assessment. helping supervisors track or- the bone of contention during 2024. The task force oversee-
Commission (RCSC) has an- An official from RCSC said ganisational result areas and the moderation process. ing this review comprised
nounced plans to overhaul that within the PD, there was make necessary adjustments “It is important for super- members from the National
and introduce the Perfor- a section for individuals to throughout the year. visors to utilise the PD effec- Medical Services (NMS),
mance Dashboard (PD) as regularly update their perfor- PD is integral to the per- tively to fully realise its ben- RCSC, and health experts
a tool for assessing the per- mance that could be reviewed formance evaluation process, efits within the organisational from Singapore.
formance of individual civil by supervisors. encompassing target setting, system,” the official said. The Commission has de-
servants. Supervisors can provide continuous monitoring, and According to the recently cided to adopt the PD changes
As per RCSC, the PD further directives and up- year-end evaluation, the published consolidated re- and continue to improve the
serves as a personalised work dates. RCSC official said. “It forms port by the Royal Civil Ser- current PDs for all heads of
plan for individual civil serv- “As its name suggests, the the basis for performance vice Commission (RCSC), departments for health pro-
ants; it is designed to align PD functions as a transpar- moderation, taking into ac- the commission has decided fessionals.
closely with organisational ent dashboard outlining what count the competencies of to conduct a review of perfor- The Commission also
objectives, key results, key an individual is expected to civil servants at different po- mance management within plans to roll out new PMS fea-
performance indicators, and achieve within the fiscal year sition levels.” the health and education sec- tures for school leaders and
performance standards. or academic year, facilitating The official said that ef- tors. staff, including the standard
Introduced alongside monitoring and engagement forts have been made to The review meeting performance dashboard and
the Managing for Excellence between supervisors and su- enhance the PD to increase concerning performance moderation mechanics.
framework in 2017, the PD has pervisees,” the official said. objectivity and reduce subjec- management for health pro-

350 scouts trek ancient Trans-Bhutan Trail

YK Poudel benefits of being in nature,”
she said.
Saturday, April 13—Chimi The trail passes through 27
Tenzin, 41, a teacher of gewogs, 12 mountain passes,
Lungtenphu Middle Second- five suspension bridges, and
ary School prepared his hik- 10 cantilever bridges, and can
ing gears, neatly dressed with visit 21 temples, 77 choetens,
a scarf around his neck and and 30 stupas.
rushed towards Lungtenzam-
pa bus terminal for 10 Kilome- Scouting
tres Trans-Bhutan-Trail (TBT) Globally, the scouting move-
walk. ment has over 57 million
“By 8:30 am, 11 buses ad- members—in 1960s the pro-
justing 350 participants drove gramme was introduced in
towards Dochula pass for the Bhutan.
TBT walk—which ended by 5 It was introduced in the
pm,” Chimi Tenzin said. 1960s under the command of
He was among a troop His Majesty The King, Jigme
of other scout participants Singye Wangchuck.
including school principals, The programme was instituted at national level by the Trans Bhutan Trail Office in 2022 Nawang Gyaltshen, dep-
adult scout leaders, staff and core values in scouting. concept as a part of the train- trail passes through Haa, Paro, uty chief programme officer,
youth leaders of 35 schools “The TBT provides scouts ing,” he said. Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue, Scouts and Sports Division,
under Thimphu Thromde. Of with an opportunity to engage “Along the way, at various Trongsa, Bumthang, Mongar, Department of Education
the total participants, 200 were in outdoor activities, develop locations scouting yells and and Trashigang—taking ap- Programmes, said that Bhutan
females and 150 males. lifelong skills and an adventur- dances were performed, giving proximately 36 days. However, Scouts Association (BSA) aims
It is an annual event co- ous experience,” Dorji Gyelt- a new experience for many,” people can opt to take different to achieve 100 percent school
ordinated as one of the main shen said. he said. “The walk specifically trails within the nine dzong- enrolment by 2030.
programmes with the support The motive behind, he served as a networking session khags. “The whole-school ap-
from Bhutan Scouts Associa- said, is to revive usage of the for scouts under Thimphu Tshering Dolkar, execu- proach, initiated in 2013, has
tion (BSA). ancient route from Dochula Thromde and discussed scout- tive director of TBT, said that resulted in over 82 percent of
This programme was insti- to Yusipang—foster a sense ing plans in their respective the trail freely accessible for school children joining the
tuted at the national level by of community vitality and ex- schools—which other schools all has gained international scouting movement, impact-
the Trans Bhutan Trail Office plore biodiversity of the par- can inculcate.” awareness, garnering regional ing Bhutan’s educational
in 2022. ticular place. “Back in 2022, I took part in and international tourists—al- landscape,” he said. “Bhutan
Dorji Gyeltshen, secretary Similarly, Chimi Tenzin the 403 Kms TBT walk between though there is no exact count has received high membership
of Thimphu Thromde Scouts said that the involvement of Haa and Trashigang which of the trekkers. growth awards from Asia-Pa-
Association, said that the tourists at Dochula for the was tough. The trail now, has “TBT connects the trekkers cific Region Support Centre for
TBT has drawn the interest of warm-up session was an in- been well maintained, trekked with the local community. As it three consecutive years.”
scouts due to its unique and teresting beginning. “The plan by the tourists and is worth ex- passes through the local com- As of 2023 data, there are
challenging terrain, natural of one-week immersion pro- ploring,” he said. munities across nine dzong- 131,876 scouts (64,868 male
landscapes and the opportu- gramme for Gyalsups where khags. One can gain exposure and 67,008 female)—under
nity for cultural immersion they will get to travel across Trans Bhutan Trail on Bhutanese culture and tra- five different scouting sec-
which are among the many the country is a commendable The TBT, an ancient 403 Kms ditions along with the health tions.
EDITORIAL
PAGE 4 Tuesday, April 16, 2024 | KUENSEL

Dissecting the MY COUNTRY, MY TOWN

referral issue

H
ealth professionals are on the operating table
to dissect an issue that has been burdening the
hospitals, particularly the “bigger” hospitals.
At a recent symposium, doctors, medical
superintendents, district medical officers,
talked openly about how not to burden hospitals without
hampering health services.
This is good, if not late. The biggest problem the so-called
big hospitals (the regional and national referral hospitals)
are facing is the sheer number of people visiting them. While
a few cases are referred from the dzongkhags on genuine
conditions, the rest are self-referrals. Many feel that, even for
a simple illness, the regional or the national referral hospitals
are the best to visit.
The pressure is there from the self-proclaimed experts.
Visiting a sick anywhere will never end without the advice
of needing a visit to JDWNRH. What is not known is that
self-referrals or referrals on requests, is overwhelming the
A sunny smile: The star of our solar system complete with corona presents a nice example
hospitals that have different priorities- treating serious of reuse Photo: Tshering Doma
patients, let’s say.
From the recent symposium, what has come to light is
that there are strategies that can prevent referrals without
compromising health care. In fact, some are feeling that
referrals by choice or by request- which is very common - is Send in your pictures to: [email protected]
adversely hampering patients.
After years, even decades, of pumping resources in
improving our health centres including outreach clinics,
MY SAY
what we have failed to convince is that a lot of common
ailments can be cured at the gewog or dzongkhag level BHUs
or hospitals. There are success stories of major surgeries in
district hospitals even if they are not reported. Seasoned
On the rise of scams:
doctors are stationed in our district hospitals if patients
listen to professional advice and not decide by ego or wealth.
Hungry for easy money?
If strategies like the Package of Essential Non- I am writing about a concerning OTPs, facilitating fraudulent sonal and financial security.
communicable Diseases and Service with Care and trend. More than Nu 9 million transactions,” a media report The recent surge in fraudulent
Compassion Initiative can reduce the burden on hospitals, has been scammed from the stated. Are the public really into activities, resulting in over Nu
it should be taken up immediately. Health officials are saying public between 2023 and April easy money? Do we make sure 9 million being scammed from
2, 2024, with a rise in victims our accounts are secure and the public, underscores the
that insisting on referrals could cause the patient more harm
totalling 17 in 2024 compared stay alert? urgency of awareness and pre-
than good by delaying treatment. A broken leg from a fall, for to 11 in the previous year. While some victims have caution.
instance, needs immediate attention which a health assistant Media reports state that alerted authorities, many only Prompt reporting and pro-
can provide, In fact, the first aid is the crucial part. Referral Thimphu residents are the pri- seek assistance after significant active measures are crucial
could wait. Quite often, the expectation is to be driven or mary targets, falling prey to var- delays, rendering recovery dif- in thwarting such scams and
even airlifted to Thimphu. ious tactics such as email hack- ficult. The ongoing investigation preserving trust in online in-
Our doctors and health officials are aware of this. There ing, OTP theft, and deceptive has led to freezing several recipi- teractions. Ultimately, staying
is more than their knowledge to decide referrals. Let’s be investment schemes including ent accounts, shedding light on secure from scams is essential
honest, many times, it depends on who is sick and not the Qnet and Tallwin. the complexities of combat- for protecting oneself and oth-
sickness. “Despite warnings from ing such scams. Vigilance and ers from exploitation and finan-
A good example is right under the nose of us all. In authorities, including the Bank prompt reporting remain crucial cial harm.
of Bhutan and other organiza- in mitigating financial fraud.
Thimphu, the national referral hospital, which should be
tions, individuals continue to Staying vigilant against Suk Bir
attending to serious patients and emergencies are bogged share sensitive information and scams is vital to safeguard per- Damphu
down by self-referrals. For instance, the outreach clinics in
the thromdes could attend to a lot of patients. Many prefer
waiting and seeing a doctor at the JDWNRH.
There are repercussions. A doctor in Thimphu sees Make your opinions known. Send your letters to
around 40 to 50 patients a day. Their counterparts in the
countries they studied must be seeing a maximum of 20 a
day. Most are not serious and can be attended to by a general
[email protected]
practitioner or a health assistant at the clinics. Letters are edited for space and clarity
If decision makers are serious, there is no need for WHO
sponsored studies to make a decision. Referring patients
to India is a good example. It is done only when we do not
have the expertise or the facility. A committee of doctors FOR NEWS, VIEWS, AND FEEDBACK
screen the need for referrals ensuring transparency and email [email protected]
accountability and success of treatment.

CEO - Ugyen Penjor, EDITOR - Jigme Wangchuk, PRINTING GM - Thinley Namgyel, MARKETING AND SALES GM - Karma J Yangzom
 WORLD
Tuesday, April 16, 2024 | KUENSEL PAGE 5

Debt-for-nature swops could give $136

billion boost to climate fight, says report
LONDON - Debt-for-nature based on, estimate the coun-
swops, in which poorer coun- tries focused on collectively
tries have debt written off in owe US$431 billion, mostly to
return for protecting ecosys- wealthier governments, the
tems such as barrier reefs or IMF itself and pension and
rainforests, could provide hedge funds.
US$100 billion (S$136 billion) At the same time, these
for the fight against climate countries received less than
change, a new report has cal- US$14 billion in climate fi-
culated. nance, according to 2021 fig-
The British-based non- ures from the Organisation for
profit International Institute Economic Cooperation and
for Environment and Devel- Development, which is sig-
opment (IIED) based the esti- nificantly less than they need
mate on the possibility of debt to limit climate change or at
swops in many of the 49 less- least adapt to it.
developed countries seen as The aim of IIED’s report is
most at risk of debt crises. to encourage a drive for more
Belize, Ecuador, Barba- debt swops at the upcoming
dos, Gabon and Cabo Verde IMF and World Bank Spring
have all done such swops in meetings, which start later
recent years and Ms Laura this week.
Kelly, the director of IIED’s Ms Kelly said countries
sustainable markets research that could benefit included
Ghana too, which like Sri forests. Kelly said, adding that many
group, said many of those in Pakistan, Sri Lanka and The
Lanka is now restructuring its “For governments (that countries were interested in
debt distress and also often Gambia in West Africa, which
debt, is another obvious can- do debt swops) it creates potentially doing them.
most threatened by global is at “huge risk” of sea level
didate. One of its key exports, some fiscal space, but also it
warming were looking at rise, she stressed, and needs
cocoa beans used for choco- helps to achieve outcomes in
them. to invest heavily in flood pre-
late, could thrive if more is terms of climate and nature
The IMF and World Bank, vention and wetland preser-
done to protect its vital rain- that have global impact,” Ms
whose figures the analysis is vation.

Record heat rots cocoa beans, threatening Ivory Coast agriculture

ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast - Sur- pushes up the temperature of consume and our industry”,
rounded by cocoa trees and a large part of the South Pa- only make matters worse, said
intense heat, Mr Christian cific, said Mr Konate, recently a geo-economist and environ-
Andre Yapi is forced to admit appointed the first African mental activist Nahounou
that the precious beans are vice-president of the United Pierre Lautti Daleba.
no longer growing as they Nation’s World Meteorology
should, a major problem for Organisation.
the world’s leading producer. “Human activity: what we
“The beans are turning
black,” and rotting, he tells
AFP at his plantation near
Agboville, 70km from the eco- NOTICE TO UPDATE BANK
nomic capital Abidjan. ACCOUNT AND TPN NUMBERS
“They are not growing
properly because of the heat.” ROYAL INSURANCE CORPORATION
The leaves on the trees
usually provide shade for the OF BHUTAN LIMITED
pods, but the sun “is drying No. RICB/CSRU/AGENT/2024/5222
them up and they are falling” to a record 41 deg C at Dim- head of the higher school of
off the trees, said Mr Yapi. brokro in central Ivory Coast agronomy in the Ivorian capi- Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan Limited
It is so hot he can work in February, said Mr Daouda tal Yamoussoukro. notifies our Sales Executives that we have
only in the morning, leaving Konate, head of the national “The quantities of water been unable to pay out the outstanding agent
plenty of spare time to dwell weather agency Sodexam. available will not be sufficient commission due to a lack of bank account number
on his losses. Normal temperatures for for proper growth and there
“Normally in the ‘off’ sea- that time of year would be will be no blossom. Without
and TPN (Taxpayer Permanent Number) details for
son I get up to 1,000kg,” he between 35 deg C and 36 deg flowers... no fruit,” he said. some of our sales executives.
said, but this year, he expects C, he added. Soil temperatures increase
just 300kg.
We, therefore, request all sales executives to
Ivory Coast has not been in line with air temperatures
The heavy rains in 2023 alone in battling the hot leading to greater water evapo- update their bank account numbers and TPN
have given way to high tem- weather over the region. ration, noted Mr Kone. details by contacting/visiting our branch offices
peratures, particularly be- In Mali, the town of Kayes, Agriculture represents a or the Corporate Office, RICB, Thimphu. You may
tween January and March, in the south-west, suffocated quarter of Ivory Coast’s GDP also email our Sales Executive Administrator at
which have slashed the cocoa under 48.5 deg C heat in early and provides half of all em-
crop, which accounts for
[email protected] with your name, CID no,
April. ployment.
nearly 45 per cent of global Long-lasting and intense “This year is different and Agent code) to update your details.
production. periods of heat stress plants, because of El Nino”, a natural
For more help, call us @1818 during office hours.
The thermometer climbed said agronomist Siaka Kone, weather phenomenon which
Advertisement
Page 6 Tuesday, April 16, 2024| KUENSEL

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT
Druk Holding and Investments Limited
DHI/HRA/4/2024/402

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Dept. of Investments degree.
2. Associate Analyst, Investment Must have bachelor’s degree in business/finance/economics with a min. of 60% in degree if
Abroad Division, Dept. of 1 general degree, or 55% if honours degree. Min. of 70% in class XII (aggregate of English and
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Asset Trading Division, Dept. of 1 general degree, or 55% if honours degree. Min. of 70% in class XII (aggregate of english and
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Must have bachelor’s degree in computer science or in related fields with a min. of 60%
4. Associate Analyst (Network),
1 aggregate. Min. of 70% in Class XII (aggregate of English and best four subjects) and in Class X
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Must have bachelor’s degree in economics/mass communication/BBA/B.Com with a min. of
5. Analyst, Jigme Namgyel
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DHI would like to inform the interested candidates to register and submit the application through DHI e-Recruitment system. For details and
filing of application, please visit DHI website at www.dhi.bt
The candidates are required to create their profile on the e-Recruitment system and make sure to upload the following documents required
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• Curriculum Vitae.
• Copy of Master’s/Bachelor’s Degree Certificates and Academic transcripts, Academic transcripts of class 10 & 12.
• Letter of work experience (if applicable) • Copy of Citizenship ID Card.
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Associate Director, CSD

Your Relationship
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housing
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Contact # 17702915/322353.
Loan Deferment ending on 30th June, 2024
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 HOME
Tuesday, April 16, 2024 | KUENSEL PAGE 7

Tshering Peldon: Making history

at Everest Base Camp
Chencho Dema

At 43 years old, Tshering

Peldon has made history as
the first Bhutanese woman
to reach the base of Mount
Everest.
Remarkably, she accom-
plished this feat within an
unprecedented timeframe,
reaching the base camp in
just six days. This journey
typically spans twice as long,
making her achievement a
testament to both her per-
sonal resilience and the in-
domitable spirit of Bhutanese
mountaineers.
The standard trek from
Lukla to Everest Base Camp
and back typically takes 12
to 14 days.
In a remarkable solo
endeavor, Tshering Peldon
embarked on her journey to
the base camp accompanied
only by a local guide and a
porter. Beginning her trek
on April 5, she navigated the
rugged terrain with determi-
nation.
Just six days later, stand-
ing triumphantly at the base
camp of Mount Everest, she
unfurled the national flag, a
symbol of her extraordinary Mount Everest
skill and unwavering perse-
verance in the face of daunt-
8,848m
ing challenges. experience highlighted the As a single mother,
In a single day, Tshering vital role of safety measures Tshering faced numerous
Peldon undertook an impres- Everest Base Camp in navigating the demanding challenges while raising her
sive trek covering between terrain. children, but now that they
18 to 20 kilometres, pushing Tshering is from Norbul- have completed their studies
Goraksek
her physical limits amidst the ing, Gelephu, and currently and grown into independent
rugged terrain. Lobuche manages a business in Thim- individuals, she finds herself
She managed to compress phu. contemplating her own as-
two to three typical trekking As a mother of two pirations.
days into one, demonstrating daughters, both studying in Encouraged by her eld-
her endurance and determi- Dingboche Canada, her responsibilities est daughter, who champions
nation to maximise her time once curtailed her passion her pursuit of personal fulfill-
in the mountains. for hiking after an early mar- ment, she feels empowered
In an interview with Kue- Fortse riage. With her daughters to prioritise her own dreams
nsel, Tshering Peldon said: Namche it unfeasible at the moment. now grown, she finds her- and aspirations for the first
“On my 43rd birthday, I ful- However, she expressed self liberated to pursue her time in years.
filled a long-held dream— contentment in having expe- long-held dreams. Despite She has already accom-
Monjo
trekking to Everest Base rienced and felt the majestic her education up to Class 10, plished impressive treks,
Camp. It wasn’t just about presence of Everest. her determination and spirit reaching heights of 5,000
personal achievement ; it “But perhaps one day,” remain undiminished. metres at Mount Jomolhari
was about inspiring my two she added optimistically, “I In 2011, she embarked and exploring Singye Dzong
daughters and all young girls will undertake the journey to on her fitness journey, rec- in 2021.
to believe in themselves.” Lukla the summit.” ognising that age is merely Undeterred by past chal-
She continued, “I left our Reflecting on her journey, a number when it comes to lenges, she now sets her
flag at the summit, a symbol determination. It served as a Tshering recounted facing pursuing one’s dreams and sights on an upcoming trek to
of our community’s strength. reminder that with unwaver- challenges such as altitude maintaining physical well- Dagala alongside her friends,
I felt connected to home, as ing belief in oneself and resil- sickness, nausea, and head- being. Her commitment to eager to continue her adven-
fellow climbers recognised ience in the face of adversity, aches along the arduous staying active and healthy tures in the breathtaking
where I was from.” the boundaries of possibility path. led her to take up hiking in landscapes of her homeland.
Tshering’s trek to the are limitless. She emphasised the im- 2019, further demonstrating “I have Snowman Trek on
base camp of Mount Everest Asked about her decision portance of preparedness, her belief in the power of de- my bucket list,” she said. “If
wasn’t merely about fulfilling not to summit Mount Everest, advising fellow trekkers to termination and resilience it’s about mountain, I would
a lifelong ambition, it repre- Tshering said that financial carry an oximeter to monitor to overcome obstacles and love to explore more moun-
sented a profound journey of investment required made oxygen levels. Her firsthand fulfill aspirations. tains in the future.”
 DIVERSION
PAGE 8 Tuesday, April 16, 2024 | KUENSEL

Quick CLUES
Kwik Xword
Puzzle 1918 © Gemini Crosswords 2011 All rights reserved Across
ic Clues 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Quick Clues
1 Severely self-denying

Health
d night fliers put back to bed (7)
(7) 5 Across
Open to the
elements1 (7)
Severely self-denying
9 Careful study (7)
Capsule
s profession? (7)
h a damp course is essential (7)
9 10 5
10 Vogue (7)
9
Open to the elements
Careful(5)
11 Unsympathetic study (7)
n Chinese food wanting much more (7) 10
12 Central Vogue (7)
one off drill (5) 11 12
11 country
American Unsympathetic
(9) (5)
e for a job (9) 12 having
13 Worth Central(9) American coun
-sitter? (4-5) 15 Verify
13 (5)Worth having (9)
orbed in a steel merger (5) 16 Quickly (5)
15 Verify (5)
13 14 15 18 Begin trading
that could be open before the end of July (5) 16 Quickly (5)
operations (3,2,4)
d like cattle (9) 18 Begin trading operatio
21 Contain (9)
ou serve yourself tea if care is exercised (9) 24 The21 Contain
lowest (9)
point (5)
16 17 18 19 20
d an injury? (5) 24
25 Built (7)The lowest point (5)
ork? (7) 25 Built (7)
26 Enjoying
erhaps that is following a pop band (7) 26 streak
a winning Enjoying a winning str
(2,1,4)
the market at street junctions (7) 21 22 23 24 27 Colonist (7)
27 Colonist (7)
ions about foreign currency (7) 28 Freedom
28 Freedom from vanity (
from vanity (7)
25 26
Down
expansion (7) Down 1 Express approval of (7
1 Express approval of (7)
fresh discussion (7) 2 Eager to learn (7)
2 Eager to learn (7)
ction? (6,3) 3 Special operation unit
3 Special
27 28
e heavy loads from different yards (5) 4 unit
operation Punctuation
(4,5) mark (5)
untant may be after this three-card trick (9) 5 Capable
4 Punctuation mark (5) (9)
April 13 answers
ves everything up to mother (5) 6 (9)
5 Capable Puzzling problem (5)
Across: 1 Legion, 4 Baccarat, 9 Normal, 10 Shantung, 12 Toboggan, 13 Moment, 15 Yale,
s good tips for writers (7) 16 In the money, 19 Quid pro quo, 20 Skip, 23 Intact, 25 Bewilder, 27 Bona fide, 28 Vision,
7 Small
6 Puzzling problem rounded
(5) pebble
clutches at straws in general disorder (7) Solutions to last week’s puzzles
29 Exercise, 30 Merger.
7 Small 8rounded
A European monarchy
wers stand here when assembled (9) pebbles
14(7)Mere spectator (9)
P I S T O N H A N D S O M E L E G I O N B A C C A R A T
8 A European
r army manoeuvres? (5,4) Down:
O I 1 Lengthy,
R M
2 Garibaldi, A 5 Ache, 6 EConsomme,
E 3ROrange, A R 7 Rouse,C8 Tightly,
O O11 I 15 Humbly (3,2,4)
O S C A R S C O M P A C T S N O R M A L S H A N T U N G monarchy (7)
a (7) Rainbow,
R K 14EChaucer,
F 17 NoA kidding,
S Z 18
T Specific, 19GQuibble,
I 21 Partner,
N R E22 Finite,
S S24 H 16 Eternal (7)
14 Mere spectator (9)
of the police force if trained (7) Tinge,
B A 26L LOdds.
R O O M G R O Y N E T O B O G G A N M O M E N T 17 Of
15 Humbly long ago (7)
(3,2,4)
O E Y R Z T R H A E I C M L
suer of royal dreams? (7) X R A Y A B L E S E A M E N Y A L E I N T H E M O N E Y 19 (7)
16 Eternal Repulsive (7)
for car drivers (7) Rebus
V O E
P R E S U M A B L E
A D A
S N A P
D S B
Q U I D P R O Q U O
A E O
S K I P
17 Of 20
long Aagoculinary
(7) herb (7)
wet coils (5) I T R O G O A U E W C F I A 22 Roadside
19 Repulsive (7) accommoda
sposed to prognosticate (5) T E R E S A Q U A R T E R S I N T A C T B E W I L D E R 20 A culinary
23 Rush herbin(7)rage (5)
C O I O S O U T B I I O R N D T 22 Roadside
H O L D D OW N L O U V R E B O N A F I D E V I S I O N accommodation (5)
E L E L V R U L G I D T N E
D I S T R E S S M E T E O R E X E R C I S E M E R G E R 23 Rush in rage (5)
Sudoku Excuse me Extended family Solution on Thursday

ton, 4 Handsome, 9 Oscars, 10 Compacts, 12 Ballroom, 13 Groyne, 15 X-ray, 16 Able Across: 1 Legion, 4 Baccarat, 9 Normal, 10 Shantung, 12 Tobo
resumable, 20 Snap, 23 Teresa, 25 Quarters, 27 Hold down, 28 Louvre, 29 Distress, 30 money, 19 Quid pro quo, 20 Skip, 23 Intact, 25 Bewilder, 27 Bo

WIZARD Merger.

box, 2 Sick leave, 3 Orrery, 5 Amos, 6 Departed, 7 Orczy, 8 Eastern, 11 Forbear, 14 Down: 1 Lengthy, 2 Garibaldi, 3 Orange, 5 Ache, 6 Consomme
Manoeuvre, 18 Outsider, 19 Pitched, 21 Pasteur, 22 Groove, 24 Rolls, 26 Owls. Chaucer, 17 No kidding, 18 Specific, 19 Quibble, 21 Partner, 22

How to play
Fill in the grid so
that every row, every
column, and every 3
X 3 box contains the
numbers 1 through 9.
Answer
 HEALTH
Tuesday, April 16, 2024 | KUENSEL PAGE 9

Around 3.2 million children under

5 to be given vitamin A in Nepal
2.9 million children above one year will be administered deworming tablets. Campaign
is estimated to have reduced deaths among children under five by 23 percent
Kathmandu—Around 3.2 crucial to preventing many
million children between six childhood diseases and re-
and 59 months across the ducing the mortality rate
country will be administered among children under five,
vitamin A supplements in a according to child health ex-
two-day nationwide cam- perts.
paign scheduled for Thursday The vitamin A supple-
and Friday. mentation and deworming
Every year, the Ministry campaign had coverage rates
of Health and Population of over 94 percent, the highest
launches the nationwide among all health campaigns
vitamin A supplementation run in the country in the past.
campaign in the third week However, the coverage de-
of April. clined to just over 80 percent
The Nutrition Section of in recent years.
the Family Welfare Division In 2020, a lot of children
of the Department of Health missed out on vitamin A sup-
Services, which is responsi- plementation and deworming
ble for running the campaign, because of the pandemic.
said that 2.9 million children According to the World
between one and five years of Health Organization, vitamin
age will also be administered A deficiency causes visual
deworming tablets. Around 52,000 female to be very high until two dec- cess story in Nepal, as it has impairment (night blindness)
“All necessary prepara- community health volunteers ades ago, has been almost helped tackle the deficiency and vulnerability to illnesses
tions for the campaign have are deployed nationwide for eliminated, according to of vitamin A among children, like measles and diarrhoea
been completed,” said Lila the campaign conducted in Thapa. which used to be a major pub- among children. The supple-
Bikram Thapa, chief of the April and October every year Vitamin A deficiency is re- lic health concern. Regular ment boosts immunity and
section. “We will request all since 2003. sponsible for nearly a fourth supplementation campaigns ensures children’s natural
parents of eligible children to It is because of supple- of global child mortality from are estimated to have reduced growth.
ensure that they get vitamin A mentation campaigns like measles, diarrhoea and ma- deaths among children under
supplements and deworming these that night blindness laria. five by 23 percent.
tablets.” among children, which used The campaign is a suc- Deworming tablets are

Bangladesh among nations with highest

burden of viral hepatitis B, C
Finds WHO study
Bangladesh, China, India and the Sustainable Development had been diagnosed and ap-
Pakistan are among the 10 Goals, it says. proximately 3 percent (7 mil-
countries, which collectively The disease is the sec- lion) had received antiviral
shoulder nearly two-thirds ond leading infectious cause therapy at the end of 2022.
of the global burden of hepa- of death globally -- with 1.3 Regarding hepatitis C, 36 per-
titis B and C, says the World million deaths per year, the cent had been diagnosed and
Health Organization’s latest same as tuberculosis, a top in- 20 percent (12.5 million) had
report on the viral infection. fectious killer, the said WHO received curative treatment.
The six other countries report. These results fall well
are Vietnam, the Philippines, The report says new data below the global targets to
Ethiopia, Indonesia, Nigeria, from 187 countries show the treat 80 percent of people liv-
and Russia, according to the estimated number of deaths ing with chronic hepatitis B
report released at the Global from viral hepatitis increased and hepatitis C by 2030. How-
Hepatitis Summit in Geneva from 1.1 million in 2019 to ever, they do indicate slight
on Tuesday. 1.3 million in 2022. Of these, nosed and treated,” said WHO 58 percent of all cases. but consistent improvement
The report has sounded 83 percent were caused by Director-General Tedros Ad- Although new incidence in diagnosis and treatment
an alarm on viral hepatitis in- hepatitis B, and 17 percent by hanom Ghebreyesus. of the disease estimates indi- coverage since the last re-
fections, saying the number hepatitis C. Every day, 3,500 Updated WHO estimates cates a slight decrease com- ported estimates in 2019.
of lives lost due to the viral people are dying globally due indicate that 254 million pared to 2019, the overall Funding for viral hepa-
hepatitis is increasing. to hepatitis B and C infec- people live with hepatitis B incidence of viral hepatitis titis both at a global level or
Achieving universal ac- tions. and 50 million with hepatitis remains high. In 2022, there within dedicated country
cess to prevention, diagno- “This report paints a trou- C in 2022. Half the burden were 2.2 million new infec- health budgets, is not suffi-
sis, and treatment in the 10 bling picture: despite progress of chronic hepatitis B and C tions, down from 2.5 million cient to meet the needs, says
countries by 2025, alongside globally in preventing hepati- infections is among people in 2019. the WHO.
intensified efforts in Africa, is tis infections, deaths are ris- 30–54 years old, with 12 per- Across all regions, only 13
essential to get the global re- ing because far too few people cent among children under 18 percent of people living with
sponse back on track to meet with hepatitis are being diag- years of age. Men account for chronic hepatitis B infection
SPORTS
PAGE 10 Tuesday, April 16, 2024 | KUENSEL

Jigme Losel PS takes

home Sonam R Tshomo
Memorial Cup. Sixteen
Thimphu schools
participated—10
government and six
private schools. The
winners were given a
cash prize of Nu 7,000
with a trophy, medals,
and certificates.

Arsenal and Liverpool stumble as momentum

shifts in Man City’s favour
Arsenal revelled in a scene of Jurgen Klopp has receded - Anfield.
high anticipation when they although there is still time for Arsenal’s performance car-
walked out to face Aston Villa another twist in the tale - in ried all the hallmarks of a team
but were left looking at a sea what has been a dreadful week weighed down by the pressure
of empty red seats 90 minutes for Liverpool. on them to deliver, as they fell
later as the Premier League The added worry for Klopp to their first league defeat since
title race took a potentially is a team counting potency being beaten 2-1 by Fulham on
pivotal twist. among its greatest threats has New Year’s Eve.
Liverpool stumbled first in suddenly looked blunt at the The usual sharpness was
a shock home defeat by Crystal worst possible time, with just lacking and defensive vulner-
Palace before Arsenal’s sup- two goals scored in their past ability displayed in the Cham-
porters, well at least those of three matches. pions League quarter-final
them left, departed Emirates Can Klopp galvanise and against Bayern Munich was
Stadium as stunned as their inspire one last time for a glo- on show again - with Gabriel
Anfield counterparts after rious flourish? It is a mighty particularly uncertain.
Mikel Arteta’s side slumped challenge in his final days at BBC
to a 2-0 loss.
The title pursuit is no- trooped in to the Emirates plying pressure, as we have
where near over with only buoyed by the favour Palace seen in previous campaigns, TOMORROW
two points separating the top had bestowed on them by but even they could not have
three, but there is an ominous- completing a dismal week for expected both their rivals to
ly familiar feel to Manchester Liverpool after the draw at struggle in home games on the Good Day • to do dead activities
City’s presence at the top of Manchester United and heavy same day. • to perform annual • to sell property
the table when the pressure Europa League quarter-final Pep Guardiola and his City offering
valve is tightened. beating by Atalanta at Anfield. players will have enjoyed the A good day for rituals (laza):
Bad Day those born in the tiger and rabbit years.
What will be so frustrating Liverpool looked leggy and ideal Sunday as they sat back • to build new
for Arsenal and Liverpool is stripped of their usual inten- with their feet up - having Generally a good day (sogza):
they were both architects of monuments
sity in the 1-0 defeat by Palace, beaten Luton 5-1 a day earlier
• to consecrate
those born in the monkey and rooster
their own downfalls with des- showing all the signs of run- - before watching Arsenal and years.
perately poor performances • to appease local deities
ning out of gas after energy ex- Liverpool implode on their
just when they needed victory • to start education A bad day (shedza):
pended in a chase - for a time own turf.
most. • to shift house those born in the ox and dragon years.
at least - of four trophies. Liverpool finally paid the
When the heat was on they However, the hope en- price for standing on the preci-
were both found wanting. gendered by Liverpool’s loss pice too often this season. Time of issue: 4:00 PM,
The big question now is actually seemed counter- Eberechi Eze’s goal was the April 15, 2024
can Arsenal and Liverpool hit productive for Arsenal, with 14th time they have conceded
back from such savage blows nerves sweeping around the first in the Premier League this
or has the title momentum Emirates in double-quick time season, including four occa-
shifted decisively in Manches- when an early breakthrough sions in their past five league
ter City’s favour? did not materialise. matches at home. Gasa Trongsa Bumthang Gelephu Phuentsholing
It was all so different be- The noise at times smacked They were pushing their
fore Sunday’s late kick-off,
with the Gunners having been
of desperation, of fear that old
failings might come back for a
luck to think they could come
back every time. Eventually
21 21 19 34 35
handed a huge opportunity to 3 6 3 21 19
side who were chased down so they would not get away with
re-assert their authority at the ruthlessly by City last season. it and this proved to be the day. Source: National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology.
top. They did. It means the Kop’s dream For any weather information: Call hotline 335578
Arsenal’s supporters City are the experts at ap- of a title-winning farewell for

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