KUENSELTHAT THE PEOPLE SHALL BE INFORMED FRIDAY, A UGUST 14, 2020
Those stranded RED ZONE Phuentsholing Population Thromde: 12,606 will be 20,319 (NSB, 2017) dealt case is Red Zone Area Following 12 new positive cases detected yesterday by case: PM Covid-19 cases Aug 11: Yangchen C Rinzin Following the nationwide lockdown on August 11, many Aug 13: people are stranded in various parts of the country because of restrictions on vehicle movement. Aug 13: Many had come for a day or two for their personal work, to attend a cremation, sports matches, and job interviews, among other reasons. Some have no place to stay while others are stuck in Chukha hotels and many are staying with relatives. Many people complained Weather that while they tried to get help, they either could not Younten Tshedup at the MDP as loaders had, 25-year-old as of late even- reach the right people or were the task force in Phuent- ing yesterday. THIMPHU asked to call various numbers ith growing sholing had restricted their Officials from the health without any solution. Some concerns movement by placing all the ministry said that it was even complained of con- that there workers together in a hostel very likely that the primary 26 16 cerned authorities allowing could be without any outside contact. contacts of the 12 new posi- MAX MIN travel to a few selected people. a possible Lyonchhen said that de- tive cases would also be the One of the stranded per- communityW infection in spite the quarantine meas- same as all of them had re- sons in Thimphu said that ex- Phuentsholing, the gov- ures put in place, some of portedly not moved out of pecting lockdown would lift ernment has declared the them could have sneaked the quarantine facility at the in two days, he put up with drungkhag as a red zone. out into the community. MDP. his relatives but now with While the government Considering the possibili- There were no second- more positive cases, he was maintained that technically ties, he said that compre- ary contacts as of yesterday. worried. 25 16 there was no local transmis- hensive investigation for a Risk assessment was MAX MIN “I can’t return home to sion of the virus since the community outbreak of the carried out but those falling Paro and its burden on rela- enforcement of lockdown virus in Phuentsholing was under high risk were moved tives. If I call for help I’m asked on August 11, the decision required. to primary contacts and to call another person then was taken following the de- For this, the prime min- those under minimal risks the person directs me to an- KUENSEL tection of 12 new Covid-19 ister said that Phuentshol- screened out. other person. I am confused.” positive cases yesterday. ing would be considered a With all essential im- Many shared that they The new cases are the red zone until all the con- ports currently enter- are confused as to who they primary contacts of the tacts of positive cases are ing the country through should ask for help. 25-year-old man who tested thoroughly tested. Phuentsholing, Lyonchhen While different dzongkhag positive from the RRCO’s While the entire nation said local transmission in administrations are trying to mini dry port (MDP) in remains under a lockdown, Phuentsholing would pose With the lockdown resolve the issue, it has been Phuentsholing on August starting yesterday addition- a serious challenge to the challenging with no proper di- hampering 11. al restrictions and surveil- country. rection and due to movement distribution of Prime Minister Dr Lotay lance has been enforced in The lockdown duration restrictions. Tshering said that although the drungkhag. could be extended if the Kuensel newspaper, Thimphu Dzongkhag the individuals were placed All essential movements situation there deteriorates. we request our alone recorded more than in a quarantine-like facility to and from Phuentsholing Meanwhile, the health 3,000 people stranded yester- subscribers to switch before they tested positive, will have to undergo strin- ministry has completed day. In one of the incidents, a to PDF or e-kuensel there was no guarantee gent Covid-19 screening mapping around 390 peo- father stuck in one of the ho- that they would not have at the Rinchending check- ple in Shershong, Sarpang for the time being. tels with his 3-year-old daugh- breached the guidelines. point. where the index case in Ge- ter requested the dzongkhag For details contact Given the risk the indi- More than 420 primary lephu (27-year-old woman) for food since the hotel’s 17538553. viduals (about 140) working contacts were traced for the tested positive. Pg 2 kitchen was closed. Pg 2 HOME PAGE 2 Friday, August 14, 2020| KUENSEL Those stranded will be Lunana gup dealt case by case: PM and 8 others stranded in Punakha Phurpa Lhamo | Wangdue with their relatives, others have rented rooms. Nine individuals from Lunana, Lunana Gup Kaka is also Gasa are today stranded in Pu- among those stranded in Pu- nakha. They came to buy their nakha. supplies and participate in the Gup Kaka said that a ma- coming cordyceps auction, jority of people returned to which was to be held next week Lunana who were mid-way to in Goenshari gewog, Punakha. Punakha when they heard of According to Daw Gyeltsh- the cancellation of the auction. en, 45, he reached Punakha on “I came here to organise the Sunday and had plans to leave cordyceps auction. I am also on Tuesday with supplies. planning to return home.” He added that he bought While the gup can leave for rice and other essential items, Gasa with the National Covid- PM at the press conference at Lungtenphu Covid-19 Command Centre which were to be taken home 19 Task Force’s instructions for the coming winter. People to allow officials to travel to From Pg 1 couldn’t release all as request- “We understand that they in Lunana stock essential items their resident dzongkhags, the Thimphu dzongkhag start- ed,” Lyonchhen said. “We can- are in the problem but please for winter, when the roads are movement of other stranded ed compiling the details from not let everyone travel due to consider this as a service to the closed due to heavy snowfall. residents from Lunana isn’t yesterday and the administra- protocols and people should country,” Lyonchhen said. “If “We buy goods for the ensured. tion would seek advice from the bear the inconveniences.” we allow the movement, it’ll winter and don’t travel down Punakha dzongkhag offi- government on how to assist. Similarly, in another inci- increase the risk of spreading between November and June cials are today collecting infor- A few were accommodated dent, about seven trucks that the virus, so we’re compelled to every year,” Daw Gyeltshen mation on stranded individuals in the dzongkhag guest house were stopped at Babesa in control the movement.” said. to render help. on the first day of lockdown. Thimphu were let go. Prime minister urged peo- The stranded individuals On August 12, the dzong- Many enquired when they There are 74 vehicles ple to understand the present also raised concerns over their khag helped send over 30 would be allowed to leave and stranded at Rinchending in situation the country is going horses, which are today left in individuals to their resident if they would be quarantined Phuentsholing to go to differ- through. Each dzongkhag ad- Goenshari and Jazeyphu in Lu- dzongkhags. once they are home. ent dzongkhags. Lyonchhen ministration is expected to help nana gewog. “While it is easy to send Prime Minister Dr Lotay said that until they manage to people if possible. Daw Gyeltshen said that home individuals with vehi- Tshering during the press brief- arrange testing kits, conduct In Wangdue 20 civil serv- people were worried that the cles, it was difficult for those ing yesterday said that while the the Covid-19 tests and declare ants stranded due to the horses would be lost if kept in without transport. Although we government understood the them as negative, they would lockdown were sent to their the wild for long. “The people want to help, we are not sure situation, it was not possible to not be allowed to move. dzongkhags with exception of from Esuna village in Lunana if other dzongkhags would be let everyone travel at once. “Such restrictions are only Phuentsholing with permission were informed that around willing to accept them,” a Pu- “The government is looking for the community’s purpose. from the National Covid-19 16 horses are missing from nakha dzongkhag official said. into the issue,” he said. We’re allowing movement only taskforce. Shari village in Goenshari, As of 8pm yesterday, Pu- Lyonchhen said that wher- to genuine and emergency As per government’s di- Punakha.” Many had plans to nakha dzongkhag recorded 33 ever possible, the government cases.” rective, the Paro Dzongkhag return to the horses within two stranded individuals including has instructed them to travel. Lyonchhen added all the taskforce members facilitated days. Although a majority of those nine from Lunana. On August 12, all those strand- stranded cases would be dealt movement for stranded people. the stranded individuals are ed in between were released. on a case by case basis and Movement for more than 100 “But many who had come critical cases are always given stranded people was facilitated for their personal works, we permission to travel. yesterday. Phuentsholing BPL plays only 6 matches is Red Zone From Pg 1 27-year-old woman. None of Thinley Namgay matches as of August 10. Paro FC had obtained three Health Minister Dechen the contacts have tested posi- Ugyen Academy FC, points. However, the club is Wangmo said that the min- tive to the virus so far. BoB Bhutan Premier League Thimphu City FC, Trans- ahead of others with maxi- istry would start testing the Lyonpo said that the (BPL) match between High port United FC, and Paro FC mum goal difference of seven. representative of the popula- chances of spreading the virus Quality United FC and Paro played two matches each and The club scored nine goals in tion (50 percent) that would were high if an infected per- United FC, supposed to be Tensung FC, Paro United FC total and conceived only two. include elderlies, young and son is symptomatic. “This is played on August 11 at the and High Quality United FC, Paro FC lost the match to people with comorbidities, because the viral load of the Changlimithang Stadium, has and Druk Stars FC with one Transport United on August 8 among others. individual is high which is why been postponed until further match each. at the Woochu Sports Arena. The test will start today. they become infectious.” notice due to the nationwide Ugyen Academy FC was On August 2, Tensung had The ministry has traced All the 12 new cases in lockdown amid Covid-19 leading the table with four a tie against Transport United a total of 339 primary and Phuentsholing are asympto- pandemic. points. at Changlimithang. secondary contacts of the matic for now. BPL could play only six The defending champions HOME Friday, August 14, 2020| KUENSEL PAGE 3 Digital payments soar during lockdown Staying safe with digital payment MB Subba Settlement Systems, in con- also set up a 24x7 Crisis Man- increase in digital payments tinuation to the public notifi- agement Command Centre is also attributed to the RMA The nationwide lockdown, cation issued by the RMA on (CMCC) with a toll-free num- Hotline of banks and banks’ rigorous digital which came into effect on availability of essential finan- ber of 1255 at the RMA as part BNBL - 6070 initiatives. August 11, has not affected cial services online, there was of the national Covid-19 lock- BOBL - 1095 Financial service providers most customers as they have a significant rise in usage of down response measures. T-Bank - 7070 also received a total of 860 en- switched to digital payment digital financial services in the The CMCC received a total DPNBL - 1313 quiry calls, of which 724 were methods. first two days of the lockdown. of 115 enquiries from across BDBL - 1424 resolved. The economy recorded “We continue to encour- the country during the first BIL - 2011 The calls were related to a total of 426,448 digital do- age the public to switch to in- two days of lockdown and all RICBL - 1818,1811 interbank fund transfer and mestic payment transactions ternet or mobile banking like of them were resolved. for Thimphu and internet banking issues, Mo- worth Nu 377.91 million (M) MBoB, Mpay, Tpay etc. pro- The CMCC works in close 1515,1511 for bile app, remittance outside during the first two days of the vided by the five commercial coordination with the entire Phuentsholing Bhutan and failed transactions lockdown. banks in the country, instead network of Bhutan’s financial NPPF - 1039 issues, loan inquiries, loan On the first day of the of relying on ATMs, POS, and service providers to ensure un- deferment queries, payment lockdown, the central bank cash. Banks will guide and interrupted delivery of essen- (RTGS) issues and inquiries on recorded 245,990 digital pay- support their clients in the tial digital financial services salary among others. ments worth Nu 236.75M. The digital drive,” director of the across the country, according the launch of eTeeru of Tashi Other calls were related value of transactions on the Department of Payment and to RMA. InfoComm. to insurance, loan deferment second day amounted to Nu Settlement Systems, Tshering The use of mobile wallets The RMA stated that it queries and loan applications. 141.16M from 180,458 digital Wangmo, said. has also seen an increase in was not only the Covid-19 The RMA has also request- payments. The central bank, in col- the volume of transactions pandemic that encouraged ed customers to call helpline According to the RMA’s laboration with the Financial processed, especially with more people to switch to the numbers of respective finan- Department of Payment and Service Providers (FSPs), has effect from March 2020, with digital payment system. The cial service providers. NCWC’s plan to prevent violence against children and GBV Yangyel Lhaden risks if proper measures are ral of children who have been veloping and implementing increase. Victims usually not put in place. separated from their parents guidelines for the provision sought help when the abusers “Women and children are and caregivers, creating op- of remote child protection were away from home. With disproportionately affected Need to strengthen family portunities to support routine management, provision of people being mostly at home, by health emergencies such and caregiving environ- contacts between children remote psychological support it provides less chance for vic- as Covid-19 or any other crisis ments and family members who for parents and caregivers by tims to run away or seek help. and humanitarian situation Children whose caregivers fall are physically separated. The counsellors, among others. To prevent gender-based due to their differential needs, ill or is quarantined, hospital- plan recommends training violence, the plan recom- power and capabilities.” ised or pass away are at higher frontliners to be child-sensi- Mental health and psycho- mends the relevant stake- This is according to risk of being left without pro- tive and responsive in cases logical support (MHPSS) holders to create awareness The National Commission tection and care. Children are where a child is separated for children, adolescents on GBV through mainstream for women and Children’s left unattended and unsuper- from parents and caregivers. and caregivers and social media platforms; (NCWC) Gender-based Vio- vised at home and children Taking into account the im- training frontliners on sexual lence (GBV) and Child Pro- under quarantine and treat- Protection from violence, pact of Covid-19 on children, violence, GBV response, and tection Emergency Prepar- ment may be deprived of pa- abuse and exploitation they could feel scared, isolat- safe referral psychosocial first edness and Response during rental care. According to the plan docu- ed and experience discomfort, aid; and increasing support to Covid-19 pandemic plan. The plan suggests col- ment, children whose family the plan recommends col- the shelters. NCWC recorded 47 do- laboration among relevant members fall ill are likely to be laboration among the relevant It is so incumbent on the mestic violence cases be- stakeholders such as Min- stigmatised and socially ex- agencies to provide online or stakeholders, according to tween January and April; total istry of Heath (MoH) to cluded. As household tension remote support, map MHPSS the plan, to ensure that sex- cases for 2019 was 77. The lat- strengthen identification and increases, domestic violence, actors and establish a refer- ual and reproductive health est record with Respect, Edu- referral of child protection corporal punishment, and ral mechanism for children needs for women and girls in cate, Nurture, and Empower cases to safe alternative care other forms of abuse against and families. Disseminating quarantine be provided, cre- Women (RENEW) shows that and should be prepared to children could happen during key messages, including posi- ate awareness on menstrual between January and July this deal with emergencies such restriction of movement and tive coping mechanism on hygiene, and strengthen ad- year, it received 407 domestic as quarantine and hospitali- Covid-19 situation. Sexual MHPSS through social media, vocacy to continue provision violence cases. It recorded sation. Stakeholders should harassment, exploitation and is seen as critically important of services to women and girls only 118 cases in entire 2019. ensure efficient family tracing neglect could lead to children intervention. requiring services. The plan states that the mechanism in case of family dropping out of school. The plan’s focus, among measures used to prevent and separation or loss of primary Training frontliners and Gender-based violence others, is on to develop- control the spread of Covid- givers. social workers is seen as an The plan states that isolation ing advocacy materials on 19 such as home-based, fa- This will, among others, effective way to achieve early is difficult and affects the in- the importance of sharing cility-based quarantine and entail reviewing standard identification and safe referral dividuals physically and men- household chores and care isolation measures could ex- operating procedures on through phone calls or home tally. Hence, of all forms of responsibilities through vari- pose children to protection quarantine to include refer- visits. The plan suggests de- gender-based violence could ous means. EDITORIAL PAGE 4 Friday, August 14, 2020 | KUENSEL MY COUNTRY, MY TOWN Need solutions to stop people from becoming panicky
fter 12 new positive cases in Phuentsholing, the border town has now been declared a red zone. What does that mean? An area is declared a red zone when it becomes the hotspot or has the highest Acaseload. We have 13 in Phuentsholing, the highest, excluding those detected from the quarantine centres. In some countries, a zone is declared red when, for instance, there are more than 100 cases per 100,000 population or more than 10 percent of diagnostic test results come back positive. This is not the case in Phuentsholing. The 12 new cases are asymptomatic and detected from a contained cohort. The red zone, in our case, means we initiate more stringent protective measures to prevent more people getting exposed to the risk. Lockdown windows: Erected before the outbreak, it’s like this place was built to The Prime Minister and the health minister oversee- keep the Covid-19 at bay Photo: Uttam Ghalley, Royal Monetary Authority ing the fight against Covid-19 still insist that the rising cases in the last few days should not be considered as a community transmission. Health officials are investi- Send in your pictures to: [email protected] gating the index cases. The country is already in a lockdown. So, measures initiated during red zone status in some countries like MY SAY limiting social gatherings, asking people to wear masks when going out or close businesses are out of the ques- tion. With the nationwide lockdown, we are already one step ahead in controlling a community transmission. Concerns from the people By yesterday, it was confirmed that those who worked at the Mini Dry Port in Phuentsholing where the during the lockdown 13 cases were reported, had travelled to other dzong- khags. But they are being traced and quarantined. As of Stuck in Phuntsholing help to go to my own home? cannot get access to Karma Sangay, Thimphu feed. Our country is only self- last night, five were traced and quarantined in Punakha. The country is facing a greater problem and I feel selfish sufficient in eggs so what is More are being traced, including those who had been when I tell out loud about my How can I go home? government’s decision to help to the port recently. Truckers in Wangdue, Trongsa and problems but the lockdown I live in Samtse and I am stuck poultry farms? Bumthang were also identified and isolated in quaran- happened all of a sudden in Phuentsholing as I was Budhi Maya tine facilities. There is no reason to panic. which did not allow anyone attending to my sick uncle at However, there are risks and people should be con- of us to prepare. I study in the hospital. He is discharged. Service providers not proving cerned. Given that the incubation period for the novel Namseling, Thimphu and I How can I return? service coronavirus can be up to 14 days after exposure, it is am in class eight. Before the Rachael Regan I have been trying to call the wiser to be safe than sorry. This gives us more reasons lock down I came to meet my Thuemi’s number 17640193 for essential number. He is to be concerned. father in Phuentsholing to Government should look into stay for a few days. I haven’t reaching people home safely either not responding my call The lockdown has caused inconveniences. People People who are stranded in or rejecting it. If he was not are stranded, are running out of essentials or getting packed enough and being a girl it is very problematic not hotels, at relative’s place, and going to receive calls then why bored at homes. Pandemic disrupts life, creates chaos to have proper changing and other uncomfortable places was his number mentioned? and brings disasters. We are only talking about incon- more over I’m more concerned would be the most vulnerable It is very inconvenient for us veniences. People are using every means to pressure the about all my books that I at the moment and would when the service providers do government to let them move despite appeals to stay left back in Thimphu, I am suffer a lot. If government could not provide services they are wherever they are, as movement could expose more concerned about my studies arrange vehicle for people to supposed to. people to the virus. as if I don’t study I would be drop them to their own homes Jamyang, Thimphu Despite the inconveniences, the safest and the surest detained in the same class. If would be the best solution. Volunteers should be made way to get out of the situation is to follow the protocols the government could look into Damudar to come upfront set by the government. the issue and help me go to Thimphu then I would be very Poultry farm hit the hardest The delivery of essential item Some problems have solutions. The many Covid-19 People with poultry farms are is met by any lapses. Mainly in task forces are exploring them. We may have been caught grateful. Sukmit Lepcha facing the most challenges as inadequate delivery van and off guard, but with better coordination, communication of now because there is not lack of manpower. If people and cooperation, most of the inconveniences can be ad- Stuck in Motithang enough Karma feed to the are made to volunteer for ease dressed. I am stuck here at my friend’s chickens and most farms have of delivery then I am willing to Sooner we find solutions to the problems created place in Motithang, Thimphu more than 100 chickens. The volunteer and contribute my by the lockdown, better will be the cooperation from and I live in Langjopakha, farm owners are worried their delivery van and man power. the public. Thimphu. Where can I seek chickens would die if they Tenzy, Gelephu
MANAGING DIRECTOR - Bachu Phub Dorji, MANAGING EDITOR - Ugyen Penjor, PRINTING GM - Karma Nima, MARKETING & SALES GM - Karma J Yangzom, KANGLUNG REGIONAL MANAGER - Ugyen Wangdi Q&A Friday, August 14, 2020| KUENSEL PAGE 5 Bhutan-India relations, an epitome of immaculate neighbourly relations On the eve of the 74th Independence Day of India, Ambassador of India to Bhutan, Ruchira Kamboj speaks to Kuensel on bilateral relations between the two countries
The 74th Independence students are heading to our Day of the Republic of prestigious IITs on full ride India on August 15 coin- scholarships, most notably cides with the peaking IIT Kanpur, IIT Bombay as of Covid-19 cases. What well as IIT Delhi. Further- would be the special focus more, an annual Youth Ex- of this year’s celebra- change Programme has been tions? developed by the Ministry of This year’s Independence External Affairs, Government Day is somewhat unusual. of India, with the active col- Covid-19 is yet rampant, and laboration of the RUB and the Bhutan is in the midst of a na- Royal Government of Bhutan, tionwide lockdown. But what which is poised to take off, stands out in the midst of all once the pandemic situation this, is the exemplary solidar- is behind us. ity between longstanding By October 2020 we friends, Bhutan and India in should see enhanced finan- combating the crisis together. cial technology cooperation Going forward, India will between our two countries stand alongside Bhutan to get through a full inter-operabili- past Covid-19, and to ensure a ty of the RuPay card launched sustainable recovery. jointly by the Bhutanese and Importantly and coin- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Lyonchhen Dr Lotay Tshering Indian Prime Ministers last ciding with Independence year, boosting e-payments, both ways. We are also work- Day 2020, Prime Minister prosperous world. Our aim is including Bhutan. This was also cooperating in new areas: ing on the use of the Bharat Narendra Modi has launched to ensure India’s position as a possible only because India space science and technology, Interface for Money (BHIM) key initiatives, Atmanirbhar key participant in global sup- set out on a path to achieve financial technology coopera- App in Bhutan to promote Bharat or the Self Reliant ply chains. Through building self-sufficiency. tion and digital connectivity. the culture of cashless pay- India Campaign, a new Na- capacities at home, we also Furthermore, Prime Currently, we are working ment on both our sides. tional Education Policy and intend to contribute to miti- Minister Modi launched an towards multiple goals which On Hydropower we the One Nation, One Ration gating disruptions in global Agriculture Infrastructure were agreed during the visit have recently inked the Card scheme, all of which are markets. We see no contradic- Fund of Rs. 1000 billion on of Prime Minister Modi in Au- Kholongchhu Concession aimed at the socio-economic tion between wanting to build 9 August 2020, which will gust 2019. Taking forward His Agreement, the first joint development of the people of our economic capacities and benefit farmers and help Majesty’s vision in harnessing venture project between our India. looking to play a bigger role in agri-entrepreneurs in build- space resources for the benefit two countries which should the global economy. ing farming assets and post- of the country and its people, open up a whole new chapter Aatmanirbhar Bharat is The Self-Reliant India harvest infrastructure, thereby both sides are collaborating of beneficial cooperation in chosen as the theme of Campaign is structured promoting self-sufficiency in on the joint development of Bhutan’s East. the 74th Independence around five key pillars of the agriculture sector. Simi- a small satellite for Bhutan. We are also working Day. What is the signifi- strengthening our econo- larly, the Government of India Other activities include, the towards enhanced con- cance? my, infrastructure, a sys- has decided to manufacture development of a geo-portal nectivities between our two Without exception, the tem driven by modern 101 defence items indige- system for Bhutan towards the countries, we have recently Covid-19 crisis has demon- technology, our vibrant and nously, reflecting another step mapping of natural resources opened an additional trade strated the importance of self- young demography, and towards self-reliance. as well as for disaster manage- route through the Pasakha sufficiency. Addressing the meeting our growing de- ment, using remote sensing Industrial Area, and we are nation on 12 May 2020, Prime mands by playing a bigger role Bhutan was one of the first and geo-spatial data. India’s exploring rail connectivities Minister Shri Narendra Modi in the global supply chain. countries to recognise In- National Knowledge Network as well. recognized this imperative Achieving rapid growth and dia’s independence in 1947 is now connected to Bhutan’s We are also honoured to and, accordingly, launched development will depend laying the foundations of DrukREN, creating thereby an work with Bhutan as you set the Aatma Nirbhar Bharat substantially on successful close relations. How have information highway, encour- up a Multi-Disciplinary Super Abhiyan or Self-Reliant India integration and assimilation of the relations changed? aging greater interaction be- Speciality Hospital in Thim- Campaign. To deal with all of these factors. Bhutan-India relations are tween our Universities, as well phu, which will backstop the the economic challenges For instance, at the start of indeed privileged, serving as as our research and student existing health infrastructure posed by the pandemic and the pandemic, India did not an epitome of immaculate communities. in the country. bring our economy back on produce sufficient medical neighbourly relations for the We have also launched Against the backdrop track, the Prime Minister an- equipment such as ventila- rest of the world. STEM-based cooperation of the Covid-19 pandemic, nounced a stimulus package tors and personal protection This multifaceted relation- initiatives that are aligned India has extended the fullest of nearly US$ 270 billion (Rs. equipment kits. Today, after ship covers myriad areas: de- with the priorities of the cooperation and support to 20,000 billion). having built up our capacities velopment cooperation; hydro Royal Government of Bhutan. Bhutan in terms of ensuring When India speaks of over a period of a few months, power; trade and commerce; Subsequent to the signing of uninterrupted movement self-reliance, we are not advo- we are now producing these education and, of course, our MoUs between RUB and IITs of commodities, facilitating cating a self-centered system. items on a massive scale and shared historical, cultural Delhi, Bombay and Kanpur the return of over 1,350 Bhu- Rather, we believe that a self- are even supplying them to and people-to-people link- during the visit of Prime tanese nationals, handing sufficient India, a country that other countries, as well as to ages. Importantly, and in this Minister Modi to Bhutan last is an emerging global leader, our neighbours in the region, technology-driven era, we are year, Bhutanese engineering Pg 6 will inevitably lead to a more Q&A PAGE 6 Friday, August 14, 2020| KUENSEL Bhutan-India relations, an epitome of immaculate neighbourly relations From Pg 5 the RuPay cards in Bhutan Enrolment Ratio (GER) in tions and their counterparts in going forward. India will al- and the subsequent launch school education by 2030 Bhutan. ways stand alongside Bhutan. over essential medicines and of Bhutan’s Quick Response and increase of 50% GER in I am pleased to share that medical supplies to Bhutan, code, which will enable the higher education by 2035. pursuant to the announce- India recently started as well as the virtual training use of the BHIM app, an In- Key aspects of NEP2020 that ment of the India Bhutan human trials of Covid-19 of Bhutanese health profes- dian digital payment interface, should find resonance with Friendship Scholarship in vaccines. The Bhutanese sionals. We are honoured in Bhutan. Bhutanese policy makers are: 2020, two students from Bhu- government have ex- that India’s gesture has been A recent important visit the emphasis on Foundational tan will be heading to IIT, Kan- pressed its interest to be publicly appreciated by the was that of the Indian Minister Literacy and Numeracy with pur this year, which is a first a part of the trials. Would Bhutanese leadership and of Railways and Commerce & no rigid separation between time achievement for Bhu- the GoI facilitate any tests we view this as a reflection of Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, academic streams as well as tanese engineering students. in the country any soon? the special bonds of trust and to Bhutan for the first-ever extracurricular and vocational Similarly and marking another The Government of India has understanding between India ‘Bhutan-India Start-Up Sum- streams in school; vocational first, two Bhutanese students received information related and Bhutan that have existed mit’. One of the key outcomes education to start from Class will soon be joining IIT Bom- to Bhutan’s interest in being a over decades. of the visit was a tie-up be- 6 with internships so that bay and another student has part of the Covid-19 trials. We tween Bhutanese agri-produc- on completing school, every been provisionally admitted understand that private com- It is said that hydropower ers and major Indian super- student is proficient in at least to IIT Delhi, all three being panies who have developed has been the backbone of markets for retail marketing one vocational skill; the higher recipients of the Government the vaccines will be conduct- Bhutan-India relations. of Bhutanese organic food education curriculum to have of India’s Nehru Wangchuck ing trials in keeping with the As both countries look products in India. Another flexibility of subjects; multiple Scholarship. The latest ‘suc- established protocols for such forward to chart a 21st cen- outcome was that the Con- entry/exit and transfer of cess’ is that one more student procedures. taury economic roadmap, federation of Indian Industry, credit through an Academic has been accepted by IIT what new areas could be one of India’s leading industry Bank of Credits; the setting up Tirupati, another first for the The government is trying of interest in new rela- associations, announced that of a Gender Inclusion Fund; Bhutan-India friendship. to revive the economy by tions between Bhutan and they would open their first Special Education Zones for We are, indeed, delighted initiating some economic India? South Asia office in Bhutan, disadvantaged regions and that these talented youngsters activities and by reprior- Hydropower cooperation has which will facilitate enhanced groups; the use of technology from Bhutan will be studying itising the 12th Plan even indeed been an important pil- Indian investment in Bhutan, in digitally equipping schools, at our best institutions. as it is challenged with lar of India-Bhutan relations, providing as well real time teachers and students and budgetary problems. How and we remain committed to assistance & support to the the introduction of ‘coding’ One of the many reforms is the GoI helping in terms partner with Bhutan in this Bhutanese private sector. from Class 6 onwards to equip in the Indian NEP is on of the 12th Plan budget as- vital sector, for the mutual On the connectivity students with computational the use of technology. sistance? benefit of our two countries front, we have recently opened skills, mathematical thinking Bhutan’s similar vision Against the backdrop of the and people. However, even as a new land customs station at and a scientific temper from is challenged by connec- Covid-19 pandemic, Bhutan Bhutan prepares its 21st Cen- Ahllay in Bhutan’s southern an early age. tivity. The government has re-prioritized its 12th Plan tury Economic Road Map, we industrial area of Pasakha. These key policy elements of Bhutan is trying for a activities. The Government of have begun exploring coop- This has not only facilitated draw immediate parallels third internet gateway India is pleased to reinforce eration in new areas, in sync bilateral trade but has also led in Bhutan with vocational from Bangladesh. Your Bhutan’s efforts in minimiz- with the priorities espoused to decongestion of vehicular education & skilling finding Excellency said the issue ing the negative impact of the by His Majesty the King of traffic along the busy Jaigaon- focus through the Build Bhu- is under consideration of pandemic on the economy Bhutan, including education, Phuentsholing route. Our tan Project. The difficulties both sides and a mutually of Bhutan. The fundamental technology, and innovation two sides are also exploring being faced by students in acceptable decision is ex- principle of India’s develop- with a focus on empowering rail connectivities for further some Dzongkhags could be pected within the earliest ment cooperation is respect the youth. bolstering trade and com- overcome through improve- time frame. Any develop- for our partners, the priorities, During Prime Minister merce for the benefit of our ment of digital facilities ments in this area? wishes and aspirations of the Modi’s visit to Bhutan in two countries and people. We through a planning of Special The significance of con- Bhutanese people being the August 2019, we have jointly are also committed to provid- Education Zones. Stranded nectivity in this digital era uppermost. In line with this launched a number of new ing technical support towards students ordinarily enrolled cannot be overemphasized. principle, we have agreed to initiatives. In the space sector, a Multidisciplinary Super-Spe- in Universities abroad could The matter of a third internet the addition of 10 new prior- Thimphu is now connected to cialty Hospital in Thimphu, to earn credits while studying in gateway is under considera- ity Projects in the Plan, as ISRO’s South Asia Satellite and backstop the existing health Bhutanese Higher Educational tion of our two sides, every identified by Bhutan. This our two teams are also work- infrastructure in the country. Institutions, and complete effort is being made to work includes assistance to the ing to develop a small satellite their degrees/ diplomas etc. towards a mutually acceptable ‘Build Bhutan Project’ as part for Bhutan. In the education The Government of India without loss of an academic resolution of the matter. of the Economic Contingency sector, the focus is on STEM, recently launched a New year through the concept of Plan for the skilling and re- through an institutional tie- Education Policy that in the Academic Credit Bank. In the wake of the pandem- employment of Bhutanese up between premier Indian PM Modi’s words is the ic, some interest groups in domestic sectors, similar Institutes and their coun- foundation of “new India.” It was learnt that some had been threatening to to the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ terparts in Bhutan. We have Education is one area Bhu- Bhutanese students were stop vehicles carrying es- scheme of India. As well, a established an information tan had been gaining from selected on a special basis sentials to Bhutan from focus on connectivity through highway interconnection to India’s progress. How can to study in top Indian engi- Jaigaon if the border is not the construction of key roads enhance knowledge-sharing Bhutan benefit from the neering universities with opened for trade. Did the across Bhutan, and hospital between Universities of both NEP? GOI scholarship. Please Embassy intervene? infrastructure in Eastern our sides, through a tie up The recently launched Na- elaborate. In full solidarity with the Bhutan. between India’s National tional Education Policy 2020 We are deeply mindful of the Royal Government of Bhutan, We are optimistic that Knowledge Network and Druk is poised to bring about trans- emphasis on STEM placed the Government of India has these Projects will backstop REN. In the financial sector, formational reforms in the by His Majesty the King of ensured the uninterrupted the new priorities of the we have made great strides in school and higher education Bhutan. In this vein, we have movement of essential as well Royal Government of Bhu- integrating our economies and system in India. The principal since last year fostered an as non-essential commodities tan, with a focus on youth promoting cashless payments objective is Universalization institutional build-up between to Bhutan, through the Covid- unemployment. through the introduction of of Education with 100% Gross our top-most technical institu- 19 crisis. This will continue, HOME Friday, August 14, 2020| KUENSEL PAGE 7 LOCKDOWN IN PICTURES
De-Suups pack essential items for delivery at the Zilukha MS Stock Centre, Thimphu A woman in Paro returns home after harvesting beans
A farmer in Lobesa, Punakha, checks on his maize field A boy uses his bicycle to carry a bag of rice home in Gelephu yesterday
Stop: A makeshift gate at Dewathang on the The Samdrupjongkhar- Trashigang highway Punakha dzongkhag staff feed stray dogs
Trucks of the drivers who were quarantined in Bumthang A student in Yakpogang, Mongar, lends a helping hand in storing fodder DIVER SION PAGE 8 Friday, August 14, 2020 | KUENSEL
Everything is interconnected
Shenphen Zangpo was born in Swansea, UK, but spent more than Hi Lam, I have two unrelated questions regarding the state of the reasons for the prevalence of 28 years practicing and studying youth addiction. Other major Buddhism in Taiwan and Japan. world. I hope that it will not be confusing to ask them at the same causes are peer pressure, Currently, he works with the youth time. Also, I’d be grateful if Lam could answer from a Buddhist view- teenage rebellious spirit, and substance abusers in Bhutan, point. perceived lack of opportunity, teaching meditation and organizing and a feeling that drug-use is drug outreach programmes. ST, Thimphu cool. In this respect, countries that have a high number of drug abusers need to look at I have read that the exist as interconnected In this respect, a farmer term strategies directed at the environment in which pandemic was caused entities. Now, of course will not focus too much transforming certain aspects of their children are being by humans, but I don’t strict environmental laws on the seeds as a means to society. raised and to use education understand how humans would greatly help the improve the quality of the I have not done any and media to correct the can cause a virus. Could situation, but perhaps global crop, but instead attempt to research into the reasons causes of the problems. Of Lam comment on this? education that teaches modify the environment by behind the prevalence of drug course, there will always be I assume that the authors of our mutual relationship implementing changes, such use among our youth, but I do people who fall through the the articles you read are not to the environment is of as adapting the amount of hear a recurring story when I cracks of society, but through suggesting that the virus was the greatest importance. water, sunlight, and nutrition ask long-term drug users about appropriate intervention, the created by humans, but that Furthermore, countries need that his plants receive. their background, such as, number of such cases can be human activity caused the to respect local wisdom It is the same with youth. “My parents are divorced and kept to a minimum. Rehabs virus to jump species and then with regard to maintaining It is not that babies are born my step-mother/step-father offer the best means for it developed into a pandemic. forests and living alongside with a greater propensity is not showing concern for individual addicts to regain Well, this occurred basically wildlife and not place it to become addicts now me.” Whenever I visit schools their lives, but for a strategy because instead of nurturing in a secondary position to than in the past. What has to discuss a student who is that aims to stem the increase the environment to which we western capitalist ideals. For changed is the environment getting off track, the school in the number of addicts, are intrinsically connected, role models, we need look in which they are raised. principals inevitably confirm countries need to look at the humans have been heavily no further than the humble If the DNA of modern-day the validity of these kinds of root problems – basically to exploiting it for personal gain bee. Not only do bees avoid babies has changed, then stories. address the reason why youth and profit. As a result, wild harming the flowers from there would be a comparable So, to answer your are turning to drugs in the animals are caught and sold which they collect nectar, increase in the number of question more precisely, first place. Anything else is no in markets, and forests and but actually aid the process drug users worldwide, but there is a strong indication more than chopping down jungles are being destroyed to of pollination. It’s a win- this is not the case. As an that lack of parental support weeds while leaving the roots. plant cash crops and to raise win situation. Now, if bees example, consider the US and family breakups are key
domestic animals. Now, all this adopted the modern-day and UK, and Taiwan and has led to an increase in the business model, they would Japan. All four countries interactions between wildlife no doubt squeeze every grain have advanced economies, and humans, which, in turn, of pollen from the blossoms, developed social structures, has created more opportunities and, at the same time, and similar laws relating to Sudoku for viruses to jump from destroy the plants in the drug use. Yet, there is a far genetically distant wild animals process. In turn, this would higher percentage of youth to those that are closer to result in both the flowers and turning to drugs in the two humans. Then, it is only a bees dying out. Western countries than in matter of time before humans their East Asian counterparts. are infected. Drugs have become a Now, obviously it is not So, although viruses like major problem around that US babies are more corona and HIV exist naturally the world. Could Lam genetically predisposed in the wild, it is our exploitive comment on this to addiction than their and destructive relationship situation and suggest Taiwanese counterparts. It with the environment that how to address it is the circumstances under has created the conditions globally and locally. which they are raised that are for them to be more easily Well, as Buddhists, we different. transmitted to humans. As for understand that nothing Having said that, Buddhism, well I’m sure that appears from nowhere, youth cannot be absolved the Buddha would fully agree but develops through a from their personal with science that exploitation combination of causes and responsibilities and it is of wildlife and destruction of conditions. An increase in unhelpful to allow them to natural environment is the drug use is no exception. blame their circumstances cause of the virus jumping As a simple example, think for their drug-taking habit. species. However, I also think of seeds that are producing Yet, at the same time, we he would take it one step unhealthy crops. Now, the cannot deny that in many further and identify that the quality of the seeds has cases there is an undeniable actual root of the problem not changed – basically correlation between a How to play is our lack of understanding the seeds that were sowed youth’s upbringing and that, in the same way that the thirty years ago are no his or her use of drugs. In Fill in the grid so that every row, every organs in a body and the body different from the ones this respect, we need both column, and every 3 X 3 box contains
itself exist dependent on each sowed today – but what has short term responses that the numbers 1 through 9. other, so we and the planet changed is the environment focus on the immediate Answer in which they are planted. needs of the youth, and long DZONGKHAG Friday, August 14, 2020| KUENSEL PAGE 9 Wangdue delivers over 880kg of rice on the first day Phurpa Lhamo | Wangdue sential items in Wangdue, the dzongkhag also identified two Wangdue officials delivered wholesalers, three vegetable essential items to around 60 vendors and three meat shops households on the first day of on August 12 to supply the de- lockdown. mands. Around 9pm on the first The vegetable vendors, day of the lockdown, the meat shops and wholesaler Wangdue dzongkhag officials shops would change every were delivering the last order day, with each one receiving of the day—around five pack- their turns to sell their goods. ets of Nan Pro-milk powder for Including two pharmacies, infants, to a young mother. there are 14 wholesalers, 37 Wangdue’s Agriculture Of- vegetable vendors and 13 meat ficer Dhodo said that the baby shops identified in Wangdue. was around three months old. This excludes farm shops and “It was late but we made sure grocery shops identified in its to deliver it. We tried not to various gewogs. miss a single order.” “We are also collecting the De-Suups deliver essential goods to residents yesterday When the first day of the price of the products for every lockdown ended, Wangdue shop that is identified, so that dzongkhag had delivered they don’t raise the price,” further directives. “Every individual official received requests from the about 889kg of rice. Another Dhodo said. Wangdue Dzongdag Sonam has been given a responsibil- stranded individuals who were 0.089 metric tonne (MT) of The dzongkhag on August Jamtsho said that during the ity and things have been going mostly residing in hotels for a refine oil, 78kg of sugar and 11 also collected nearly 40 first day, apart from minor or- well.” discount in room charges and 60kg of salt to the households quintals of chilies from Kazhi ganisation issues, work went The dzongkhag on August for meals. in Wangdue. gewog and around six quintals according to the contingency 11 also helped stranded indi- Today, Yours and Phuen- A majority of these orders of beans from Nyisho gewog. plan. viduals leave for home on the sum Hotels in Wangdue have came from people residing in These products were already He added that the first step first day of the lockdown. promised free room and meals Bajo, Wangdue. Of Wangdue’s harvested by the farmers. taken when the lockdown was Around 20 officials mostly for the three guests residing over 45,100 people, nearly The dzongkhag officials announced was to seal the bor- teachers also left for their resi- in the hotels. Dekiling Hotel, 9,000 reside in Bajo. have today asked the farm- ders. Fourteen foot-tracks link- dent dzongkhag upon instruc- housing another two guests, Apart from Food Corpo- ers to not harvest vegetables ing Wangdue to various other tion from the National Covid-19 has offered free meals and ration of Bhutan Limited of- from their farms without an dzongkhags were sealed in the Task Force late yesterday. cheaper room charge. fices identified to supply es- ensured market or without morning. Earlier, the officials also Paro running short of poultry feed Phub Dem | PAro However, can they sup- ply it beyond Paro? Lockdown is weather in it- Demand-supply chain self. Paro has been wearing is hard to link, especially a deserted look for the last when the lockdown is on. two days. Pema from Tsendona re- Roads are studded with cently bought 200 chickens, police and de-suups, every- as the demand for eggs was where. Some kind of life has increasing by the day. There returned. Farmers are back is no market. The farmer is in the fields. This bucolic confused and distressed. view seems to come again Another poultry farmer after almost a century. from Tsento, who usually Some are picking mush- sell eggs in the vegetable rooms, even. market, has six cartons of For many in Paro, it is eggs stored in her farmyard. not the essential items that She has not been able to sell they are worried about. the eggs because of lock- Lack of poultry feed is. Stock of egg at Nim Dem’s poultry farm in Tsento gewog down. “I can’t sell the eggs There is a severe short- and that means I can’t buy age of poultry feed in Paro, With the lockdown on, ing bird’s feed. They will de- are no alternatives.” feed for the chickens.” the dzongkhag that has transporting the feeds from velop cannabis behaviour Poultry production from In the nearby dzong- about 50 poultry farms. Phuentsholing is practically and peek each other,” Loden the dzongkhag is high but khag, Haa, essential item Paro’s livestock officer, impossible. Jimba said. there is no market. providers are supplying Loden Jimba, said that of Unlike cattle and pigs, Vehicles that transport The supplier of essential feeds to the gewog centre the six agents that supply chickens cannot survive on feeds reportedly are strand- goods collect the eggs from and the local leaders are feed, only two had some alternative grains and goods. ed in Phuentsholing. the farmers and supply them distributing them to the stock up. “Our main concern is regard- Loden Jimba said: “There in the dzongkhag markets. farmers. HOME PAGE 10 Friday, August 14, 2020| KUENSEL Farmers await approval to harvest and sell their produce Choki Wangmo yet. Considering market supplied within the dzong- from farmers, said Sonam Covid-19 logistics taskforce. viability, most growers cul- khag. The surplus would be Zangpo. Distributions will be under- The agriculture ministry is tivated chillies which have sold to the Food Corporation Thimphu has two task- taken by those at the front- awaiting approval from the shorter shelf life if not har- of Bhutan Ltd (FCBL) depots. forces—dzongkhag and line under the guidance of national taskforce for Covid- vested on time. The procurement would thromde—to supply and de- respective regional Covid-19 19 to allow farmers to move Recognising farmers’ con- be carried out with the help liver essential food items and taskforce.” in and around their farms cern, Thimphu dzongkhag, of gewog agriculture offi- vegetables. Meanwhile, a DCM truck- across the country to harvest starting yesterday, deployed cials. The farmers would be Agriculture Minister load of vegetables and fruits vegetables delayed in the pickup trucks to collect veg- encouraged to harvest the Yeshey Penjore said farmers worth Nu 430,000 had been backdrop of the lockdown etables from farmers across mature ones or to sell the in urban areas like Thimphu stranded in Olakha since the since Tuesday. the gewogs. Within two days already harvested produce. and Phuentsholing faced the morning of the lockdown. Worried farmers had of nationwide lockdown, Although the demand for challenges to market their The owner of the produce reached out to various offi- the dzongkhag has received fruits and vegetables was low farm produce due to lock- imported from India said that cials to save their yield which queries from worried farmers on the first day of lockdown, down. He said that the farm- few De-Suups came to exam- might rot any time soon if the about their products which it has increased since the ers should contact dzong- ine but left after finding that lockdown continues. were either harvested or in second day. The dzongkhag khag agriculture officials if the produce was from India. Laid off tour guides work- the fields ready for harvest. is expecting increasing de- they want to sell their pro- The owner said that she ing in the urban agriculture The dzongkhag agricul- mand in the coming days. duce, who will then arrange requested the agencies to initiative in Thimphu said ture officer, Sonam Zangpo, According to demand from collection points. allow her to deliver to house- that they were trying to con- said that the vegetables FCBL and the Department of The thromdes and the ag- holds but did not receive any tact agriculture officials to would be bought at a buy- Agricultural and Marketing riculture department has an directives. pick chillies but did not re- back price or negotiated Cooperatives, the dzongkhag agreement whereby the ag- “It is a huge loss. I wish ceive any positive response price from farmers and then would start bulk marketing riculture officials will collect we were allowed to deliver so from the source and bring till that we earn income to sur- the distribution point from vive,” she said adding that she which the thromde would be even requested the officials responsible for door-to-door that she would quarantine Ambassador to Bangladesh service. herself once they complete In his Facebook page, the delivery. lyonpo announced: “Essen- At the press conference presents credentials tial food items are stocked by on August 12, the Prime Min- FCBL and private wholesale ister Dr Lotay Tshering, said dealers. Dzongkhag agri- that villagers could work in culture officers and gewog their own fields or herd their extension officers will do livestock. However, they can- the stock taking of avail- not organise work with hired able vegetables and report to labour.
TOMORROW Good Day Bad Day Ambassador Rinchen Kuentsyl with the president of Bangladesh Md. Abdul Hamid A good day for rituals (laza): those born in the dragon year.
Staff reporter Shamim-Uz-Zaman, Military Bangladesh. Secretary to the President, and Bhutan and Bangladesh Bhutan’s Ambassador to Bang- senior officials from the Presi- established diplomatic rela- Time of issue: 04:04 PM, ladesh, Rinchen Kuentsyl pre- dent’s Office and the Govern- tions in 1973 and resident SUNRISE : 5:31 am | SUNSET : 6:42 pm 13 August 2020 sented his Letter of Credence ment of Bangladesh. Embassies were set up in to the President of the People’s Following the ceremony 1980. Ambassador Rinchen Republic of Bangladesh, Md. at the Presidential Residence, Kuentsyl is the 13th Ambas- Abdul Hamid at the Bangab- Ambassador Rinchen Kuent- sador Extraordinary and haban, the official residence syl paid a courtesy call on the Plenipotentiary of the King- Gasa Trongsa Bumthang Sarpang Phuentsholing of the President, on August 12. President and conveyed the dom of Bhutan to the People’s The credentials ceremony warmest greetings and best Republic of Bangladesh. He is 18 23 23 29 30 was attended by Foreign Sec- wishes of Their Majesties, also concurrently accredited 12 16 15 24 23 retary Masud Bin Momen, Prime Minister and the peo- to Maldives, Pakistan, South Chief of Protocol Md. Amanul ple of Bhutan to the President Korea and Sri Lanka, with Source: National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology. Haq, Maj. General SM and the friendly people of residence in Bangladesh. For any weather information: Call hotline 335578 REPLACE/RENEW CARDS AT A REDUCED RATE
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