What are the latest news in Bhutan? August 31st, 2026
Government and Politics
- Two cabinet ministers stepped down from their roles: the Minister of Home Affairs, Lyonpo Tshering, and the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Gem Tshering. The resignations have led to discussions around an upcoming cabinet reshuffle under Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay’s administration. -AsiaNews+ 1——–
- Development and bilateral outreach for the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) special administrative zone continue to progress.- AsiaNews———
- Bhutan and Japan commemorated 40 years of diplomatic relations, highlighted by the visit of Japanese Princess Akiko of Mikasa, who toured the GMC project site in southern Bhutan alongside national leaders. Cross-border transport connectivity planning with India (such as the Kokrajhar–Gelephu rail link) also continues under the project’s framework.- AsiaNews+ 1———
- Following devastating regional monsoon floods across the Himalayas, Bhutanese authorities and the National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM) are reviewing and upgrading early warning systems. Attention is centered on bolstering automatic sensors and communication networks for high-risk glacial lakes, such as Thorthormi Lake in Lunana, to guard against Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).- Asia News Network+ 1———
- To balance seasonal hydropower variations during dry winter months, the government has accelerated solar energy and renewable diversification projects to ensure domestic energy stability.
- National economic projections maintain an estimated GDP growth rate of roughly 6.2%, driven by investments under the 13th Five-Year Plan and major infrastructure development.