KUENSEL THAT THE PEOPLE SHALL BE INFORMED

T H U R S D A Y , J U N E 1 2 #  ) ' ( +  ›  E l  ( '

Drivers being
deprived of
precious drops
Rajesh Rai
Ever wondered if you
were cheated at the fuel
station?
SURVEY
It may not be outright
cheating, but Bhutanese
motorists never got the
exact volume of fuel on
the actual amount paid,
according to a survey
conducted by the Bhutan
Standards Bureau (BSB).
It found out that about
one to 1.35 percent from a
litre each of petrol or die-
sel sold in the capital’s five
gasoline outlets was nega-
tively deviated, exceeding
the deviation tolerance
capacity of 0.5.
In other words, a cus-
tomer filling into a car
one litre of petrol or diesel
“Outlets
should
understand
that it’s a
crime of fourth
degree felony”
Tashi Wangchuk
Chief engineer, NSB
didn’t get 100 percent vol-
ume on the actual amount
paid.
BSB officials an-
nounced this occurrence
at the safety and handling
of petroleum products on
Tuesday.
Chief engineer with
the bureau, Tashi Wang-
chuk, said, it was found
during a recent survey
they had undertaken in
the process to standardise
the Bhutanese measure-
ment system, which was Back to the farm: Dfi\k_Xej\m\ep\XijX]k\ik_\pc\]k`k]Xccfn#]Xid\iji\kliekf
missing. k_\`i]`\c[jfe_`i\[gfn\ik`cc\ijk_`jp\Xikfi\$Zlck`mXk\k_\`icXe[`e>XigX8i`e^#
“We found out that a N\e^b_Xi`eDfe^Xi (Story on Pg.9)
huge amount of money
was negatively devi-
ated,” the chief engineer
said. He didn’t reveal the
amount of money devi-
ated.
A fatter pay package
As per the system
followed, an outlet has a
standard five-litre con-
awaits MPs
tainer the department of But endorsement to come into effect at a later stage
trade had provided across
the country. The digital Tshering Palden However, the new salary and minister, Namgay Dorji, told
oil-dispensing machine in allowances will not come into Kuensel that people should not
the outlets have to accu- In amending the parliamentary immediate effect. MPs will start think the endorsed bill would be
rately fill the five-litre jar. entitlement (amendment) bill drawing the salary and allowances effective next month. “The bill is
“But the volume 2014, the National Assembly en- proposed by the government, en- about entitlements of the parlia-
wasn’t exact and it wasn’t dorsed a monthly salary of about dorsed by the Assembly, and being mentarians in the future, and will
enough,” Tashi Wangchuk Nu 123,000 inclusive of allowances discussed at the Council, from take time to come into effect,” he
said. to members of Parlia- next month. said.
Pg.2 ment (MPs). ASSEMBLY The finance Pg.2

IN BRIEF  WHAT’S INSIDE 

National Integrity and Anti-Corruption Strategy HOME HOME
» Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay will launch the National Integrity » Council warns of » Concerted action
and Anti-Corruption Strategy (NIACS) 2014-18 on June 23 at the likely inflation against health issues
Convention centre in Thimphu. The strategy’s implementation is | PG.3 | PG.5
one of the crosscutting Key Performance Indicators of the 11th
Plan reporting framework of the GNHC.
HOME
PAGE 2 KUENSEL | Thursday, June 12, 2014

Drivers being deprived A fatter pay package awaits MPs

of precious drops Rates of financial entitlements of MPs

Pay Nu 75,160
From Pg.1 stand that it’s a crime of fourth House rent allowance 30% of basic pay
Considering the current degree felony,” he said. “And
Travel allowance within Bhutan As per entitlement rules
petrol price at Nu 68.29 and every citizen has right to ask
diesel price Nu 57.27, every the outlets if suspicious.” Vehicles purchase amount (lump sum) Nu 10,00,000
individual faced a loss of Nu Officials with the trade Telephone mobile (lump sum) Nu 5,0000
0.68 to Nu 0.92 and Nu 0.57 to department said the outlets Monthly telephone charges Nu 2,000
Nu 0.77 from a litre of petrol have to measure the jar over
Monthly driver allowance Nu 8,505
and diesel respectively. two to three times each day.
One outlet in Thimphu The outlets should report to Monthly fuel allowance Nu 8,000
sells approximately 3,000 the department if there is de- Monthly vehicle maintenance allowance Nu 7,000
litres of petrol in a month, viation. Gratuity , Daily subsistence allowance As per parliament rules
which is minimal. Consider- From now, a new set of
Discretionary allowance Nu 100,000
ing this, Nu 2,040 to Nu 2,760 jars will be distributed to all
is deviated from the rightful the outlets across the country, Expenses for carriage and personal effect As per parliament rules
allotment. If we consider all officials with the trade depart- Pension/social security annuity -do-
the five outlets, in a month, ment and BSB announced
Nu 10,200 to Nu 13,800 is de- yesterday. The trade depart- pay, Nu 2,000 telephone charg- Council and the leader of the op-
viated. This deviation amount ment, in collaboration with From Pg.1 es, Nu 8,505 driver’s allowance, position party will draw equiva-
could range from Nu 122,400 the Indian Oil corporation in With the amended Bill fuel allowance of Nu 8,000, and lent to that of cabinet ministers.
Nu 165,600 in a year. India, has brought in about passed yesterday, parliamen- a monthly vehicle maintenance The deputy speaker and the
Another outlet in Thim- 20 jars so far, while 40 jars are tarians could get the same pay allowance of Nu 7,000. chairperson of the two houses
phu sells approximately 7,000 on the way. as constitutional post holders, A lump sum amounts for would also earn slightly better
litres of diesel each month, The jars will be verified should it get the consent of Par- purchase of mobile and vehicles, salary than the parliamentarians.
which is again minimal. This by the bureau and returned liament. It endorsed that salary Nu 5,000 and Nu 1M respective- Home minister Damcho
means the five outlets in to trade, and distributions will of MPs shall be equivalent to that ly, could also come their way. Dorji, answering a query from
Thimphu alone was able to be made to outlets across the of constitutional post holders. (See box) the opposition leader on wheth-
deviate in diesel Nu 239,400 country. MPs at present draw a A nine-member especial er the bill was a money bill or
to Nu 323,400 in one year from Joint director with the monthly minimum salary of committee, led by the finance ordinary bill, said the parliamen-
general public. trade department, Dophu Nu 50,445. A constitutional minister, was formed and it tary entitlement (amendment)
In 10 years, the outlets in Tshering, said, it was a break- post holder is paid Nu 63,000 presented its recommendation bill 2014 was a money bill, but
Thimphu alone would have through that would help the a month. The government’s re- on section 20 of the bill, which will still have to go to National
deviated more than Nu 2M to general public. vision proposed Nu 65,930 for provides parliamentarians with Council for deliberation.
3M from diesel. Motorists said, some- parliamentarians and Nu 75,160 a one-time lump sum allowance “If need be, the Assembly
What is even worrying is times, they became suspi- for constitutional post holders. to purchase a vehicle free of cus- will accept the recommenda-
that there was neither a policy cious after fueling their cars, If the Assembly’s endorse- toms duty, sales tax, and other tions,” he said.
nor a regulation that could although they never ques- ment is passed by Parliament, government levies; a monthly Chairperson of house com-
control this until now. The tioned. “My in-law sent me to MPs monthly salary will start driver, fuel and maintenance al- mittee of Nation Assembly,
Consumer Protection Act, fuel his car for Nu 500 and, from Nu 75,160. lowances. Tshewang Jurmey, who moved
which was endorsed in 2012, when I was about to reach A new pay scale and a It has dropped mileage for the amendment in the Assem-
also couldn’t do much. home, the fuel level indicator monthly fuel allowance of Nu constituency visits and other of- bly, said, it could at least take a
Tashi Wangchuk said that was still blinking,” said one. 8,000 were added to the parlia- ficial tours outside Thimphu that year and a half for the bill to be
the deviancy volume could “It was so embarrassing, I had mentarians’ entitlements. the house committee proposed. effective.
be more in other dzongkhags to come back and fuel again,” Other endorsed entitle- The house committee had The finance minister said
than in Thimphu. he said. ments include a 30 percent also proposed for a government that the annexure, which has
“Outlets should under- housing allowance on basic driver during their tenure. The proposed entitlements of the
special committee recommend- parliamentarians, needed to be
ed providing a driver’s allowance studied and approved by a pay
ABRIDGED NOTICE INVITING TENDER as earlier. commission.
Assembly added a new sec- However, the bill does not
DUNGSAM CEMENT CORPORATION LIMITED (DCCL) tion that the Assembly speaker apply to ministers. Members
should be paid higher than Na- said the entitlements of ministers
DCCL/Procurement/05/2014/1188
tional Council chairperson and could be revised in the Lhengye
Dungsam Cement Corporation Limited (DCCL) is pleased to invite sealed and signed the opposition leader for his ad- Zhungtshog Act 1999. The As-
tender for supply of conveyor belts. ditional responsibility. sembly amended 14 sections of
Chairperson of the National the bill and the annexure.
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Council warns of likely inflation
The finance minister says, govt. is fully seized of the gravity of the situation
Tshering Dorji
It was not a question hour ses-
sion, but council members bar-
raged the finance minister with
numerous questions. Members
also warned the government of
possible inflation, income ero-
sion, and seeking answers how
the government would curb
inflation.
NC
One of the most vocal
members, Gasa member San-
gay Khandu, questioned what
measures the government
was taking to control inflation.
Word of salary and tax revision
is already leading to a rise in
price of goods and services,
he said, after the minister pre-
sented the budget report in the
house.
He said, the inflation of 11.3
percent in 2013 was a concern
from any economic perspective.
Eminent member Tashi
Wangyel said, every annual
budget report highlighted that
inflation in Bhutan depicted the
trend from India because ,most
of the goods were imported
from there.
“I raised this issue in almost
every session of the budget
presentation, but I was made
to understand that not much
could be done because the in-
Finance minister presents the budget report at
Council
flationary trend in country fol-
lowed that of India,” he said.
He said, this might have
been the case in the past, when
the country had to import al-
most everything. But with time,
the situation of the economy has
changed, and domestic produc-
tion has been increasing every
year.
Referring to the latest re-
port of consumer price index,
Tashi Wangyel said, about 47
to 50 percent of the inflation is
Thursday, June 12, 2014 | KUENSEL
domestic or home grown, while
the rest was imported.
Lyonpo Namgay Dorji said
that the finance ministry is
working with the Royal Mon-
etary Authority (RMA), agri-
culture and economic affairs
ministries, and experts from
the World Bank, International
Monetary Fund and Asian De-
velopment Bank.
With regard to the imported
inflation, he said, the newly
elected BJP government in India
has plans to control inflation,
Picture story
Almost complete: The new Supreme Court complex in Hejo, Thimphu
gets prepped for its inaugural on June 16. Its construction is funded by the
Government of India.
HOME
and the Indian economy is ex-
pected to improve. “This would
have ripple effect in Bhutan and
we remain hopeful,” he said.
“Members must trust the
government,” the minister said.
“We may be a new government
with limited experience but we
discuss and take advice from the
experts,” he said.
While the finance minister
didn’t attend the deliberations,
Tashi Wangyel said that increase
in inflation by certain percent-
age points would mean de-
crease in income of the people
by the same amount.
Even the saving people have
with the banks would be eroded
by few percent.
He said he was not satis-
fied with the finance minister’s
response, as there was nothing
new from last year’s response,
where the government men-
tioned that it was working with
the relevant agencies.
Inflation in the country was
projected at 9.3 percent in 2014,
8.4 percent in 2015, and 7.8 per-
cent in 2016, according to the
budget report.
It was projected as per world
economic outlook, 2013 and
on the assumption that RMA
would continue with existing
monetary policies and stable
fuel prices would sustain.
Tashi Wangyel said, the
projection was made last year,
PAGE 3
and certain factors like salary
revision, tax of fuel and new hy-
dropower construction might
not have been considered.
“If we consider this, the fig-
ure could double at the least,”
he warned.
“The major rupee problem,
two years ago is certain to follow
in 2014-15, if corrective meas-
ures are not in place,” he said.
When serious INR shortage
occurred in 2012, a task force
was formed and they identified
hydropower sector that en-
gulfed the INR reserve through
imports.
Another was the credit and
salary revision that lead to huge
import as consumer expendi-
ture. At the same time, the gov-
ernment spending has been es-
calating and this created a huge
demand for goods and services.
Tashi Wangyel said, the cur-
rent situation and policies are
leading to the same path since
restrictions are also being lifted
one after another. “INR issue is
continuing,” he said.
He suggested that a task
force be formed to review the
macro economic policy before
problems come about.
Meanwhile, the council will
endorse the recommendations
on the budget and appropria-
tion Bill today, after having ex-
tensively deliberated the Bill
yesterday.

Concerted action against health issues
MSTF and CBSS volunteers to work together at both local and district levels
Kinga Dema
The rise in non-communi-
cable diseases (NCDs), alco-
holism, domestic violence,
and extramarital affairs is
an issue that communities
across the country live with.
HEALTH
Multi-sectorial task force
(MSTF) and community
based support system (CBSS)
volunteers highlighted these
issues at the three-day part-
nership meeting, for them to
work together and address
it at both local and district
levels.
For instance, to address
NCDs, a group comprising
MSTF and CBSS volunteers
from the central districts,
pointed out the need to cre-
ate facilities for people to do
physical activity, footpaths
in urban areas and reduc-
tion in import of high choles-
terol food products. Besides,
group members also said
that there was a need to in-
tensify awareness programs
on healthy diets to prevent
NCDs.
Now, with the partnership
of MSTF and CBSS, members
expect better coordination
and implementation of ac-
tion plans through resource
and capacity sharing. They
are expected to conduct a
joint observation of global
events, sensitisation, out-
reach programs including
awareness and educational
campaigns.
Until recently, MSTF and
CBSS functioned independ-
ently, although they work
with similar objectives in
addressing health and social
issues. They will now work
together under one action
plan, which is also expected
to overcome human resource
shortages and budgetary is-
sues.
MSTF was formed in
2001, in coordination with
the health ministry. Mem-
bers comprise district health
sector, local government
leaders, community and pri-
HOME
Thursday, June 12, 2014 | KUENSEL PAGE 5
“There’s a need
to intensify
awareness
programs on
healthy diets to
prevent NCDs”
Group members
Partnership meeting
vate or corporate organisa-
tions, among others. By the
following year, MSTFs were
established in all districts,
after which work plan-based
activities were carried out.
“MSTF plays an impor-
tant role in planning, imple-
mentation, monitoring, and
evaluation of priority public
Divided in groups members present issues and the way forward
health prevention activi-
ties,” health ministry’s dep- Dr Dorji Wangchuk said, tion. Gyalyum Sangay Choden
uty chief information officer, increased awareness on HIV/ “As MSTFs mostly focus Wangchuck graced the clos-
Dorji Phub, said. AIDs among the population, on behaviour change, it is a ing ceremony yesterday dur-
CBSS volunteers function and more women coming for long term approach,” Dr Dorji ing which participants were
under Respect Educate Nur- antenatal visits could partly Wangchuk said. awarded certificates.
ture and Empower Women be due to MSTFs’ contribu- Meanwhile, Her Majesty
(RENEW) at the community
level to help reduce and
prevent domestic violence,
gender-based violence and
violence against women.
Initiated in December
2005, CBSS was established
in all districts by 2011.
Today, there are 2,217 gen-
eral volunteers, of which 850
are core volunteers and 60
are friends of RENEW. 
RENEW’s outreach direc-
tor (Dr) Meenakshi Rai said,
through the CBSS approach,
they create awareness of do-
mestic violence and gender-
based violence, by engaging
volunteers to strengthen
RENEW’s efforts across the
country.
“CBSS reported 200 cases
of domestic violence and
gender based violence be-
tween 2008 and 2013,” (Dr)
Meenakshi Rai said.
On the effectiveness of
MSTF, public health depart-
ment’s director general Dr
Dorji Wangchuk said MSTF
played a vital role, although
there is no mechanism to as-
sess it.
PERSPECTIVES
PAGE 4 KUENSEL | Thursday, June 12, 2014

Taxing the taxed MY COUNTRY, MY TOWN

V
ehicles are prized possessions, be they
luxury or necessity. The news of lifting
of the ban on import of vehicles would
have sparked excitement, if it were not
for the revision of vehicle import taxes,
deliberated in the National Assembly, snubbing it out.
Instead, the feeling it has generated is one of exas-
peration and disappointment, despite the government’s
reasoning.
The reasons are, to some extent, why there is a dis-
gruntled lot.
But most importantly, the burden of tax increase,
including the five percent on fossil fuel, would weigh
down mainly on the low-income group. The revision is
expected to set off a chain reaction, with the uncontrol- Use me if you
lable inflation receiving yet another boost. dare: Besides
For the low-income people, the preferred vehicle the danger
comes in small packages and lower cylinder capacity from debris,
(CC). The government proposed a 110 percent tax on this looks like
the import of vehicle in the 1,500CC category, and the a good spot to
National Assembly reduced it to 100 percent, citing rea- be mugged
sons, such as unaffordability and necessity. Photo by Sujan
Those imported from India will not be levied cus- Rai
toms duty, which is 45 percent, only sales and green
taxes. In retrospection, the government imposed the
ban to control the outflow of Indian rupee. The situ-
ation could be put to task, with those wanting to buy
vehicles choosing the cheaper option. MY SAY
The government will garner a handsome sum from
the taxes, but the question is: at whose expense?
There are those who’ve been waiting for the ban to Of employment opportunities
be lifted to buy their first cars, which can also be the
first family car.
At the assembly discussions, members argued that it
within the country
would be appropriate to let first-time buyers purchase Sir, troduce pay-per-hour system about five staff in every dis-
without the revised rates. The second, it was said, could I am writing this on behalf where unemployed youth can trict, this could provide em-
be taxed the new rates, because it would then fit as a of my friends who have been work as and when they are ployment to about 100 youth.
luxury.   unemployed for years. The called by any organisation. For 4. Ten to fifteen unem-
This makes sense in the light that public transport government is also concerned instance, unemployed youth ployed youth can form groups
system is either lacking or unreliable. about the issue and trying can work in catering services, to run businesses in their
The five percent fuel tax rubs salt on the wound. their best but nothing seems cleaning, babysitting, and own district. For instance, the
Cost of transportation will increase, and this will lead to to be working. laundry etc. group can establish small-
increase in cost of goods and services, and here again I worry that unemployed 2. Several hydropower scale cottage industry where
the low-income group and farmers in rural areas will be youth will someday feel social project constructions are they can manufacture goods
hit the hardest. exclusion and will develop the underway that has a great po- with the raw materials avail-
The intention to raise vehicle import taxes is mis- anti-social behavior. tential for employment oppor- able in their districts.
placed, despite motives, such as environment factor, I am neither an econo- tunities. Instead of employing These are a few band-aid
control of vehicle numbers and reducing sreliance on mist nor a strategist but as expatriate workers, Vocational measures that can ease the
fossil fuel, being laudable. a concerned citizen I like to Training Institute graduates unemployment issue in the
What’s important, at least for the time being, is to mention few points that can and those willing should be country. It is always easier said
first have alternatives in place before taking the plunge. ease the unemployment issue employed on the work site. than done but if we think out-
Electric cars are to decrease reliance on fuel, but it is to some extent. My strategies 3. Food Corporation of side the box and work accord-
yet to establish itself. Besides criticism faced at home, are not that of what the gov- Bhutan has to extend its retail ingly, everything is possible.
the vehicle in question, Nissan Leaf, has been receiv- ernment is doing but about shops in all the districts. As  
ing negative reviews in the international market and in working and earning within of now FCB retail shop exists Yeshi Thukten Dorji
Japan. the country. only in a few major towns.
The capital city has a fairly good public transport 1. The government can in- Considering that they require
system, but it needs a major boost to serve and cater to
the masses. In other districts, public transport is almost
lacking. An alternative should be in place, like an effi- CORRIGENDUM
cient and reliable transport system, so buying a vehicle Please refer Kuensel article “Facilitating official spending” published on June 10,
can warrant a second thought. 2014. The corporate credit cards should be read as domestic corporate credit and
With rising cost of living, aren’t citizens, especially international corporate credit cards, not debit cards. The error is highly regretted.
from the low-income group, already taxed enough? For further information call BoBL contact center at 1095.

DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR/MANAGEMENT - Thinley Dorji, MANAGING EDITOR - Ugyen Penjor, NEWS EDITOR - Samten Wangchuk,
CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER - Karma Dupchu, PRINTING GM - Karma Nima, CIRCULATION MANAGER - Ugyen Norbu
DZONGKHAG
PAGE 6 KUENSEL | Thursday, June 12, 2014

Highlanders lack land to CLASSIFIEDS

of 3 years working
build houses Sale: Spark ‘09. Contact
17622451.
experience in high-end
hotel. Salary twenty
Most herders in Merak-Sakteng own insufficient plots for the purpose thousand plus @
Sale: KIA Careen 2004 Bhutan Suites. Contact
Tempa Wangdi
receive barely enough to build Meanwhile, Sakteng gewog model, 43,000 km , one 17119199.
a hut. has applied for land kidu to the hand driven. Contact Required: Sales girl
Sakteng valley is a vast stretch of But Lobzang’s children are dzongkhag a couple of months 17609742. for garment shop
meadows located at an altitude in a much better position com- back. in Thimphu. Call
Sale: Maruti Max.
of 2,800m above the sea level. pared to his four brothers, whose Gyembo said that the cadas- 17297070.
Contact 17233618.
father, Sonam Wangchuk, owns tral survey 2009-2010 revealed
KHIMSA only 10 decimal khimsa. more than 50 percent of over Vacancy: ST Auto Spa
“If 10 decimals were to be 400 households in Merak and is looking for car wash
The lush green meadows, divided among four of my sib- Sakteng owning lesser than 50 Rent: Flat at Taba. attendents to wash,
at this time of the year, stretch lings, each would receive like decimal land (khimsa) with tsh- Contact 17622352. wipe, clean and polish
roughly about a kilometre from two decimals each,” Lobzang esa (kitchen garden plot). Most cars. Driving experience
Sale: Garment shop
one end to another, separated said. of the households own between is a plus point. Incentive
by the Sakteng Machu. But in With land act prohibiting 2-11 decimals only. at Changzamtok (loan
such as provident fund
this rare and precious flat land, fragmentation of land below 10 “Recently, gewogs have ap- transferable). Contact
and accomodation
the semi-nomadic herders have decimal, Sonam Wangchuk’s pealed for additional land kidu 77216495.
will be provided. Call
a problem. There is not enough children are cramped under one since khimsa below 10 decimal Lease: Fully furnished 17765152.
land to build houses. roof. Today, around 13 people couldn’t be fragmented,” Gyem-
restaurant at main
Mostly dependent on live in a one storied traditional bo said. Vacancy: 3 waitress for
town (Khasadrapchu).
pastureland belonging to the house, including children, Trashigang dzongkhag Hotel Rabsel located at
Contact 17604749.
government, the yak herders daughters-in-law and sons-in- administration is following up Thimphu, main town.
do not own enough land, if law. on khimsa land kidu for both Sale: Garment Contact 17603979.
children were to move out and “The herders can hold the Merak and Sakteng. The herders in Thimphu
Required: 2 plumbers
start a family. There is an acute land under one thram, but no from Merak said that the semi- town. Contact
in Thimphu. Contact
dearth of khimsa or land to further fragmentation is enter- nomadic community must be 17313591/77484187.
build house. tained,” Trashigang land record allowed to own more land.
77115539.
From the 200 households in officer, Gyembo said. They also wish to apply Sale: Restaurant.
Vacancy: 3 male for
Sakteng, only about 90 house- The highest landholder in for land kidu in lowlands like Contact 77351362.
car wash. Contact
holds own just over seven Merak owns around 50 decimal. Chebarling to explore agricul- Sale: Building at Taba. 77227873.
decimals of land. “Most of the Merak gewog said that around ture as an alternative livelihood.
Contact 16481149.
households own only around 9-10 households own no land. “We have enough govern- Vacancy: Animal care
2-5 decimals of khimsa,” Sak- “About families were com- ment land in village that could manager (1), driver cum
teng mangmi, Yeshey Tshering pelled to leave their parents’ be given to us for khimsa so that assistant (1), caretaker
said. home to live with in-laws from our children can have a roof over Sale: 200 decimal (1), kitchen assistant
They cannot divide the the lack of enough land to inher- their head,” Lobzang said. land near Nimalung (1), general helper (1)
land, as the Land Act neither it,” Merak mangmi, Jurmey said. Dratshang, Gelephu at Barn yard Animal
permits construction nor regis- town. Contact Rescue Center, Paro,
tration of plot size smaller than 17126164. 17641224.
10 decimals. Transaction below
Sale: Land at Kabesa.
10 decimals is also barred.
The case is no different in
Fuel Prices Contact 17622352.
Announcement:
Merak. Most herders own only Sale: Land at Samtse
(In Nu) Japanese language class
about five to seven decimal. zero in Mechaytar. basic and intermediate
Dzongkhag Diesel Petrol Kerosene LPG
Lobzang has 28 decimal Contact 17814636. level at Athang
registered in his thram, but if Thimphu(DPCL) 57.27 68.29 14.94 508
Sale: 30 decimal dryland Institute. For detail
he were to divide it among his P/Ling(Damchen) 55.55 66.29 13.86 456
at Allay, Samtse. Contact contact 17115890.
seven children, each would
*Prices as of yesterday
17620155. Announcement:
Sale: 3.5 acres land at Manju Shiri Institute,
FLIGHTS Bumthang. Contact Thimphu is pleased
17839088. to announce German
DrukAir and French language
Date Route Flight No. Departure Arrival course for the interested
June 13 Bangkok to Paro via Dhaka KB 127 06:50 am 09:50 am candidates. To register
June 13 Paro to Bangkok via Bagdogra KB 130 11:00 am 04:00 pm Looking for job? Visit contact 17960625.
June 13 Paro to Delhi via Kathmandu KB 204 08:00 am 10:45 am www.jobs.bt
June 13 Delhi to Paro via Kathmandu KB 205 11:45 am 03:35 pm Going to Bangkok?
June 13 Paro to Kolkata KB 210 07:20 am 08:00 am Vacancy: Sales girl and We have the cheapest
June 13 Kolkata to Paro KB 211 08:40 am 10:20 am a pharmacist. Contact hotel and apartment
Note : All timings in local. Timings are subject to change. Call Drukair toll free No. 1300 for latest flight information. 17952710. rates-guranteed. Visit
Gaki Promotions
Bhutan Airlines (Tashi Air) Vacancy: One head
on facebook or call
June 13 Bangkok to Paro via Kolkata B3-701 06:30 am 09:45 am cook with minimum
June 13 Paro to Bangkok via Kolkata B3-700 10:35 am 03:50 pm 17645726.
 DIVERSION
Thursday, June 12, 2014 | KUENSEL PAGE 7
daffynition
words.to.the.wise
crew Sudoku
Eight men and their sweet cox
KARUNA
continued
infobyte
Karuna
Goodnight, sleep tight
ORIGIN In Shakespeare’s time, mattresses were secured on bed
is often
frames by ropes. When you pulled on the ropes the mattress translated
tightened, making the bed firmer to sleep on. as “pity” or
MEANING Wishing someone a peaceful sleep
“sympathy”;
riddlemeree since these notions tend to suggest
passive attitudes that do not
the competitive riddle
contain the quality of active help
q: A monkey, a squirrel, and a bird are that is an essential part of karuna,
racing to the top of a coconut tree. Who'll get the banana first?
the concept of “compassion” is
a: None of 'em! You can’t get a banana from a coconut tree. more suitable.
Karuna and prajna are the
todayinhistory principal virtues for adherents How to play LAST SOLUTION

1839 of the Mahayana, whee=reas in Fill in the grid

the Hinayana wisdom is regarded so that every
First baseball game
played in America.
as the most important factor on row, every
the path to enlightenment. In column, and
the schools of Amidism in China every 3 X 3
happybirthday and Japan, the compassionate box contains
ANNE approach finds expression in the the numbers 1
Frank “saving grace” of Amitabha. through 9.
1929-45
Diarist/Nazi victim

quotefortheday beau peep

“Be reverent before the dawning day. Do
not think of what will be in a year, or in
ten years. Think of to-day.”

Romain Rolland 1866-1944

featheredfriend
Grey-rumped Swallow
(Hirundo griseopyga)
Found widely
throughout Africa
KUENSEL
TO ADVERTISE
call 326191 or
fax 326638;
email: advertisement@kuensel.
com.bt
TO SUBSCRIBE
call 327463
FOR NEWS call
324684/322483
ecotip
NU. PER UNITS OF FOREIGN
CURRENCY
Go Green as of yesterday

your eco-vacation should: NOTES

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Provide direct financial
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POUND 97.95 100.70

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waitress in The Fabulous Baker Boys] SING $ 46.65 47.95
ANSWER: Jennifer Tilly Courtesy BNB
ADVERTISEMENT
PAGE 8 KUENSEL | Thursday, June 12, 2014

NOTICE INVITING TENDER

DRUK GREEN POWER CORPORATION LIMITED
Tala Hydropower Plant
No. DGPC/THP/CE/PS-02(CW)/2014/3207(i)

Tala Hydropower Plant (THP) on behalf of Druk Green Power Corporation Limited (DGPCL) invites sealed Bids from eligible International
Competitive Bidders fulfilling the eligibility qualifications specified herein and in the tender document for the below mentioned work:

Tender No Name of Work Earnest Money Period of Cost of Bidding Class of

Deposit (Nu.) Completion Document (Nu.) Contract
DGPC/THP/ Modification /Replacement of Hoisting 0.7 Million 6 months 2000.00 Large
CE/PS-02 Mechanism of Surge Shaft Gate and
(CW)/2014/12 Providing its Latching arrangement
Bid documents shall be on sale from 16/06/2014 to 15/07/2014. Bids shall be received up to 14:30 hours on or before 18/07/2014 and shall be
opened on the same date at 15.00 hours.
The complete set of bidding document can be obtained from the office of Technical Support Unit, THP, Druk Green,Rinchentse on any working day
upon payment of non-refundable fee towards cost of tender document. The bidding document can also be downloaded from Druk Green website
(www.drukgreen.bt) free of charge. Bidders downloading the bidding document from the website should register themselves by intimating the
nodal officer of Druk Green, before the deadline for submission of bid.
Executive Engineer (TSU),THP,DGPC.

NOTICE INVITING QUOTATION NOTICE INVITING QUOTATION (NIQ)

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF
%+87$17+,03+8
NAB-GAS-5/2014/2179
National Assembly Secretariat would like to invite
sealed bids from the eligible bidders for the supply
of annual office stationery, tyres & tubes and
vehicle maintenance and spare parts for the
financial year 2014-2015.
The tender documents along with specification can be
collected from AFD during office hours on payment of
Nu.300/- (non-refundable) or downloaded from our
website www.nab.gov.bt. The bids should reach
this office on or before June 27, 2014 at 2:00 pm
and will be opened on the same day at 3:00 pm. The
documents should be addressed to Secretary General
of National Assembly Secretariat.
Director
NRDCL NRDCL NRDCL
CORRIGENDUM
NATURAL RESOURCES
$17,&255837,21&200,66,217+,03+8
ACC/PRO-18/902
The office of Anti-Corruption Commission invites sealed bids for supply of geyser
from eligible suppliers:
Sale of tender : June 10, 2014 (onwards)
Last date of sale of tender : June 23, 2014 (till 5:00 PM)
Submission of tender : June 24, 2014 (before 12:00 Noon)
Opening of tender : June 24, 2014 at 2:30 PM
Venue : ACC meeting room
A complete set of tender documents may be downloaded from ACC website
www.acc.org.bt free of cost from June 10 - June 23, 2014. The tender documents
can also be obtained from AFD at a cost of Nu.150/- (non-refundable)
Head, Corporate Services
ANNOUNCEMENT ON MUSHROOM POISONING
MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FORESTS
Department of Agriculture
National Mushroom Centre, Yosepang
MOAF/NMC/11/2013-14/428

DEVELOPMENT Mushroom poisoning cases have happened and are happening quit often in Bhutan.
CORPORATION LIMITED NMC advises the general public to collect those mushrooms which they regularly
consume and are familiar with and avoid look-alikes.
=KRQJJDU5HJLRQDO2I¿FH
Since mushroom absorbs substances from the substrate even edible mushrooms can
Mongar become poisonous if the area where the mushroom grows has been sprayed with
NRDCL/Zong/Adm-12/2014/854 pesticides or other toxic chemicals.
Program Director
NRDCL, Zhonggar Regional Office would like
to inform the bidders that the bid opening of the
construction of 3.30KM Korila Forest road has
been differed till 11:00 am on 01/07/2014. TO ADVERTISE IN KUENSEL:
Inconvenience caused is highly regretted. Call 326191 or fax 326638; or email us at advertisement@
NXHQVHOFRPEW; TO SUBSCRIBE: call 327463;
Regional Manager
FOR NEWS: call 324684/322483
NRDCL NRDCL NRDCL

More than 40 acres of fallow
wetland to be re-cultivated soon
With the help of the RNR centre, irrigation channels have been repaired and fields ploughed
Dechen Tshering, Mongar
The pleasant weather, fertile
soil and flat fields were not
enough for some hundred
farmers in Garpa Aring, Weng-
khar in Mongar to work in the
fields.
AGRICULTURE
For the last seven years, the
fields were left fallow because
of land fragmentation, limited
irrigation water, labour short-
age and damage to crops by
wild animals.
Not anymore. Starting this
year, more than 40 acres of wet-
land in Garpa Aring, Gamtsalu
and Gangola near Wengkhar
will be used for cultivation with
support from dzongkhag agri-
culture sector and renewable
nature resource (RNR) and
research development centre
(RDC), Wengkhar.
To re-cultivate the fallow
paddy fields, irrigation chan-
nels for Gamtsalu, Garpa
Aring have been renovated
and bushes cleared. Mongar’s
dzongkhag agriculture sector
and RDC Wengkhar had hired
four power tillers from regional
agriculture machinery centre
(AMC) in Khangma since
June 2, and, as of yesterday,
ploughed more than 18 acres
DZONGKHAG
Thursday, June 12, 2014 | KUENSEL PAGE 9
“Everyone gave
up farm work
for want of
water. But now
we hope we can
get to eat local
rice”
Chubja
Farmer
Garpa Aring
Wengkhar, Mongar
than cultivating paddy. “Eve-
ryone gave up farm work for
want of water,” he said. “But
now we hope we can get to eat
local rice.”
Mongar gup Dechen Yeshi
said the fallow paddy fields
After seven years: Garpa Aring in Wengkhar, Mongar will start cultivating this
surrounding RNR and RDC,
year
Wengkhar is one of the prime
terraced lands in Mongar
gewog. “Now if villagers take
with smaller land holdings
decided to pool their land for
ZAKAR
advantage of the re-cultivated cultivation. The move is sup- TOMORROW’S
land, it would earn good cash ported with funds from market Good day
income to support their fami- access and growth intensifica- ‡ WRPDNHRIIHULQJV
lies,” he said. tion and the agriculture min- ‡ WRKRLVWSUD\HUIODJV
Dzongkhag agriculture of- ‡ WRFLUFXPDPEXODWHOKDNKDQJDQGFKRUWHQV
istry.
‡ WRRIIHUDWKRXVDQGEXWWHUODPSV
ficer Khampa said to become He said, 140 farmers own
‡ WRDSSRLQWWRQHZSRVW
self- sufficient, the agricul- 40 acres wetland in Wengkhar ‡ WRVKLIWKRXVH
ture minister, last year, had and as of today, four farmers
instructed them to explore are cultivating more than three Bad day
re-cultivating fallow land. He acres of land. “If farmers are ‡ WRSHUIRUPlui choeDQGlui bumter
said the move to re-cultivate willing to work on the farms,
of fallow land. was initiated by those with we’ll look for electric fenc- $JRRGGD\IRUULWXDOVlazaIRUWKRVHERUQLQWKHR[\HDU
While the move has given sufficient land holdings of 0.30 ing to keep the wild animals *HQHUDOO\DJRRGGD\sogzaIRUWKRVHERUQLQWKHWLJHUDQG
some farmers hope to harvest acres and above while those away,” he said. UDEELW\HDUV
paddy and substitute imported $EDGGD\shedzaIRUWKRVHERUQLQWKHUDWDQGSLJ\HDUV
rice, some are still skeptical
because lack of a water source
in Mongar to irrigate the fields JUNE 13, 2014
would again push farmers to
leave the land fallow. WEATHER
W
Farmer Kinzang Chophel
from Wengkhar said, he left a Max Min
langdo of paddy field fallow 7KLPSKX  
since 2012, because of water
problem. But now with the *DVD  
irrigational channel repaired, 7URQJVD  
he is hopeful that landowners
could reap something from %XPWKDQJ  
their fallow land. 7UDVKLJDQJ  
Another farmer Chubja,
43, said many farmers left their 6DUSDQJ  
land fallow since it was better 3KXHQWVKROLQJ  
to work at construction sites Land owners wait for their turn to plough the fields Source: Meteorology Division, DHMS, MOEA
ADVERTISEMENT
PAGE 10 KUENSEL | Thursday, June 12, 2014

VACANCY RE-ANNOUNCEMENT
BHUTAN DEVELOPMENT BANK LIMITED
BDB/R&M/03/2014/3907

The Management of Bhutan Development Bank (BDB) would like to announce the vacancy for the post of:

Employment
# Position Slot Gender Age Salary Placement Experience
Type
Between Contract for Lumpsum Bumthang, Zhemgang, Dagana, Ex-arm force or worked
Night 25 to 40 one year and Payment of Dagapela, Lhuentse, Pemagatshel as Security personnel for a
01 11 Male
Guard years of renewable based Nu 7,500/- Trashigang, Wamrong, minimum of 2 years under a
age on performance per month Yadi,Trashiyangtse, Trongsa renowned security organization
Interested candidates fulfilling the above criteria may submit the applications along with the following documents to the Branch Manager, Branch
Office, BDBL latest by June 26, 2014. BDBL application form may be collected in person from the Branch Office or downloaded from the
website www.bdb.bt
1. Copy of Citizenship ID Card 2. Valid Medical fitness Certificate not exceeding 06 months from the date of issue
3. Approved online Security Clearance at the time of submitting application
4. NOC from the current employer if already employed (upon short listing)
5. Experience Certificate 6. The applicant should be from that particular Dzongkhag only.
Shortlisted candidates will be intimated for VIVA interview. Please note that the final selection will be done solely based on VIVA interview. Original
documents should be produced at the time of interview without which candidates will not be considered for the interview. For further information,
Contact HRM at telephone No. 322579 / 333865 (Ext.: 2049/2032) or Branch Office during office hours or visit the website.
Management

QUOTATION CALL
TOURISM COUNCIL OF BHUTAN
Royal Institute for Tourism & Hospitality, Kawang Dajo (Upper Motithang), Thimphu
RITH/Pro(Misc-24)/2013-2014/2538

Royal Institute for Tourism & Hospitality invites the quotation call for the following works:

Sl. Particular Bid Contract Date of Date of Date of Date of Cost of

# security(Nu) sale close submission opening document
1 Office stationery, printing items/ July 10 , July 10, 2014 July 10, 2014
20,000/- FY 14-15 June 9, 2014 Nu. 300/-
forms 2014 2:00 pm 2:00 pm
2 Vegetable, meat, grocery items
do do do do do do do
and Miscellaneous items
3 Electrical, plumbing and
do do do do do do do
hardware items
4 House keeping, laundry and
do do do do do do do
kitchen cleaning items
5 Sports items do do do do do do do
6 Maintenance of vehicle & supply
do do do do do do do
of spare parts, tyres & tubes
7 Computer/Office equipment/
do do do do do do do
toner & cartridges
8 Office furniture do do do do do do do
The quotation forms and documents may be obtained from Procurement Office during office hours. For further enquiries, contact us at (02)331282
(Procurement Office) during office hours.
Officiating Director

NOTIFICATION
NATIONAL PENSION & PROVIDENT FUND, THIMPHU
NPPF would like to notify that some of our clients have deposited money in NPPF’s bank Account No. 20700220430360019 maintained with
BOBL, Thimphu and Account No. 17992007 maintained with BNBL, Thimphu but have not submitted the copies of the deposit slip to NPPF.
Since the bank statement does not specify the transaction details, NPPF is not able to identify the depositors and credit their respective loan
accounts. NPPF, therefore, requests all concerned clients to hand over the deposit slips to Recovery Section, NPPF before June 15, 2014 positively
to enable us to update the loan accounts.
Management
 ADVERTISEMENT Thursday, June 12, 2014 | KUENSEL PAGE 11

AUCTION NOTICE
ROYAL INSURANCE CORPORATION OF BHUTAN
The following properties will be sold in an open auction on June 14, 2014 at 10:30 AM in RICB Training Hall, Thimphu on ‘‘AS IS WHERE IS
BASIS”.

Sl# Properties Location Remarks

1 Volvo Excavator, 2010 model Nganglam, Pemagatshel Running condition
2 Volvo Excavator, 2010 model Nganglam,Pemagatshel Running condition
3 LPT809, Truck, 2011 model HQ, Thimphu Running condition
4 Dry Land measuring 0.15 Acre( Individual Ownership) Dhamdara (Municipal area), Phuentsholing Throm,
Chhukha Dzong
5 Eicher Terra 16, 2011 model Olakha, Thimphu Running condition
6 Dry Land measuring 108900sq.ft Kilkhorthang, Tsirang
Terms and Conditions:
1. The individual bidders will have to deposit an earnest money of Nu.25000/- (Ngultrum Twenty Five Thousand) and entrance fee of
Nu.300/-(Three Hundred) (Non refundable) on or before 10:30 AM on the day of auction.
2. The highest bidder will have to deposit 25% of the bid amount on the day of the auction and the balance of 75% within ten days time.
3. The unsuccessful bidder’s earnest money will be refunded after the auction.
4. In case of the unsuccessful bidders fail to deposit 75% within the stimulated time, the earnest money deposited and 25% of bid amount will
be forfeited.
5. RICB reserves the right to reject offers without assigning any reason thereof.
6. For details, kindly contact Legal Department, RICBL, Thimphu and Branch Manager Nganglam for further information.
Management

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT ABRIDGED NOTICE

INVITING TENDER
MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
GYALYONG TSHOKHANG, THIMPHU DRUK GREEN POWER
M FA/HRS/CIRCULAR-ANNOLINCEMENT/ 28/472
CORPORATION LIMITED
Kurichhu Hydropower Plant
As per the decision of the 43rd HRC Meeting held on June 6, 2014, the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs is pleased to announce the vacancies for the following posts: Gyelpozhing
INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIVE BIDDING
Sl. P Minimum For
Position title Division/Department Slots
# level qualification “Fabrication, Supply and Commissioning of
International Organizations one complete set of spillway stoplog Gate at
Chief of
1 Division, Multilateral P1 A 1 KHP DAM”
Division
Department (IOD, MD)
DGPC/KHP/TSU/TD-05/2014/1602
International Treaties and
Chief of Conventions Division, Kurichhu Hydropower Plant, DGPC invites sealed
2 P1 A 1 Bids from eligible bidders for Fabrication, Supply
Division Multilateral Department
(ITCD, MD) Bachelor’s and Commissioning of one complete set of Spillway
Degree stoplog Gate at KHP Dam.
Europe, America & other
Chief of
3 Division, Department of PI A 1 Bid documents shall be on sale from June 13, 2014
Division
Bilateral Affairs (EAoD, BD) to July 14, 2014. Bids shall be received up to 14:30
Programme & Hospitality hrs on or before July 14, 2014 and shall be opened on
Deputy Chief July 14, 2014 at 15:00 hrs.
4 Division, Department of P1 A 1
of Protocol
Protocol Interested bidders may obtain the complete set of
Total Slots 4 bidding documents upon payment of non-refundable
fee of Nu.1000/-.(Ngultrum One thousand)only
Interested candidates who meet the eligibility criteria as per BCSR 2012, Chapter 13,
as cost of bidding documents from the office of the
Clause 13.7 under promotion rules and regulations may apply.
Superintending Engineer, Kurichhu Hydropower
Applicants with relevant qualification/training and work experience shall be given Plant, Gyelpozhing, Mongar during the office hours,
preference for the purpose of short-listing. telephone +975-4-744145.
Interested candidates may apply to HRS, MFA on or before June 24, 2014. For Detailed NIT and bidding documents are also available
more information, please visit website www.mfa.gov.bt or contact Tashi Dendup, at DGPC website (www.drukgreen.bt) and can be
Sr. HRO, HRS, MFA @ 328172/328183 during office hours downloaded from the website.
HRM, AFD Superintending Engineer
SPORTS
PAGE 12 KUENSEL | Thursday, June 12, 2014

World Cup
fever
With less than a day to
go before kick-off of the
world’s biggest football
tournament, we take a
look around the globe at
how people are getting
gripped by World Cup
fever

A sheep, dressed in the colours of the Colombian national

team, grazes on grass during an exhibition in Nobsa, Colombia.
The sheep is named Falcao, after the Colombian player

No prizes for guessing who this fan on a beach in Rio supports

It’s no wonder this elephant is sporting a Brazilian flag as it’s

using the outside of his foot to kick the ball at Mae Sa Elephant
Camp in Chiang Mai province, northern Thailand

In Kolkata, kite makers Ajit Datta, left, and Saikat Datta arrange some special kites depicting the
national flags of the teams participating in the tournament

World Cup mascot Fuleco performs next to inmates during the opening ceremony of the football A diver clad in the South Korean kit plays keepy-uppy among
championship for prisoners at the Castro Castro Prison in Lima. Peru’s prison service have organised sardines at the Coex Aquarium in Seoul
a national championship between inmates of various jails Theguardian

Printed and published by Kuensel Corporation Limited, PO Box 204, Tel: 975-2-322483/324688, Fax: 975-2-322975, www.kuenselonline.com ISSN 0259 1499
 WORLD DAY AGAINST CHILD LABOUR
MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER OF LABOUR AND HUMAN RESOURCES
T
he first
World
Day
against
Child Labour was
launched in 2002,
with different
themes each year
focusing on issues
related to combating
child labour.
Lyonpo Ngeema Sangay Tshempo
This year the theme is to “Extend Social Protection:
Combat Child Labour draws attention to “the role of
social protection in keeping children out of child labour and
removing them from it.”
Child labour refers to employment of children in any
work that deprives them of their childhood, interferes
with their ability to attend regular school and that which
is mentally, physically, socially or morally dangerous and
harmful.
To combat child labour, we need to address the root causes “Extend Social Protection:
of child labour and social protection measures are key part
of the response. Social protection measures ensure that a
family is provided with the social security and removes the
need to resort to child labour. Thereby, ensuring each child
has access to education, health care and nutrition, which
form the basis of healthy, happy and productive lives.
Bhutan is fortunate as the introduction and
implementation of the broad areas of social protection
by the government have been complemented by the
continuing tradition of granting kidu or welfare by our
visionary Monarchs to the people in various situations
of hardship. This tradition continues to be central to the
social protection mechanism in the Kingdom, and the
protection of children from exploitation. In addition to
these, recognizing the importance of social protection,
the Government has recently drafted a Social Protection
Policy, which will look at measures to support families and
extend assistance in addressing child labour in Bhutan.
With support from agencies like UNICEF, NCWC and
other non-government organizations such as YDF, RENEW and Tarayana
Foundation. The issues on child labour have been comprehensively
covered along with other such issues example youth at risk, domestic
violence, disabilities, poverty, and other social issues facing the most
vulnerable and disadvantaged section of Bhutanese society. The need
to address child labour has also duly been reflected in the National Plan
of Action for Child Protection and incorporated in the 11th Five Year
Plan. The Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan mandates the state
to take appropriate measures to ensure that all children are protected
against all forms of discrimination and exploitation including trafficking,
prostitution, abuse, violence, degrading treatment and economic
exploitation.
The Labour and Employment Act of Bhutan 2007 is aligned to many
international standards related to child labour including the ILO
Convention 182 on the worst forms of child labour. The Act prohibits
the employment of children in places that are deemed hazardous.
Nevertheless, there are forms of child labour existing in Bhutan and
which we must all collectively work together to address. It is important
for every child to be in school and get education so that they grow to
their full potential and become responsible and productive citizens of
tomorrow.
Tashi Delek
$Q\RQHFDQUHSRUWRUUHJLVWHUFRPSODLQWDERXWFKLOGODERXUZLWKWKH0LQLVWU\RI/DERXUDQG+XPDQ5HVRXUFHVDQG5HJLRQDO(PSOR\PHQWDQG/DERXU2I¿FHDWZZZPROKUJRYEW
DEPARTMENT OF LABOUR, MINISTRY OF LABOUR AND HUMAN RESOURCES.
www.molhr.gov.bt Phone: 02-327537 Fax: 02-339922, Thimphu
5HJLRQDO(PSOR\PHQW /DERXU2I¿FHDW6DPGUXS-RQJNKDU 07-251315 Phuentsholing 05-254657 Gelephu 06-252010 ,Trashigang 04-521208, Lobesa 02-480569
Kuensel Supplement Issued in public by the Ministry of Labour & Human Resources
Shaheen Nilofer, Representative,
UNICEF Bhutan
E
very year, 12th June is observed as the
World Day against Child Labour to
promote awareness and action in tackling
child labour. This year UNICEF Bhutan
in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and
Human Resources joins the global community
in highlighting the issue with the theme “Extend
social protection: combat child labour.”
Child labour is a serious violation of children’s
rights, with lifelong negative consequences for
children’s physical, mental and social development.
Child labour is a threat to national economies
and has severe negative short and long term
Combat Child Labour” consequences for the fulfilment of children’s rights
as guaranteed by the UN Convention on the
Rights of the Child (UN CRC), including denial
of education and health and frequent exposures to
violence.
International Labour Organization (ILO) data
indicate a positive trend – the number of working
children has declined by a third from 246 million
in the year 2000 to 168 million in 2013. The rate
of decline, however, is not enough to reach the
goal of eliminating the worst form of child labour
by 2016, and we are still looking at 168 million
children globally, who are deprived of their rights
and childhood. The Bhutan Multiple Indicator
Survey 2010 shows a child labour prevalence at
18.4 percent of which 13.5 percent children are
also out-of-school.
Addressing the root causes, including the
underlying economic and social factors are essential to combat child labour. Extreme poverty and
vulnerabilities play a key role in driving children to work – children from poor households and families going
through economic and social crises are more vulnerable to child labour in order to meet basic needs. Social
protection, therefore, is an important measure to support and assist poor families to help them withstand
various shocks, and ensure that children are in school and not at work.
A combination of child sensitive social protection measures, including income security to families, health care,
and free and quality education for all children can directly contribute to combating child labour. It is necessary
that these measures are designed and implemented to promote equity by reaching the most vulnerable families
and children. A host of social protection measures are in place in Bhutan, including free health, education and
other schemes. It is well supported by the traditional extended family system and complemented by the royal
prerogative of Kidu which provide assistance to the most vulnerable people in society. It is essential that these
measures take into consideration the rapid changes the country is going through, including urbanization.
Social protection measures need to address vulnerabilities arising out of the changing circumstances, keep
children out of child labour and remove them from it.
There is a need to accelerate and intensify efforts to address the problem of child labour in a comprehensive
manner. It calls for an integrated approach from all sections of society –government, international organizations,
civil society, private sector, children, families, and media. UNICEF works closely with Ministry of Labour &
Human Resources, National Commission for Women and Children, non-governmental organizations and
other stakeholders in combatting child labour through strengthening the national child protection systems
and promoting social change, and is committed to working with all the stakeholders to combat child labour,
and towards ensuring a safe and happy childhood to all children of Bhutan.
Tashi Delek!
Thursday June 12, 2014