| English | Dzongkha | Thursday, April 2, 2020 |
While the coronavirus pandemic has disrupted many businesses in the country, it has been a blessing in disguise for a milk-processing unit (MPUs) in Draagkteng Village, Trongsa.
COVID-19 cases globally crossed 950,000 with the highest infection of over 200,000 reported in the United States. The death toll has climbed above 5000 in the US. The international media also reported that the US federal government’s reserves of protective equipment and medical supplies were almost exhausted.
The World Food Programme (WFP) donated two mobile food storage units to the government today for COVID-19 response.
Answering the nation’s call, sacrificing their comfort, and taking up arms against the invisible enemy, the 17-member team who treated the first COVID-19 patient in the country returned home to their families on Monday.
Like heroes, which they are, they again wait to answer the nation’s call again if required.
A hailstorm this afternoon damaged around 15 acres of vegetable, crop and fruit farms in Ngedrupchhu chiwog of Chhubu Gewog in Punakha.
Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering, in most of the COVID-19 press briefings, shared that more than 50,000 Bhutanese working in the tourism sector, including hoteliers, travel agents and tour guides, remain severely affected after the government restricted incoming tourists following the 1st case of COVID-19 in the country on 5th March.
More than 45 countries across the globe are now going to participate in a multi-country trial to identify potential cures for the COVID-19 outbreak. A patient in Norway is the first to enrol in a global solidarity trial testing launched by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
National Cottage and Small Industry (CSI) Bank Limited approved 36 projects worth over NU 25 M today. These approved loans are expected to produce farm produce such as vegetables, dairy and livestock towards food self-sufficiency amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
More than two weeks since the last revision, fuel prices in the country dropped further. At Lungtenzampa fuel station in Thimphu, a litre of petrol now costs Nu 49.91 and for a litre of diesel, it is Nu 46.73.
The southern entry points along the Samtse–India border have been under 24-hour surveillance ever since the closure of all entry points. However, despite repeated pleas, some people are still seen trying to go over to India. And even Indians, despite being on lockdown are seen trying to enter Bhutan.