Parliament & Budget Oversight: Bhutan’s PAC flagged a “systemic failure” in engineering and procurement capacity behind recurring public works irregularities, citing unresolved audit observations and a shortage of experienced technical staff. Finance & Private Sector: The government has directed the RMA to review Bhutan’s lending rate framework (including MLR and expected credit loss rules) amid calls to cut borrowing costs for SMEs. Economic Plan Update: In the State of the Nation report, the PM said GDP grew 30% since the 13th FYP began, driven by hydropower expansion, while youth outmigration and fuel prices remain key risks. Public Service Tech: RCSC launched Zhiyop, Bhutan’s first civil service robot, to answer questions from the Bhutan Civil Service Rules and Regulations via voice. Demographics: Government launched the Third Child Plus Program, offering Nu 10,000 monthly for third and subsequent children until age three. Climate & Disaster Readiness: WMO and ICIMOD warned that even with weaker monsoon rains, HKH—including Bhutan—faces high flash-flood and landslide risk from intense bursts and rising temperatures. International Relations: Croatia formally recognized Bhutan, and Bhutan also recognized Croatia—leaving only two countries yet to do so. Digital Identity & Travel: Ayanworks and Digi Yatra demonstrated standards-based interoperability for international digital travel credentials aligned with IATA’s One ID vision.