Hydropower Contract: Hindustan Construction Company (HCC) secured a ₹127 crore contract from Wangchhu Hydroelectric Power Ltd for diversion tunnels, hydromechanical gates and cofferdams for Bhutan’s Wangchhu project, with completion targeted in nine months—another sign of Bhutan pushing ahead with large-scale hydro under its 13th Five-Year Plan. Population Policy: Bhutan announced cash incentives to boost births amid declining fertility and migration—families will receive 10,000 ngultrum monthly for every third and subsequent child born on/after June 4, 2026 until age three. Climate & Resilience: Bhutan’s climate resilience work is being highlighted at the GEF Council, with a USD 56m forest and agricultural landscapes project credited with major gains in food availability and stronger conservation outcomes. Urban Infrastructure: Thimphu is undertaking a major drainage overhaul to handle heavier rainfall and climate risks, aligned with the Thimphu Structure Plan and funded through a GEF-backed project with UNDP support. Trade Standards: Bhutan participated in SARSO’s 11th Governing Board meeting in Dhaka, where members agreed a 2026 action plan aimed at removing technical barriers and harmonising regional trade standards. Business & Governance Watch: A Bhutanese businessman abroad received a nine-year prison sentence after a viral social media video sparked charges tied to sensitive remarks, renewing debate on free expression and business compliance.