Hydropower Contract: Hindustan Construction Company (HCC) secured an INR 127 crore contract from Wangchhu Hydroelectric Power for diversion tunnels, hydromechanical gates and cofferdam works for the Wangchhu project, with a nine-month timeline—another sign of Bhutan’s continued push to expand hydropower. Renewables Policy: Bhutan’s National Assembly advanced the Renewable Energy Tax Exemption Bill 2026, moving it closer to law with time-bound tax incentives aimed at cutting project costs and boosting energy security. Tourism Operations: Bhutan’s Home Minister said the government is working to address tourist permit delays and long queues at the Phuentsholing Integrated Check Post, after MPs raised concerns about SDF payment and entry formalities. Waste Management: Government reaffirmed commitment to Zero Waste Bhutan 2030, stressing public participation, stronger waste systems, and better handling of e-waste and EV battery waste. Demography & Families: Bhutan will pay families cash incentives for more children—10,000 ngultrums monthly for eligible third and subsequent births from June 4, 2026—responding to falling births and migration pressures. Regional Connectivity: Prime Minister said India will fully fund the Kokrajhar–Gelephu rail link (Nu 34.5 billion), positioning it as a key trade and connectivity pillar for Gelephu Mindfulness City. Conservation Funding: Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation (BTFEC) announced new grants in Gelephu, including support for red panda tourism and elephant habitat enhancement.