The Speaker at the start of the session, on behalf of the Parliament, offered heartfelt prayers and gratitude on the occasion of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo’s Coronation Day, which is also observed as Social Forestry Day in recognition of His Majesty’s legacy in environmental conservation. The House prayed for His Majesty’s continued good health and for the ongoing peace and prosperity of the Kingdom under His Majesty’s  wise leadership.

Petition calling for strict monitoring of Bar Licencing and operation of Bars. 

The Member from Shompangkha constituency submitted a petition calling for strict monitoring of the bar licensing system and the operation of bars in the country. He expressed concern over the proliferation of bars and its negative social implications, particularly to our youth. 

In response, the Minister for Health acknowledged the issue and informed the House that the Ministry is addressing it through awareness programs, improved health services, and the implementation of the National Policy and Strategic Framework to reduce harmful alcohol use, first introduced during the government’s 2013–2018 term. The policy has shown some positive impact, and the Ministry is currently working on additional strategies under the 13th Five-Year Plan’s Healthy Drukyul initiative, with a focus on reducing alcohol-related harm and improving support services. The Minister emphasized the need for collective effort, including greater involvement from Local Governments.

The Minister for Industry, Commerce and Employment stated that bar licenses are issued in accordance with established rules and procedures, with necessary monitoring in place. He also highlighted the government’s plan to impose higher taxation on alcohol through the upcoming Excise Bill and stressed the importance of individual responsibility in addressing the issue.

The House directed the Women, Children and Youth Committee to review the petition in detail and submit its report in the Winter Session.

Petition to improve mobile and internet connectivity in highland areas 

The Member from Nyishog-Saephu constituency submitted a petition on the need for urgent action to improve mobile and internet connectivity in highland areas. He submitted that poor network services affect daily life and public services in remote communities and suggested providing satellite phones for people living in those areas.

The Minister for Industry, Commerce and Employment acknowledged the difficulties faced and informed that the Ministry is working with telecom companies to improve coverage. The House was informed that surveys are already being carried out including plans to provide satellite phones for groups in remote areas, as done in the past. The Minister also said that BICMA is currently monitoring the quality of telecom services, but challenges like rough terrain and scattered populations make it difficult to provide full coverage.

Members supported the petition and stressed the urgency of improving connectivity, especially in a digital era where access to communication is essential.

The House directed the Good Governance Committee to study the issue and present its recommendations in the Winter Session.

Petition to exempt submission of drawings for approval for construction of traditional houses and cattle sheds 

The Social and Cultural Committee submitted its review report on a petition submitted by Paro Dzongkhag Tshogdu requesting that Gewogs be allowed to approve construction of traditional houses and cattle sheds, which are exempt from technical drawing requirements under the Bhutan Building Rules (BBR) 2023. The petition emphasized that removing Gewog-level authority has led to delays and increased hardship for rural communities.

It was noted that the Construction Approval System (CAS), a digital platform aimed at streamlining construction approvals, is set to be launched in December 2025 following testing and training phases. However, the Committee pointed out that until CAS is fully implemented, Gewogs should be permitted to process traditional construction approvals, with verification by Dzongkhag Administrations.

The Members also raised concerns regarding the effectiveness of the CAS for people living in remote areas with poor network connectivity, and recommended that Gewogs serve as verification authorities.

Following the deliberation, the House noted that the Ministry is currently working on the issue and that relevant activities are underway. However, recognizing the importance of the matter and the concerns raised, the House directed the Ministry to consult with the Committee and provide an update on the progress in the next session.