Bhutan Health Workforce: Bhutan’s Annual Health Bulletin 2026 reports growth in doctors and nurses, but uneven staffing—doctors rose from 318 (2019) to 463 (2025) and nurses hit 1,869 (2025), while health assistants fell from 683 (2021) to 566 (2025), raising concerns for basic frontline services. Gelephu Hospital Overhaul: Gelephu General Hospital, the key facility for six southern districts, is set for a major upgrade as GMC prepares tender-ready designs after a technical assessment, covering major systems and hospital functionality. Child Eye Care in Thimphu: More than 70 international experts are in Thimphu for a paediatric ophthalmology and strabismus conference, with Bhutan reporting 1,218 strabismus cases in 2025, most common among ages 5–9. Cross-Border Digital Payments: Bhutanese travellers can now pay in India via UPI by scanning merchant QR codes using supported Bhutanese banking apps, completing two-way connectivity launched in phases. India-Bhutan Health & Development Push: During EAM Jaishankar’s Bhutan visit, India and Bhutan backed new energy and development steps including a 65-bed mother and child hospital in Mongar, alongside broader connectivity and fintech cooperation. Wellness & Movement: The Thimphu Marathon drew around 600 runners for peace, mindfulness and environmental awareness, adding another local push for active living. Global Conservation for Health: Bhutan’s Earthshot Prize finalist status highlights forest protection and restoration—key for climate resilience and long-term wellbeing.