Skip to main content
Back to Current Affairs
Science & TechnologySource: DD News (Doordarshan)

Bhutan's Growth through Green Cryptocurrency Mining

Thursday, 24 April 2025
Read Original Article

Key Points

Bhutan is leading the charge in utilizing green cryptocurrencies powered by its 100% hydropower resources to foster economic growth. This initiative is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for GS Paper 3, as it addresses technological advancements and economic development. Last Updated: 2025-04-24

Key Facts About Bhutan's Green Cryptocurrency Mining

  • Bhutan explores green cryptocurrency mining using hydropower.
  • Mining secures transactions and creates new digital currency.
  • Green cryptocurrencies are mined using clean energy sources.
  • Bhutan's sovereign fund has invested in cryptocurrencies since 2019.
  • Profits from crypto support public spending.
  • Plans to sell green coins to companies meeting ESG targets.
  • Aims to retain talent by training youth in blockchain and AI.
  • Youth unemployment is at 16.5% in 2024.
  • Hydropower capacity to expand from 3.5 GW to 15 GW in 10–15 years.
  • Long-term target of 33 GW to support mining.

Bhutan's Economic Transformation through Green Technology

Bhutan's venture into green cryptocurrency mining is a significant step towards sustainable economic growth. By leveraging its abundant hydropower, Bhutan aims to address youth unemployment and prevent brain drain, aligning with India's strategic goals of sustainable development and technological advancement. This initiative positions Bhutan as a leader in the global green economy, with potential for attracting sustainable foreign investments and contributing to regional economic stability.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

  • Hydropower Expansion Plan: Aims to increase capacity to support green initiatives.
  • Technology Education Program: Provides training in blockchain and AI to retain talent.

UPSC Relevance

  • GS Paper 3: Economic Development, Science & Technology, Environmental Conservation
  • Prelims Angle: Questions on green cryptocurrencies, Bhutan's hydropower capacity, ESG targets
  • Mains Angle: Essays on sustainable economic growth, technology's role in development, regional cooperation

FAQ Section

  • What is green cryptocurrency mining?
    Green cryptocurrency mining involves using renewable energy sources, like hydropower, to mine digital currencies, reducing the environmental impact.
  • Why is Bhutan's green cryptocurrency initiative important?
    This initiative is crucial for economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development, leveraging Bhutan's natural resources to address youth unemployment.
  • What are the key features of Bhutan's green cryptocurrency plan?
    Key features include expanding hydropower capacity from 3.5 GW to 15 GW, training youth in blockchain and AI, and targeting a long-term capacity of 33 GW for mining support.

Detailed Coverage

  • Bhutan explores green cryptocurrency mining using hydropower.
  • Mining secures transactions and creates new digital currency.
  • Green cryptocurrencies are mined using clean energy sources.
  • Bhutan's sovereign fund has invested in cryptocurrencies since 2019.
  • Profits from crypto support public spending.
  • Plans to sell green coins to companies meeting ESG targets.
  • Aims to retain talent by training youth in blockchain and AI.
  • Youth unemployment is at 16.5% in 2024.
  • Links tech education with job creation for a vibrant economy.
  • Hydropower capacity to expand from 3.5 GW to 15 GW in 10–15 years.
  • Long-term target of 33 GW to support mining.
  • Innovative steps towards sustainability and economic growth.
  • Utilizes natural resources for green initiatives.
  • Focus on addressing brain drain and unemployment.
  • Potential for new sustainable foreign investments.
  • Contributes to the global green economy.
Science & Technology

Practice Questions

Test your understanding of this article

Question 1 of 50 / 5 answered
1

The phenomenon wherein young individuals in Bhutan face significant employment challenges, currently standing at 16.5%, is indicative of what broader socio-economic issue?