Sep 20, 2024 59 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for September 20, 2024

The following news articles are the opinions of their authors and publications. They are presented here as translations for informational purposes and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Mongolia Strategy Center or its members.

Today's Stories

Politics

POSITION: Ministry Management Makes Direct Appointments

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: news.mn

The operation of organizing recruitment and selection based on the principle of public service human resources development and capabilities is one of the main functions of the Civil Service Council. The law on civil service has been amended to conduct a general examination to select citizens who wish to serve as civil servants and to form a reserve of civil service personnel four times a year. In support of the legal amendments and the revival of state productivity, five civil service examination procedures have been consolidated and updated into the “Terms for Taking Civil Service Examinations and Promotion, Selection Procedure,” which is now being enforced.

The civil service exam consists of two levels: general and special. Citizens who pass the general examination are registered into the reserve, which is valid for three years. For example, in the first half of 2024, the utilization rate of the civil service general exam reserve was 37.2%, with 7,794 citizens appointed to official positions in the government. The general examination for the third quarter of 2024 began nationwide yesterday. Of the 4,736 registered for the general exam, 2,452 will take it in Ulaanbaatar. Among all registered examinees, 69.1% are women, and 72.7% are youth up to 35 years old. We are providing views and clarifications on some issues related to civil servants appointed and working in civil service from the Chairman of the Civil Service Council and relevant officials.

"STATE SERVICE POLICY AND LEGAL ENVIRONMENT REFORM SHOULD BE BASED ON RESEARCH"

CIVIL SERVICE COUNCIL CHAIRMAN L. TSEDEVSUREN:

According to the end-of-year statistics for 2023, 226,496 civil servants were registered across 4,239 state entities, making up 6.7% of our country’s population and 18.2% of the workforce. As of June 30, 2024, 229,621 civil servants were working in 4,267 state entities, accounting for 6.8% of the population and 17.9% of the workforce. With population growth, the numbers are primarily changing due to the establishment of kindergartens, schools, lifelong learning centers, hospitals, and health centers nationwide, as well as state procurement offices in provinces.

Only 37% of those who passed and were registered in the reserve of the civil service general exam actually enter government service, which is not a satisfactory rate. We want to activate the remaining human resources of the civil service. There is a strong desire and interest from citizens to work in the civil service. This is one aspect of the issue. On the other hand, passing the general exam does not mean that one fully meets the conditions to work in civil service.

It's important to pass the test of general knowledge and have the capability to remember, memorize, and calculate, but choosing individuals with strong Mongolian written and verbal skills and ethics is preferable for public service. As of the end of 2023, 63.6% of civil servants, which is 144,183, were women, while 36.4% (82,313) were men. The percentage of female civil servants increased by 2.1%, from 61.7% in 2020 to 63.6% as of June 30, 2024. Although the share of women in the civil service, particularly in the political arena, increased and has been highly valued internationally, the Gender Equality Law requires a 40:60 ratio if one gender vastly dominates in the workforce, which might not be met.

As of the first half of this year, 5,933 people with disabilities are working in civil service. The amendments to the Civil Service Law in 2022 and 2023, alongside the Employment Promotion and Employment Selection Provisions outlined in the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, have positively affected their employment in civil service. There is criticism in society that the capability and education level of civil servants are poor, yet in recent years, their educational level has been rising. Comparative analysis shows an increase compared to last year’s end-of-year registration: 142 more with doctorate degrees, 570 with master’s, 2,732 with bachelor’s, and 704 with full secondary education.

As of June 2024, there are 1,315 with doctorates, 24,400 with master’s degrees, 132,874 with bachelor’s degrees, 4,838 with diploma degrees, 21,921 with vocational and technical education, 34,943 with full secondary education, and 5,684 with basic education among civil servants. A total of 69% of civil service staff possess bachelor’s degrees or higher, reflecting changes and increased quality in job requirements and specific job requirements for positions in civil service.

Finally, state service policy, legal environment reformation, and every step of innovation should be based on research. Formulating farsighted, impactful policy and implementing it accurately and with minimal risk heavily relies on research.

Data from many years available in the state serves as “raw material” for research. There is much of this raw material available. Using them to calculate patterns, trends, and risks should guide policy-making and decision-making like a compass.

"STATE-WROUGHT DAMAGE AMOUNTING TO 776.4 MILLION TUGRIK WAS COLLECTED FOR THE BUDGET"

CIVIL SERVICE COUNCIL MEMBER B. IDERCHULUUN:

The Civil Service Law states that “If a civil servant other than a political or other official is unlawfully appointed or dismissed by a decision from the central civil service organization or a court, the financial damage shall be compensated by the responsible officer who made the decision.” In other words, unlawful appointments incur financial accountability. Therefore, if someone is unlawfully appointed, the person who made the appointment will be liable for the salary paid to the appointed official.

In the framework of this work, the Civil Service Council from 2019 to 2024 maintained a ledger engaging in the compensation for damages caused to the state and sent claims totaling 3.5 billion tugrik to officials who made erroneous decisions, and in some cases, took them to court on behalf of the state. Over the past three years, nearly 1 billion tugrik was collected from officials who made illegal appointments. As of the first eight months of this year, 471.3 million tugrik was added to the budget.

The fundamental issue here lies in the fact that whenever a new government is established, a new structure gets approved. This movement within the state apparatus breeds problems. For instance, when a new Minister of Health is appointed, the Ministry aside from health operations shouldn’t be churned up by the new minister.

The roots of this issue stem from partisan politics within rigidly membered parties, which is a widespread problem throughout Mongolia. In local areas, parties split into 2-3 factions causing disputes. When one party wins, competitors are forced to close their businesses. To untangle these knots, party issues must be sorted out.

There have been various reforms within the scope of the Civil Service Law through the past years. Article 5.1 of the Law on Civil Service states that "The mission of the civil service is to serve the people, be true to the state, and adhere to the Constitution of Mongolia and other laws.” Implementations focus on that.

"MINISTERIAL LEADERSHIPS MAKE DIRECT APPOINTMENTS AND SKIP CSC CHECKS"

HEAD OF THE CIVIL SERVICE COUNCIL'S DISPUTE RESOLUTION OFFICE CH. BAT-ERDENE:

Under the current laws and regulations, newly approved structures of the new government are endorsed. Subsequently, ministries get their strategic and organizational restructuring programs ratified by the government. This is currently 80% complete.

The specific number of departments and divisions each ministry will operate under the new structure becomes clear. Based on this structure, role descriptions should be updated and approved by the Civil Service Council. Only after the Council's approval can they proceed with appointments based on the new structure. Unfortunately, violations occur where ministry leaders resort to direct appointments bypassing this procedure.

Thus, with specific instructions from the Speaker of Parliament, significant efforts by the Standing Committee on State Structure, and active advisory and oversight involvement from the Civil Service Council were initiated across fourteen ministries except for the Ministries of Defense and Foreign Affairs. The outcomes of these efforts will become clear in time. A task force has been mobilized under the decision of the Chairman of the Civil Service Council. There are sporadic complaints concerning executive positions in ministries. Upon receipt, complaints are investigated seasonally, discussed in the CSC meeting with five members, and if found unlawful, a resolution is issued to nullify such decisions.

This matter is scrutinized by civil service, and within their powers, responsible decisions are commanded with deadlines, and failure to rectify leads to direct annulment. Advisory assistance is being rendered to 14 ministries to prevent such violations. Despite providing oversight and methodological guidance, if illegal decisions are continuously made, further actions will be taken. If an unlawful appointment is executed and discovered, the salary given to the unlawfully appointed officer gets charged to the person who wrongfully appointed them.

Lastly, examining the tenure of civil servants, 39% have worked from 0-5 years, 18.6% have worked from 6-10 years, highlighting concerns about the availability of stable and productive working conditions.

The average age of civil servants has been reduced to 38.6 from the previous year by 1.51 years (in 2022, it was 40.15). The civil servants’ workforce is getting younger. As of June 2024, 70.3% are youth aged up to 44.

Fighting Corruption Is Right, But Innocent People Should Not Be Wrongfully Accused

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: news.mn

It has begun to attract attention that the Anti-Corruption Agency released the Head of the General Department of Medical Insurance, L. Byambasuren, and the Head of the Claims Control Department of the same agency, A. Tuvshin, after detaining them for investigation.

The saying "if there is a person, there will be a case" seems to apply here, as the Anti-Corruption Agency tends to let real corrupt officials and criminals escape while arresting and detaining innocent individuals.

However, when there is no valid reason to keep them detained, they have no choice but to release them and start investigating them at large.

The arrest and release of L. Byambasuren and A. Tuvshin from the General Department of Medical Insurance followed this scenario. Simultaneously, there has been information circulating about the Anti-Corruption Agency investigating several heads of state hospitals, which also raises suspicion. There's a concern that the Minister of Health, T. Munkhsaikhan, might be using such tactics to replace people he cannot otherwise move by involving the Anti-Corruption Agency to remove them from their positions.

There are many issues in the health sector. Last spring, during an open hearing organized by the Parliament, it was widely reported that the pharmaceutical market is entirely mafia-controlled. It became clear from the above information that the issues start with the Minister of Health.

It is very important for the Minister of Health to combat the entrenched corruption and bribery in the health sector and ensure that every insured citizen receives satisfactory medical treatment quickly and efficiently. However, it would be wrong if those who are honestly doing their job are pressured into leaving their positions by being subjected to investigation over trivial matters due to pressure from authorities.

Such a wrong precedent would be established.

The Anti-Corruption Agency should not be working on political orders and tarnishing its reputation. There is a bitter lesson from a few years ago when the Anti-Corruption Agency searched the home and private office of D. Khayankhyarvaa, who was the director of the "Erdenes Mongol" company, took photos of money stored in his safe, and spread them on social media, making him appear as a corrupt official. After this incident, the former director of "Erdenes Mongol", D. Khayankhyarvaa, said about the occurrence, "It was my own money. In most cases, I blame myself. My guilt had not even been determined; in fact, I hadn’t even finished giving my statement to the Anti-Corruption Agency when they conducted the search at my personal office and home, placed the money, and spread it across all social media platforms. They made it seem like Khayankhyarvaa was caught red-handed taking a bribe. The money they claimed was from corruption was later returned to me in full."

Economy

National Budget Income and Aid Amount Increased

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The national consolidated budget income and the amount of aid reached 19.9 trillion MNT in the first 8 months of this year, according to preliminary execution data. This is an increase of 4.6 (30.4%) trillion MNT compared to the same period last year. The amount of balanced income and aid reached 18.9 trillion MNT, an increase of 4.3 (29.3%) trillion MNT.

Total expenditure and net repayable loans amounted to 17.3 trillion MNT over this period, with a balanced budget surplus of 1.6 trillion MNT, according to the National Statistics Office.

Tax revenue reached 17.7 trillion MNT in the first 8 months of the year, increasing by 4.1 (29.9%) trillion MNT compared to the same period last year. This growth was mainly influenced by increases in income tax revenue by 2.2 (57.3%) trillion MNT, value-added tax by 823.7 (28.1%) billion MNT, social insurance revenue by 474.1 (19.8%) billion MNT, foreign operation income by 209.4 (22.4%) billion MNT, and excise tax by 196.5 (37.2%) billion MNT.

During this period, tax revenue consisted of 33.6% income tax, 21.2% value-added tax, 16.1% social insurance, 6.5% foreign operations, 4.1% excise tax, and 18.5% other types of tax, payments, and fees.

The national consolidated budget expenditure and net repayable loan amount reached 17.3 trillion MNT in this period, an increase of 4.5 (35.4%) trillion MNT compared to the same period last year. The increase in expenditure was influenced by a rise in goods and services expenses by 2.6 (95.8%) trillion MNT and capital expenses by 969.3 (40.7%) billion MNT compared to the same period last year. In the first 8 months, expenditures included 40.6% current transfers, 31.6% goods and services expenses, 19.7% capital expenses, 5.3% interest expenses, and 2.8% subsidies.

Mortgage Loans Provided to Over Nine Thousand Households

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Within the framework of the housing mortgage program, loans totaling 1,059.2 billion MNT have been provided to 9,102 households.

Out of this, 616.1 billion MNT worth of loans were given to 4,784 households in Ulaanbaatar, and 443.1 billion MNT worth of loans were provided to 4,318 households outside the capital. This represents an approximate increase of 151% compared to the same period last year. The central bank reported that the amount of loans given in rural areas has increased by approximately 301%.

The National Wealth Fund Act was approved by the State Great Khural (the National Parliament of Mongolia), and a government resolution was passed to take certain measures related to the enactment of the law. According to this resolution, investments from the savings fund into the housing concessional loan program through the Bank of Mongolia resulted in a doubling of the program's loan allocation.

If Supported by the State, Bayan-Ulgii Province Can Attract One Million Tourists

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: news.mn

Conversation with A. Begarys, the leader of the Democratic Party of Bayan-Ulgii Province

Could you please introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is A. Begarys. I am a civil engineer by profession. After graduating, I have been running a private business for about 10 years. For the past three years, I have established a construction company in Bayan-Ulgii and have been involved in building residential complexes and implementing projects. Currently, the first residential complex project in Bayan-Ulgii is in full swing. Last October, I was elected as the leader of the province's Democratic Party. Now, I am preparing for the regular elections of the State Great Khural and local elections in a year.
What challenges do you face in implementing major construction and residential projects locally? Issues such as sewage treatment facilities, main pipelines, and energy must be present, correct?
Yes, generally speaking. Out of all 21 provinces, ours has the most expensive land.
What is the reason for this?
It is related to the lack of the infrastructure you mentioned. The construction industry should be addressed at the national level. With the start of the cold season, our province has a severe air pollution problem. It has reached the level of Ulaanbaatar's within the last 5-10 years. The solution, of course, is residential housing. While we can't house everyone, we are exploring possibilities to create energy-efficient buildings. As part of this, I met with Mr. Tumenbayar, who is working on the "Live Well in Your Yard" project in Ulaanbaatar, and studied their projects. We are also building three energy-efficient houses and plan to put them into operation this October.
What important tasks do you see as crucial to be implemented in Bayan-Ulgii Province going forward?
When we look at provincial and national development, everything is tied to elections. However, in my view, regardless of elections or the party, we need to clarify what the ambitions of Bayan-Ulgii province are, what its development plans should be. We often mistake temporary fixes in various sectors as development. Development is something entirely different. For the past 20 years, we've been talking about education and healthcare. We still talk about them today. If we continue like this, we'll just keep talking about these issues. As a young person, I wonder why Bayan-Ulgii can't be a leader in education and healthcare. The national budget is now being discussed in terms of trillions of MNT. Sadly, there's no significant outcome. The government says it needs 120 trillion MNT to implement major projects. What real results will this bring? For local development, we must lay a solid foundation in this election. Laying a good foundation is very important. Additionally, we need medium and long-term plans to address what's not working in Bayan-Ulgii.
In the upcoming elections for the State Great Khural, Bayan-Ulgii Province has been made into a single constituency. While it's right to have representation for national minorities, there are concerns that this could lead to being left behind in the regional development plan. What is your perspective?
Everything has two sides. It's difficult to define something as absolutely right. In my opinion, how long will we act as a national minority, demanding sympathy? We are equally citizens of Mongolia. We are one of the 21 provinces. Why can't Bayan-Ulgii Province be a province that contributes to the national budget instead of just receiving subsidies? For the last decade, it's been said that our province will be made a tourism hub. Yet no substantial action has been visible. For instance, the MIAT flight is problematic. Last year, Khovd Province got an international airport. We should have such an airport too. There's a high interest in HALAL-certified meat in the Gulf countries. Some have started purchasing. There is a market, yet we can't supply it transparently. We have potential. If the government provides legal and investment support, there's a vast market. Geographically, our location is ideal. There are 65 million people in this region. Unfortunately, we lack competitive products.
There's been talk of a highway and a permanent checkpoint connecting Russia and China. How is this work progressing?
A 745 km road on the vertical axis has been commissioned. Cargo is transported to Russia through the Yarant checkpoint in Khovd, onward to the Ulaanbaishint checkpoint. Last year, the government decided to construct a highway connecting the Dayan and Tsagaannuur checkpoints. However, we risk becoming merely a transit base. We should retain some of the revenue. Yet, they don't even buy fuel from us. Even the cook trucks for the Russian company's drivers are self-contained. So, building a road won't solve all problems. The government should estimate the outcomes and economic circulation after road construction. Production and services along the road should be considered. Currently, Xinjiang Uyghur receives 100 million tourists annually. If just one million could come to Bayan-Ulgii, it would bring enormous revenue. But to attract tourists, what do we have to offer? What is there to sell to them once they are here? These are still issues.
The government seems to be organizing a lot of activities to boost tourism. What actions is your province taking in this area?
Hardly any actions are being taken. Private sector entities are just trying to improve their services, like operating a nomadic restaurant at Altai Tavan Bogd. Unfortunately, compared to what other countries do to develop tourism, these efforts are really laughable. We have very few attractions to showcase. We should establish a tourist street in the provincial center that displays the lives and cultures of all our ethnic groups. The government should fully support those who are earnest about improvement. Bureaucracy in government services must be eliminated urgently. There is extreme bureaucratic inefficiency in our province. There is a shortage of young talent and workforce. Educated young people have left. Without skilled personnel, how can work progress? Many young people wish to return and work in their hometowns. However, due to the bureaucratic inefficiency and poor living conditions, they do not return. Therefore, in this local election, our party is considering nominating all new candidates.
There is nationwide talk about breaking free from energy dependency. How is the energy situation in your province?
Bayan-Ulgii Province is reliant on Russia for energy. Erdeneburen hydropower plant was discussed to be built in our province since 2012. However, it was decided to be built in Khovd Province. We need more renewable energy sources. Recently, we met with leaders from Khan Bank and saw that a 10 megawatt solar power plant could be feasible. We should enable the private sector to take this initiative with government support for land and legal framework. There's a saying, "If there's a will, there's a way." I travel often to our neighboring countries for construction business. When I see the coal from Khushuut mine being transported daily, it's concerning. There are two large coal washing plants right across the border. We have great potential if we build our plants to wash and sell our coal. Unfortunately, excessive politicization has prevented it from happening yet. We have all possibilities and resources. Sadly, we can't utilize them. There's leather, but we can't make finished products. To develop agriculture, we need a unified, comprehensive policy.

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: news.mn

Social insurance, welfare, family, and labor protection experts worked today at the government's 11:11 public relations center. During this time, issues related to social insurance were clarified by S. Lkhagvadorj, director of the inspection division of the Social Insurance General Office.

The Social Insurance General Office is working at the government's 11-11 public relations center. What complaints or information are mostly being received from people?
From September 19 to 24, we are working at the government's 11-11 public relations center. Looking at the complaints and information received during this period, many complaints and suggestions are related to the granting of temporary disability benefits, maternity benefits, and unemployment benefits. People often approach us about the financing of these issues.
How many people are paying social insurance contributions?
Around 60,000 employer organizations are working with the social insurance organization. Among them, 1.2 million mandatory insured and 190,000 voluntarily insured people are covered by social insurance services. Currently, about 506,000 citizens are receiving pensions from the social insurance fund.

Also, about 200,000 insured people receive benefits from the social insurance fund.

Lately, especially young people have been critical of paying social insurance contributions. This may be because they lack information about the services they receive in return for paying their contributions.
Social insurance itself is a system that compensates for the reduction in a contributor's income and shares the financial risks faced by contributors. In other words, contributors pay social insurance premiums while they are young and earning an income. However, when they reach old age, fall ill, lose the ability to work, or become unemployed, their financial capability, as well as that of their family, decreases. The aim is to compensate for this reduced income at that time. Young people are relatively employed, earning an income, and have work capacity. In social insurance, there are situations where one pays today and may receive benefits tomorrow, or one may receive a pension after 10 or 20 years. Young people commonly deal with temporary disability, maternity benefits, and unemployment benefits. Since they have not yet reached the age of receiving pensions, social insurance services seem distant to young people.

However, as of today, about 506,000 citizens are receiving pensions.

If no one received services from the social insurance fund, those citizens' financial risks would not be covered today. In 2024, the Social Insurance General Office is providing 6.8 trillion MNT for pension fund financing. Approximately 20% of the total national budget is spent on pensions. Depending on the type and duration of insurance one has with social insurance, it is possible to share financial or social risks encountered with the social insurance fund.

Is there an opportunity to reduce the rate of social insurance contributions?
The rate of social insurance contributions is legislatively defined. For mandatory insured people who are employees, employers pay 12.5-14.5% of their salaries as contributions. Insured individuals themselves pay 11.5% as social insurance contributions. In total, 24-26% of their salaries are paid as contributions.

For voluntary insured individuals, they pay 13.5% from their income as agreed with their social insurance organization.

It is specified in the law that social insurance contribution rates will not increase in the future. However, the income and necessary expenses of the social insurance fund are calculated yearly, and the budget of the social insurance fund is legislatively approved by the State Great Khural. Each country sets its social insurance contribution rates based on its social characteristics, development, and economy. Some countries have rates above 36%. In our country, it is considered a middle-level system.

The Social Insurance General Office has declared September 2024 as an open information month. Related to this, an open day for social insurance will be held across the 21 provinces and 9 districts of Mongolia on Friday, September 20th. During this time, citizens, insured individuals, and employers can come to receive any information related to social insurance issues they wish to.

Neighbor Investment and Mongolia's Interests!

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: news.mn

The famous quote by the brilliant French general and statesman Napoleon Bonaparte, spoken centuries ago, is frequently reminded by diplomats. It goes, "The foreign policy of any country is determined by its geographical location." This is especially relevant to small countries, particularly for Mongolians who live between two great powers, and it ought to be kept in mind even if it's not posted on a wall.

In short, China and Russia are Mongolia's eternal neighbors and also eternal "adversaries."

Mongolia has been de facto and de jure dependent on the Manchus (China) and the USSR (Russia). It has only been about 30 years since it truly gained political and economic independence. However, it is a country without the economic and geopolitical capability to antagonize its two neighbors. If Beijing closes its borders, exports and imports will halt. If Moscow turns off its taps, the economy will come to a standstill.

Therefore, leaders of small countries must be as cunning as possible. Only then can they protect the safety of their country. It is pointless to confront or kneel before the great powers. Instead, they must treat the interests of both their neighbors and third neighbors equally.

Regarding the issue of opening Russian bank branches in Mongolia, Deputy Prime Minister S. Amarsaikhan explained, "Due to some Russian banks and financial institutions being under international sanctions, there are delays in processing fuel payments from our side. Therefore, we will cooperate with Russian banks and financial institutions that are not under any sanctions." This is a two-sided explanation. In the short term, opening a branch of a Russian state-owned bank in Mongolia means there will be no obstacles to fuel imports. However, in the long term, if a Russian bank enters, issues related to economic and national security could arise. If the immediate benefit outweighs the future risk, the consequences could be significant later.

In short, the main question is whose interests S. Amarsaikhan is serving. It was already shown that Moscow's relations have shifted from Zhenko to S. Amarsaikhan when V. Putin visited Mongolia and demonstrated it through his words and actions.

During his 24-hour visit to Ulaanbaatar, V. Putin expressed his interest in deeply engaging in all sectors of Mongolia, especially in cooperating on 14 projects announced by the government, and he also asserted his interests. In short, the Kremlin proposed taking responsibility for the expansion of the Third Power Plant, conducting a detailed environmental assessment of the Egiin Gol Hydropower Plant, constructing a nuclear power plant, and cooperating in the education sector, to which Mongolia did not object.

Last week, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at Mongolia's main import port, Zamyn-Uud, and agreed to connect the railway of Gantsmod-Gashuunsukhait and to invest in the Erdeneburen Hydro Power Plant project. Thus, after having visited in sequence, the two neighbors have declared and imposed their interests on Mongolia's economic and energy sectors.

Of course, it is impossible to bluntly oppose the neighbors' requests. Mongolia's economy and energy sector depend on major powers, posing a risk to fall into a coma if Russia or China sneezes. However, Mongolia's interest is to equally attract investments from both its two neighbors and third neighbors.

Unfortunately, in the last 15 years, except for the Oyu Tolgoi project, no investment from a third country has entered. Therefore, one of the most important works expected from the joint government is the "Zuuvch-Ovoo" uranium project. According to the Secretary General of the Government Cabinet of Mongolia, N. Uchral, if an investment agreement can be made with France's state-owned "Orano" in October, Mongolia will have realized one of its interests.

Introducing Russian interests in the Egiin Gol Hydropower Plant may, at worst, mean this project will never be implemented. On a positive note, the Mongolian government's cunning might be to implement other energy projects without obstacles.

Mongolia is geographically a buffer country located between Russia and China. On the other hand, our geographical location provides the advantage of being shielded from Beijing's threats by Moscow and from Moscow's threats by Beijing. Using this advantage to attract investments from third countries should be Mongolia's independent policy.

In passing, it's worth mentioning that the "Fitch Ratings" agency has upgraded Mongolia's credit rating from "B" to "B+," which will have a positive impact on attracting foreign investment. Increased foreign investment will ensure national security.

SELENGE: Industrial Sector Production Declines

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

In Selenge province, the total production in the industrial sector has decreased.

For the first 8 months of the year, the industrial sector produced products worth 307.5 billion MNT and made sales worth 409.3 billion MNT.

Compared to the same period last year, production decreased by 2.5 billion MNT, while sales increased by 78.1 billion MNT.

In this province, 195 billion MNT of the total industrial products belong to the mining sector, 99.6 billion MNT to the manufacturing sector, 9.1 billion MNT to the electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning sector, and 3.8 billion MNT to the water supply, sewerage, waste management, and environmental remediation sector.

Compared to the same period last year, the production of the mining and quarrying sector increased by 5.2 billion MNT, the electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning production increased by 3.2 billion MNT, and the water supply, sewerage, waste management, and environmental remediation increased by 0.9 billion MNT.

However, the production of the manufacturing sector decreased by 11.9 billion MNT.

Sales of 218.8 billion MNT of total industrial products were made in the above sectors.

Infrastructure

Direct Flight between Mongolia and the USA Will Halve Ticket Prices

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Director of the Civil Aviation Authority of Mongolia, Ch. Munkhtuya, and other leaders of the organization provided information about the current state of the civil aviation sector.

Currently, 12 companies are providing air transport services with a total of 60 aircraft in Mongolia.

"Mongolia has established 'Air Communication Agreements' with Qatar, Greece, Laos, the United Kingdom, Hungary, and the USA, as well as a Memorandum of Understanding on Air Communication with Singapore.

These agreements allow for direct flights between Mongolia and these countries, providing citizens, business travelers, and tourists with affordable and quick travel options. Increased international passenger flow and significant growth in the aviation sector performance are expected. Mongolia is now capable of operating direct flights to 157 destinations in 46 countries worldwide.

Increased International Flight Routes and Frequency

There are now 75 flights per week between Mongolia and South Korea, averaging 12 flights daily.
There are 20 flights per week between Mongolia and Japan.
There are 8 flights per week between Mongolia and Turkey.

The revised air communication agreements have effectively increased passenger flow and expanded tourism, trade, and economic relations. The national carrier MIAT has begun utilizing the latest Boeing 787-9 aircraft, allowing for non-stop flights from Mongolia to any global destination.

Domestic Scheduled Flights Resumed and Ticket Prices Reduced

To stabilize and resume domestic flights, the government has directed MIAT Corp to operate domestic routes and resolved the necessary investment issues in a meeting.

Flights have been resumed to eight locations: Ölgii, Khovd, Uliastai, Ulaangom, Altai, Murun, Choibalsan, and Dalanzadgad, with ticket prices reduced by 2-2.5 times.

MIAT Corp has leased CRJ-200 aircraft from South Africa's CEM AIR for domestic flights and is also using a 70-seat CRJ-700 plane called "Mazaalai" for domestic routes with its pilots.

Enhancing Local Airport Capacity and Operations

Efforts to increase airport capacity and improve operations include upgrading "Khovd," "Gurvan Saikhan," "Choibalsan," and "Murun" international airports.

These projects, implemented through public-private partnerships, aim to align with international standards, creating 4C and 4D control-code airports and passenger service complexes.

Expanding the capacity of local airports will allow larger aircraft like Boeing 737-800, Airbus 319, and Embraer 190 to operate regular flights, increasing flight numbers and passenger flow.

Additionally, regular flights to Bayankhongor airport are set to begin, with upgrades to the runway, enabling flight operations, increasing frequencies, and reducing ticket prices.

Preparing for Direct Flights from Mongolia to the USA

Preparations are underway for direct flights from Mongolia to the USA. In August 2023, prime minister L. Oyun-Erdene, during an official visit to the United States, finalized the "Open Sky Agreement" between the governments of Mongolia and the USA.

Direct flights are expected to:

Halve ticket prices;
Reduce travel time to the USA by 2 to 3 times;
Allow Mongolian carriers to fly directly to any city in the USA;
Retain about 45 million USD annually within Mongolia;
Benefit around 50,000 Mongolian citizens studying, working, and living in the USA;
Enhance international competitiveness of Mongolian carriers;
Expand Mongolian-American trade and economic relations;
Strengthen third neighbor policies, among other benefits.

The heads of the civil aviation authorities of Mongolia and the USA signed a Memorandum of Understanding in April 2024, amending the 2011 agreement to facilitate future cooperation.

MIAT Corp has acquired two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft for long-haul flights, offering passenger comfort, fuel efficiency, and the latest technology.

In preparation for direct flights, a "Safety Information Sharing Agreement" was signed, involving the Civil Aviation Authority of Mongolia and the US Department of Homeland Security's Transportation Security Administration.

Currently, an exact date for commencing direct flights cannot be specified.

Aviation Language Proficiency Tests Launched Locally

Mongolia has started conducting the TEAC (Test of English for Aviation Communication) exams locally. This offers pilots and air traffic controllers cost-effective, high-quality language assessment services.

The ICAO language proficiency development team, assigned by the CAA Director, adapted the ICAO language proficiency test guide to national standards and operational requirements, enabling local testing upon receiving official approval.

Permission Granted for Drone Blood Delivery Services

"Mongolian Smart Drone Delivery" LLC received the first national certificate for Unmanned Aircraft Operations.

Federal rules govern such operations, emphasizing safety. The purpose is to enhance quick medical support using drones for blood and blood products delivery to relevant hospitals, supported by local government agencies and JICA.

This year, we will repair and renovate 10 times more roads

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: news.mn

Ulaanbaatar city mayor Kh. Nyambaatar provided information related to road repair work through his social media page. He stated, "Previously, Ulaanbaatar city repaired and renovated an average of 15-16 km of roads annually, but this year, we plan to repair and renovate 162 km of roads at once. We are doing this because we plan to issue bonds and renovate the entire city's roads, increasing the movement of vehicles. In other words, by the first half of 2025, there should be no cracked roads in the city.

Some citizens criticize us, saying that we repair roads when schools and classes resume like 'losing a day, gaining a night'. We obtained the right to issue bonds by June 2024, got our plans and budget approved, and announced tenders. Before this, there was no money. The first tender was selected on July 28, and subsequent tenders are being selected.

We aim to adhere to road technology protocols and finish road work before the temperature drops below freezing.

Two days later, we will open the road section from Bayangol to the roundabout 32. Also, we will soon close parts of the Yarmag road. Last year, after snow and ice melted, all city roads were cracked and damaged. Serious road repair work hasn't been done in the past 10 years. This has been contributing to increased traffic congestion. We plan to complete about 70% of the planned road work. In the coming years, we will conduct tender selections for next year's road work during the winter. For example, projects like the Selbe Selleh road, Gakhai's residence road, Officer's road, Narny's road, Peace Avenue, from Tavan Shar's intersection to Bayankhoshuu road, and many other road repair works will be conducted to renovate all first-level principal roads of the city by June 1, 2025. Next year, we will announce the tender for the second-level roads or ring speedways. Citizens should be patient with the road repair work," he said.

Energy Reform and Price Adjustment Efforts Announced

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: news.mn

Several working groups have been formed to reform energy policies and adjust prices to cover losses in the energy sector. Following the government meeting, Deputy Prime Minister T. Dorjkhand provided the following explanation.

He stated that the issue of increasing energy prices is under study. Announcements have been made to reform this sector. In addition to price studies, there are many changes and updates that need to be made, so many working groups have been formed. Energy reform does not only include price tariffs. The price is a very small issue. Mongolia is an energy importing nation. In order to harness its vast potential, liberalization of the energy sector is necessary. How can the efficiency of energy companies be increased, and how can they be made transparent and well-governed? Furthermore, to pave the way for exports, how can a market environment be created, and how can foreign investments be attracted? These comprise the comprehensive effort.

Comprehensive research and consolidation are needed to implement such reforms.

By November 1, we aim to study and assess what changes can be made in the energy sector, evaluate the results and impacts, and make decisions.

PRICE INCREASE PLANNED, BUT NO FINAL PERCENTAGE DECIDED

It has been reported that the energy sector is operating at a 357 billion tugriks loss. Therefore, a decision has been made to increase electricity prices from this coming winter on November 1 to cover this deficit. Sector members and economists suggest liberalizing prices and increasing them by a certain percentage is advisable. However, they stress that the basis for the increase, and calculations and studies on deficit elimination, should be publicized.

The ministry and research working groups have not finalized the percentage of increase, though a 30% suggestion is currently being discussed.

Increasing the electricity price to eight cents means one kilowatt-hour will cost 270 tugriks. Price adjustments may be needed in future years to cover deficits, even if a 30% increase is implemented this winter. Consequently, the public demands transparency in the reasoning behind the price increase and its potential social and economic impact.

The Deputy Prime Minister stated that electricity prices will be increased, but the exact percentage has not yet been finalized. In any case, what reforms will be implemented in this sector will be clear in about a month.

The Transfer of the Bogd Mountain Northern Settlement Area to City Authority is Under Discussion

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The issue of transferring the Bogd Mountain northern settlement area from the Ministry of Environment to the city authority is currently at the proposal stage.

During the XXIII regular meeting of the Capital City Council, issues surrounding the redevelopment of the ger districts were discussed.

Concerns were raised about residents in Yarmag who gave up their land for redevelopment but have not been able to move into their apartments. Questions were asked about when these issues will be addressed, as Yarmag and Nisekh have dense buildings but no schools. People have been expressing a desire to live better within their own fenced areas rather than undergoing redevelopment. When will such opportunities arise? The issue of transferring the special protection area in Khan-Uul district from the Ministry of Environment to the city authority was also brought up by City Council Representative B. Myagmar, and explanations were requested from relevant officials.

L. Khosbayar, Deputy Mayor in charge of social sector, green development, and air and environmental pollution issues, stated that in 2020, by decree of the Mayor, the right to redevelop and build on 46.1 hectares of land in the 8th Khoroo of Khan-Uul district and Yarmag area was transferred to the Municipal Housing Corporation. The issue of 26 affected residents of the area was discussed, and a meeting with the city mayor was held. These citizens' issues were transferred to the Municipal Housing Corporation.

B. Zagdsambar, Head of the Cadastral Division of the Capital City's Land Management Department, mentioned that the transfer of the special protection area in Khan-Uul district from the Ministry of Environment to the city authority is proceeding in two stages.

First, the boundary established by Parliamentary Resolution in 1996 for a part of the 8th Khoroo of Khan-Uul district was clarified, transferring the land to Ulaanbaatar city, and canceling Decree 80 issued by the Minister of Environment.

Second, the issue of transferring parts of the settlement area that have emerged on the northern side of Bogd Mountain from the Ministry of Environment to city authority is at the proposal stage. This matter will be finally decided by the Parliament.

According to B. Enkhjin, head of the Finance and Investment Department of the Mayor's Office, compensation for 1,270 unit land plots has been paid out of the planned 2,200 unit land clearances in the Selbe subcenter. The city budget amendment has allocated 100 billion tugriks for land clearance in the Selbe subcenter. The valuation of unit land plots varies, with plots on the first row of streets being more valuable.

Notice: Media organizations (television, radio, social media, and websites) must cite our source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, either in full or in part.

Locations for Transforming Ger Areas into Housing Established

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

At the regular meeting of the Capital City Council (NITX), a presentation was made regarding the approval of locations for implementing activities to transform ger areas into housing, and a resolution project was approved.

To reduce traffic congestion in Ulaanbaatar city and ensure the implementation of the law on transforming ger areas into housing, approximately 733 hectares in the territories of Sukhbaatar District's khoroos 12 and 13, and Chingeltei District's khoroos 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, and 22 have been established as areas for this purpose. Additionally, 71.8 hectares in the territories of Sukhbaatar District's khoroos 15 and 17, and the area around the Dambadarjaa sub-center, as well as 133.3 hectares in Songinokhairkhan District's khoroos 1, 2, and 34, and the area around the Tolgoit sub-center have been designated for converting ger areas into housing.

Under the decree of the city governor, the "Capital City Housing Corporation" JSC is implementing the transformation of ger areas into housing on 158 hectares in some khoroos of Chingeltei and Sukhbaatar Districts, and around the Selbe sub-center. Last year, the State Great Khural approved the "Law on Reducing Traffic Congestion and Transforming Ger Areas into Housing in Ulaanbaatar City." This law states that, based on essential social needs, priority will be given to the inclusion of ger area transformation into housing in the general and partial master plans of the city's development, particularly the locations of sub-centers, as reported by the Metropolitan Administration's Public Relations Department.

P. Khadbaatar: The apartment building affected by the explosion will be demolished this year and rebuilt next year. The demolition cost is MNT 2.4 billion

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The regular XXIII session of the Capital City Council is in recess and will continue shortly.

During the session, discussions were held regarding whether to rebuild the building affected by the explosion in the 26th khoroo of Bayanzurkh district, as well as how to address the rent payments for affected residents.

P. Khadbaatar, Head of the City Mayor's Office, stated, "We have reached specific decisions on determining the strengthening of the building affected by the explosion, negotiating with the residents, providing support to the families of deceased citizens, and offering financial support to those undergoing treatment."

Rent payments for eight months have been transferred to 63 residents of the 207th apartment. The residents proposed demolishing and rebuilding the building. As per this proposal, designs and budgets were prepared, which align closely with the State Emergency Commission's conclusion of approximately MNT 2.4 billion. The building will be demolished within this year. Now, residents must submit their proposal for the demolition. After that, an assessment will be conducted, a tender will be announced, and the demolition company will be selected.

Out of the MNT 2.9 billion transferred to the capital by the State Emergency Commission, MNT 1.5 billion was spent to extend the rent payments for residents by eight months. The remaining funds will be used for the demolition. The rebuilding cost is MNT 2.5 million per square meter. This will be resolved from the reserve fund of the City Mayor in the 2025 budget. Since this is taxpayer money, it will be collected from the liable parties after a court decision.

According to R. Amartuvshin, Director of the "City Planning and Research Institute" State-Owned Enterprise, the demolition of the building will cost MNT 2.4 billion. The plan is to demolish it this year and rebuild it next year. The State Emergency Commission's resolution included addressing the rent payments for residents until the new building is operational, so this will be implemented.

Non-refundable assistance is planned for the families of deceased citizens, and financial support is intended for those undergoing treatment.

In January of this year, a tragic incident occurred in the territory of 26th khoroo, Bayanzurkh district, when a truck transporting fuel gas crashed and caught fire on the road near the "Dunjingarav" shopping center. As a result, three emergency service officers, four pedestrians and vehicle passengers passed away, and nine people were injured to varying degrees.

Additionally, the prosecutor's office determined that 35 vehicles, three buildings, and the property of 228 citizens and 15 enterprises suffered damage.

Renovation of Playgrounds, Green Spaces, and Parking on 5.2 hectares in the Capital

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The City Council's meeting approved a draft resolution to determine the location and size of public land, resolving the land at 21 locations for the renovation of playgrounds, green areas, and parking lots.

For example, in Bayangol District, land has been allotted at 16 locations over 2.71 hectares, in Bayanzurkh District at one location over 0.42 hectares, and in Songinokhairkhan District at 4 locations over 2.06 hectares. Since 2019, 293.56 hectares of land at 287 locations have been registered as public land in Ulaanbaatar city. Further actions are planned for public land.

Specifically, public land will be developed under urban planning and land management policies, and proposals will be submitted to relevant organizations to resolve the use and maintenance of public land. Efforts are to be made to make the work done on public land open to citizens and the public, and the registration and increase of public land will be carried out step-by-step as informed by the Ulaanbaatar Mayor's Office Press and Information Department.

New Technology: The Machine That Paves Cement Roads Can Repair 2 km in a Day in Suburban Areas

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: news.mn

Are roads in suburban areas ever repaired? The answer is often a rare yes. Due to many obstacles and damages, it is difficult to pass through in any season, and this limits public transportation as well.

However, a machine using Recycling technology to repair dirt roads in a short time has been deployed in the 13th microdistrict of Chingeltei district, marking a new experience. Next to this road is a flood channel and on the other side is the 49th secondary school, mainly frequented by children.

Recycling technology works as the machine moves forward, mixing soil with water to create cement and covers it immediately. The road is then leveled in a short time by a rolling machine following behind.

This initiative was proposed by the First Deputy Mayor of the Capital, N. Manduul. He provided explanations while personally overseeing the road repair work.

N. Manduul stated, "Many difficulties arise due to the rough roads in suburban areas, and yet they are rarely repaired. However, with the help of Recycling technology, we are working here in the 13th microdistrict of Chingeltei district. It is going well. If this initiative is successful, it can be implemented further. It is a technology that can repair 2 km of road in just one day."

The head of the Capital City Road Development Department, D. Odbayar, also explained the technology thoroughly. The interconnected machines move slowly forward, directly processing the soil, pulling it up, mixing it with water to create cement, and then covering it back. As mentioned earlier, having a rolling machine follow behind is sufficient. This is not asphalt, but a suitable solution for heavily damaged roads in suburban areas.

The Deputy Governor of Chingeltei District commented, "This road was left unfinished due to lack of budget. Now, it is pleasant to see it being repaired quickly with this simple technology. Most importantly, many children use this road, and because it has a flood channel next to it, there are many risks and dangers in any season."

Even though N. Manduul has not been in his position long, he has been actively addressing issues from various directions. He is well-known for his previous role as the Executive Director of the Development Bank, where he played a significant role in bringing the bank out of bankruptcy.

Currently, N. Manduul is running for the City Council elections in Chingeltei district. Given his familiarity with the issues of Chingeltei district and as the First Deputy Mayor of the Capital, he has begun repairing suburban roads with this new technology quickly.

Some Projects Blocked by Golomt's D. Bayasgalan Were More Beneficial to the Capital Than Bööröljuut

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: eguur.mn

The beneficiaries behind the nice words of supplying inadequate energy

In the framework of the comprehensive project of Bööröljuut mine and power plant, there are several tasks to be built, but the one being discussed shortly is the power plant. However, while the project's other tasks' investment and progress are unclear, the mine is being exploited based on them.

The Bööröljuut power plant, considered the capital's hope, is being implemented with 100% private ownership, with the profits of this project going to D. Bayasgalan of Golomt, who manages to acquire all major national projects one way or another.

To break it down, on April 25, 2019, during former President Kh. Battulga's visit to China, Mongolia's "Tsetsens Mining and Energy" LLC and China's "Sinosteel Equipment and Engineering" company signed a contract to implement a 300 MW power plant construction and assembly work on the Bööröljuut side. At the time of signing the contract, "Tsetsens Mining and Energy" LLC was registered as a founding shareholder under "Tsetsens Holding." However, after signing the contract, D. Munkhtur became the director of "Tsetsens Holding," and D. Bayasgalan of Golomt became a shareholder.

Also, as for the investment agreement for the Bööröljuut project, "Bodi International" LLC signed it with China's "Powerchina Resources" LLC in 2015. However, there is no information about the progress of the investment, and searching the open information database about the tender of the mentioned construction work yields no results. Only information that "Tsetsens Mining and Energy" LLC has been selected for coal technology and procurement tenders since 2019 is available.

In addition, within the framework of the mentioned project, a special license to utilize the Bööröljuut coal deposit was granted to "Tsetsens Mining and Energy" LLC, a subsidiary of Bodig Group, by the Ministry of Energy in August 2017. Subsequently, since 2017, coal extraction has been conducted at the mine to supply the central region's thermal power plants and other consumers.

There is no purchase agreement detailing who the mine, deposit, plant, road, etc., will be transferred to, upon the completion of this private and public partnership project.

From this, it can be seen that D. Bayasgalan of Golomt, through "Tsetsens Mining and Energy" LLC, will gain all the profits from the infrastructure built within the project's framework and has the opportunity to utilize the coal deposit until the construction is completed.

What will be done within the framework of the Bööröljuut comprehensive project? Has their construction started?

According to the approved feasibility study, the total investment of the project is estimated at approximately 600 million USD. However, only the budget cost for constructing the power plant is planned to be about 420 million USD. The remaining amount is the cost of supporting infrastructure, including:

Bööröljuut mine
Bööröljuut power plant
Bööröljuut 220 kV power transmission overhead line
Bagakhangai - Bööröljuut road and railway
Residential area

Under the contract signed between "TSETSENS Mining and Energy" LLC and the Central Power Distribution Network State-Owned Company, the 220 kV line between Baganuur and Bööröljuut has been assembled. The first 150 MW block of the plant will be commissioned in October. However, there is no information about other parts of the project.

Experts' prediction that Bööröljuut, located close to the capital and built based on a mine, could supply electricity at the lowest cost, is incorrect.

Specialists had emphasized that the Bööröljuut power plant, built 120 km from Ulaanbaatar, had the potential to produce and deliver the lowest-cost electricity in Mongolia. However, "Bööröljuut Power Plant" Executive Director D. Munkhtur mentioned during the Ulaanbaatar Regional Development Forum held last March that they plan to deliver electricity at 238 MNT.

Specifically, the starting tariff of the plant will be 7 cents, averaging about 8 cents afterward. The price of electricity imported from Russia and China is about 10-12 cents.

As of 2024, the tariff for electricity sold to households by UBEDN State-Owned Company starts from 176 MNT, depending on the metering device in a household. This is 62 MNT less than the Bööröljuut power plant's tariff.

The capital financed the construction of Bööröljuut power plant, intended to provide electricity needed for the Metro.

The integrated project of Bööröljuut power plant, which is unique in that the private sector itself raised funds from the international market and is building it, was said by A. Amundra to be built and commissioned by "Bodi International" within 2.6 years. However, the construction work stalled, and the capital issued a special bond of 300 billion MNT to the Bööröljuut power plant. Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar explained that electricity for the Metro will be supplied from the Bööröljuut power plant.

In other words, it supported the quick commissioning to purchase the Metro's electricity from Bööröljuut.

However, during the Ulaanbaatar Regional Development Forum held last March, former Mayor of Ulaanbaatar E. Bat-Üül stated, "All heating and electricity lines from the west to the east of Ulaanbaatar will change along with the construction of the metro. The required Fifth power plant for the metro's electricity supply should be built. However, Bööröljuut will only supply existing insufficient sources. Additional energy sources are still needed."

In conclusion, even if Bööröljuut gets commissioned, it will only fill the electricity shortage, not be used for major projects like the metro or ger districts that require energy. Therefore, it is clear that Mayor H. Nyambaatar's use of the capital's bond will not yield the intended results and may just be in name only.

The goal of D. Bayasgalan to supply electricity to the central region alone, through political faction alliance, is fulfilled, leaving residents of the capital with persistent electricity shortages.

Also, we cannot ignore a long-discussed issue here. It is possible that D. Bayasgalan delayed the work of the power plant to be built in Baganuur to advance his Bööröljuut project. For instance, six years ago, people like Ch. Munkhbayar, who were sentenced by the court for collaborating with foreign intelligence, announced a press conference saying, "Baganuur, a beautiful place, shouldn't be a platform for a disruptive concession," and opposed the construction of Baganuur TPP. During this time, journalist B. Otgon produced a report with similar content, and some politicians supported it, causing the Baganuur TPP project not to be implemented.

Thus, due to the use of political factions, the goal of a single private entity to supply electricity to the central region was realized, rendering the Baganuur 400 MW power plant project non-existent, and it is unclear how many more years we will have to wait for energy sources for our infrastructure.

While replacing the energy shortage is commendable, we cannot dismiss that some projects that were shelved in the competition of energy projects spearheaded by "Golomt's" D. Bayasgalan would have been more beneficial to Ulaanbaatar than Bööröljuut.

"No More Curb Replacement from Peace Avenue to 32nd Circle"

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Residents have criticized the budgetary waste resulting from replacing curbs that are not damaged. However, the mayor of the city promised not to replace undamaged curbs following a standards update.

According to him, the city collaborated with the Ministry of Construction and Urban Development to change the curb standards. Thus, undamaged curbs will no longer be required to be replaced, as they transition to the new standard.

For example, no more curbs will be replaced from Peace Avenue, the Bayangol Circle to the 32nd Circle.

Damaged and cracked curbs will be drilled and replaced, with the company undertaking repair work to be funded based on the completion.

Warning: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social and Web pages) must mention the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, fully or partially.

Society

B.Zagdsambar: No School or Kindergarten Land Allocated in the 23rd Microdistrict of Khan-Uul, Yarmag

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The regular 23rd session of the Ulaanbaatar City Council is being held today.

The representatives are discussing issues such as amendments to the 2024 city budget, changes to the land management plan, determining the location and size of public use lands, establishing residential areas from ger districts, funding for the "Eco District and Affordable Housing Fund," establishing the "New Zuunkhmod City Development Corporation" owned by Ulaanbaatar city and Tuv Province, among other topics.

The staff of the Ulaanbaatar City Mayor's Office have moved entirely to the Khangardi Palace located in Yarmag within the 23rd microdistrict of Khan-Uul. However, there is no school or kindergarten in this area.

Regarding this, City Council member L.Otgonbaatar stated: "In the area of Khan-Uul’s 23rd microdistrict, where the new building of the City Mayor's Office is located, many buildings have been constructed over the past five years. Now, residential complexes are still being built. However, there are no public schools, kindergartens, or hospitals. Allowing the construction of residential complexes without planning for schools and kindergartens by urban planning responsible organizations is a mistake. Residents of the new apartments are suffering. Yarmag is congested day and night. A budget has been allocated for building schools and kindergartens in this district for the 2024 budget. Has the issue of land been resolved? If resolved, will the construction start?"

B.Zagdsambar, Head of the Cadastre Department of the City Land Management Office, replied: "The northern part of the road in Khan-Uul's 24th microdistrict is allocated by the Ulaanbaatar city, while the southern part is being allocated by order of the Minister of Environment.

In the past, the land of two kindergartens and one school in the northern part of the road in Khan-Uul's 24th microdistrict has been cleared, and the school was built. About two weeks ago, the access roads were cleared. One school and one kindergarten have been given land rights, but a company that previously held rights challenged it in court, causing a suspension. No land has been allocated for schools or kindergartens in the 23rd microdistrict."

Director of the City Investment Agency, S.Tsedensodnom, commented: "A tender has been announced to purchase a kindergarten building in the 23rd microdistrict of Khan-Uul, and a contract is underway. The kindergarten will have six groups. A school building with the capacity to accommodate 960 students is under construction and has reached the second floor. The land for this school is owned by the project-implementing organization."

The City Council session continues on the issue of determining the location and size of public use lands.

Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social networks, and Websites) are reminded that they must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, either fully or in parts.

Sukhbaatar: 35 Cooperatives Participate in the Adapt Project

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Under the Adapt project funded by the UN Development Program, 35 cooperatives in Sukhbaatar aimag are enhancing their activities.

The project team aims to strengthen the collaboration of herders and cooperatives, increase the value of animal-derived raw materials, boost herders' income, and create opportunities for export. They are conducting training and information sessions for representatives of herders and cooperatives in Sukhbaatar and Dornod aimags along with officials.

Currently, 68 soums in four aimags are participating in the project. During this period, our main goal is to establish at least eight model cooperatives in agriculture. We need to develop a system where products are procured from a single point, raw materials are delivered, profits are distributed properly, and contracts are negotiated collectively. Most importantly, ensuring the project's sustainability and effectiveness over the long term and setting an example for others is crucial. As it often happens, projects tend to be forgotten after completion. According to Battumur Gankhuyag, a technical officer with the UNDP Adapt Project, "It is vital to achieve outcomes to prevent the project from being forgotten."

Kh. Unurtsetseg, a herder from Bulgan soum in Dornod aimag, stated, "Participating in the project provides many benefits to herders. Most importantly, by working together, we have been able to organize our activities much better. Before, we didn't know what to do with our by-products, or even to whom we should sell our wool and cashmere, and just handed them off to passing traders. Now we discuss where to deliver our raw materials, how much income we can earn, and where to allocate this, which gives us motivation as herders to unite. Since 2017, herders in our area have been working in associations."

The Adapt project, which aims to improve the climate adaptation capacity and risk management of rural citizens in Mongolia, is implemented in Sukhbaatar, Dornod, Zavkhan, and Khovd aimags. Besides the main activities, the project also engages in protecting spring sources, afforestation of floodplains, and water-well drilling.

KHOVD: There is a Need to Improve State Employees' Knowledge of the National Script

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

In Khovd province, we inquired from D. Olongbayar, an expert at the Department of Education, about the ongoing efforts to promote national script and culture.

The province is implementing a sub-program on Mongolian language and script. What notable activities have been carried out in this regard in 2024?
To mark the National Script Day, we organized the "Value Our Native Language and Culture" campaign with 17 activities, attracting over 10,000 participants.

As part of this campaign, we collaborated with the Language Policy Sector Council, state and non-state organizations, and the public to improve and promote reading and writing skills in the Mongolian script.

During the spring book festival, the "Colors of Khovd" calligraphy exhibition displayed over 400 works by 10 calligraphers.

To enhance the national script proficiency of state organization employees and to prepare them to be bilingual, the "Human Script - Everyone's Script" contest was conducted in two phases. In its third year, 180 employees from 30 organizations tested their national script knowledge and skills.

Additionally, competitions on "National Language and Script - A Valuable Heritage," including oratory and reading contests, diligent penmanship, and digital writing contests, involved over 500 participants from various categories such as students, state employees, and citizens. We also organize creative competitions, lectures, and calligraphy training for students in stages.

Honored teacher of Mongolia, B. Davaadorj prepared 44 online lessons on the Mongolian script, which have been distributed to state organizations. Meanwhile, Mongolian language teachers from Progress School developed "National Script Notebooks 1 and 2" as guides for students, which are being used in teaching.

Recently, in response to public demand and supported by the Mongolian Language and Script Subprogram, G. Nyamdavaa from the Western School of the National University of Mongolia published a book titled "Mongolian Script," making it available to the public.

Starting in 2025, state organizations have decided to use both Cyrillic and Mongolian scripts for official documents. How is Khovd province preparing for this bilingual transition?
We are standardizing the writing of government organization addresses, awards, and commendations in both calligraphy and the Mongolian script. We are creating a Mongolian script-friendly environment by having bilingual signs and bulletin boards and have installed a Mongolian script clock. Archive and clerical staff in state organizations have undergone two training sessions on preparing electronic documents in the national script and have begun experimenting with bilingual documents in official work.
This year, a survey was conducted on state employees' knowledge of the national script. Can you share the findings of this survey?
The "National Program on Mongolian Script III" mandates a survey every four years to assess state employees' national script knowledge. This year, 4,738 employees from Khovd province were surveyed.

Based on their level of national script knowledge, 12% were found to be proficient, 30.7% had intermediate knowledge, while the rest had basic or no knowledge.

What plans are in place to further increase the use and promotion of the Mongolian script and culture?
Based on the survey results, we need to increase training on improving state employees' national script knowledge and digital writing skills. Additionally, we must emphasize the efforts to write official documents in both scripts with urgency.

Featured Team: Outstanding Experience and Management Competing to Represent Chingeltei in the City Council

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: eguur.mn

An election to choose representatives who will deliberate and seek solutions for crucial issues for Ulaanbaatar in the coming four years will take place on October 10. This is the City Council election.

During the City Council election, the MPP (Mongolian People's Party) has nominated 42 candidates. As H. Nyambaatar is currently serving as the city mayor and major reform projects have been initiated in the city, the team formed to participate in this election is drawing interest.

Typically, participants in the City Council originate from district councils, and new figures have the potential to emerge. The candidates representing Chingeltei district stand out for their experience working in managing enterprises and holding managerial roles, having worked in district administration, and with high educational attainment. There is representation from various age groups.

Specifically, MPP has nominated N. Mantuul, Z. Tömörtömöö, Ba. Munkhbat, and L. Ariuntuya to represent Chingeltei district in the City Council.

Ba. Munkhbat

Ba. Munkhbat is currently the governor of Chingeltei district. He has been working in the district for more than 20 years. He holds a master's in management and is pursuing a doctorate at the Management Academy. He started his career in 2002 as a physics teacher at Chingeltei's School No. 23. Two years later, he moved to the district administration, overseeing education and social welfare. He then served as the head of the district administration and deputy governor, becoming a City Council representative in 2016. He is conveying full experience to represent Chingeltei residents in the City Council for another four years alongside a good team.

L. Ariuntuya

L. Ariuntuya has presided over the Chingeltei district council and has been a recurring candidate for governor appointments. With a background in international relations and law, she began her public service in Chingeltei as a neighborhood governor more than a decade ago. Successfully transitioning from the private sector to governmental roles, she began leading units and entered the Chingeltei district council in 2020, where she represents Chingeltei residents. Notably known for completing the tasks she starts, she has attracted significant international involvement in district works. She is now seeking to represent her district within the City Council.

B. Mantuul

B. Mantuul is recognized for leading the Development Bank out of financial straits. Though he has not worked in public organizations in Chingeltei district before, he is a young, educated figure. Currently, he serves as the first deputy governor of the city mayor H. Nyambaatar. His potential as a candidate for City Council in any district has been persuasive, and he has chosen Chingeltei.

He graduated in business administration from Bulgaria and earned a master's degree in the USA. His experience includes roles as a consultant and financial analyst at international organizations like the World Bank and IHS Consulting Group. He has also successfully worked with institutions such as the Ministry of Finance, ETT LLC, and "Erdenes Mongol" LLC. Most prominently, he was the CEO of the Development Bank. Now, as a new young politician, he aims to contribute to Chingeltei district.

Z. Tömörtömöö

Z. Tömörtömöö has worked exclusively in public organizations. Known for his political career, he began as an advisor to the Speaker of Parliament in 2017 and then became a City Council representative, where he led projects tackling air and environmental pollution over the past four years.

Being politically astute and with a growing career, as well as understanding what the City Council entails, he is seen as a young candidate with potential. His focus on air pollution issues over the past four years is deemed an appropriate "brief" for Chingeltei district.

From this perspective, two candidates have extensive experience with Chingeltei district issues. They have risen from public organizations in their political careers. Chingeltei district, with the largest population and a mix of ger areas and urbanization, faces complex problems. Candidates familiar with these issues representing the district in the City Council is considered apt. The other two candidates have not worked in Chingeltei but possess the potential and promising prospects to focus here. With good foreign education, political acumen, experience from district councils, age, and gender balance, these four candidates for Chingeltei district have captured attention.

As managers characterized by responsibility and completion of their duties, a strong team is running for Chingeltei.

If you want to change the streets without lighting and the environment without playgrounds, make your suggestion!

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: news.mn

The regular elections for the Citizens' Representative Assembly of provinces, cities, districts, and khoroos are scheduled for the 11th of next month in 2024. It is important that every citizen participates in this election. This election gives you the opportunity to choose a representative who will make decisions to improve conditions such as unlit streets and the absence of playgrounds in your district. The election committee has approved the design of the local election ballot papers according to their schedule.

This time, the election ballot has two sections, with the names of candidates for the province or city at the top and the names of candidates for the district or khoroo at the bottom. In other words, with one ballot, two levels of citizen representatives are elected.

One feature of the local election voting is that voters can mark candidates not exceeding the number of mandates. In parliamentary elections, marking candidates equal to the number of mandates was required to validate the ballot. However, for local elections, you can mark fewer candidates than the number of mandates, which is a unique aspect.

Environment

Ts.Tuvaan: We decided to allow the operations of 'Achit Ikht' LLC due to pressing environmental issues

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The legal authorities have halted the operations of 'Achit Ikht' LLC and demanded that 'Erdenet Factory' claim the 34% profit share from this company based on the directives issued by the government.

However, the Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Ts.Tuvaan, has decided to allow the operations of 'Achit Ikht' LLC to continue. When asked to clarify about this matter, Minister Ts.Tuvaan gave the following explanation.

He stated, "This issue has been resolved. The government discussed this matter in a meeting and assigned me the task of resolving it. Accordingly, a decision was made. There was an urgent situation concerning the leakage of sulfuric acid solution into the environment associated with this company, which prompted an immediate decision from the government.

The resolution of this issue did not include the legal dispute or the matter related to the 34% share, which are proceeding separately.

Due to the pressing environmental issues, we made the decision after discussions with the management of Erdenet Factory and the governor of Orkhon province."

It should be recalled that in April, the government meeting tasked 'Erdenet Factory' with claiming 34% profits from 'Achit Ikht' LLC and studying the possibility of acquiring 100% of the derived deposit. At that time, the police also released information regarding the ownership of the 'Achit Ikht' company.

Warning

It should be noted that media organizations (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must credit the source (ikon.mn) when using this information in any form, whether completely or partially.

A Nursery Capable of Producing 500,000 Tree Seedlings Annually has been Established

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Minister of Environment and Climate Change, S. Odontuya, during a visit to Ömnögovi aimag, participated in the ceremony of handing over a nursery to Tsogt-Ovoo district, which is fully equipped and mechanized with the capacity to prepare 500,000 tree seedlings and saplings annually.

The "One Hundred Million Trees" program by Oyu Tolgoi company aims to invest in reforestation, seed resource collection, and the infrastructure of tree nurseries. Under this initiative, they plan to establish 10 fully equipped and mechanized tree nurseries nationwide. Of these, five nurseries are to be established in the districts of Khanbogd, Tsogt-Ovoo, Manlai, Bayan-Ovoo, and Sevrei in Ömnögovi aimag.

Innovation

BAYAN-ULGII: Youth Teams with Best Business Ideas to be Supported with 10 Million MNT

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Bayan-Ulgii aimag's Labor and Social Welfare Service Agency will grant a non-refundable aid of 10 million MNT to a youth team presenting the best startup business plan.

The initiative aims to provide startup funding for young people engaging in businesses infused with new technology and innovation, support their expansion, and promote their business ideas nationwide.

As per the conditions, youth startup teams must participate in a two-day training course and present their business ideas. Among them, one project deemed the best will receive 10 million MNT from the Employment Promotion Fund as a non-repayable grant.

Interested youth wishing to participate in the selection process must register at the Labor and Social Welfare Service Agency of the province by the 24th of this month.

The program of providing non-refundable financial aid to youth teams proposing excellent business ideas has been organized regularly since 2017. In the past period, startup funding was provided to projects such as smart keys for vehicles, making 3D floor mats, and producing gift souvenir products from leather, enabling them to acquire necessary equipment and successfully operate to this day.

“Green Technology-2024” Exhibition Invites You to Stay Warm this Winter

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The expansive summer has ended, and the cold season is approaching. To pass the harsh winter without discomfort, every household living in yurts, apartments, and houses needs to solve their heating and thermal issues to prepare themselves for a comfortable winter.

The "Green Technology-2024" exhibition, which will introduce various cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions to prepare for the winter, is taking place in Sukhbaatar Square on September 18th and 19th.

By attending this event, you will have the opportunity to select and purchase energy-efficient electric heaters, insulation solutions, and eco-friendly sanitation systems on the spot with a 6% annual interest eco loan from XacBank.

If you want to know exactly where your house is losing heat, how to insulate it with what materials, what kind of heating system to choose, how to handle waste, how much financing you need and if you can get a loan, all these questions can be answered at the "Green Technology-2024" in Sukhbaatar Square.

Warning: Media organizations (TV, radio, social and web pages) must mention our source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, either fully or partially.

Health

There Is No Airstrip for Emergency Patients Brought to the Trauma Center

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: news.mn

The National Trauma and Orthopedic Research Center, in collaboration with the Search and Rescue Aviation Unit 111 under the National Emergency Management Agency, is organizing multifaceted activities. The aim is to provide prompt emergency assistance to citizens injured in accidents in rural areas, transport them by helicopter to referral health facilities without delay, and train and empower doctors and nurses on-site.

During these activities, Director E. Galbadrakh of the Trauma and Orthopedic Research Center, along with doctors and specialists, visited Unit 111's operations.

During the visit, the leaders of both sides discussed the process of transporting patients from rural areas, accessibility of the outdoor facilities of referral health institutions, and addressing issues regarding helicopter landing pads based on the actual situation. They exchanged ideas on potential solutions.

Specifically, it was noted that there is no standard stopover area for flight operations aimed at landing or taking off when urgently transporting patients from rural areas to the Trauma Center during disasters.

Furthermore, there are concerns that construction issues near the hospital could completely obstruct airflows, posing a risk that helicopters might be unable to land. Therefore, they consulted with relevant authorities on solutions.

Doctors and specialists from the Trauma Center expressed interest in the training conducted during the aerial search and rescue operations. They participated in simulator or practical training for pilot education, and they enhanced their knowledge and experience regarding the unified response system and urgent assistance provided to citizens during accidents and injuries.

First Grade Students to Undergo Cardiac, Eye, and Dental Screenings This School Year

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Education Minister P. Naranbayar and Health Minister T. Munkhsaikhan have established a working group to develop the 'Healthy, Safe School' plan.

Within this framework, during the first and third quarters of this school year, first-grade students across the country, totaling over 73,000 children, will undergo early screenings for heart, eyes, and teeth.

Health Minister T. Munkhsaikhan emphasized that the screening process will not just stop at examinations; treatment and comprehensive follow-up care will be provided. Efforts are also in place to improve school health services and establish a system where such screenings are regularly organized for all students by developing and passing relevant laws.

Education Minister P. Naranbayar highlighted that the results of the screenings will be used to promote the health of students, provide parents and guardians with crucial information about preventive health care for their children, and instill healthy habits in students.

Additionally, the importance of implementing this during the independent study week was mentioned, and schools were urged to actively participate and support the smooth execution of the screenings.

Organizing the 'Healthy, Safe School' screenings will have multiple benefits, including protecting and promoting students' health and improving their academic performance and engagement.

Sukhbaatar: Cancer Screening Available Locally

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

In the health sector, an investment of about one billion MNT has been made over four years. Most recently, a new device costing 99 million MNT was installed. This allows citizens to get all kinds of cancer screenings locally.

In other words, the need to travel to the city for detailed examinations and pay high fees to private clinics is eliminated, saving time and financial resources. However, it is required to have health insurance.

A single device can perform tests for tumor markers, thyroid hormones, hepatitis B and C viruses, heart failure, mineral and vitamin deficiencies, among others. Compared to previous devices, it operates very quickly and can examine many indicators at once. Test results are available within 2-3 hours, saving the time of both patients and hospital staff, according to D. Shuren-Erdene, the chief laboratory technician of the Diagnostic Department at the provincial General Hospital.

About 30-40 people regularly undergo immunological tests each day.

Report: Workload in Households and Clinics Has Doubled

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: news.mn

Outside, the weather is getting colder, and the season is changing, which causes the flu and common cold viruses to spread. In response, the Health Insurance General Office is providing free daily treatment packages for young children's illnesses. These packages are distributed through family clinics. Here is a report regarding this.

At the "Enkhiin Sanaa" Family Health Center located in the ninth khoroo of Sukhbaatar district, the atmosphere was quite calm with not many people around. However, in the morning, it was quite busy, but in the afternoon, the hustle and bustle decrease according to a nurse at the clinic.

On the Common Cold and Flu, One Child Spends 150,000-200,000 MNT Per Month

A woman holding a pink notebook came out of the doctor's office holding her child. Her name is B. Tuya, a mother of three young children. Her younger daughter has had a cold for a week but hasn't recovered well. She previously visited the doctor, who prescribed cold medicine that they bought for 50,000 MNT from a pharmacy near their home. After a four-day medicine course as recommended by the doctor, there wasn't much improvement, so she had to visit again. The doctor prescribed more expensive medicines. However, she is worried that if they don't get the cold under control quickly, it might turn into pneumonia, Tuya said.

Family doctors try to recommend minor medications to alleviate colds and flu, providing advice and writing prescriptions. However, since COVID-19, cold viruses have become more resistant to medications, and there's also an issue with the quality of medicines sold in Mongolia, doctors criticize.

Due to weather conditions, city pollution, and dust, elder G. Baljir mentioned that the common cold virus lingers throughout the winter, and pensions are entirely spent on medicines rather than food.

Tuya, a mother of three, and G. Baljir, who took his grandchildren to the clinic, discussed that "in most cases, the medicines prescribed by the doctor don't alleviate the cold. Besides, home remedies such as applying melted butter on the chest or feeding garlic soup are not helping," they shared. Tuya didn't hide that when her three children get sick at the same time, the family economy comes under pressure. Her husband is the sole earner, and for young families constantly transporting their three children, they dream of raising their children in a healthy and safe environment. However, they have already resigned themselves to the fact that they would only be able to live in such an environment outside of Mongolia.

The Health Insurance General Office has announced that they are providing daily treatment packages of 80,000 MNT for respiratory system diseases and 60,000 MNT for non-infectious diarrhea through family health centers to targeted individuals. People have not heard of this before and are unaware of its details.

According to B. Yanjindolgor, a senior specialist in the policy and planning department at the Health Insurance General Office, there are no fixed medicines or additional products included in the daily treatment package. Instead, the products for treatment vary based on the child's illness, symptoms, and severity.

The assistance is primarily given to children in the target group up to 5 years old for their daily treatments.

Many people are unable to purchase the medicines prescribed by the doctors, which leads to their children's illnesses becoming severe, necessitating hospitalization. Therefore, a daily treatment assistance service was developed for the target group of children. The Health Insurance General Office provides 80,000 MNT for flu treatments and 60,000 MNT for non-infectious diarrhea treatments to children through family health centers.

According to a specialist at the "Achlakhui" Family Health Center located in the eighth khoroo of Bayanzurkh district, there have been no children who opened a medical history and received treatment during the summer, as the illness rate is lower during that time. However, since the school and kindergarten activities started, 2-3 children with flu have received daily treatments. Currently, about ten children with cold-like symptoms are being treated at the family health center daily. During the peak flu season, around 20 children receive treatment daily. For these children, opening a medical history and writing a day's treatment package suitable for the target group or families who cannot afford medicines is provided. According to a doctor from the family health center in the 15th khoroo of Bayanzurkh district, "The workload has doubled starting this week. Mostly children with symptoms like coughing, fever, and difficulty breathing are visiting. As the weather gets colder, the workload is expected to increase further," she said.

Doctors recommend contacting the family health center immediately when flu-like symptoms appear. Some parents self-treat at home and worsen their children's colds. Children often require a combination of medicines rather than just one to alleviate symptoms. Therefore, it's necessary to participate in treatments and services as instructed by a doctor, advised professional doctors.

DARKHAN-UUL: Low Participation of Youth Aged 18-30 in Early Detection Screenings

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Early detection and preventive examinations and diagnostics are continuing as usual in Darkhan-Uul province. Since the beginning of 2024, a total of 4,793 citizens have been examined, with the activity among youth aged 18-30 being low, as pointed out by Dr. P. Naranjargal from the Health Promotion Center of the General Hospital.

Specifically, as of the first nine months of this year, 486 individuals aged 18-30, 1,500 aged 31-45, 1,400 aged 45-60, and 1,406 citizens aged over 61 have participated in early detection screenings and examinations.

These examinations and screenings are to be continued annually, with the possibility of participation every two years based on notification from the respective family health center.

More than ten percent of the citizens participating annually are young people aged 18-30. The reason is that the screening and examination packages are few, and the test that each individual wishes to undergo is not included in the specified package. Therefore, the Minister of Health has issued an order to increase the types of examinations, adding ultrasound examinations, as stated by Dr. P. Naranbaatar.

With the renewal of packages, all individuals aged over 31 are now able to undergo abdominal, breast, thyroid ultrasounds, and stomach endoscopies.

With the increase in the types and numbers of examinations, it has become possible to diagnose diseases early, such as gallstones, which have become a predominant condition among young people. It is now possible to detect and treat it early. Previously, such examinations were divided by age category, and not everyone could get examined.

Participating in early detection screenings takes between 3-5 hours. Citizens come to the health promotion center at 8:00 AM to register and are examined by doctors according to the schedule.

The results of the examinations are fully available within a week, and if any result shows an abnormality, contact is made with the individual for consultation with a specialist outpatient doctor.

For example, if a cell examination shows an abnormal result, the individual is referred to a gynecologist. Additionally, thyroid diseases are commonly encountered, and recommendations are given for specialized consultations for all such cases.

Therefore, citizens are encouraged to attend preventive examinations by visiting their respective family health centers, receiving an invitation suitable for their age package, and participating in the screening. However, if they have already participated, they are reminded that they cannot join the screening again within a two-year period.

Nutritionists and Psychologists Offer Free Advice for All Ages This Weekend

Published: 2024-09-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

"Healthy Living Expo" will be held on September 21 and 22 at the National Park, organized by the Mongolian Association of Nutritionists and the Yoga Association.

During this event, advice to support health, exercise, and proper nutrition will be offered, including classes and services specifically for pregnant and nursing mothers, mothers with infants and young children, and senior citizens.

Program Details:

Saturday:

10:00 AM - Yoga Sun Salutation (Class - Nutrition for Pregnant and Nursing Mothers)
11:00 AM - Class and Breakfast (Class - Psychological Wellness During Pregnancy)
12:00 PM - Event Opening (Pregnancy Yoga Exercises)
2:00 PM - Class - Introducing Solid Foods to Infants
2:20 PM - Class - Psychology of 0-3 Year Olds
2:40 PM - Kids Activity
3:30 PM - Class - Children's Nutrition
4:00 PM - Class - Child Psychology and Communication
4:30 PM - Exercise (Salad Making)
5:00 PM - Movie Time

Sunday:

10:00 AM - Yoga Stretching Exercises
10:40 AM - Class - Nutrition for Seniors
11:00 AM - Preventive Health Screening
11:20 AM - Spine Realignment
11:50 AM - Class - Healthy Balanced Nutrition
12:20 PM - Active Exercise
12:40 PM - Class - Nutrition During Exercise
1:00 PM - Yoga Exercise
1:40 PM - Discussion on Healthy Lifestyle Habits
3:30 PM - Use of Milk and Dairy Products
4:00 PM - Zumba Dance
4:30 PM - Artistic Performance

"Professional Nutritionists Provide Free Advice and Information"

According to B. Ariunzul, Executive Director of the Mongolian Association of Nutritionists: "We operate with the goal of developing the profession of nutritionists and supporting public health through nutrition and diet.

In this context, professional nutritionists will be present at the 'Healthy Living Expo' to provide advice and information.

In particular:

Infant nutrition
Nutrition for pregnant and nursing mothers
Nutrition for adolescents
Nutrition for senior citizens and adults will be topics on which our professional nutritionists will share their knowledge.

Additionally, two units of the Nutritionists' Association will participate. This weekend, professional nutritionists will be available to provide free consultations to people facing various nutritional issues."

"Interesting Psychological Advice Will Be Offered by the Psychology Center"

International nutritionist Z. Margarita states: "In support of the Healthy Mongolian Movement, together with the Nutrition Association, Yoga Association, and Fitness Association, we are organizing the 'Well-Being Expo'.

We will encourage the public to adopt a healthy lifestyle and conduct nutritional training.

Various exercises will be performed together, including morning sun salutation, Zumba, and gymnastics for children.

We have initiated morning stretching and yoga exercises for seniors as well. Simultaneously, the Psychology Center will provide interesting psychological advice.

Topics will include:

How to interact with children aged 0-3 years
How to introduce solid foods to children
How to promote a healthy lifestyle
Nutrition for adolescents
Education on gastrointestinal diseases.

There will also be free salad tastings. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore healthy food products from national producers.

Warning

Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must include the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, either wholly or partially.

Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Health

Politics

POSITION: Ministry Management Makes Direct Appointments

Fighting Corruption Is Right, But Innocent People Should Not Be Wrongfully Accused

Economy

National Budget Income and Aid Amount Increased

Mortgage Loans Provided to Over Nine Thousand Households

If Supported by the State, Bayan-Ulgii Province Can Attract One Million Tourists

Social Insurance Contributions Will Not Be Increased

Neighbor Investment and Mongolia's Interests!

SELENGE: Industrial Sector Production Declines

Infrastructure

Direct Flight between Mongolia and the USA Will Halve Ticket Prices

This year, we will repair and renovate 10 times more roads

Energy Reform and Price Adjustment Efforts Announced

The Transfer of the Bogd Mountain Northern Settlement Area to City Authority is Under Discussion

Locations for Transforming Ger Areas into Housing Established

P. Khadbaatar: The apartment building affected by the explosion will be demolished this year and rebuilt next year. The demolition cost is MNT 2.4 billion

Renovation of Playgrounds, Green Spaces, and Parking on 5.2 hectares in the Capital

New Technology: The Machine That Paves Cement Roads Can Repair 2 km in a Day in Suburban Areas

Some Projects Blocked by Golomt's D. Bayasgalan Were More Beneficial to the Capital Than Bööröljuut

"No More Curb Replacement from Peace Avenue to 32nd Circle"

Society

B.Zagdsambar: No School or Kindergarten Land Allocated in the 23rd Microdistrict of Khan-Uul, Yarmag

Sukhbaatar: 35 Cooperatives Participate in the Adapt Project

KHOVD: There is a Need to Improve State Employees' Knowledge of the National Script

Featured Team: Outstanding Experience and Management Competing to Represent Chingeltei in the City Council

If you want to change the streets without lighting and the environment without playgrounds, make your suggestion!

Environment

Ts.Tuvaan: We decided to allow the operations of 'Achit Ikht' LLC due to pressing environmental issues

A Nursery Capable of Producing 500,000 Tree Seedlings Annually has been Established

Innovation

BAYAN-ULGII: Youth Teams with Best Business Ideas to be Supported with 10 Million MNT

“Green Technology-2024” Exhibition Invites You to Stay Warm this Winter

Health

There Is No Airstrip for Emergency Patients Brought to the Trauma Center

First Grade Students to Undergo Cardiac, Eye, and Dental Screenings This School Year

Sukhbaatar: Cancer Screening Available Locally

Report: Workload in Households and Clinics Has Doubled

DARKHAN-UUL: Low Participation of Youth Aged 18-30 in Early Detection Screenings

Nutritionists and Psychologists Offer Free Advice for All Ages This Weekend

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