Gazeta.kg — News of Kyrgyzstan and Bishkek Today
Economy

In 2025, winter crops were sown on 65% of the planned areas, exceeding last year's figures, - Ministry of Agriculture

According to information provided by the head of the Department of Crop Production, Horticulture, and Cooperation of the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry, Turat Idirisov, during a radio program, in 2025, winter crops were sown in Kyrgyzstan at a level of 65% of the planned areas. It was expected to sow 250,000 hectares, but in fact, about 163,000 hectares were sown, which is 20,000 hectares more than last year's figures. The ministry strongly recommends

16.01.2026, 15:22
The deadline for free replacement of driver's licenses may be extended
Society / Exclusive

The deadline for free replacement of driver's licenses may be extended

The discussion about the possible extension of the deadline for the free exchange of driver's licenses has become relevant thanks to a statement by Daiyrbek Orunbekov, who heads the information policy service at the administration of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic. He noted that at the moment, the free exchange of old-style licenses is being carried out.

16.01.2026, 15:16
Ecology

The number of pheasants is increasing at Issyk-Kul. About 1200 pheasants have been recorded in the Ak-Suu district.

In recent years, there has been a positive trend in the recovery of the pheasant population in the Issyk-Kul region, which had previously significantly decreased. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Natural Resources. According to representatives of the ministry, the winter period poses the greatest challenge for these birds. In conditions of reduced natural food, pheasants require additional support.

16.01.2026, 15:10
Incidents

The Ministry of Internal Affairs' GUR detained a previously convicted member of an organized crime group on suspicion of fraud amounting to $25,000.

According to information provided on January 15 by the press service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, a suspect in fraud has been detained. A man contacted law enforcement, reporting a crime committed by a citizen named Murat. In his statement, he mentioned that in November 2023, he transferred $25,000 in hopes of resolving an issue related to a court case, but was deceived.

16.01.2026, 15:09
Economy

In the east of Issyk-Kul, water containing precious metal was found — it was transported to Switzerland and Saudi Arabia

In the village of Pioneer, located in the Ak-Suu district, the establishment of a mineral water production facility with high silver content is planned. The village elder, Zhenishbek Asanbaev, reported that the source "Kainar Bulak," which is about six kilometers away from the settlement, has undergone examination. The analysis revealed the presence of silver and 32 mineral elements. "I heard that studies of the source were already conducted during the Soviet era. In recent

16.01.2026, 15:06
Ecology

In most of Kyrgyzstan, snow; in some areas, fog — weather forecast for January 17

According to information from Kyrgyzhydromet, on January 17, snow is expected at night across most areas of Kyrgyzstan, with heavy precipitation in the Chui, Jalal-Abad, and Issyk-Kul regions. During the day, snow will also fall in most territories, especially in the Issyk-Kul region. There will be a snow cover and ice on the roads, and fog is also possible. The wind will be from the west at a speed of 4-9 m/s, with gusts in some places reaching 15-20 m/s. Air temperature:

16.01.2026, 15:05
A woman has been detained in Bishkek in a case involving the sale of potent drugs.
Incidents

A woman has been detained in Bishkek in a case involving the sale of potent drugs.

In the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, a woman suspected of the illegal sale of potent medications has been detained, according to the city’s Main Internal Affairs Directorate (GUVD). The Drug Control Service of the GUVD received information about the illegal activities of a woman identified as "N." As a result, relevant information was registered in the Oktobrskiy district, and an investigation was initiated.

16.01.2026, 15:03
Politics

What is happening with green cards? Should we expect the lottery? And what about those who have already won it?

Since 1990, the U.S. green card lottery, known as the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, has provided thousands of citizens from low-immigration countries, including Kyrgyzstan, the opportunity to legally obtain permanent residency in the U.S. However, serious issues arose in the fall of 2025: the usual lottery process was not launched on time, and subsequent events, including a shooting at an American university, led to the suspension of the program. Many individuals who hoped to participate or

16.01.2026, 15:01
Fewer Awards — Greater Value? Why It Is Proposed to Reduce the Number of State Awards
Society / Exclusive

Fewer Awards — Greater Value? Why It Is Proposed to Reduce the Number of State Awards

Currently, a draft law concerning "State Awards, Honorary Titles, and State Prizes of the Kyrgyz Republic" is being discussed in the Jogorku Kenesh. The idea for the document was proposed by the Prime Minister. At a recent meeting of the Committee on Constitutional Legislation, it was reviewed and received approval considering the opinions of the deputies. The Committee recommended bringing the draft law to a plenary session for further consideration. The proposal involves reducing

16.01.2026, 15:00
Incidents

The supplier company did not fulfill the conditions set by the Ministry of Defense for the supply of weapons worth 2.7 million euros, - GKNB

According to the press service of the State Committee for National Security (SCNS), one of the supplying companies failed to meet the contract conditions with the Ministry of Defense regarding the supply of weapons. During an audit conducted by the Ministry of Finance, damage to the state was identified amounting to 244 million 587 thousand 870 soms, which corresponds to 2 million 700 thousand euros. As part of the initiated criminal case and the investigative activities carried out, the damage

16.01.2026, 14:57
A dermatologist explained why acne occurs and how to treat it properly
Health / Exclusive

A dermatologist explained why acne occurs and how to treat it properly

On the air of "Birinchi Radio," dermatologist Irina Martynenko from the Republican Center for Dermatovenereology shared information about the causes of acne, the stages of this condition, and modern treatment methods. According to the specialist, acne remains a relevant topic both in professional circles and in society. Information about this condition is regularly discussed at seminars and conferences, as well as actively disseminated on the internet.

16.01.2026, 14:50
The National Bank reported how many Kyrgyz citizens have imposed a self-ban on lending.
Economy / Exclusive

The National Bank reported how many Kyrgyz citizens have imposed a self-ban on lending.

According to the National Bank, from November 1, 2025, to January 16, 2026, 140,264 citizens of Kyrgyzstan used the self-restriction service for lending, available through the "Tunduk" mobile application. The new mechanism, which was launched on November 1, 2025, is called "Self-Restriction on Lending" and is designed to protect users' personal data from fraudulent schemes. Instructions for applying for a self-restriction on credit through the "Tunduk"

16.01.2026, 14:49
Do Not Destroy the Botanical Garden: Residents Urge to Sign the Petition
Society

Do Not Destroy the Botanical Garden: Residents Urge to Sign the Petition

Photo from the internet Residents of Bishkek are actively calling on social media to sign a petition against plans to develop the Enver Gareev Botanical Garden. Civic activists demand to halt the project, which proposes the creation of football fields in an area known as the city's "lungs." According to the activists, the destruction of this green space will lead to serious consequences, including the loss of a unique ecosystem and scientific heritage that has accumulated over

16.01.2026, 14:44
Amangeldiev stated the need for state companies to implement image projects in international markets
Exclusive

Amangeldiev stated the need for state companies to implement image projects in international markets

Yesterday, the second meeting of the interdepartmental working group took place, dedicated to coordinating the entry into international bond and stock markets, chaired by the First Deputy Prime Minister of the Kyrgyz Republic Daniyar Amangeldiev. This information was announced on the official government website. This event was held in accordance with the Decree of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic dated January 29, 2025, No. 27, concerning the improvement of the investment climate and

16.01.2026, 14:44
Success Story: A Girl from a Kyrgyz Family Became the Voice of Youth in France
Society

Success Story: A Girl from a Kyrgyz Family Became the Voice of Youth in France

Nestan Samat, a 12-year-old girl from a Kyrgyz family, has been living in France for seven years and was recently elected as a deputy of the Youth Municipal Council of Sommières. Her father, Samat Kushbek, spoke about her achievements and character after the official handover of the mandate, which took place on January 10 and was conducted by the mayor of the city, Pierre Martinez.

16.01.2026, 14:40
Is Kazakhstan Awaiting a Water Collapse Following the Iranian Scenario?
Exclusive

Is Kazakhstan Awaiting a Water Collapse Following the Iranian Scenario?

The Ministry of Water Resources established in Kazakhstan is unable to solve the problem of water scarcity. The main mistake lies in the fact that its primary task is to support economic growth. In the near future, there may arise a situation where water reserves will not be sufficient even for current needs. This is not a scare tactic, but a harsh reality that many refuse to accept. This was discussed in an interview with Bulat Yesekin, an international expert and coordinator of the Central

16.01.2026, 14:37
Society

Hans Zimmer to Create Original Soundtrack for New Harry Potter Series

Composer Hans Zimmer will create the original musical score for the "Harry Potter" series, which is set to be released in 2027. This was reported by Variety. According to the publication, Zimmer will work on the soundtrack alongside musicians from the Bleeding Fingers studio — Anže Rozman and Kara Talve.

16.01.2026, 14:36