News of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek and Osh — latest events today
Local news

Edil Baysalov: Today there is more poverty in the city than in the villages

During a joint meeting of the parliamentary groups "Eldik" and "Ala-Too," Deputy Prime Minister Edil Baisalov shared his observations on the current state of poverty in Kyrgyzstan. He emphasized that "urban poverty" is becoming an increasingly pressing issue. According to him, this is related to access to housing, medical services, and education. Many families facing difficulties in rural areas move to cities in search of a better life but encounter new challenges.

30.01.2026, 13:15
Local news

In China, a "new labubu" has appeared. What do Buddhist monks have to do with it?

Recently, a new collection of surprise toys from Pop Mart has emerged in China, inspired by the Buddhist instrument muyu, also known as the "wooden fish." This novelty attracted attention after the success of the labubu toy, as reported by the South China Morning Post. The muyu is a wooden block shaped like a fish, traditionally used by Buddhist monks to maintain rhythm while chanting sutras. This instrument embodies the monks' diligence in their quest to understand the teachings

30.01.2026, 13:07
The first conviction for stalking was issued in Kazakhstan.
Local news

The first conviction for stalking was issued in Kazakhstan.

Illustrative image from the internet A 37-year-old man was convicted in Petropavlovsk for stalking a woman over a period of one and a half years. The court sentenced him to 100 hours of community service. This information was provided by the publication Tengrinews.kz. According to the publication, this conviction is the first in Kazakhstan for a stalking case and was announced in the Petropavlovsk City Court.

30.01.2026, 13:07
Local news / Exclusive

Retirees from Kara-Balta Play Volleyball in the Snowy Mountains

A group of retired tourists from Kara-Balta enjoys volleyball every winter, despite the frost and snow, at an altitude of 1200 meters above sea level. These active leisure enthusiasts have been making weekly day trips to the Almaly Gorge (also known as the Apple Gorge) in the Jayil District of the Chui Region for over ten years. The average age of the participants is over 70 years.

30.01.2026, 12:58
Audit of the Ministry of Transport. Violations amounting to 2 billion 250 million soms identified
Local news

Audit of the Ministry of Transport. Violations amounting to 2 billion 250 million soms identified

The Audit Chamber of the Kyrgyz Republic has completed an audit concerning the execution of the budget and economic activities of the Ministry of Transport and Communications, as well as its subordinate institutions for the year 2024. As a result of the inspections, numerous financial violations were identified, with a total amount of 2 billion 251.5 million soms. Of this amount, 2 billion 81.1 million soms are subject to recovery, and during the audit, 1 billion 668.4 million soms were

30.01.2026, 12:54
Farmers of Kyrgyzstan Familiarized with Opportunities for Preferential Purchase of Agricultural Machinery
Local news / Exclusive

Farmers of Kyrgyzstan Familiarized with Opportunities for Preferential Purchase of Agricultural Machinery

The Department of Cooperation, Mechanization, and Innovative Technologies of Agriculture held a meeting where representatives of farmers and producers were introduced to the conditions for the preferential acquisition of agricultural machinery. The Ministry of Agriculture provided participants with detailed information about the opportunity to purchase various agricultural machinery on favorable terms through "Aiyl Bank" and "Eldik Bank" with the support of the relevant

30.01.2026, 12:47
Threatened with a gun and demanded to change testimony — man detained in Bishkek
Local news

Threatened with a gun and demanded to change testimony — man detained in Bishkek

The suspect attempted to force the witness to retract previously given testimony in a criminal case. A man has been detained in Bishkek who, according to the police, threatened a witness with a gun and demanded that they change their testimony in a criminal case. As reported by the Internal Affairs Department of the Lenin District, in December 2025, citizen A.I. stated that unknown individuals had beaten him and threatened him with a weapon. Later, the investigation established that the

30.01.2026, 12:37
In Kyrgyzstan, it is proposed to expand state support for large families
Local news / Exclusive

In Kyrgyzstan, it is proposed to expand state support for large families

Starting January 26, 2026, a draft law will be presented for public discussion, proposing amendments to the Law "On State Benefits in the Kyrgyz Republic." The initiator of this draft law is Deputy Akylbek Tumonbaev of the Jogorku Kenesh. According to the justification, the aim of the document is to support the state demographic policy aimed at increasing the country's population. It also provides for the expansion of social assistance to large families and families with

30.01.2026, 12:32
In Osh, raids: restaurants and shops on Shakirova Street are being demolished
Local news

In Osh, raids: restaurants and shops on Shakirova Street are being demolished

In the city of Osh, activities continue to identify and demolish illegally constructed buildings on Shakirov Street. These inspections are being conducted at the direction of Mayor Jenishbek Toktorbaev, as reported by the local administration. Specialists from the city's Architecture and Urban Planning Department conducted an inspection of several restaurants and retail outlets along this street. As a result of the raid, it was established that some buildings extend beyond the established

30.01.2026, 12:20
Local news / Exclusive

Weighing the Backpacks of Elementary School Students. Video

In Kyrgyzstan, a 12-year education system has been introduced, raising concerns among parents. They note that the new curricula and increased workloads are becoming too heavy for children. The editorial team of Kaktus.media had a conversation with Nazira Aytalievna, the mother of a second grader, who shared the problems her 7-year-old son is facing. Concerns about the Child's WorkloadNazira showed the contents of her son Koshoy's backpack: a pencil case, four textbooks, and numerous

30.01.2026, 12:20
Local news

Will there be no free spots? Traders of the Osh market demand clarifications from the authorities

Entrepreneurs working at the Osh market have expressed their concern regarding new rumors about the possible sale of spaces in a new shopping complex that is set to replace the existing market. A video message from the traders, in which they voice their worries, is actively circulating on social media. According to the traders, local authorities had previously promised that the market relocation would take place, and all current entrepreneurs would receive free spaces in the new complex under

30.01.2026, 12:03
Local news

About 800 thousand Kyrgyz citizens are abroad

According to information provided by Bakyt Darmankul uulu, Deputy Minister of Labor, Social Security and Migration, there are currently 798 thousand citizens of Kyrgyzstan living abroad. This information was announced at a joint meeting of the parliamentary groups "Eldik" and "Ala-Too." He also clarified that out of the total number of Kyrgyz citizens abroad, 532 thousand are in Russia.

30.01.2026, 11:59
Local news / Exclusive

Product processed by fishermen in the Chuy region slows down aging processes

In the Chui region, local sport fishermen are actively engaged in catching and drying roach. “Roach is a fish from the carp family that resembles the bream found in our water bodies, but differs from it in size and morphological features. These fish inhabit large water bodies of the Balkhash basin, where we, enthusiasts of roach fishing, often go. Especially in winter, it gains fat, making its catch on sporting gear exciting, and in the frost, it can easily be brought home fresh in Kyrgyzstan.

30.01.2026, 11:53
Intermediate monitoring of the implementation of 12-year education will be conducted in Kyrgyzstan.
Local news

Intermediate monitoring of the implementation of 12-year education will be conducted in Kyrgyzstan.

The Ministry of Education of Kyrgyzstan has announced the conduct of an interim monitoring to assess the implementation of 12-year education based on the results of the first half of the year. The agency plans to carry out a comprehensive analysis based on survey data and observations. This will allow for the determination of the results of the reform and identify its achievements, as well as problematic aspects that require adjustments.

30.01.2026, 11:32
An expert group on the transformation of the textile industry will be formed in the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic.
Local news

An expert group on the transformation of the textile industry will be formed in the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic.

Temir Sariev, the president of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, held a meeting with representatives of the textile industry, during which the main directions for the development of this sector were discussed. As a result of the dialogue, a decision was made to establish an expert group within the Chamber. It will include specialists from the business sector, relevant associations, and industry experts who will work on developing practical and regulatory recommendations to organize the

30.01.2026, 11:27
To ensure the full operation of the oncology service in the Kyrgyz Republic, 4.5 billion soms are required.
Local news

To ensure the full operation of the oncology service in the Kyrgyz Republic, 4.5 billion soms are required.

The study conducted by the Ombudsman Institute revealed that the financial support for the oncology service in Kyrgyzstan does not meet the actual needs of the National Center of Oncology and Hematology (NCOH). Experts noted that from 2018 to 2024, only about 3 million soms were allocated annually for these purposes. However, in 2024, funding increased to 176 million soms, and in 2025, an increase to 800 million soms is expected.

30.01.2026, 11:16
Violations in School Cafeteria in Osh Addressed After Mayor's Raid - Chef Fired
Local news

Violations in School Cafeteria in Osh Addressed After Mayor's Raid - Chef Fired

Photo of the Osh City Hall. Jenishbek Toktorbaev during the inspection of the school cafeteria In Osh, the problems identified in the cafeteria of the "Zhetigen" school have been resolved. This information was received from the city hall. On January 28, Mayor Jenishbek Toktorbaev discovered serious violations in the organization of food during a morning raid. As a result of the inspection, the cook at the school was changed, and the quality of bread and sweet pastries received by the

30.01.2026, 11:15
Local news / Exclusive

Call Center: Lower Ala-Archa is drowning in mud after a water pipe burst

In the Call center Kaktus.media, a resident of Lower Ala-Archa reported problems with the road following emergency repairs to the water supply. He urged local authorities to pay attention to the situation. “Last year, there was a water pipe burst. The work done by 'Bishkekvodokanal' was completed, but not finished: there are large holes where dirt and water accumulate. Yesterday, a car got stuck here, after which people placed stones. There is mud all over the road, and the depth of

30.01.2026, 11:12
Local news / Exclusive

In the city of Batken, there is a shortage of land for housing: over 5,000 people are in line.

In Batken, there is a significant shortage of land plots for individual housing construction. Those who can afford to purchase land are able to continue building, while the other residents wait for many years for their turn and often live in the same houses with two or three families. Local residents claim that the issuance of land plots for housing in the city stopped about 15 years ago. "In our family, there are four sons, and each of us has applied for a land plot, turning to the Batken

30.01.2026, 11:10
Russian universities will abandon the Bologna system in September 2026
Local news

Russian universities will abandon the Bologna system in September 2026

The State Duma of Russia reports on upcoming changes in the higher education system In accordance with the transition to a new model of higher education in Russia, which will begin in the 2026/2027 academic year, the formats of "bachelor" and "master" will cease to exist in September 2026. This was announced by Ksenia Goryacheva, the first deputy chair of the State Duma committee on science and higher education, in an interview with "RIA Novosti". In place of

30.01.2026, 11:08
Local news

Another 11 universities in Russia will abandon bachelor's and master's programs starting September 1, 2026.

Starting from September 1, 2026, a number of Russian universities, specifically 11, will begin transitioning to a new model of higher education, abandoning the traditional Bologna system that includes bachelor's and master's degrees. This was announced by Ksenia Goryacheva, the First Deputy Chair of the State Duma Committee on Science and Higher Education. Instead of the current system, a new structure will be implemented, within which programs for basic higher education lasting from

30.01.2026, 11:02
Local news

Danone recalls baby food in Germany. The brand's products are also sold in the Kyrgyz Republic.

The French corporation Danone has decided to recall several batches of baby food under the Aptamil brand in Germany due to the presence of a toxic substance. This information has appeared in foreign news. At least three batches produced between May and August 2025 are included in the recall. The Federal Office of Germany, responsible for consumer protection and food safety, has confirmed that the products will be withdrawn from sale.

30.01.2026, 10:48
Local news / Exclusive

In the Bakai-Ata District, the activities of the madrasa were inspected

On January 29, a special commission was established in the Bakai-Ata district to monitor the work of madrasas. The commission included the deputy head of the district state administration E. Kachiev and the senior assistant prosecutor of the Bakai-Ata district I. Alykulov. They conducted an on-site inspection of the "Khalima Inaya" madrasa located in the village of Ak-Döbö, as well as the "Bakai-Ata" madrasa in the village of Bakai-Ata.

30.01.2026, 10:37
Six people in Kyzyl-Kyya kidnapped a young man and extorted money, threatening him with a knife
Local news

Six people in Kyzyl-Kyya kidnapped a young man and extorted money, threatening him with a knife

The Internal Affairs Department of the Batken Region reported the detention of six citizens of Kyzyl-Kiya, who were suspected of extorting money from a 20-year-old young man from Aiyrbaz, Kadamjai District. According to the investigation, on January 7, around 10:00 PM, the victim was forcibly shoved into a Daewoo Lanos car in the territory of Kyzyl-Kiya. One of the accused, known as citizen O., along with three accomplices, took the young man to an abandoned bus depot, where they threatened

30.01.2026, 10:35
Local news / Exclusive

Ice Blocks Created in the South of Issyk-Kul

The villagers are also confident that this method will help solve the water supply problem and allow for more efficient resource use in the future. According to Samat, the glacier was created in the Eski-Kainar area, which is located in the upper reaches of the Bokonbaev village, not far from the rural district of Kun-Chygys. This area is home to 15-20 households, and the total area of land allocated for agriculture is about 60 hectares. “Summer and spring are associated with water shortages

30.01.2026, 10:25
Local news / Cultural news

The film "Jusup" is being shot at the Moskino film park in Moscow.

Starting from July 1, 2025, the National Film Studio "Kyrgyzfilm" named after Tölömüş Okeev began work on a full-length historical drama film "Jusup." This project is dedicated to Jusup Abdrakhmanov, one of the founders of Kyrgyz statehood. According to the Ministry of Culture, the film crew is currently conducting location shooting in Moscow, at the Moskino film park. This is the first time that Kyrgyz filmmakers are shooting a feature film at this location.

30.01.2026, 10:24
Local news

In Kyrgyzstan, nearly a million children live below the poverty line

The reduction of poverty levels in Kyrgyzstan is progressing slowly, reported Deputy Prime Minister Edil Baisalov at a joint meeting of the parliamentary groups "Eldik" and "Ala-Too." Leader of the "Eldik" group Akylbek Tumonbaev emphasized that the deputies invited representatives of the government to discuss issues related to the implementation of legislative initiatives on state assistance. He also noted that a bill was proposed to introduce benefits for all

30.01.2026, 10:14
Mayors Aren't Afraid of Mud: Jenishbek Toktorbaev Strolled Through a Huge Puddle
Local news

Mayors Aren't Afraid of Mud: Jenishbek Toktorbaev Strolled Through a Huge Puddle

The mayor of Osh showed foresight by wearing rubber boots Jenishbek Toktorbaev, the mayor of the city of Osh, conducted an inspection of the condition of the city polyclinic No. 2, as reported by the local mayor's office. Following the inspection, the mayor issued a directive regarding the need for repairs at the facility. The presented photographs show that not only the medical institution itself is in a deplorable state, but also the surrounding area. The mayor had to wear rubber boots

30.01.2026, 10:00
Local news

The Ministry of Health plans to open a rehabilitation center for drug addicts. Nazaraliev is ready to help.

A recent meeting of the Minister of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic, Kanibek Dosmambetov, with Professor Zhenishbek Nazaraliev took place at the Ministry of Health. During the discussion, plans to improve the state rehabilitation system for people with drug addiction were considered. According to information, the Ministry of Health intends to create a state rehabilitation center for drug addicts based on the already existing center for post-stroke patients located in the village of Dachnoye in

30.01.2026, 10:00
Local news

Humanity is Losing Healthy Sperm. Expert on Trends in Men's Health

The global threat of decreasing numbers of male gametes is becoming increasingly evident. Kyrgyzstan has not remained untouched by this issue. This was reported by Galina Chirkina, acting director of the Alliance for Reproductive Health, during a training session dedicated to sexual health. She provided statistics from the WHO illustrating this trend: in 1980, the threshold for male reproductive health was 80 million sperm per milliliter. By the 1990s, it had decreased to 40 million, and now

30.01.2026, 09:59
Historical Record: Kyrgyzstan's International Reserves Exceed $10 Billion
Local news / Exclusive

Historical Record: Kyrgyzstan's International Reserves Exceed $10 Billion

The international reserves of the Kyrgyz Republic have reached a historic record, exceeding the mark of 10 billion US dollars. This was reported by Daiyrbek Orunbekov, head of the information policy service of the president's administration. According to him, the chairman of the National Bank of Kyrgyzstan, Melis Turgunbaev, confirmed this information, emphasizing the country's gold and foreign exchange reserves.

30.01.2026, 09:53
Local news

The PPP Center's portfolio reached 90 projects with investments of 434 billion soms

The National Investment Agency under the President of the Kyrgyz Republic has reported that the project portfolio of the PPP Center has exceeded 90 projects, with a total volume of private investments amounting to over 434 billion soms. Currently, 65 projects are actively being implemented. Over the past year, 14 new agreements have been signed in areas such as transport, logistics, agriculture, ecology, waste management, tourism, education, and communications, which has attracted more than

30.01.2026, 09:52
"Туткун": how high expectations turned into great disappointment
Local news

"Туткун": how high expectations turned into great disappointment

December 24, 2025. The "Ala-Too" cinema in Bishkek was packed. At the premiere screening of the film "Tutkun," directed by Temir Birnazarov, a large number of viewers gathered, including fans of Kyrgyz cinema and representatives of the creative intelligentsia, weary of soulless comedies and monotonous plots. Some spectators even took seats on the steps, hoping for deep and honest cinema. Temir Birnazarov, known for the film "Belgisiz marshruta" ("Unknown

30.01.2026, 09:50
Local news / Exclusive

Nutrition at the "Zhetigen" School in Osh Improved After Mayor's Criticism

During a raid on January 27, the mayor of Osh, Jenishbek Toktorbaev, identified deficiencies in the nutrition at the "Zhetigen" school. In response to his criticism, local authorities quickly reacted and resolved the issues. According to the city administration, the cook at the educational institution was replaced, which improved the quality and taste of the bread and pastries provided to the children.

30.01.2026, 09:34
The Minister of Health presented the new head of "Kyrgyzpharmacy" and explained his appointment
Local news / Exclusive

The Minister of Health presented the new head of "Kyrgyzpharmacy" and explained his appointment

On January 29, 2026, the Minister of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic, Kanibek Dosmambetov, officially introduced the new head of the State Enterprise "Kyrgyzpharmacy" — Bolot Tologonovich Junusov. His appointment was the result of a cabinet decision. In his address, the minister emphasized that the current situation in "Kyrgyzpharmacy" requires urgent and serious measures. Recently, the enterprise, responsible for supplying medicines and medical products to all healthcare

30.01.2026, 09:31
Kyrgyz and Russian Scientists Can Again Conquer Space Together
Local news

Kyrgyz and Russian Scientists Can Again Conquer Space Together

On April 12, 2026, the world will celebrate the 65th anniversary of the first human flight into space, when Yuri Gagarin uttered his famous phrase "Let's go!" This date is particularly significant for Kyrgyzstan, not only because Gagarin vacationed at the picturesque Issyk-Kul after his historic flight, but also because the republic was once an important center of science and technology in the USSR. For 35-40 years, Kyrgyzstan served as an intellectual hub for space

30.01.2026, 09:29
The Minister of Health named the reason for the failures in the work of "Kyrgyzpharmacy"
Local news / Exclusive

The Minister of Health named the reason for the failures in the work of "Kyrgyzpharmacy"

During the presentation of the new head of "Kyrgyzpharm," Bolot Junusov, Minister of Health Kanbek Dosmambetov elaborated on the problems faced by this institution. He pointed out systemic shortcomings in the organization’s work that are not related to a lack of funding or external factors, but rather stem from internal management errors. According to the minister, among the main reasons for the inefficiency of "Kyrgyzpharm" are poor leadership, conflicts of interest, and

30.01.2026, 09:28
Maternity Hospital No. 2 in Bishkek: Bed Linen in Blood, Horrible Condition of Wards
Local news

Maternity Hospital No. 2 in Bishkek: Bed Linen in Blood, Horrible Condition of Wards

Local residents are dissatisfied with the condition of the postpartum ward Recent posts on social media have revealed the shocking state of the postpartum ward in Maternity Hospital No. 2 in Bishkek. Locals shared videos showing the conditions in which mothers and newborns are kept. In the comments to the video, users express their dissatisfaction: "When will someone who cares about people take responsibility for the condition of the second maternity hospital? The wards are cold, the tap

30.01.2026, 09:12