Exclusive

In Bishkek, the competition "Journey to the World of Jomoktor" took place - results

A competition titled "Journey to the World of Folktales" took place in the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek. Information about this was received from the city's mayor's office. The event was held at School No. 115 and was organized to inspire youth to read, preserve cultural traditions, and develop the creative abilities of students in the capital's educational institutions.

20.02.2026, 13:21

Local news

The head of the 6th department of the GKNB in Bishkek was detained for corruption

The military prosecutor's office of Kyrgyzstan has detained a high-profile officer who heads the 6th department of the GKNB in Bishkek. This individual, better known by the nickname Grudak, is currently under suspicion of engaging in corrupt activities.

20.02.2026, 13:17

Economy

Not just negotiations with "RusHydro". How else Alexey Shirshov is helping the Kyrgyz government

According to information provided by the First Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Daniyar Amangeldiev, in an interview with Kaktus.media, Alexey Shirshov, who previously headed OJSC "TNK 'Dastan'," is actively involved in the affairs of the Cabinet of Ministers. His work is not limited to negotiations with Russia regarding the construction of the Upper Naryn Cascade of Hydroelectric Power Stations. Amangeldiev noted that cooperation with Shirshov began during the

20.02.2026, 13:14

Local news

Football in Kyrgyzstan is transitioning to international quality standards ISO 9001

At the National Academy of the Kyrgyz Football Union, an intensive seminar has concluded, lasting four days and dedicated to the implementation of the international standard ISO 9001. The training involved 21 leaders from various departments, which is part of the preparation for the introduction of a quality management system.

20.02.2026, 13:13

Local news

Registration for the nationwide testing has begun

The Ministry of Education has announced that online registration for the nationwide testing will continue until April 2. The registration process, which began on February 17, is available on the platform of the Assessment and Learning Center testing.kg.

20.02.2026, 13:13

Ecology

Rain, Snow, and Increasing Wind During the Day — Weather Forecast for February 21

Weather conditions in Kyrgyzstan on February 21. According to information from Kyrgyzhydromet, rain is expected in some areas of Talas, Osh, Jalal-Abad, and Batken regions during the night of February 21, while snow is possible in the mountainous parts of Chui region. No precipitation is anticipated in Issyk-Kul and Naryn regions. In the morning and throughout the day, rain and snow will also occur in most areas, with intense precipitation expected in the mountains. Snow drifts and ice are

20.02.2026, 13:13

Local news

You can admire this endlessly: the best wildlife shots in the world

Recently, the jury of the Sony World Photography Awards announced the names of the winners in the "Wildlife" category, showcasing outstanding images of fauna and natural landscapes. This competition, organized by the World Photography Organisation with the support of Sony, is being held for the 19th time and is considered one of the most prestigious awards in the world of photography.

20.02.2026, 13:10

Exclusive

In 2025, Kyrgyzstan imported 28.6 thousand tons of potatoes worth $11.4 million

In 2025, Kyrgyzstan imported 28,600 tons of potatoes, amounting to 11.4 million US dollars. This data was provided by the National Statistical Committee. According to the agency's information, the supply figures for the period from January to December significantly increased compared to the same period in 2024, when the import volume was only 512 tons worth 301 thousand dollars.

20.02.2026, 13:10

Local news

Did they find 36 million dollars with the ex-head of the GKNB?

How did such a sum of cash arise, if this is indeed the case? Eldar Jakypbekov, the former head of the GKNB in Bishkek, has found himself at the center of discussions due to information that 36 million dollars were found in his possession. This information has not yet been officially confirmed and has appeared in some Kyrgyz news sources and social media. Meanwhile, the public is actively discussing how a person who held such a high position in the security services could accumulate such an

20.02.2026, 13:10

Local news

100 Films in "Digital": CURLTAI and "Kyrgyzfilm" Breathe Life into Cinema Masterpieces

Photo CURLTAI. Film digitization work Now more than 100 feature and documentary films created by 'Kyrgyzfilm' are available in digital format with high-quality sound and image. The restoration and digitization process of classic Kyrgyz cinema has helped the younger generation rediscover national masterpieces. Producer of the creative association CURLTAI, Daniyar Orozbekov, shared details about the large-scale project dedicated to the 85th anniversary of the studio.

20.02.2026, 13:09

Local news

The opening of a new transport control point on the North-South road will be expedited

On February 19, during a meeting of the government, the Minister of Transport and Communications of the Kyrgyz Republic, Talantbek Soltobaev, announced the decision to establish a new transport control point on the northern side of the "Aral" checkpoint, located in the Jumgal district. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Transport and Communications of the KR. According to the information from the ministry, the new point will contribute to improving road safety,

20.02.2026, 13:08

Economy

Control over the sale of meat in the markets of Bishkek continues, - Ministry of Agriculture

In the markets of Bishkek, such as "Alamedin," "Orto-Sai," and "Dordoy-Dyikan," wholesale meat sales are carried out as usual, starting from 5:00–6:00 AM. This activity provides residents and businesspeople with quality products, as reported by the press service of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Kyrgyz Republic.

20.02.2026, 13:08

Local news

Kyrgyzstan - Leader in the Number of Visits by Uzbeks in January 2026

By the beginning of 2026, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan have become the most popular destinations for Uzbeks. This is reported by podrobno.uz. According to the National Statistical Committee, there was a significant increase in tourist activity among citizens of Uzbekistan in January 2026 — nearly 590,000 people traveled abroad, which is 6.9% more than in the same month last year.

20.02.2026, 13:08

In the world / Exclusive

Nissan recalls over 600,000 vehicles due to engine defects

Nissan has announced two large-scale recalls affecting a total of 642,698 Rogue crossovers. The decision was made due to potential defects in the transmission and engine that could cause a loss of power while driving, as reported by Kazinform, citing CBS. The first recall covers 323,917 vehicles manufactured between 2023 and 2025, equipped with a three-cylinder 1.5-liter VC-Turbo engine with variable compression ratio. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) warns of

20.02.2026, 13:06

Local news

A Unified Geoinformation System for Veterinary Monitoring is Being Developed in the KR

The Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic, through the veterinary service, as well as the development of livestock, pastures, and feed, has announced the launch of a project to create a geoinformation system for accounting and monitoring outbreaks of anthrax, known as the GIS "SUMO". The main goal of this initiative is to improve epizootic surveillance and prompt response to threats of the spread of dangerous diseases among animals.

20.02.2026, 13:05

Exclusive

In Kyrgyzstan, labor protection legislation is being improved

Recently, parliamentary hearings were held, organized by the Committee on Labor, Health, Women's Affairs, and Social Issues of the Jogorku Kenesh, where the draft law "On Labor Protection" was discussed. This information was announced by the press service of the Jogorku Kenesh.

20.02.2026, 13:05

Incidents

Head of the 6th Department of the State National Security Committee in Bishkek, nicknamed Grudak, detained for corruption

The head of the 6th department of the State Committee for National Security in Bishkek, known by the nickname Grudak, has been detained by the military prosecutor's office. According to law enforcement agencies, he is suspected of corrupt activities. According to the decision of the Pervomaisky District Court of Bishkek, A.T. will be held in a temporary detention facility until April 15. This decision was made based on the materials collected during the investigation. The accused is

20.02.2026, 13:03

Incidents / Exclusive

Director of the Republican Sports College Aibek Tashmatov Detained

The decision of the First May District Court has placed Aibek Tashmatov, who holds the position of director of the Republican Sports College named after Sh. Sydykov, in custody for a period of two months. According to information provided by the court to the "Kabar" agency, this decision was the result of the approval of a petition submitted by the head of the Investigative Department of the Military Prosecutor's Office, who leads the interagency investigative group.

20.02.2026, 13:01

Analytics / Exclusive

The Resilience of Power - A Question of Strategic Development for Kyrgyzstan and the Greater Eurasian Space

The stability of power within the Eurasian space and specifically in Kyrgyzstan is becoming an important factor for strategic development. Economic cooperation between states, the development of infrastructure, and logistics projects directly depend on the stability of power structures in partner countries. Each participant in the international community plays a key role, and their stability is important both in the context of international relations and in domestic politics. This has led to a

20.02.2026, 13:01

Exclusive

Kabil Iskakov has been appointed head of the Uzgen District Internal Affairs Department

Kabil Iskakov was appointed as the head of the Internal Affairs Department of the Uzgen District on February 19, according to an order from the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic. This information was confirmed by the press service of the Internal Affairs Department of the Osh Region.

20.02.2026, 12:58

Economy / Exclusive

Meat priced at 670–680 soms: Price justification checked in Uzgen markets

In the Uzgen district, a price monitoring of meat was carried out, as reported by Deputy Akim Imangazy Abdrayev. According to Abdrayev, on February 17, a check was conducted in Uzgen to stabilize and control prices for meat, as well as for key agricultural products and socially significant goods.

20.02.2026, 12:57

Incidents

A Rhythmic Gymnastics Coach Detained in Bishkek

The coach is accused of causing injury to a 7-year-old girl during training A.M. contacted the police requesting to hold her daughter's rhythmic gymnastics coach accountable. She claims that during the training session, the child suffered physical injuries. This was reported by representatives of the press service of the Oktyabrsky District Department of Internal Affairs in Bishkek. In connection with the incident, a criminal case has been initiated under Article 130 "Causing serious

20.02.2026, 12:56

Exclusive

Kulov: A Distorted Perception of National Security Work is Forming in Society

“The overwhelming majority of GKNB employees are honest professionals and loyal to their oath” As a result of recent arrests of high-ranking officials and identified violations within the GKNB, a distorted perception of the work of national security agencies has formed in Kyrgyz society. This issue was raised by former Prime Minister Felix Kulov on his Facebook page. “Undoubtedly, negative events have affected the reputation of the agency. As is known, one spoonful of tar can spoil a barrel of

20.02.2026, 12:54

Incidents

The head of the capital's anti-corruption department of the GKNB, nicknamed Grudak, has been detained for corruption.

The suspect is in custody until April 15 The head of the 6th department of the State National Security Committee (GKNB) for Bishkek, known by the nickname Grudak, has been arrested by the military prosecutor's office. He is suspected of corrupt activities. By a decision of the First May District Court, A.T. will be held in a temporary detention facility until April 15. We remind you that the 6th department of the GKNB works in the field of combating corruption. photo www

20.02.2026, 12:50

Local news

19 workers died at construction sites in 2025

Inspections reveal violations only on a scheduled basis; agencies get involved after a tragedy In 2025, 19 accidents with fatal outcomes were recorded at construction sites. This was reported by Cholponkul Madiyarov, Deputy Director of the Labor Law Compliance and Supervision Service, during parliamentary hearings dedicated to the "Occupational Safety" bill. He noted that all tragedies occurred directly at the workplaces. According to Madiyarov, issues related to ensuring safe

20.02.2026, 12:49

Local news

Experiment. The institution of jury trials is being introduced in Uzbekistan

Starting from November 2026, a pilot project is planned to be implemented in Tashkent and the Tashkent region, within which jurors will participate in court proceedings concerning particularly serious crimes. This experiment, initiated in accordance with the state program for the current year and approved by a decree of the President of Uzbekistan, will be an important step in reforming the judicial system. An important aspect of the new approach will be providing investigative judges with the

20.02.2026, 12:47

Exclusive

The EEC Named the Conditions for Business Participation in Subsidized Projects of the EAEU Agro-Industrial Complex

Soon, enterprises from the EAEU countries will be able to rely on financial assistance for the implementation of cooperative projects in the agro-industrial complex. This was announced by Naira Karapetyan, Director of the Agro-Industrial Policy Department of the EEC. At the end of 2025, the governments of the EAEU countries decided to implement the corresponding mechanism.

20.02.2026, 12:46

Exclusive

In Batken, a citizen was detained with 1000 kg of ferula seeds, damage assessed at 500,000 soms

A citizen has been detained in the Batken region for the illegal collection of ferula seeds. According to the Environmental and Technical Supervision Service under the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision, employees of the Department of Specially Protected Natural Areas and Biodiversity of the Batken Regional Administration, during joint operational activities with law enforcement agencies, uncovered the fact of illegal transportation of seeds of the wild-growing

20.02.2026, 12:41

Incidents

Head of the Anti-Corruption Department of the GKNB for the Chui Region Arrested

Tilek Abdykalikov, the head of the 6th department of the State Committee for National Security (GKNB) for the Chui region, has been detained by the military prosecutor's office of the Kyrgyz Republic. This information was confirmed by the editorial office of Kaktus.media at the Pervomaisky District Court in Bishkek. According to sources, on February 19 of this year, at the request of the head of the interagency investigative group, who is also the head of the investigative department of

20.02.2026, 12:39

Ecology / Exclusive

The Ministry of Natural Resources calls to report environmental violations via the hotline.

The Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic urges citizens to report any violations of environmental legislation by calling the hotline at 108. The agency emphasizes that burning waste and using vehicles with high emissions are illegal actions that harm the environment. Residents are asked to report cases such as the burning of sewing waste, tires, and other toxic materials, as well as vehicles emitting thick smoke, to the above-mentioned number.

20.02.2026, 12:35

Local news

The Mandatory Health Insurance Policy Explained by the FOMS

As reported by the Mandatory Health Insurance Fund, the mandatory health insurance system in Kyrgyzstan implies an individual approach. Each policy is issued for a specific citizen, confirming their status as insured.

20.02.2026, 12:34

In the world

Russia will "permanently" tighten customs control at the border with Kazakhstan

Overchuk noted that the open customs border with partners in the EAEU creates conditions for the influx of goods that contribute to unfair competition in the Russian market. He emphasized that Russia plans to take "very strict measures" to combat this practice. To enhance control in this area, a system for confirming the expected delivery of goods (SPO) was launched this year, under which the importer is required to confirm the transaction for the supply of goods from an EAEU member

20.02.2026, 12:33

Incidents / Exclusive

In Osh, a criminal group was detained with a large batch of drugs and ammunition

The activities of an organized criminal group involved in the sale of drugs produced in Afghanistan were halted in Osh. As a result of the operation, more than 4.7 kilograms of hashish, as well as weapons, ammunition, and significant amounts of cash were seized. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kyrgyzstan. The detention was carried out by officers of the Drug Control Service.

20.02.2026, 12:28

Exclusive

Kyrgyzstan Temporarily Bans the Export of Mineral Fertilizers Outside the EAEU

- Kyrgyzstan has imposed a six-month ban on the export of mineral fertilizers outside the Eurasian Economic Union, except in cases related to humanitarian assistance provided by the Cabinet of Ministers and customs transit procedures. This decision was signed by the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, Adylbek Kasymaliev.

20.02.2026, 12:25

Exclusive

Folk Legends: Why the Village of Katran Got Its Name (photos, videos)

The village of Katran is located in the Leilek District of the Batken Region and is one of the major rural settlements in the area, with a population of about 7,000 as of 2021. The village is situated 125 km from the regional center and 50 km from the district center, at the beginning of the Kozu-Baglan River, which is a tributary of the Lailak River.

20.02.2026, 12:22

Economy / Exclusive

An additional transformer will be installed at the "Kun Batys" substation

In Karakol, a new power transformer is planned to be installed at the 110/10 kV "Kun Batys" substation. According to NESK, the implementation of this project is scheduled for April 2026. The modernization includes the following activities:

20.02.2026, 12:21

Exclusive

In the city of Osh, only 4 out of 17 cosmetic centers operate with a license.

In the city of Osh, only 4 out of 17 cosmetology institutions have valid licenses. This information was announced by Kanbu Kalysheva, a sanitary doctor dealing with public health issues at the disease prevention center and sanitary-epidemiological surveillance in the city of Osh and Osh region.

20.02.2026, 12:20

Incidents

In Bishkek, a rhythmic gymnastics coach was detained

A rhythmic gymnastics coach was detained in Bishkek. This was reported by the October Department of Internal Affairs of Bishkek to the editorial office of Kaktus.media. A statement was received from A. M., who requested measures to be taken against the coach who trains her daughter E. A., born in 2019. According to the applicant, on December 24, 2025, her daughter sustained serious injuries during warm-up at practice.

20.02.2026, 12:19

In the world

Trump announced $7 billion in aid for Gaza, including from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan

At the World Council meeting in Washington, Donald Trump announced over $7 billion in aid for the Gaza Strip. “The region must no longer be a breeding ground for radicalism and terrorism. I am pleased to announce that Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, the UAE, Morocco, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, and Kuwait have united to provide over $7 billion as part of this aid package,” Trump emphasized.

20.02.2026, 12:16

Local news

Residents of Osh expressed their opinions on the new personnel appointments in the city's leadership

Since the appointment of Janarbek Akaev as the mayor of Osh following the resignation of Jenishbek Toktorbaev, the city's residents have been actively discussing the changes in leadership. The film crew of 24.kg conducted a survey among the citizens to find out their opinions on the new personnel changes. Most respondents noted that they have not yet formed a definitive opinion about the new mayor, but expressed their readiness to monitor his work and evaluate it based on specific results.

20.02.2026, 12:13

Exclusive

"The version that he fell asleep at the wheel is ruled out." Relatives of the detained Kyrgyzstani in the USA ask Bishkek to intervene.

The family of Bekzhan Beishekeev, a Kyrgyzstani truck driver detained in the USA after a tragic traffic accident, has made a plea to their country's diplomats. They hope that their relative will not become a victim of the anti-immigrant wave in America. In their opinion, the incident should be viewed as an accident, and they are urging Kyrgyzstan to provide legal support to Bekzhan. The incident, in which four people died, occurred on February 3. Ruslan, Bekzhan's older brother,

20.02.2026, 12:08

Local news

Bishkek will purchase 625 small buses and install air conditioners in those that already exist.

The buses will operate on the narrow streets of residential areas. In Bishkek, the acquisition of 625 small buses is planned. This was announced by Ulanbek Beishenbaev, the director of the Department of Transport and Development of Road Transport Infrastructure of the city administration. According to him, an analysis of various models, their prices, and technical specifications is currently being conducted. The official noted: "These buses will be intended for narrow roads in residential

20.02.2026, 12:08

Economy

The GNS has implemented a new form of ESF for electronic trading on marketplaces

The updated electronic invoice is intended for the documentation of goods before their export from the country and is used exclusively for the documentary support of exported goods that will subsequently be sold through electronic trading platforms.

20.02.2026, 12:08

Local news

In Bishkek, the level of air pollution increased over the week

According to data from the Hydrometeorological Service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz Republic, there is an exceedance of the maximum permissible concentrations of pollutants in the atmospheric air in Bishkek.

20.02.2026, 12:04

Incidents

In 2025, 19 workers died at construction sites in Kyrgyzstan

In 2025, a tragedy occurred at construction sites in Kyrgyzstan: 19 workers died as a result of accidents. This became known during parliamentary hearings on the draft law "On Labor Protection," where Cholponkul Madirov, Deputy Director of the Labor Legislation Control and Supervision Service, spoke. Madirov noted that their service can only conduct planned inspections of working conditions. At each construction site, from the moment the foundation is laid until the completion of

20.02.2026, 12:04

In the world / Exclusive

A New Species of Spinosaurus Discovered in the Sahara Desert

In Niger, in the heart of the Sahara Desert, scientists have discovered a new species of Spinosaurus — one of the largest known carnivorous dinosaurs. This species is distinguished by its characteristic crest on its head and teeth designed for catching fish. This was reported by RIA Novosti, citing an article in the journal Science. Until now, only one species of this dinosaur was known — Spinosaurus aegyptiacus, whose fossil remains were found in Egypt in 1915.

20.02.2026, 12:00

Economy

Probation Clients Are Trained in In-Demand Professions

The educational process includes various directions: culinary arts, plumbing, and hairdressing. Each course is assigned specialized classrooms, and classes are held according to a set schedule, allowing for the combination of theory with practical experience. This approach facilitates the assimilation of material and the consolidation of skills in practice.

20.02.2026, 11:54

Local news

Kyrgyzstan Lacks 50 Nephrologists

According to the report from the chief freelance specialists of the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic, there are only 19 nephrologists in the country, of which 12 work with adults and 7 with children. The availability of nephrologists for adults is 0.26 per 100,000 people, which is significantly lower than the World Health Organization's recommended level of ≥1.0 for developing countries. This creates a deficit of 34 specialists, meaning that the number of doctors needs to be

20.02.2026, 11:51