A conversation with Aum Tashi Pem, the Country Director of Helvetas, Bhutan, based on her article in the Local Government issue of The Druk Journal (Autumn 2022). In this episode of The Druk Journal Podcast, we explore the challenges faced by decision-makers when the pragmatic approach of ‘efficiency and cost reduction’ through consolidating Gewogs (counties) comes into conflict with the historical and cultural identity of the local communities.