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Modernization of Qayroqqum hydropower plant fully completed

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All six generating units of the Qayroqqum hydropower plant (HPP) have been fully modernized and put into operation. Landscaping and site improvement works at the plant are scheduled to be completed by December 2026, the station’s management reported.

The completion of the modernization marks a major milestone in a large-scale project aimed at strengthening the energy resilience of Sughd Province and Tajikistan as a whole, while significantly improving the efficiency of one of the country’s key energy facilities According to the plant’s director, Fayzullo Avezov, told Energetika i Vodnyye Resursy (Energy and Water Resources) magazine in an interview

The modernization, which began in 2019, has substantially enhanced the plant’s technical performance. Newly installed general electric hydro turbines deliver efficiency levels of up to 92% and feature high resistance to cavitation, improving both reliability and operational efficiency.

As a result of the upgrade, the installed capacity of the Qayroqqum HPP increased from 126 MW to 174 MW, while average annual electricity generation rose by 38%.

Avezov noted that a distinctive feature of the reconstruction was the extensive introduction of modern digital technologies. Automated control systems and digital dispatching equipment were installed, allowing operations to move to a new technological level with enhanced process monitoring.

In addition, a hydrotechnical structure monitoring system was introduced, enabling round-the-clock observation and real-time forecasting of structural conditions.

The director emphasized that the modernization was carried out without shutting down the plant, a technically challenging task given that Qayroqqum HPP is the sole source of electricity generation in northern Tajikistan. Among the main challenges were the need for constant coordination due to the interconnection of equipment, as well as complications caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted equipment delivery and installation.

According to Avezov, the importance of the Qayroqqum HPP modernization for the country’s energy system cannot be overstated. The upgrade has not only strengthened power supply in Sughd Region but has also significantly increased Tajikistan’s overall energy independence.

He added that the project represents a landmark step toward sustainable development of Tajikistan’s energy sector, with a strong focus on innovation and digital technologies that are shaping the future of the industry.

Located on the Syr Darya River in the city of Guliston, Sughd Province, the Qayroqqum HPP is one of Tajikistan’s key energy facilities. Built between 1956 and 1957, the plant had been in operation for nearly 70 years, during which time its equipment became significantly worn, reducing generation efficiency.

Large-scale modernization began in August 2019 and was implemented with the involvement of domestic specialists and international partners. The project included a complete overhaul of all six generating units, with replacement of major hydropower and electromechanical systems, turbine control systems, transformers, and other critical equipment. The capacity of each unit was increased.

The modernization project was supported by international financial institutions as part of a financing package totaling approximately $196 million. Funding was provided by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the European Investment Bank, the Green Climate Fund, and the Climate Investment Funds.

President dismisses heads of nine cities and districts

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On January 7, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon held a meeting with officials appointed as heads of several cities and districts, as well as to senior positions in other state bodies.

According to the president’s official website, following a review of the country’s socio-economic performance in 2025, a number of officials were relieved of their duties, including deputy heads of Khatlon province and chairpersons of several cities and districts. They were replaced by new, younger, and more experienced managerial personnel.

Dilovar Pirzoda, previously served as First Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Land Management and Geodesy, was appointed Acting Mayor of Kulob City, replacing Bakhtiyor Nazarzoda.

Sharifjon Jumazoda was appointed Acting Mayor of Isfara City, replacing Bahovaddin Bahodurzoda, who stepped down due to a transfer to another position.

Abdusattor Qodiri was appointed Acting Mayor of Istaravshan City. His predecessor, Adham Mamurzoda, was appointed Senior Adviser to the Office of the Presidential Aide for Social Development and Public Relations.

Azizullo Alizod was appointed Acting Chairman of Jaihun District, replacing Abdulhafiz Odinazoda.

Farrukhiddin Nabizoda, formerly head of Khovaling District, was appointed Acting Chairman of Mir Said Hamadoni District, replacing Nurullo Mirzazoda.

Saimumin Raufzoda was appointed Acting Chairman of Khovaling District.

Jamshed Jurazoda was appointed Acting Chairman of Spitamen District, replacing Temurjon Numonzoda, who was appointed head of Bobojon-Ghafourov District.

Nusratullo Salimzoda, formerly head of Bobojon-Ghafourov District, was appointed Acting Chairman of Rudaki District, replacing Abdugaffor Hikmatullozoda, who stepped down due to a transfer to another position.

In addition, Ashurboy Solehzoda was relieved of his post as First Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Trade, and Abdullo Rahmonzoda was dismissed as Presidential Aide for Social Development and Public Relations. Both were appointed Deputy Chairmen of Khatlon Province, overseeing economic and ideological affairs.

Kamoliddin Muminzoda was appointed Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Local Development under the President, while Zarina Davlatzoda was appointed Deputy Chairperson of this Committee.

Manouchehr Sharifzoda, formerly Deputy Minister of Culture, was appointed to head the Public Institution (PI) The National Theatre.

During the meeting, the President issued specific instructions to the newly appointed officials, stressing the importance of conscientious and responsible service to the state and the people, strict adherence to the rule of law, particularly in land allocation for housing construction, proper preparation for spring agricultural work, the selection and training of promising young personnel, and respectful engagement with the public.

Special emphasis was placed on intensifying development and beautification projects with the involvement of entrepreneurs and philanthropists, including preparations for the celebration of International Navrouz and the 35th anniversary of the State Independence of the Republic of Tajikistan.

Social grievances or foreign interference? Protests in Iran and the authorities’ response

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For the tenth consecutive day, protests have continued in several Iranian cities. The demonstrations were sparked primarily by socio-economic problems, most notably the sharp depreciation of the national currency and rising inflation.

Iranian authorities have acknowledged serious economic difficulties and expressed readiness for dialogue with protesters. At the same time, officials warned that they would take firm action against what they describe as instigators of unrest, claiming that the protests bear signs of “foreign interference.”

Meanwhile, the US president has issued a second warning, saying that a harsh crackdown on protesters would have negative consequences.

 

What triggered the protests?

The protests began on December 28, 2025. According to Iran’s state news agency IRNA, traders at Tehran’s largest bazaar closed their shops in protest against the country’s worsening economic situation.

A key trigger was the collapse of the Iranian rial and soaring inflation. On December 28, the currency fell to a record low of about 1.42 million rials per US dollar. Al Jazeera reports that the rial has lost roughly 56% of its value over the past six months.

Amid the unrest, Central Bank Governor Mohammadreza Farzin resigned on December 29. Since his appointment in 2022, the dollar exchange rate had more than tripled. He was replaced by Abdolnaser Hemmati.

 

Conflicting reports on casualties and arrests

Reports on the number of those killed and detained vary widely. Official Iranian sources say hundreds have been arrested but provide no precise figures. State media have also reported injuries and deaths among law enforcement officers.

Foreign media and rights groups operating outside Iran claim that more than ten people have been killed during the protests and their suppression. According to the BBC, at least 19 protesters and one security officer were killed over the past week. More than 1,200 people, including women and students, have reportedly been detained nationwide.

Iranian authorities have neither confirmed nor denied these figures, while international media remain unable to report directly from inside the country.

 

Government response

On January 3, 2026, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei addressed the protests for the first time, drawing a distinction between protesters and what he called “rioters.”

“We will talk to the protesters, officials must talk to them. But talking to rioters is useless,” he said, again pointing to alleged foreign involvement.

President Masoud Pezeshkian acknowledged the legitimacy of economic grievances, warning that failure to address people’s daily problems would have grave consequences. Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani also stressed the need to address living standards while condemning attempts to exploit protests for destabilization.

 

Economic measures

In response, the government introduced a series of economic steps, including changes to the state budget. These measures include a phased wage increase of up to 43%, a reduction in VAT from 12% to 10%, and the allocation of $8.8 billion at a preferential exchange rate to curb price growth on essential goods.

Additional funds were earmarked for wheat purchases and pension support.

 

US warnings and Iran’s reaction

US President Donald Trump issued repeated warnings, stating that Washington would respond if Iranian authorities used violence against protesters. Iranian officials sharply rejected the remarks, warning that any US interference would destabilize the region and be met with a strong response.

Russia and China, Iran’s key partners, have so far refrained from commenting publicly.

Analysts note that the current protests differ from previous waves, as they are driven primarily by economic hardship. Authorities appear to be taking a more measured approach, drawing lessons from past unrest. 

Tajikistan introduces online verification for marital status certificates

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As of January 5, Tajik citizens can now verify the authenticity of their marital status certificates online using a QR code, eliminating the need for in-person visits to the Ministry of Justice. This update was announced on the Ministry's official Facebook page.

The new service is part of the government's initiative to provide public services digitally. To use the service, individuals can access the Ministry of Justice’s official website, fill out the required information, and submit their application electronically. Once the request is processed, the result will be sent via email or SMS to the applicant’s phone number.

This service is free of charge and is available to citizens both within Tajikistan and abroad.

It is worth noting that on October 1, 2025, President Emomali Rahmon signed amendments to the law, increasing the state duty for divorce proceedings. The new changes to the “State Duty Law” have resulted in significant price hikes:

·         For a divorce request by one spouse, the fee has increased from 75 somonis to 150 somonis;

·         For a joint divorce petition, the fee has risen from 375 somonis to 750 somonis;

·         For a divorce through court decision, the fee has grown from 525 somonis to 1050 somonis.

Thus, the fee has effectively doubled. The government explained that these changes aim to reduce the number of divorces in the country, where divorce remains a serious social issue.

Drone operator training program launched in Tajikistan

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A unique educational project has recently launched in Tajikistan, aiming to break stereotypes about age and technology. In just two months, individuals aged 16 to 70 can go from complete beginners to certified drone pilots.

Approximately four months ago, the country rolled out the large-scale program "Improving Professional Skills and Employment Opportunities." This initiative is not merely a course; it is part of the government’s broader strategy to accelerate the industrialization of the country.

 

Why drones?

The world is changing, and so is Tajikistan’s agriculture. Today, drones are no longer just gadgets but “smart assistants” for farmers. Their use not only boosts efficiency for farmers and dekhkans (smallholder farmers) but also contributes to the sustainable development of agricultural production.

Drones are used for precision land fertilization, which helps optimize workflows, increase crop yields, and reduce costs. To operate such technology, the country needs qualified professionals, and the government is providing training for free.

 

Training conditions

The program is highly accessible, offering terms previously unavailable in the education market:

·         Duration: Just two months of intensive training.

·         Flexible schedule: Classes are held daily in two shifts, from 8:00 to 12:00 and from 13:00 to 17:00, allowing participants to choose the time that works best for them.

·         Age: Open to individuals aged 16 to 70. Both school graduates and active retirees are welcome.

·         Gender balance: Interestingly, the majority of the trainees are women and young people between the ages of 16 and 30.

 

Bonuses for successful graduates

Upon completing the course and passing the certification exam, each student receives:

·         A one-time stipend of $120 (available only for women).

·         An internationally recognized certificate, opening doors to major companies.

·         A job recommendation to help graduates find employment faster.

 

Where are the courses held?

The main training center for drone operators in the agricultural sector is located in the Skill Development, Professional Training, and Service Center in Dushanbe. However, the project spans the entire country, with six modern centers set up in various locations:

·         Dushanbe: Tourism, service, and drone operators.

·         Roghun: Energy sector.

·         Danghara: Agriculture.

·         Khujand, Bokhtar, and Vose: Professional training and service.

 

How was this possible?

This initiative is being carried out under an agreement between the government of Tajikistan and the Asian Development Bank. The primary goal is to help Tajik citizens meet the demands of the modern labor market.

As organizers have pointed out, there is currently a shortage of specialists in Tajikistan who are skilled in working with new technologies. Therefore, this project serves as an important support mechanism for job seekers, equipping them to face the challenges of today’s labor market.

Kish Island remains top travel destination for Tajik tourists

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Kish Island continues to be the most popular travel destination this season for Tajik nationals, with its appeal rooted in a combination of affordable prices, a pleasant climate, and straightforward logistics.

The destination is accessible through Fly.tj, with direct flights operated by Kish Airlines every Thursday from Dushanbe, making the journey convenient with no layovers.

New flight dates are available soon, including January 15 with a return flight on January 22, and January 22 with a return on January 29. The cost for a 7-day tour starts at $549, which includes round-trip airfare, hotel accommodation with breakfast, transfer services, and travel insurance, making it one of the most cost-effective options this season.

It’s important to note that the tour itself is affordable, and Iran is generally considered one of the most budget-friendly countries for both vacation and shopping. Tourists will find reasonable restaurant prices, a variety of entertainment options, modern shopping centers, and a relaxing atmosphere on Kish Island. An added bonus for Tajik travelers is that no visa is required for entry to Iran.

For more information on booking tours and availability, you can contact the call center at 1133 or reach out to the following manager contacts: +992 888 884 505, +992 888 885 929, +992 888 775 005.

Tajik woman detained on suspicion of causing death of Russian blogger in botched cosmetic procedure

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The Russian Investigative Committee has instituted criminal proceedings and detained a 26-year-old Shoira Nazulloyeva, a native of Tajikistan, on suspicion of causing the death of Russian blogger Yuliya Burtseva during a cosmetic procedure. The case has been classified under Article 109, Part 2 of Russia’s Criminal Code — causing death by negligence.

According to the investigation, Nazulloyeva performed the procedure on January 4, which led to the death of the 38-year-old blogger. Burtseva lost consciousness during the procedure at the private clinic Elmas and was rushed to a hospital, but doctors were unable to save her. Medical reports indicate that Burtseva suffered anaphylactic shock, which caused her death.

Telegram channel Mash clarified that Nazulloyeva was not officially employed by Elmas but had rented a room at the clinic where she conducted the procedure on Burtseva.

If proven guilty, Nazulloyeva could face up to three years in prison.

Reports indicate that Yuliya Burtseva, who had a blog where she shared her life with her husband in Italy, had traveled to Russia to celebrate the New Year with her family and undergo the procedure. The cost of the operation was reportedly 130,000 rubles.

The investigation into the case is ongoing. 

UK and France to deploy troops to Ukraine if peace deal reached

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The United Kingdom and France have agreed to deploy troops to Ukraine in the event a peace deal is reached with Russia, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced following talks with Ukraine’s allies in Paris. This declaration of intent marks a significant step in international support for Ukraine, with the two countries planning to establish military hubs across the country to deter future invasions.

The BBC reports that during the press conference, UK Prime Minister Starmer emphasized the long-term commitment to Ukraine, saying the agreement would create a legal framework for British, French, and partner forces to operate on Ukrainian soil, ensuring the country’s skies and seas are secure and supporting the regeneration of Ukraine’s armed forces. The UK prime minister added London would participate in any US-led verification of a potential ceasefire.

French President Emmanuel Macron further noted that Ukraine's allies had made "considerable progress" at the talks. He said "robust" security guarantees for Kyiv had been agreed in the event of a potential ceasefire.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said a "huge step forward" had been made in Paris, but added that he would only consider efforts to be "enough" if they resulted in the end of the war.

 The announcement comes as the US and its allies work to establish robust security guarantees for Ukraine. US negotiator Steve Witkoff emphasized the need for "durable security guarantees" to ensure lasting peace, while Jared Kushner, US President Donald Trump's special envoy and son-in-law, stressed the importance of setting up "real backstops" to prevent the resumption of hostilities after any ceasefire.

Al Jazeera says the countries’ representatives, including 27 heads of state or government, gathered in Paris to firm up post-war guarantees for Kyiv. French President Emmanuel Macron reportedly said that Paris could contribute “several thousand” troops.

While the peace process moves forward, the issue of territorial disputes remains unresolved. Russia, which currently controls around 20% of Ukrainian territory, has repeatedly warned that the deployment of foreign troops in Ukraine would make them a "legitimate target," though Moscow has yet to comment on the latest developments.

Despite these advancements, questions remain about the scope and future role of foreign forces in Ukraine.

The Guardian reports that Macron has made it clear that the goal is not to confront Russian forces directly but to provide reassurance and stability after a ceasefire is in place.

Mahmurod Ashourov finds Nazirbibi after Asia-Plus publication. He saved her 57 years ago

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Mahmurod Ashourov is a doctor, rescuer, and mountaineer who became the first Tajik to summit Peak Communism in 1971. Over more than five decades in mountaineering, he has climbed more than a hundred peaks and participated in numerous rescue operations at high altitudes.

One of the most memorable events in his life was his involvement in the search for an Antonov An-2 plane that crashed in the Saghirdasht area, Darvoz district of Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO) in 1969. Among the wreckage, Ashourov found a seven-year-old girl named Nazirbibi. He carried her out of the wreckage, saving her life. After the rescue, their paths parted ways.

 

Years of searching

For many years, Ashourov searched for the girl, hoping to learn what happened to her after he saved her.

In an interview with Asia-Plus last month, Ashourov shared the story of rescuing Nazirbibi. Following the publication of the article, Nazirbibi responded and contacted Ashourov. After 57 years, they finally met.

 

The meeting of rescuer and rescued

Asia-Plus has prepared a report on their meeting, where they shared memories of that dramatic moment and how their lives have changed since then.

Tajikistan opens 15 support rooms for violence victims

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In Tajikistan, fifteen specialized support rooms for victims of violence have opened in medical facilities, providing access to medical and psychosocial assistance. This initiative ensures that victims can receive the necessary help in a safe environment, as reported by the UN News website.

The initiative was launched in 2017 by the UN and the European Union and is part of the largest global program aimed at eradicating all forms of violence against women and girls and promoting gender equality. In Tajikistan, the program is being implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Health.

 

Training specialists and monitoring

As part of the program, more than 300 medical workers and 90 teachers have been trained. Regular monitoring visits and professional development courses for specialists are also planned.

According to the latest report, the program has helped strengthen cooperation between civil society organizations in Central Asia. A regional network called "Light of Hope" has been created, with nearly 600 members today.

 

Contact center for victims

As it had been reported earlier, a contact center was launched by the Committee on Women and Family Affairs under the Government of Tajikistan in early September last year to provide assistance to victims of violence. The public was informed about its launch through SMS notifications.

The messages indicated that anyone facing domestic violence can call the number +992 (37) 221-40-30 for help. The contact center is available Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

At the center, individuals can receive free legal and psychological assistance on issues such as housing, alimony, divorce, domestic violence, and other concerns. Notably, both women and men can reach out for help.

The contact center was established to implement the law of Tajikistan "On Preventing Domestic Violence" and to carry out the state program in this area. Its main goal is to support victims and prevent cases of domestic violence.

 

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