What the new parties shared with the PM | KuenselOnline

What the new parties shared with the PM | KuenselOnline

The friendly move | KuenselOnline

The friendly move | KuenselOnline

Poverty Reduction - 23.4% to 12.04% in 5 years

The poverty rate in Bhutan was 23.4% in 2007. In 2008, under the wise leadership and guidance of His Majesty the King and His Majesty the Fourth King, the new democracy system was instituted. Without any experience, the public has to make choice between two parties; People Democratic Party (aka PDP) and Druk Phuensum Tshogpo( aka DPT).  The people were nervous,  and loss in disbelief to the new system.  Until now people of Bhutan were nurtured and fostered with unlimited blessings from the monarchs. They are happy that His Majesty the King will be there for all the time for the people.

In due course, they had to move on with the new system.  The leaders played their own role in deepening the democracy root from the start to make sure that Bhutan doesn’t suffer the same political fate in our neighboring countries.  We had the opportunities to learn from other's mistakes being late from others to usher democracy. However, this does not guarantee that we can tap the perfect system and we must be ready to learn from own mistakes and layout self-corrective measures. 

We are always reassured by our Druk Gyalpo His Majesty the King's constant inspiration to the government and people in ushering to the new system with lots of hopes and aspirations. we also thank the first government led by Hon'ble Prime Minister Lynchoen Jigme Y. Thinley for successfully completing the term.   

Meanwhile, after the address of the Nation Report by the Prime Minister on the Reduction of Poverty Rate in the last five years, it has been taken to the central storm for discussion in both mainstream and social media, and talking point at the gatherings in a bar. Some raised their doubts about the indicators used to calculate the poverty rate. As per the National Statistical Bureau based Bhutan Living Standard Survey 2012(yet to release) to the economic dimension covering 8,968 household across the country, there is a drastic reduction in the poverty rate in last five years taking from 23.4.% in 2007 to 12.04% in 2013. 

Now whom to believe? No economist has come out to clarify the issue. Then the Government, DPT and Opposition, PDP continues to disagree with each other. The people had no option to believe than NSB since there was no other source to confirm who and how it is right. Looking to the report, it is mentioned that the survey conducted was inclusive of every parameter of the section of the society and regions; filthy rich to poorest, economically deprived village to the center of unbelievable economics hub city are accounted during the survey. Now all people are waiting for the report on Bhutan Living Standard Survey to be published by NSB  sampled 8, 968 households using 23 poverty indicators(Bhutan Observer, 15^th March 2013). I hope report will have all details to clarify the doubts in the society. 

One can not deny that there are a lot of improvements in the village due to new development activities particularly remote villages have been benefited by the farm road. We can still debate on the quality of the road but at least it has given the excitement and hope to people. People in the villages can sell their products due to access of motorable roads,  no children are left for farming - access to education, health facility are taken to their doors and many have become self-sufficient. Of course, these are basic in the town for a long time. In the urban, there was a lot of infrastructure development like extended town plans and buildings coming up in the last five years are before our eyes. At the same time, we must also not forget at what cost these developments are taking place. 

The statistics speak a lot though but the comparative standard analysis would be a far more real in the ground. While surveying, people could have overreacted when they have suddenly roads,  electricity and other opportunities, we must see this has consistency ration in another two to three years. There will be a change in priority and the poverty ratio may again rise.   

Moving forward, let ratio be what it is,  the unemployment in the country is on the rise; the rural-urban migration is taking to another height - Gungtong problem in the village, and inflation is bearable to the middle and low-income group. 

Bhutan must have achieved unprecedented development in the last five years and there seem to be an equal odds rising its bar on its own pace. I feel we should not be debating only on the economic front of poverty but also on other social aspects. The time has changed with globalization, technology developments and political leaders must grow with the time and space and see people's concern as did for the last four generations by our successive monarchs.  All in all the poverty creates vulnerability, dependence and also deprive of the productive energy of the country contributing to the destabilization in the society and creating social unrest in generations to come. Therefore, I don't think we have to fight on the statistic of the poverty. 

(Views expressed are personal and doesn't reflect any individual or institution's stand including organization i work. No lines will be quoted unless permission is granted by author.)

His Majesty Speech On Convocation 2007 (Kanglung).

I graduated from Sherubtse College in 2005 and appeared  the Civil Service Examination in 2006. I was selected to undergo the Post Graduate Diploma Course at Royal Institute of Management 2007 The XIth Convocation of  Sherubtse graduates was held in 2007 and I went to attend back to Sherubtse College along with myfriends and attended the convocation in 2007 while I was undergoing PG course in RIM. His Majesty Druk Gyalpo  grace the occasion after ascending to the throne in 2006. We had the honour of being first one to hear His Majesty's first speech after ascending as the Fifth Dragon King of the Drukyul His Majesty awarded certificate personally to all graduates.

His guidance and visions lifted us to make better decision in our life. Kuensel, then the only print media in Bhutan covered the story:

His Majesty Speech On Convocation 2007 (Kanglung).

Addressing the graduates of Sherubtse college in Kanglung yesterday at its 11th biennial Convocation His Majesty, King Jigme Khesar highlighted the achievements of the nation and said that all Bhutanese were rightfully proud of our country. However, the younger generation should not become complacent, “In fact we have to be extra cautious. All that our country has achieved are the accomplishments of our parents – not ours. Our work lies ahead of us – what we have to do has not been done before.”

As a small society Bhutanese citizens, more than those of larger countries, bear a greater responsibility and role in the success of the nation, His Majesty said. “Individual success depends on success as a nation - no one succeeds when the nation has failed. There can be no Bhutanese without Bhutan. This is the fundamental truth for a small country like ours.”

His Majesty said that the young graduates were entering a crucial phase in their own lives as well as that of the nation’s history. The immediate duty of every Bhutanese, His Majesty said, is to bring about a successful transition to democracy “because a good democracy will ensure that the aspirations of the people will always be fulfilled. It is a task that must be achieved. Failure can never be an option.”

It is exactly at such a time when we have a strong culture and traditions; environmental wealth; transition to democracy in a time of peace and prosperity; socio-economic success; our development philosophy of Gross National Happiness; and sovereignty and security – that we must ask ourselves, “What is the role of this generation in the history of our nation? What do we have to do to make the things we love and value so much, sustainable? How do we preserve everything that is special to Bhutan, yet take our country to greater heights?”

His Majesty said, “In this globalised and modern world there can only be one answer- a strong dynamic economy. We need resources, we need national wealth – and this can only come from the economy.” However, His Majesty said, we must build not just a strong economy but a strong economy suited to Bhutan’s needs. His Majesty said that Bhutan had succeeded not only in building a unique development philosophy of Gross National Happiness but also embarked on an unprecedented democratic transition unique to Bhutan. “In the past we embraced modernisation on our own terms and conditions. If we plan ahead and work hard we have a special opportunity to build a dynamic economy – once again on our own terms and conditions.”

But the economy was not only a goal to strive for, His Majesty said, it is a weakness that Bhutan must first accept in order to be a successful nation. “We cannot just display our strengths and achievements – we must also recognise our weaknesses – our weakness today is the economy.”

“We no longer live in a small hidden kingdom. We are very much a part of this new globalised world. At the end of the day, what it will always come down to is – how can Bhutan stand on her own feet? How can we make a good living? What can Bhutan sell that the world wants to buy? How can Bhutan compete with other nations as equals? We are not competing with each other, we must compete with the rest of the world. It is no longer enough to say ‘I am the best in Bhutan’ you have to be the best wherever you go in the world.”

His Majesty said that whenever people spoke of the Bhutanese economy they always spoke of the immense challenges for a small country.

His Majesty told the youth that they must not be daunted. As a small nation Bhutan had faced many challenges in the past and would face even greater challenges in the future. “But I firmly believe that every single challenge can be turned into an opportunity if we plan ahead and work hard.”

“People say that Bhutan is a small country. Yes, its true, but our size is our greatest strength. As a small country with a small population, we can manage our country better, and plan our economy better. We have a small family of Bhutanese but a family that has common goals and aspirations - and a family that truly loves their country.”

“Some say we are a country landlocked between two giant neighbours – yes we all know that being landlocked has its disadvantages but in building a strong economy our geopolitical location is going to be our biggest advantage. Within a few decades India and China are expected to dominate the world economy. So, in the context of opportunities we are definitely not landlocked – I think we have the world at our doorstep!”

His Majesty said that India was a true source for optimism for the future. “As our closest neighbour and friend, Bhutan’s rapid socio- economic growth was assisted by India’s steadfast support. As the world’s largest democracy, our young democratic system will always benefit from India’s experience. As an economic power of the future, our economy will only benefit from cooperation with India,” said His Majesty. “I know that India is deeply committed to Bhutan’s growth as a democracy and as a neighboring economy, so India’s growth and success will be Bhutan’s success as well.”

His Majesty said, “Bhutan is a nation full of promise and potential. We have the security and confidence of our own culture and traditions, an unspoiled environment and most importantly, a young population full of dynamism and promise.”

“My message to you, the young leaders of Bhutan is - we have everything it takes to build a strong economy and safeguard everything we cherish - but on one condition – that we start today - with big ambitions, and we work hard.”

His Majesty urged Bhutanese to “rise to the challenge, change our mindset, our way of working, think big and work hard. The time has come for us to stand on our own feet, to compete as equals with other nations and to succeed through our own hard work and sweat, on our own terms and merit.”

His Majesty said that if this generation succeeded in fulfilling their duty of building a strong Bhutanese economy, then they would have laid the foundation for a sound democracy, for Gross National Happiness and for peace and prosperity for all Bhutanese now and in the future.

“I have no personal goals,” said His Majesty. “I will adopt your aspirations as my own and work towards fulfilling them. Therefore, you must have big ambitions and hopes and for our country.” With these words, His Majesty then proceeded to grant degrees to the graduates, most of whom were deeply moved and emotional. “After 16 years of education, today is the moment to celebrate, how much better can it get,” said Kuenga Lhendup, presently a trainee at Royal Institute of Management in Semtokha. “I cannot be luckier than this.”

“We are the most fortunate lot,” said Tashi Tshering, who works as the human resource officer at RCSC. “It further inspires us to rededicate ourselves to contribute to society. It’s a dream come true.”

For Kesang, an English Honours graduate, it was a significant beginning for another phase of life. “We are now entering another phase of our life which is a more challenging journey and with His Majesty’s words we are better prepared for that,” he said.

Ugyen, a Commerce graduate said, “I initially felt lucky just to receive my degree from His Majesty himself, but when His Majesty spoke to us with so much advice and then gave each one of us our degrees and spoke to us one by one, I really felt blessed to be born in this country.”

Many senior civil servants who spoke to Kuensel said that they felt His Majesty was not speaking to the youth alone but to all Bhutanese, especially those in positions of responsibility. One Dzongda said that it was “an eye-opener and most enlightening guidance for us. We had never thought of the issues in this way. The Royal Address has brought clarity and focus to Bhutan’s future. But for us it will be invaluable in carrying out our own duties in our dzongkhags.”

Nancy Strickland, from the Canadian Cooperation Office told Kuensel, “This was a memorable event for me but a truly historic event for Bhutan. The stirring speech firmly places the future of the nation in the hands of the new generation, with great faith. His Majesty coming all the way to Sherubtse shows his tremendous commitment in the nation’s future.”

Sherubtse produced its first batch of graduates in November 18, 1986. This year about 487 graduates of 2004 and 2005 attended the convocation. Over 2,200 students have graduated from Sherubtse until date. Sherubtse became the founding member of Royal University of Bhutan on June 2, 2003.

The convocation was also attended by Their Royal Highnesses Ashi Dechen Yangzom Wangchuck and Ashi Kezang Choden Wangchuck, the education minister, Lyonpo Thinley Gyamtsho and representatives from Delhi University, the Indian Embassy and international organisations.

Collected by Sangay Needup,

(Kuensel) 

Reaping the fruit of their toils | KuenselOnline

Reaping the fruit of their toils | KuenselOnline

Word from Perfect Teacher

H.H Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse

Status Update
By Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse


It occurred to me today that I will have to work much, much harder if I am ever even to get close to this thing called ‘enlightenment’—especially when I think of the strange dream I had recently.
I was in some kind of a restaurant and drinking coke from a classic coca cola bottle. As often happens in dreams, the ‘absolutely impossible’ suddenly became all too real, and I found myself—my entire body—being sucked into the bottle! And because I’m so attached to my ‘normal’ terms of reference, I really hated being stuck in that bottle. It felt completely wrong! I was furious about not being able to push my head out of its narrow neck, and as there were no hooks to grab hold of, I kept slipping further and further into the belly of the bottle.
Then I thought about how absurd and bizarre my situation was. The idea that I’d been sucked into the bottle in the first place defied all logic, so why was I trying to apply logic to get myself out? And I realized that the fact my familiar tool ‘logic’ didn’t work was what I hated most of all!
Children are far less fettered by reason and logic than adults. I’m constantly amazed by how carefree they are, and am reminded of something Claudia’s daughter, Sachiko, once did. She was playing with her Barbie doll one day, and as she really liked the doll’s skirt, she decided she wanted to wear it herself. So, completely unselfconsciously, she undressed the doll, convinced that the pretty skirt would fit her.
For myself, I can see how tightly bound I am to logic, and if I needed any further proof about just how far from enlightenment I really am, I just have to look at my inability to accept the death of my devoted attendant Karma Lodro. That he was too young to die is a foolish notion, actually, because it suggests that the death of someone older is somehow more acceptable. But this is the dichotomy I’m left with… along with my tremendous gratitude to Karma Lodro.

Abstracted from www.facebook.com on 14 March 2013

IT Age - Notebook is necessary

Finally, with so much difficulties, I managed to get the computer only today. I have joined the office before five months.  I am thankful to all the people involved in the process of getting it. But I will never forget the personal agonies while in obtaining this laptop.

The unwise people would think that I am trying to act smart. However, I am never being able to sit still, thinking of losing my simple contribution to the nation.  It was sad to see fresh graduate with an aspiration and expectation but dwarf thief hopes by not providing the basic equipment in the office. Seeing them has given me an additional energy to persue with the management to obtain equipment. I also knew that it is within my grasp. But I was quite nerveous  when concerned officials were sitting quietly.  I believe some are paid to do this job. They must take this responsible in guiding the energetic and fresh officer by listening to the new ideas and the expectations instead of giving ridiculous thoughts of rejection. This has become culture and custom of narrow minded people in the office. If this ever continues in important system like civil service- the nation’s backbone, the preparedness of shouldering responsibilities of country’s future seems waving away from the hand of younger generation. I am afraid that some still lives in Old Stone Age and never opened up the eye to this IT Age.

I personally and always believe that computer is the gateway for continuous learning and one of the most essential weapons to grow wiser  and develop capacity of individual to enhance their career.   It provides me concrete confidence in shouldering responsibilities in this IT world. Hope I have justified enough in getting it. Thanks for the support rendered by each one of you in getting laptop. I shall always make best use of it.   

acessories received with notebook

another looks of excitement



(Views expressed are personal and doesn't reflect any individual or institution's stand including organization i work. No lines will be quoted unless permission is granted by author.)

Royal Address at the Closing of the 10th Session of the First Parliament

In 2008, we took on the enormous responsibility to usher in a democratic system of governance. It gives me great pleasure today to find us all here five years later, at the final session of the first parliament.

Today we have a happy, prosperous country that is stronger than ever before. It is the culmination of all the hard work and commitment of our forefathers, the selfless service of our successive Kings, and the continual support rendered by the people that laid the foundations and enabled us to introduce democracy so successfully.

Many things went through my mind as we embarked on this journey in 2008. I thought about the extraordinary service that His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo rendered to the people in the 34 years of His Reign, as well as the sacrifices he made to ensure the happiness and prosperity of the people.

I thought about the great expectations that the people had from the new system of governance.

I was mindful of the enormity of the responsibility that we had all been given, and felt heavily, the weight of all that it entailed.

In the five years that have passed since, we have continually strengthened the foundations of our democracy, and firmly established strong democratic institutions. Most importantly, we have gained valuable experience, which will be indispensable not only for the democratic process, but also for our country and people in the times to come. I commend the Prime Minister, Cabinet Ministers, and Members of the first Parliament, for participating in the elections and serving the people without faltering in their duties.

After I ascended the Golden Throne as the Fifth King of Bhutan, we have had five events of historical importance take place in our country - the introduction of Parliamentary democracy, the adoption of our Constitution, the Coronation, the Royal Wedding, and the Pel Dechhog Khorlo Dompai Wangchhen, which gave more than a hundred thousand devotees the opportunity to receive sacred blessings. All these events were carried out successfully and were truly auspicious for our country.

This year marks the end of the 10th five-year plan, under which development activities were implemented well in the past five years. It is promising for the future of our democracy that five parties have come forward to participate in the next elections.

It is important that we nurture our democracy as a unique political system. We sometimes see other countries embroiled in the difficult challenge of bad democratic practices. It is imperative that we abandon democracy’s vices and cultivate only the good practices so that we can put them into our service. Our democracy must always be clean, healthy and strong. The most important thing is that we are always able to inspire our people’s complete faith and trust in our democracy.

I convey heartfelt gratitude from the people of Bhutan to the People and Government of India, for the unwavering support given to us, which has played no small part in our success. In January this year, I was invited as the Chief Guest at the 64th Republic Day Celebrations of India. His Majesty the Third Druk Gyalpo graced the celebrations in 1954, and His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo was the Chief Guest in 1984 and 2005. These invitations reflect the admiration, respect and support that the people and Government of India have for Bhutan. The friendship between India and Bhutan, which was born with the historic visit of Pandit Nehru in 1958, is unique and exemplary. I am confident that our friendship will grow stronger in times to come.

I express deep gratitude to His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, who is a truly farsighted leader, for entrusting us to set up and build a vibrant democracy in a strong, successful nation that he worked tirelessly to build.

In conclusion, I would like to say a prayer for our country. I pray that we build a vibrant democracy based on our Constitution, and through it, ensure that powers continue to reach the hands of our people. I pray that with the support of our people, we strengthen the Rule of Law and through the Rule of Law, we consolidate institutions of check and balance, which in turn promote good governance. And I pray that good governance becomes the means to fulfill the hopes and aspirations of our people, reinforce the security and sovereignty of our country and foster the prosperity of our people.

I pray that the sun of peace and happiness shines in our country for all times to come.

Tashi Delek.


Source : His Majesty's  Facebook Page

Inspiration and gratitude- Dad & Mum

Dear Dad and Mum,

I am neither worried nor nervous about success in my life. I am just fortunate to be born to parents like you. Looking back at the journey; growing at the lap of the illiterate and poor parents; making an effort to complete a simple education and to live with a decent earning; gives me a space to take a deep breath and feel enough fortunate to be born to poor and brave parents like you. No other significant persons can stand above in my life than my dad and mum. Though you live far from me, but you always hold a special place in my heart. My prayers and love are always with you.

I am writing this letter intending to express my gratitude for being wonderful
parents that one wishes for. Your sacrifices in many ways have truly made differences in our lives. The way you devoted to looking after me and my two sisters were not an easy having numerous challenges back in the village as a farmer. I remember you keeping awake for the whole night when there was even a mile fever on us.  I still miss your special meals for us out of nothing in the store.

Dad, thank you for your unparalleled efforts for the three meals for the family without having the need to go hungry either of these three occasions. You were the protector and I am facing difficulty to replicate you for my family. My deepest admiration on the value of education as a farmer and making and giving us everything to be equal with others if not more. I love you dad. You are really a wonderful creature in the world. Sometimes, I just wonder what life would you have been to if you had the opportunity to go to school and if you had a caring father like you to us. 

Mum, I am always taken by your innocent and simply living life. I don't want to mention what the world knows about motherhood. Everyone understands it. I just wanted to thank you for making me what I am today.  The lessons you taught me about the world, starting from bending head to say Yes and helping me shaping my life through your inspiration to be a good human. I am still trying to be a human-like you but it needs lots of sacrifices. I love you mum. I pray for all the sentient beings to take birth in mother like you.

Mum and Dad, I can’t emerge as a champion in this world, but I will never try  fail myself in living up to your expectation as human. In my life,  you are always a source of inspiration. I submit before you for your continued blessing.

With deepest respects, 

Your son



(Sangay Needup)

My Mom 

My dad