The Gyalsung Bill of the Kingdom of Bhutan is His Majesty’s vision to institutionalise the Gyalsung to empower all youth in the process of nation-building. It is to further enhance the security, peace, unity, harmony, and sovereignty of the Nation.
“Through Gyalsung, it is expected to empower the youth with knowledge, skills, and values, and contribute to realizing the national goals and aspirations. It is also to empower the youth with the capabilities and attributes needed to succeed academically and professionally,” said Dasho Sonam Kinga, from the Steering Committee of the National Service Core Working Group.
Dasho Sonam Kinga while introducing the bill said the Gyalsung training program is a one-year integrated training program mandatory for all youth attaining the age of 18 and completing grade XII, if in school.
“The program is not being established under the pressure of any emergencies. The program is not just for military purposes. Rather, it is to enhance the capabilities of the youth and contribute to the well-being of the people and the nation,” said Dasho Sonam Kinga.
As a one-time measure, the Governing Council will determine the eligibility criteria for the first batch of Gyalsung Cadets. However, a medically unfit person deemed by the Medical Board shall be exempted from the training.
According to the Bill, the Gyalsung Program will consist of Gyalsung Training, Gyalsung Duty, and Gyalsung Reserve.
As per the Bill, the Gyalsung Training will consist of basic military training, national education and life skills, specialized training, and any other training as may be determined by the Governing Council.
A Gyalsup should render Gyalsung Duty until the age of 35, after which he/she will serve as Gyalsung Reservist until the age of 45 years. The Bill states that a Gyalsung Reservist upon attaining the age of forty-five may continue to serve as a De-suup.
The Bill also mandates a person to immediately inform the Gyalsung Headquarters about any change in residential, postal, and electronic addresses to deliver notices promptly. As per the Bill, upon requirement, the Governing Council and the headquarters can call for mandatory duty and voluntary duty respectively.
As of now, there are five Gyalsung Training Centers that are under construction. The first batch of Gyalsung is expected to commence in 2024. The Bill is passed to the National Council for further deliberations.
Kesang Wangmo/Nidup Dorji/Kinley Dem
