Bhutan’s 117th National Day celebration will mark a historic first with the introduction of a Civil Parade to honour the nation’s unsung heroes. The parade will recognise 63 roadside workers, firefighters, social workers, telecom and space workers, and honesty teams, acknowledging their silent yet significant contributions to nation-building.
One of them is Pancha Man Dunjen, a roadside worker in Thimphu. He has been working for 16 years and continues to maintain public infrastructure. Pancha spends eight hours cleaning drains and roads daily.
Eleven other roadside workers will join Pancha in representing the National Workforce Team at the event.
“I have been working with deep passion and unwavering dedication to my king and country. Being recognised now reminds me that living with purpose and commitment brings rewards. I will continue to work even harder and remain ever grateful to His Majesty.”
Similarly, Dedrim Tshewang Dorji, a firefighter for over 16 years, will join the celebration.
Despite the challenges of his demanding profession, Tshewang’s passion and sense of duty have never weakened. 30 more firefighters will attend the celebration.
“I have joined this service with a promise to save people and their belongings. Although there are challenges, I have never thought of giving up. I will continue to serve with more dedication.”
A group of selfless individuals is another group of heroes worth the recognition, representing Mom at School. The team supported 1,300 students in 97 schools since 2015 with financial help. They spent close to Nu 2 M.
With the belief to empower and nurture young minds in need, the team continues to help make the lives of students better.
Three of them will represent the team on the National Day.
“We will continue to support students to the best of our ability. Through the ‘Mom at School’ initiative, we remain committed to serving His Majesty and our country,” said Kinley Wangmo, Mom at School, Thimphu.
Behind Bhutan’s technological advancements in internet connectivity, weather forecasting, and satellite development is the Division of Telecom and Space.
The team has achieved significant milestones, including launching Bhutan’s first satellite, BHUTAN-1, and the INDIA-BHUTAN SAT.
“We are doing our best through space and telecom works to contribute to the nation-building. We will continue to work with loyalty and dedication in our hearts,” said Yeshey Choden, space engineer, GovTech Agency.
Finally, Rinchen Namgay exemplifies honesty and integrity. Having returned more than 100,000 rupees, three Indian passports, and other lost belongings, he embodies the values of good deeds and compassion.
“I never expected to be recognised for returning the money and belongings. The owner was an Indian, and I could not imagine how distressed he would be to lose them. I will continue to do the right thing in the future as well,” said Rinchen Namgay, vice principal, Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, Punakha.
This year’s National Day not only celebrates Bhutan’s unity and harmony but also shines a light on the extraordinary contributions of ordinary citizens.
Namgay Dema
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
