Coinciding with the National Day celebrations, His Majesty The King conferred Druk Thuksey to an individual and the tourism industry. His Majesty The King also awarded the National Order of Merit (Gold) and National Order of Merit (Silver) to 21 individuals for their services to the country.
Former Tsugla Lopen Samten Dorji is one of the recipients of the Druk Thuksey Medal. He was recognised for his exceptional services to the country through his contribution to religious activities.
He said, “I never imagined receiving this honour from His Majesty. I am truly at a loss for words. First, it’s an incredible blessing, and I am deeply grateful. At the same time, I feel a great sense of responsibility has been entrusted to me.”
Similarly, the tourism industry was also awarded the Druk Thuksey for promoting and enhancing tourism in the country.
“It is a great honour for the tourism industry to receive such significant recognition from His Majesty the King. This award belongs to every Bhutanese who plays a vital role in tourism, and we must all celebrate this achievement together as partners. We also dedicate the Druk Thuksey to our international tourism ambassadors and all our friends of tourism. Tourism must serve Bhutan, creating opportunities that strengthen our sovereignty and promote our unique Bhutanese identity. On behalf of everyone in the tourism industry, the Department is deeply grateful for this recognition and reaffirms its commitment to making Bhutan a high-value tourism destination.” said Damcho Rinzin, Director of the Department of Tourism.
His Majesty The King also awarded the National Order of Merit (Gold) to 13 individuals.
Late Leki Wangchuk was awarded for contributing to the country’s cultural heritage and architectural preservation.
Lieutenant Jigme Pelden Dorji was awarded in recognition of his extraordinary achievement as the first Bhutanese to summit Mount Everest.
Dr Mahesh Gurung, a cardiologist at the national referral hospital was awarded for his contributions to Bhutan’s healthcare system, and Colonel Sisir Chhetri, for his service in law enforcement, disaster management, and international peacekeeping.
Tashi Penjor from the Infrastructure and Transport Ministry was also awarded a for contributing to urban planning and infrastructure development in Bhutan.
Lam Kezang Chophel, the CEO of Holy Gold Script, was awarded for his contribution to the Royal Kanjur Project.
Atul Bagai was awarded for his role in Bhutan’s environmental governance and Henry Ho, former Honorary Consul-General of Bhutan to Thailand for his contribution to Bhutanese interests through his expertise and influence in Thailand.
Similarly, Honorary Consul General of Bhutan to Japan, Sri Lanka, South Korea, The Netherlands and Spain were also awarded the National Order of Merit (Gold) for promoting Bhutan’s interests and fostering goodwill abroad.
Additionally, eight individuals were awarded the National Order of Merit, Silver by His Majesty The King.
Dr Dechen Wangmo, a gynaecologist at the national referral hospital was awarded for her academic achievements and Karma Jigme, Paro FC president for promoting Bhutanese football.
Namgay Wangchuk from NRDCL was awarded for his commitment to waste management and environmental awareness and Choeying Jatsho, the owner of M-Studio, for his impact on Bhutanese music and culture.
Ugyen Deepak, a hairdresser, was awarded for empowering aspiring stylists through the Desuung Skilling Programme.
Tashi Lhendup from the Home Affairs Ministry was awarded for his work in mural conservation and restoration of Bhutan’s sacred heritage sites.
Charmi Chheda was also awarded for her impact on Bhutan’s performing arts as a creative director and playwright.
And Orawee Tadtian, a Thai dance instructor and choreographer was awarded for supporting youth through dance workshops.
Deki Lhazom/Sonam Yuden
Edited by Sangay Chezom
