Amidst the misty hills of Samtenthang village, the nation bid a heartfelt farewell to one of its most cherished sons, Dasho Tshering Wangda. His life, a tapestry of selfless service and unwavering dedication, came to a tragic end last week after a lone elephant attack. He was 72 and is survived by his wife and five children. The state funeral was held near his home at Samtenthang village this morning.
The prime minister, the Indian Ambassador, Dasho Zimpoen, MPs from Assam, dignitaries and people from the bordering town of Datgari came to pay their final respects.
Today, as the ceremonial smoke rose into the winter sky, people from Bhutan and India gathered in solemn unity to bid farewell to a man whose legacy transcends borders, touching hearts and inspiring generations.
“Our village was blessed with electricity soon after resettlement, thanks to Dasho. While others waited years, we had electricity and water supply swiftly. Dasho would personally visit neighbours, encouraging us to grow areca nuts, lemons, mangoes, and avocados, as well as cultivate paddy. He inspired us to stay active by starting poultry and piggery farming,” said Tshewang Pelden, Samtenthang Tshogpa, Samtenling Gewog, Sarpang.
“Dasho dedicated his life to serving the nation, leaving an indelible legacy. His efforts to foster friendship between Bhutan and India, especially during his tenure as Director General, strengthened bonds across borders. His absence is deeply felt,” said Dawa Penjor, General-Secretary of Bhutan India Friendship Association (BIFA), Gelephu, Sarpang.
“Dasho Tshering Wangda not only served the people of Datgari but also the entire Assam area. He provided essential assistance for those across the border. His passing is a great loss, but we hope to continue nurturing the friendship he fostered,” said Kishan Nrajary, representative, Datgari, Assam.
Late Dasho Tshering Wangda, originally from Tama village in Zhemgang, led a life marked by extraordinary service to Bhutan. As one of the youngest Dzongdas in Haa during the 1980s, his visionary leadership brought transformative changes to the region.
Later, as Director General of the Department of Law and Order and Bhutan’s first Consul General in Kolkata, he strengthened Bhutan’s security and deepened Bhutan-India relations. His remarkable contributions earned him the prestigious Red Scarf in 1995 and the National Order of Merit (Gold) in 2012.
After retiring in 2014 to settle as a farmer in Samtenthang, he was once again called to serve in 2023 as Vice President of the Bhutan-India Friendship Association (BIFA), where he revitalised cross-border relations. Dasho was more than a leader; he was a mentor, a friend, and a compassionate soul respected in Bhutan and beyond.
His legacy echoes in the lives he touched, the communities he empowered, and the friendships he forged across borders.
Karma Wangdi, Sarpang
Edited by Kipchu
