The government is set to roll out a new National Social Protection Strategy as part of the 13th Five-Year Plan, with a budget of Nu 2bn. Once approved by the Cabinet, the initiative aims to provide support to all citizens, starting from early childhood and working years to old age and even end-of-life care. The main goal is to support everyone, particularly the most vulnerable.
The Prime Minister at the Meet the Press session on Friday said Bhutan already has a social protection system in place. He said that people have access to various support services ranging from free healthcare and education to community-based support. These services, along with strong traditional community and family values, show that social protection is embedded in Bhutanese society.
“When individuals face poverty or challenges in old age, His Majesty The King continues to provide Kidu daily, which is a fundamental pillar of Bhutan’s social protection system. Additionally, Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen offers continued Kidu support to persons living with disabilities and those facing mental health issues. If I were to list all the forms of support, I would not be able to finish,” said Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister.
The newly drafted National Social Protection System Strategy aims to build on the existing Kidu system by introducing targeted interventions across three key areas: social insurance, social assistance, and active labour market interventions.
Under social insurance, the strategy proposes changes to improve the pension system, expand rural life insurance, and introduce maternity and paternity benefits.
Under social assistance, the government plans to provide three meals a day to students from low-income families, enhance care for the elderly, and extend support for persons with disabilities.
“If individuals require training to secure employment, it will be provided. For those facing financial challenges while unemployed, paid internships will be offered to help guide them toward employment. Additionally, recognising the difficulties faced by persons with disabilities, dedicated job opportunities will be created to support them,” said Chencho, Director, Office of the Cabinet Affairs and Strategic Coordination.
The National Social Protection System Strategy framework is expected to be submitted to the Cabinet within the next two months.
Once implemented, it will strengthen Bhutan’s existing social support systems, ensuring more inclusive, targeted, and sustainable protection for all citizens.
Kinzang Lhadon
Edited by Sonam Pem
