Bhutan Media and Communication Institute organised the International Mountain Day in Thimphu to highlight the variety and richness of mountain cultures, and to promote an array of mountain identities. The event on Saturday was also to ensure that indigenous rights are recognised.
A variety of goods and services were displayed at the clock tower square. The event was organised in collaboration with interested agencies that are involved in improving the livelihoods of the people.
“Mountains are very important for us because our farm products depend on water which comes from mountains,” said Tandin Dorji from Barshong, Tsirang.
“We don’t have to fetch water from underground like in other countries as we have sufficient water” he added.
Similarly, Yeshi Nidup from Handicraft Association of Bhutan said mountains are also vital for making handicraft products. “We get all kind of raw materials from the mountains. So we have to take care of our mountains for sustainable livelihood”.
Likewise, Dungtsho Tendrel Wangdi, from Thimphu said more than 70 percent of medicinal herbs are collected from the mountains. “However, climate change will have damaging impacts on our traditional medicines” he said.
The exhibition provided a platform for different agencies to come together to share ideas and collaborate to improve their goods and services.
The Director of Bhutan Media and Communication Institute, Pushpa Chhetri said the event was to celebrate the diversity and culture in the mountains. “Mountains are very special to people and we should learn and appreciate and what mountain mean”.
It was also an occasion to raise awareness on climate change especially among the youth through dance and art. The event was organised with assistance from International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development or ICIMOD.
