His Majesty conferred Lungmar Scarf to the Prime Minister, Tshering Tobgay. The Prime Minister had served as the Opposition Leader in 2008-13, during the country’s first democratically elected parliament.
Prior to his political stint, Lyonchhen served as the labour ministry’s director.
The Prime Minister, who is from Haa, began his career in 1991 with the Technical and Vocational Education Section under the Ministry of Education.
“I am humbled and overwhelmed by the trust and confidence conferred on me by His Majesty the King,” said the Prime Minister.
“The special Lungmar Kabney represents the inviolable bond between the people of Bhutan and our beloved Monarch. It also signifies the sacred responsibility of all elected officials to serve the Tsa-Wa-Sum to the best of our ability, and to always put the interest of the country and people ahead of our own,” he added.
The Eminent Member of the National Council, MP Tashi Wangyel, was awarded Red Scarf and a Patang.
Dasho Tashi Wangyel worked as an Economist with the Ministry of Finance in 2000. Dasho also worked as a Research Analyst with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2004. He has MPhil in International Relations from the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom.
His Majesty awarded Druk Thuksey to the former Minister, Thinley Gyamtsho for his life-time services to the nation. The former Minister served as the Chairperson of the Royal Civil Service Commission, before retiring. He has also served as the minister of home and education ministries.
The Managing Director of Druk Green Power Corporation, Dasho Chhewang Rinzin was awarded Druk Khorlo for his contribution in the power sector.
The Director of Draktsho Vocational Training Centre, Jigme Wangmo, the Chairperson of the National Council, Dasho Dr. Sonam Kinga, and the President of Global Care and Reconstructive Institute from the United States, Margrit Elliot were awarded the National Order of Merit, gold.
More than 100 teachers, lecturers and former civil servants were also awarded the National Order of Merit, gold, for rendering exemplary services to the nation.
His Majesty also awarded civil servants and farmers recognising their hard work, dedication and commitment in the field of agriculture. His Majesty recognised former Chief Justice, Lyonpo Sonam Tobgye, for his outstanding service to the nation, particularly in judiciary sector.
From next year, medals will be awarded to recognise extraordinary service to the nation through innovation and creativity, and efficiency and cost-saving.