The Opposition questioned the ethics and conduct of the education minister and the government to procure local shoes and socks for central schools in the National Assembly, today.
“We have to promote our local firms but there are certain rules and regulations that need to be followed to support and facilitate the growth of local firms,” Panbang MP, Dorji Wangdi said
The education ministry has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with two local firms to support the country’s economy by limiting the import and encourage and promote Bhutanese enterprise and business.
“Today, the ministry has started with shoes and socks. Now, the question is whether the ministry will be able to continue promoting local products and firms like this in the future,” said Lamgong-Wangchang MP, Khandu Wangchuk.
He said for instance, if the ministry would also promote local rice if the farmers come up with a proposal.
“Same goes with the school uniforms. The ministry has started with this venture but now if equal opportunity is not given to the people, it will not be fair.”
Such initiative, members of the Opposition said, will also create monopoly.
The education minister defended the initiative and said it is in line with the government’s economic self-reliance and private sector development policy.
“When our Bhutanese are making shoes and socks that are of good quality and of reasonable price, it is better we stop complaining about going by the rules and policies. The biggest concern to our economy today is to increase import than export,” said education minister, Norbu Wangchuk.
Lyonpo said Bhutan has the opportunity to curb the problem.
“Let us work together towards promoting and facilitating the growth of local firms in the country.”
The Memorandum of understanding with the two local firms was signed in September, this year.
