The 14th of February, 2021, marks the tenth Anniversary of DeSuung Raising Day. Coinciding with the day, the 44th Batch Desuung Accelerated Training Programme will start tomorrow in seven different training centres across the country- Shaba, Tencholing, Tendruk, Tashicholing, Jigmeling, Pelrithang, and Tashigatshel.
The 44th- Batch will raise the total number of Desuups trained in the last 10 years to over 20,000. Desuung was started upon the Royal Command, as an avenue for young Bhutanese to give back to their communities through volunteerism, especially during times of disaster, after many Bhutanese youth submitted to His Majesty for such an opportunity.
Since the first Desuups began training on 14th February 2011, people from all walks of life and all age groups have trained and proudly worn the orange uniform, earning the appreciation and admiration of the people as an ever-helpful presence during disasters and national events alike. Desuups have participated in all manner of voluntary work, from large scale operations such as managing the COVID-19 pandemic, to major disaster relief work such as during the Wangdue Dzong fire, to assisting citizens during public events.
Most recently, Desuups have joined projects to build water-supply infrastructure in five sites across the country. In recognition of their contributions to the nation during the COVID pandemic, Desuups received the Druk Thuksey Medal on the National Day in 2020.