Bhutanese Buddhist Scholars

 

Bhutanese Buddhist Scholars

1. Lam/Lopon Pema Tshewang.

Lam/Lopon Pema Tshewang was a Bhutanese scholar as well as historian. He wrote “History of Bhutan, Druk Solwai Dronme” and the following books.

1. Ge sar
2.  rgyal ba dge 'dun rgya mtsho'i rnam thar
3. 'dul ba me tog phreng brgyud kyi sa bcad dang tshig le'ur byad pa'i de'i 'grel pa legs bshad rgya mtsho
4.  nor gzungs chen mo'i mdo
5.  pad gling lo rgyus drang gtam
6. bod kyi khrims yig chen mo zhal lce bcu drug
7. ma Ni mchod pa'i 'cham dbyangs rgyas pa
8. gzungs kyi be'u bum phyi gzungs
9.  srid pa'i 'khor lo'i rnam bshad
10. gsang 'dus rgyud 'grel le dang yan gyi gsal sgron

Source: legacy.tbrc.org/#!rid=P7800

2. Another Bhutanese scholar Lam Nado who was also a Historian and wrote a book called “Druk Karpo” and many articles.

 

Photographs Courtesy: Dr. C.T. Dorji.

The Establishment of the National Assembly — 1953

 

The Establishment of the National Assembly — 1953

His Majesty Druk Gyalpo Jigme Dorji Wangchuck ascended the golden throne in 1952. The following year, His Majesty established the National Assembly, the highest decision-making body in the country. This was the first of several reforms His Majesty introduced for the people and the country. His Majesty’s action also marked a move away from the traditional monarchical system toward a democratic system.

In 1953 there were one hundred thirty members representing various sections such as the Royal Government, Zhung Dratshang, Rabdey, and the general public of Bhutan.

By 1963 there were one hundred seventeen public representatives in the National Assembly.

List of representatives to be assembled during National Assembly session

No. of Dzongkhag                                  Representatives

I.

1. Central Monk Body                     2
2. Paro Rabdey                                1
3. Wangdzong Rabdey                    1
4. Tongsa Rabdey                            1
5. Lhuntshi Rabdey                         1
6. Tashigang Rabdey                      1
7. Dagar Rabdey                             1

II. Trashigang Dzongkhag                  21

III. Mongar Dzongkhag                      16

IV. Lhuntse Dzongkhag                       5

V. Jakar Dzongkhag                             5

VI. Trongsa Dzongkhag                      5

VII. Zhemgang Dzongkhag                 4

VIII. Wangdue Dzongkhag                 8

IX. Punakha Dzongkhag                     4

X. Gasa Dzongkhag                            4

XI. Daga Dzongkhag                           3

XII. Thimphu Dzongkhag                    10

XIII. Paro Dzongkhag                         8

ZIV. Haa Dzongkhag                          3

XV. Southern Bhutan                         12

Reference:

RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED DURING THE 19TH SESSION OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF BHUTAN HELD ON THE 26TH DAY OF THE 3RD MONTH OF THE WATER RABBIT YEAR CORRESPONDING TO 23RD MAY, 1963

International Relations and Bhutan’s Global Journey

 

Bhutan was once very isolated, with almost no relations except with India. However, the leaders of Bhutan, especially the Druk Gyalpo (King), understood the importance of connecting with other countries and joining international organizations. Early friendships with individuals from countries like Switzerland and India helped Bhutan stay informed about global events. In 1961, Bhutan joined the Universal Postal Union, and in 1962, with India’s support, became part of the Colombo Plan. This membership helped Bhutan be recognized as an independent nation and opened doors to receive help from countries like Australia, Japan, and New Zealand.

Through the Colombo Plan, Bhutan received important aid, such as trucks and sheep from Australia, and agricultural expertise from Japan after 1964. India also supported Bhutan’s entry into the United Nations (UN) in 1971, which allowed Bhutan to join other international agencies and gain more support for its development.

During a crisis in 1971, when Bangladesh was fighting for independence and facing tragedy, Bhutan’s leadership donated to help the people and recognized Bangladesh as an independent country soon after India did. This showed Bhutan’s growing role and responsibility in the international community.