National Day celebration

King Jigme Khesar in his National Day address on Tuesday outlined the importance of diversifying country’s economy rather than relying entirely on the hydropower.

Fourth King Jigme Singye joined the national day celebration as spectator.

The former government under Jigmi Thinley had concentrated exclusively to develop economy based on hydropower generation.The government has plans to generate 10,000 MW of power by 2020.

However, he did not mention what alternative economic opportunities can Bhutan tap to diversity its economy.

King Khesar also outlined the social challenges that the country would be facing in future and cautioned everyone to get ready to counter the challenge.

Unemployment and drug abuse among youths was the other issue he drew attention of the government to address.

On the occasion, former Drapi Lopen Kinley Gyeltshen and founding general secretary f Bhutan-India Friendship Association R. N. Anil were awarded Druk Thuksey, country highest honour.

National Day marks the establishment of monarchy in Bhutan in 1907.