Sherab Lhamo

To celebrate the 75th Republic Day of India, the Indian community and Bhutanese officials including Gyalpoi Zimpon Ugyen K Namgyel, Cabinet Secretary, Foreign Secretary, and other Bhutanese officials came together at the Embassy of India at Hejo, Thimphu yesterday.

The Gyalpoi Zimpon presented a khadar to Ambassador of India to Bhutan, Sudhakar Dalela. 

Over 400 members of the Indian community and friends of India attended the ceremony.

The Indian Ambassador read out the President of India’s address.

In the speech, the president expressed pride in the nation’s journey over 75 years of the Republic, emphasising the historical significance of the constitution’s Preamble and India’s role as the “mother of democracy.”

“This is the time of an epochal transformation, and a golden opportunity is presented to take the country to new heights. The contribution of every citizen will be crucial to achieving national goals.”

Sudhakar Dalela said, “2023 has been a landmark year for India-Bhutan partnership, it was an honour for us to welcome His Majesty to India for an official visit to India last year. We have a historic first official visit of His Majesty to Assam and Maharashtra also.”

The Ambassador said that India remains committed to working together with the government and people of Bhutan to fully utilise the potential of bilateral partnership, and explore new areas of cooperation that align with the vision of His Majesty and the priorities set by the Royal government. 

Following the ceremony a patriotic song was showcased by Bhutanese artist of the Nehru-Wangchuck Cultural Center and Royal Academy of Performing Arts (RAPA), and an Indian artist. An ICCR dance troupe led by Poushali Chatterjee also performed the Manipuri dance form.