By Rinzin Wangchuk
THIMPHU, Bhutan — For the first time, the Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, is attending Bhutan’s National Day celebrations as a state guest. The 117th National Day, commemorating the coronation of Bhutan’s first king in 1907, will be marked with grand festivities at Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu on December 17.
Mr. Sarma, accompanied by his wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sharma, and senior officials from Assam’s government, arrived in Bhutan on December 16. He was received at Paro International Airport by Bhutan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, D.N. Dhungyel, the Indian Ambassador to Bhutan, and senior government officials.
The visit, at the invitation of Bhutan’s government, is scheduled to run through December 19 and includes an audience with King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema Wangchuck.
In a statement, Bhutan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade described the visit as a historic milestone in the ties between Assam and Bhutan. “This visit will further strengthen the warm, historical bonds of friendship and foster closer relations between Bhutan and the State of Assam in India,” the ministry stated.
The Chief Minister’s visit builds on deepening ties between Assam and Bhutan. Last year, His Majesty The King made his first official visit to Assam, underscoring the importance of relations along the two nations’ 267-kilometer shared border.
A Day of National Unity
Bhutan’s National Day marks the coronation of Sir Ugyen Wangchuck as the first hereditary king on December 17, 1907. His ascension established the Wangchuck dynasty, ushering in an era of stability and prosperity. The day has since become an occasion for national reflection and gratitude.
Festivities began early, with residents of Thimphu lining up outside Changlimithang Stadium as early as 6 pm. on the eve of December 17 to secure spots for the celebration. His Majesty the King’s address to the nation will be broadcast live at 9 am.
Among those in attendance is Ten Tshering, 81, who served during the reign of Bhutan’s third king. “I am old now. I don’t know if I will be able to attend next year,” he told the Bhutan’s National Newspaper Kuensel. “My wish is to see our kings, pray for their well-being, and for the betterment of our country.”
For Sonam Choden, a mother of three, the National Day represents a moment to honor Bhutan’s past and pledge commitment to its future. “It’s a day to express gratitude to our forefathers for handing over a strong, sovereign nation,” she said. “It reminds us of our responsibility to serve Bhutan to the best of our abilities.”
Strengthening Cross-Border Ties
Bhutan’s relationship with India, particularly with Assam, has long been marked by collaboration and cultural ties. The Chief Minister’s visit underscores the importance of regional partnerships, especially for communities living along the porous border.
Upon arriving in Thimphu, Mr. Sarma called on Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. The Chief Minister also launched the “Advantage Assam 2.0” roadshow series in Thimphu, marking a significant milestone in the deepening friendship between Bhutan and Assam.
In his remarks at the launch, Prime Minister Tobgay expressed his gratitude to the Chief Minister, the Government of Assam, and the Government of India for this meaningful gesture, particularly as Bhutan prepared to celebrate National Day on December 17.
The Prime Minister also underscored the close bond between Bhutan and Assam, a relationship rooted in trust, respect, and mutual benefit. He highlighted the immense opportunities that Advantage Assam 2.0 presents, not only for Assam but also for Bhutan and the region.
With the recent opening of the Darranga Integrated Checkpost, Bhutan and Assam have taken another step toward stronger relations and closer people-to-people connections. Initiatives like these pave the way for enhanced collaboration, shared growth, and prosperity for both sides.
Observers see the visit as an opportunity to deepen engagement on trade, environmental conservation, and cross-border connectivity, ensuring that the historic bond between Bhutan and Assam continues to flourish.
