His Majesty The King of Bhutan graced the Passing Out Parade ceremony of the Gyalsung Training 2026 Batch – Cohort 1 at the Gyalsung Academy in Gyalpozhing, Mongar. The event marked a historic milestone in Bhutan’s national service initiative, as 1,537 young men and women completed their rigorous training and transitioned into full-fledged Gyalsups, ready to serve the Tsawa-Sum — King, Country, and People.
Parades were held simultaneously across all four Gyalsung Academies in Gyalpozhing (Mongar), Pemathang (Samdrup Jongkhar), Khotokha (Wangdue Phodrang), and Jamtsholing (Samtse). From Gyalpozhing, His Majesty addressed the entire cohort, emphasizing unity, discipline, and the importance of national service in building a resilient and prosperous Bhutan. The ceremony was graced by senior royal family members, including Her Majesty the Queen Mother Tshering Pem Wangchuck at Khotokha, and other royals representing His Majesty at the remaining academies.
Gyalsung, Bhutan’s mandatory national service program for youth, instills values of leadership, physical fitness, civic responsibility, and loyalty. The passing-out parade represents a significant rite of passage. Cadets undergo intensive training that transforms them into disciplined, service-oriented citizens committed to the nation’s security and development. This cohort included 44 young Bhutanese from overseas who returned to participate, highlighting the program’s inclusive reach.
In his address, His Majesty expressed pride in the new Gyalsups and thanked the armed forces, instructors, parents, and all who contributed to the program’s success. The event featured the traditional oath of allegiance, with the sacred Nachhu (a symbolic item from Punakha Dzong) underscoring the solemn pledge of lifelong service to the King and Country. Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and other dignitaries also attended, reinforcing the national significance of the occasion.
With this cohort’s completion, the total number of Gyalsups now stands at 9,860. Marching smartly off the parade grounds, the graduates carry forward discipline, clarity of purpose, and unwavering loyalty. His Majesty’s vision for Gyalsung continues to nurture generations of capable youth dedicated to Bhutan’s sovereignty and progress.
The ceremony was not merely a farewell to training but a powerful affirmation of Bhutan’s commitment to building a strong, united, and forward-looking nation. As these young Gyalsups step into their roles, they embody the spirit of service that defines Bhutanese identity in the modern era. Families and friends who gathered shared in the pride, celebrating the achievements of a new cohort ready to contribute meaningfully to the country’s future.
