In his first State of the Nation address, Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay highlighted an alarming trend that threatens the very fabric of Bhutanese society: the steady outflow of citizens seeking better opportunities abroad. With approximately 64,000 Bhutanese, nearly nine percent of the population, already migrated, this issue demands urgent and innovative solutions.
Prime Minister Tobgay aptly described Bhutan’s current predicament as an “unprecedented existential crisis.” The exodus of skilled workers, including teachers, doctors, and engineers, undermines the country’s economic stability and the delivery of essential public services. As the Prime Minister warned, if we do not unite and address this issue, Bhutan risks facing severe repercussions.
The departure of a skilled workforce not only impacts the economy but also the quality of life in Bhutan. Teachers leaving their posts lead to a decline in educational standards, while the migration of healthcare professionals deteriorates health services. Furthermore, the shortage of technicians, engineers, and other experts hampers development projects, slowing the nation’s progress.
A critical factor driving this trend is the difficulty many educated Bhutanese youth face in finding meaningful employment at home. This situation makes them prime candidates for foreign employers, perpetuating the cycle of migration. If this trend continues, Bhutan could see a further decline in population, exacerbating the already pressing challenges.
Prime Minister Tobgay’s response to this crisis is multifaceted and forward-thinking. Central to his strategy is the revitalization of Bhutan’s economy, which has been severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. The Nu 15 billion Economic Stimulus Programme aims to inject vitality into the private sector, small industries, tourism, agriculture, and more. By providing low-interest loans through financial institutions, this initiative seeks to stimulate growth and create job opportunities within the country.
In addition, the government’s 13th Plan allocates substantial funds to infrastructure, ICT development, and local government projects, further bolstering economic prospects. A significant portion of the budget, Nu 60 billion, is dedicated to human resource development, expanding health, educational, vocational, and technical training institutes. This investment in human capital is crucial for equipping Bhutanese citizens with the skills needed for the evolving job market.
A particularly ambitious aspect of the government’s strategy is the expansion of hydropower generation. With plans to increase installed capacity by 3,119 MW, bringing the total to approximately 5,500 MW, Bhutan is poised to harness its natural resources for economic gain. This initiative, with a budget of Nu 527 billion outside the 13th Plan, underscores the government’s commitment to sustainable and long-term economic growth.
At the heart of these efforts is the historic Gelephu Mindfulness City, inspired by the profound wisdom of His Majesty The King. This project embodies Bhutan’s dedication to holistic development, combining economic revitalization with cultural and spiritual enrichment.
Prime Minister Tobgay’s vision for Bhutan is clear: a united and innovative approach to overcome current challenges and build a prosperous future. By addressing the root causes of migration and creating opportunities within the country, Bhutan can retain its skilled workforce and ensure sustainable development.
However, this vision requires collective effort and support from all sectors of society. The government, private sector, and citizens must collaborate to implement these initiatives effectively. Only through unity and concerted action can Bhutan navigate this crossroads and emerge stronger.
