Embassy of IndiaThimphu, Bhutan

Embassy of India

Thimphu

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Celebrations of the 74^th Republic Day of India

1. The 74^th Republic Day of India was celebrated with enthusiasm at a ceremony held in the morning of 26 January 2023 at the Embassy of India, Thimphu. The ceremony was attended by a number of Indian nationals, diaspora members, and friends of India. Ambassador Sudhakar Dalela led the Indian community in unfurling the national flag at the India House, which was followed by singing of the National Anthem. The Ambassador read out excerpts from the President’s address to the nation on the eve of the Republic Day.

2. Addressing the gathering, the Ambassador mentioned that India and Bhutan share exemplary ties of friendship and cooperation that are underpinned by utmost goodwill, mutual trust, and understanding at all levels. He emphasized that India is committed to expanding its partnership with Bhutan into new areas of cooperation that align with the vision of His Majesty the King of Bhutan and the priorities of Royal Government of Bhutan. The Ambassador thanked members of the Indian community for their contribution towards strengthening the ties of friendship with the people of Bhutan. He congratulated Prof Sanjeev Mehta of Royal Thimphu College who was conferred the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award at the PBD Convention held in Indore earlier this month. The celebration concluded with a melodious rendition of patriotic songs by an ensemble of Indian and Bhutanese musicians.

3. This event was a part of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations to commemorate the historic milestone of 75 years of India’s independence. To mark the year 2023 as the ‘International Year of Millets’, which was spearheaded by India at the United Nations, a variety of Indian millet products were also displayed.

4. 4.The Royal Government of Bhutan was represented by senior officials including Dasho Ugyen K. Namgyel, Gyalpoi Zimpon (Royal Chamberlain), His Majesty’s Secretariat; Aum Kezang Deki, Cabinet Secretary, Ambassador Pema Choden, Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade; and Ms. Pema Tshomo, Officiating Chief of Protocol, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade.

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Thimphu

26 January 2023