January 18: The 17th annual Dzongda’s conference began yesterday in Thimphu. Top on the agenda are the roles and responsibilities of Dzongdas and Dzongkhag administration in relation with the democratic government. The conference will also deliberate on the relationship between the Dzongdas and the Members of Parliament.

The Prime Minister at the opening of the 17th annual Dzongda’s Conference in Thimphu said Dzongdas have an important role in implementing the 10th five year plan effectively. Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley said the success of democracy will depend on the success of the 10th five year plan.

The Prime Minister said the DPT government is committed to establish a firm democratic culture in the country. Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley outlined the vision, goals and mandates of the government to the Dzongdas.

He said growth with equity and justice, eliminating poverty and strengthening the foundation of democracy are the main goals of the government. Generating 10,000 Megawatt power by 2020, road to every geog, safe drinking water and rural electrification are some of the objectives of the government.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the role of the Dzongdas in implementing the 10th five year plan and establishing the local government.

Other issues and concerns on the agenda are construction and procurement, the need to review the position classification system, and enforcement of the Tenancy Act.

The Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs says the conference is expected to further improve transparency, accountability and coordination between the Dzongkhag administration and agencies in the government.

Cabinet Ministers and senior government officials attended the opening of the conference.

Dzongdas review the system of Chipoens or village messengers

On the second day of the Dzongda’s conference today, they reviewed the system of Chipoens or messengers. Most said the system of chipoens can be discontinued, with the advancement of communication facilities in the villages.

The traditional post of Chipoens has now come under the scrutiny from the Dzongdas. The debate follows after it was discussed in the two houses of the Parliament. The National Council resolved that the Chipoens should be remunerated while the National Assembly members could not come to an understanding.

Some of the Dzongdas said instead of remunerating the Chipoens, the system can be discontinued. They said the village Tshogpas will have to handle the responsibility since they are paid by the government. They said if the Chipoens system is withdrawn, there will be no duplication of works between the Tshogpas and the Chipoens.

However some Dzongdas said the system should be continued even if they are not paid. They said the Chipoens are an important bridge between people and Geog Centres.

The issue will be further taken up at the Geog and Dzongkhag level meetings. The resolutions will be submitted to the Home Ministry and then to the Parliament.

Besides, the conference also saw discussions on uniform requirement of guidelines to send felicitations through the media, decentralizing the approval of works on heritage sites and protection of archeological sites.