September 05: The 85th DYT in Sarpang Dzongkhag concluded yesterday. It was dominated by discussions on development issues mainly in agriculture, livestock, and health and education sectors.

Members reviewed the progress of development activities in the 9th five year plan and chalked out the plan for the next financial year.

The Chuzegang Gup said highlighted the issue of crops being damaged by wild animals, and compensation for farmers. He said something needs to be done to protect crop and farmers from elephants.

Rampaging wild elephants cause extensive damage to crops in the Dzongkhag every year. While there have been no reports of human casualties, farmers say the elephants are becoming bolder and attack them when chased.

The Sershong Gup raised issues related to the implementation of Driglam Namzha. He said it is important to insist that everybody should come to the Gup’s office in proper national dress since there is a flag hoisted in front of the office.

The Hillay Gup said there is a need to construct a river protection wall. He said large tracts of land are getting washed away by flood water every Monsoon when the river swells. He said the beneficiaries will e more than willing to contribute labour if the government provides the material.

Briefing the DYT on the parliamentary election, the Sarpang Dzongda said civil servants, corporate employees, religious personnel, and grassroots leaders should remain apolitical.

Also during the DYT, the Sarpang Dzongda gave Khadhar to the newly elected Tarathang Gup Dorji Wangdi and congratulated the new Mangmis of Tarathang, Dovan, and Dekiling Gewogs.