2022 GNH Report
The book highlights that the period between 2015 and 2022 witnessed an increase in GNH, reflecting Bhutan’s steadfast commitment to fostering an environment conducive to happiness and wellbeing. GNH increase was driven primarily by improvements in housing, income, schooling, services, and literacy, but also by positive emotions – which increased despite the pandemic. However, several indicators deteriorated, reflecting other impacts of the pandemic, including healthy days, cultural and political participation, mental health, and Driglam Namzha.
The three oldest biographies of Tsangpa Gyare, the Founder of the Drukpa Kagyu School
Among the four prominent Tibetan Buddhist schools, the Kagyü (Bka’ brgyud) school produced the most numbers of sub-schools such as Karma Kagyü (Karma bka’ brgyud), Drikung Kagyü (’Bri gung bka’ brgyud) and Drukpa Kagyü (’Brug pa bka’ brgyud). The latter spread in surrounding regions and became a state religion in Bhutan.
Zhidar Matters: The Rise and Fall of a Controversial 18th Century Bhutanese Ruler
The book is a brief account of Zhidar, alias Sonam Lhundup, who was the 16th Druk Desi (reigned 1769-1773), a civilian head of the dual system of governance. He was ousted from power by his political rivals led by Jigme Senge, the 7th throne holder and, therefore, the ‘nominal’ head of the state. It was not a disgrace to lose a war against the British, who were then consolidating their holdings in Bengal after 1757. What was disgraceful is the overthrowing, in absentia, of a war commander in place of giving a hero’s welcome, whether he returned home as a victor or vanquished. Most nations in history gave this due honor, which was denied to Zhidar.
Supreme Land Law of Bhutan 1959
This edition was e-published in 2018 by the Centre for Bhutan Studies for wider circulation and dissemination to the Bhutanese readers. For any inquiry please contact us at cbs@bhutanstudies.org.bt.