When loss is gain

May 24, 2012Posted inMiscellaneous17 Comments
Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, launched When Loss is Gain yesterday, at the closing session of Mountain Echoes 2012, a literary festival that keeps getting bigger and more successful each year. When Loss is Gain is written by H.E Pavan K. Varma, India’s ambassador to Bhutan, and a prolific writer who has already authored no less than 16 other books. This, however, is his first work of fiction, and one that you will most probably read continuously, in one sitting, from cover to very enjoyable cover. The story, set mostly in Bhutan, is about the…

Reckless power

February 4, 2012Posted inGovernment10 Comments
The minister for economic affairs, Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk, is in New Delhi. He’s meeting his counterparts in the Indian government to discuss the hydropower projects currently under construction. And he’s attending the empowered group meeting that will consider future hydropower projects, including those that will be developed as joint venture projects by public sector companies of the two governments. I hope that Lyonpo Khandu will remember the question that I had submitted during the last session of the Parliament. I didn’t get to actually ask it due to time constraints. But, as required, I had submitted my question in…

Jai Hind!

January 26, 2012Posted inInternational3 Comments
I spent a couple of enjoyable hours watching India’s Republic Day parade broadcast live from New Delhi on Doordarshan TV. The spectacular procession, along the Rajpath and past India Gate, showcases India’s military might, cultural diversity and national integrity. The annual event is also a celebration of the Indian freedom movement and the successful rise of India in all spheres of the global arena since its independence 65 years ago. The chief guest at the Republic Day parade is typically a foreign head of state or government chosen carefully to reflect the important strategic, economic and political relationship between…

UN Security Council

November 28, 2010Posted inGovernment, International
"In the years ahead, I look forward to a reformed United Nations Security Council that includes India as a permanent member," US President Obama recently announced in India’s Parliament. And just like that, after years of demanding a permanent seat in the Security Council, India’s bid received a powerful boost. India is the world’s second most populous country. Its economy, already among the biggest in the world, is one of the fastest growing. And it is playing an increasingly important role in global affairs. So the US president’s pledge is timely. His assurances are good for India, and indeed,…

Independence Day

August 15, 2009Posted inInternational
Earlier today, I celebrated India’s Independence Day at the India House. H.E Ambassador Varma hosted a reception at his residence, and treated us to an unforgettable evening of Kathak, one of the main forms of Indian classical dance. Their Royal Highnesses Dasho Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck and Dasho Ugyen Jigme Wangchuck were the guests of honour at the festivities. To all my Indian friends – living in Bhutan, in India and many other countries – I offer warm greetings and a hearty tashi delek! during your 63rd Independence Day.

INC, UPA: Congratulations

May 19, 2009Posted inInternational
Her Excellency, Shrimati Sonia Gandhi President, Indian National Congress, and Chairperson, United Progressive Alliance Your Excellency: I have the great honour and pleasure to convey my humble congratulations to you on the success of the Congress Party and of the UPA during the recently held parliamentary elections. The People of India have indeed chosen wisely. I would also like to submit that the praise conferred upon you and Shri Rahul Gandhi for the astute leadership with which you have guided the Congress Party and UPA to victory in the elections is fully deserved. I take this opportunity to wish…