The Social and Cultural Committee holds consultation meeting with the Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development(DoCDD), Royal Institute of Performing Arts (RIPA), Ministry of Home Affa
On 21 August, 2024 the Social and Cultural Committee invited the Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development (DoCDD), the Royal Institute of Performing Arts (RIPA), and the Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA) to present on issues related to the erosion of Bhutan's rich culture and traditions at the Gakid Khangzang, National Assembly of Bhutan.
The consultation aimed to discuss the growing concerns over the erosion of dirglam namzha (traditional culture/etiquette), which is increasingly overshadowed by Western influences. The DoCDD under the Ministry of Home Affairs presented on the challenges faced in maintaining traditions and culture, including issues related to working conditions, deteriorating discipline, and local cultures in the villages. They also discussed plans for improvement, including enhancing discipline, engaging youth with documentation and Edu-Skill programs, and promoting the Dzongkha language.
Additionally, BICMA provided a brief overview of the decline in Bhutanese movie production due to COVID-19 and the preference for Western movies over traditional Bhutanese films. They highlighted the support needed from the government to sustain and promote Bhutan's rich cultural heritage.
During the discussion, Committee members highlighted the need to prioritize Dzongkha, noting its declining interest among today's youth, who are more drawn to Western lifestyles. It was recommended that programs be made free and easily accessible, that teachers be trained in the Driglam Namzha program, that cultural education be introduced at an earlier age, and that programs be developed that better resonate with young people.
