Recalling the events that unfolded on this day last year, prime minister said by late afternoon, a report arrived that there was a possible case of COVID-19 in one of the tourists in the country. Preliminary tests and confirmatory ones pointed more towards the evidence that we also had the disease that had penetrated many countries in the world by then.

Thereon, the nation set out on a strenuous, yet unprecedented journey that defined our unique characters and perseverance. Recalling the lessons learnt today, prime minister said in these months of crises came to view our biggest strength as a Bhutanese, the leadership in His Majesty and the unity of the people of Bhutan under that.

And in all the profound initiatives to save the people from the pandemic, the De-suups stood as a firm channel to realise His Majesty’s aspirations and compassion for the country and the people.

While the threat from COVID-19 loomed as much today, prime minister said the energy and dedication he sensed from the enthusiastic De-suups here gave him the reassurance that we will all be able to live up to His Majesty’s expectations hereafter.

Together, 1,758 De-suups at different locations across the country complete the program that started on February 14, coinciding with the Raising Day.