This Prime Minister spends his Saturdays treating people, conducting surgeries
What's the story
Bhutan, the Himalayan country between India and China with a population of 7.5 lakh, is known in the world for being carbon negative and the happiest country in Asia. But do you know that the country's Prime Minister, Dr. Lotay Tshering, spends his Saturdays treating people in a hospital? Tshering was regarded as one of the best doctors before he entered politics in 2013.
De-stress
Working at the hospital is Tshering's method to de-stress
As per Tshering, working at the hospital de-stresses him from the PM's work he carries out on weekdays. While at Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital one Saturday, he told AFP, "Some people play golf, some do archery, and I like to operate." He further said, "I will continue doing this until I die and I miss not being able to be here everyday."
Elected
Tshering was elected in November 2018, after losing in 2013
In November 2018, Tshering, who failed his first attempt in 2013, was voted to power as the third democratic Prime Minister after the country moved from total monarchy in 2008. While talking about the juggle between the two roles, Tshering said, "At the hospital I scan and treat patients. In the government, I scan the health of policies and try to make them better."
Roles
PM gives medical advice to trainee doctors at the hospital
Not only has he found many similarities between the two roles, but has also made healthcare the center of his political agenda. Moreover, the 51-year-old leader also makes sure that he gives medical advice to trainee doctors at the hospital. Meanwhile, many people consider being treated by their PM as a privilege. Among them is Bumthap, who went through a 5-hour-long bladder-repair operation.
Quote
Bumthap thrilled after being operated by PM Tshering
PM Tshering operated on Bumthap at the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck hospital and left him thrilled. He said, "Now that I have been operated on by the prime minister, who is considered one of the best doctors in the country, I feel more relieved."
Qualities
Bhutan calculates Gross National Happiness, instead of economic profits
It is not just the Bhutan PM who is unique, the country has many such qualities that makes it a different place. Bhutan has garnered international popularity and respect for choosing to preserve nature and tradition over profitable yet damaging modern life. While all the countries are busy calculating economic profits daily, Bhutan has made its name for calculating Gross National Happiness.
Facts
Killing living creatures banned, Rs. 17,000 daily fee for tourists
Further, the country has banned killing any living creature and has left the forests untouched. To protect the country from marauding tourists, a daily fee of Rs. 17,000 is imposed on tourists. However, the country still suffers from several health-related issues like obesity and diabetes. While addressing these issues, Tshering said, "We must now slowly put more focus on secondary and tertiary healthcare."