Confused with Kuensel

Salary revision explained from Kuensel

"Salary: The recent salary revision, which will be effective next month has triggered a debate on how much the actual rise was. People’s Democratic Party had pledged to increase the salary and allowances of the civil service and the local government leaders, and introduce the 20 percent house rent.

Here is an example of how the new revision works.

A fresh post-graduate diploma teacher earns a basic monthly salary of Nu 14,460. He is entitled to 20 percent salary allowance of Nu 2,892. This takes the salary to Nu 17,352 excluding other entitlements and allowances.

For civil servants, the existing allowances have been merged to their basic salary and on that increased by four to 10 percent in a downward revision.

This means that the recent pay revision for civil servants in P5 cadre (officer level) would get a raise of six percent on Nu 17,352, which is now the new basic salary. This takes the basic salary to Nu 18,392, an increase of Nu 1,041.

On this ( Nu 18,392) they would now get a 20 percent house rent allowance, which amounts to Nu 3,678.

So the starting salary for a fresh post-graduate teacher in P5 level becomes Nu 22,070. The raise gives them an additional monthly income of Nu 5,719."

Dear Madam Tshering Palden, I am confused with your pay calculation for first grade teacher. 20% of 10710=2142/- is the salary allowance which we use to get  but you have calculated as  20% of 14460=2892/- which is not true. As far as I am concern I have calculated here in my previous post please go through it and also for your kind information I have again shown below in the table for clarification. We should not misinform our nation.

Position	Existing Pay Scale			Revised Pay Scale			HRA
	Min	Incr.	Max	Min	Incr.	Max
P 5	14460	290	18810	17495	350	22745	3500

 

Existing Pay Scale		Revised Pay Scale
Basic	Allowance	Previous allowance	6% of 14460	New allowance	New basic
14460	2142	2142	893	2142+893=3035	14460+3035=17495

As you have written that HRA amounts to 3678, no it is 20% of new basic 17495 which amounts to Nu.3500. 

Actually there is no increase in the Revised Pay

With the revised pay scale the government has stated pay growth ranging from 19% to 25% for civil servant from O to EX level. But when we see the real increase in the pay-scale it is disheartening to see that the actual pay rise is only about 6% which is taken back as TDS. For instance lets calculate the first grade teacher's pay.

Old basic pay=14460/- and New basic pay=17495/-

Difference: 17495-14460=3035/-

Allowance before=2142/- given by DPT

Actual increase=3035-2142=893/-

Actual pay growth= 893/14460= 0.617*100= 6.17%

But the new government's politics and mastermind calculated as

3035/14460=0.209*100=20.9=21% so cleaver including previous pay allowance. The 6% pay he or she get as Nu. 893 and for sure this will be deducted as TDS, so actually there is no pay rise. Of course more increment but TDS also deducted as par increment. The 20% HRA and increased in the basic pay seems to be beneficial but I think it is not sufficient, any way something is better than nothing. However, I urge government to do justice because in the name of pay increase everything is going to be expensive.

Bajo HSS runners up in Sci Exhibit

The Cluster II Science and Technology Exhibition centered around the theme "Science in our Environment" culminated in a resounding success at Bajo Higher Secondary School, graced by the esteemed presence of Honourable Secretary Aum Sangay Zam from the Ministry of Education.

A total of 12 schools hailing from 8 Dzongkhags partook in this enriching event. The schools included Bajo Higher Secondary School and Gaselo Higher Secondary School from Wangdue Dzongkhag, Sarpang Higher Secondary School and Gelephu Higher Secondary School from Sarpang Dzongkhag, Daga Higher Secondary School and Drujeygang Higher Secondary School from Dagana Dzongkhag, Punakha Higher Secondary School and Ugyen Academy Higher Secondary School from Punakha Dzongkhag, Jakar Higher Secondary School from Bumthang Dzongkhag, Sherubling Higher Secondary School from Trongsa Dzongkhag, Zhemgang Higher Secondary School from Zhemgang Dzongkhag, and Damphu from Tsirang Dzongkhag.

Noteworthy accolades were granted to the top six positions, accompanied by cash prizes ranging from 6,000/- to 25,000/- for the leading schools. Among the deserving winners, Bajo Higher Secondary School emerged triumphant, securing a cash prize of 20,000/-.

Each of the participating schools was tasked with presenting three exhibits, a challenge that demanded considerable effort in guiding the students towards the design and execution of these displays. Despite the complexities faced during this process, the diligence exhibited by the students bore fruit in the form of remarkable displays. Special gratitude is owed to Sir Pema Tshering, whose inspiration and dedicated involvement throughout the exhibition were instrumental. His elation upon witnessing the successful functioning of his exhibit in the final moments was palpable.

The Secretary was notably impressed by our three exhibits, each of which she found to be highly relevant to our circumstances. Particularly, the anti-fire bomb designed for extinguishing forest fires, a prevalent issue in our country, resonated with her.

Heartfelt appreciation goes out to all participating schools, coupled with warm congratulations extended to the winners and high achievers who contributed to the grandeur of the event. Furthermore, we extend our gratitude to the science teachers of BHSS who played a pivotal role in the conception and realization of the exhibits. We look forward to upholding this standard in future endeavors.

HappY TeacheR's DaY

“Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher”
This day is commemorated as an homage to the invaluable contributions rendered by educators to society through the imparting of knowledge, illumination, and the molding of students' careers. The observance of this day holds significant popularity across numerous countries worldwide. For students, this occasion stands as an opportunity to express reverence and heartfelt gratitude towards teachers, acknowledging their selfless dedication to shaping students' careers and enhancing the educational framework. The date of this special event varies across countries around the globe. In India, it falls on the 5th of September each year, while China observes it on the 10th of September annually. The observance in each nation is typically linked to distinguished personalities or remarkable achievements in the realm of education.

India has celebrated this day since 1962 in commemoration of the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan, an eminent thinker, philosopher, and educator. Throughout the nation, tributes are paid to the renowned scholar and former president, Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan, on this day.

In Bhutan, Teacher's Day is observed on May 2nd every year, marking the birth anniversary of the third king, who introduced modern educational systems to the country. This day allows Bhutanese students to pay homage to their teachers and the great leaders of the nation.

Educational institutions invest considerable effort in preparing elaborate celebrations for this occasion. The festivities typically commence with a heartfelt Teachers' Day speech, extending respect and gratitude to the teachers for their invaluable contributions. This is often succeeded by a series of vibrant cultural performances, feasts, and various activities that lend a special and memorable air to the event.

Traditional customs of celebrating involve presenting vivid flowers, exquisite Teachers' Day cards, or gifts as tokens of affection and admiration for the teachers. However, students frequently devise innovative approaches to honor Teachers' Day. Some opt for creatively designed and appealing Teachers' Day greeting cards embellished with poignant quotes and messages, expressing their unwavering gratitude and capturing the essence of the event's wonderful moments. Others choose charming and widely recognized Teachers' Day quotes to convey their profound affection for their teachers.

In contemporary times, sending animated or e-greeting cards has gained traction. These Teachers' Day Greetings e-cards are freely available and have become a favored medium to convey warm wishes and heartfelt emotions to teachers. Additionally, sending Teachers' Day SMS messages is a popular and modern mode of extending wishes. SMS messages hold the advantage of swift delivery and rarely go unnoticed. To cater to diverse linguistic preferences, these messages are available in various languages.

Presently, expressing wishes through Facebook messages and uploading e-card greetings has gained widespread popularity. This year, Bajo HSS is set to celebrate Teacher's Day by planting tree saplings around Bajo town. Around 900 saplings will be individually planted by both teachers and students. Each participant will be entrusted with the care of a sapling, including responsibilities like watering and fertilization. This initiative will also serve as a class competition, with each sapling bearing a name tag of its caregiver. Over time, Bajo town will transform into a verdant landscape as a result of this endeavor, supported by the PHPA II environment sector. This initiative was initially championed by Sir Passang Tshering. The sapling planting will commence at approximately 7:30 AM, followed by a series of programs, likely organized by the student body.

As individuals who have all been students at some juncture of our lives, we have all reaped the benefits of our teachers' guidance. The celebration of Teachers' Day presents an exceptional opportunity for us to express our profound gratitude and admiration to our teachers. On this auspicious occasion, I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the teachers who have played a significant role in shaping my life. "In teaching, you cannot see the fruit of a day's work. It is invisible and remains so, maybe for twenty years." – Jacques Barzun.

Ragging (Poem written after ragging at Zhengang HSS)

This poem was composed when I got ragging in class 11. I found it in my old diary.

Agonizing physically and mentally
Over mountains, rivers and vales
Came Knocking the door at ZHSS
Joining the friends in the school.

How much at a glance came there
For calling our misfortunes errors
And to amend and vanish there
Commanding to start new life together

My heart is tittered when I feel
Came all around disappointing
As if rounding the enemy's heel
That's made him dull and silence.

Dislocating peaceful mind now
Heart is full of thicker blood
From my lips words can't flow
Taming self not to grumble.

My heart freezes when I think
That was origin of the generation
By now peace grows to take
All the pain and inglorious mystery.

Looking back over given fear
That's wonderful memory in life
The wonder I didn't see at once
But understand not to mind
Those are part of society life.

Native Land (Poem written when I was in XII standard)

Today I was just going through my old diary of 2004 when I was in class 11 at Zhemgang HSS and found two poems written by me. So to record it I am jotting here.

A land of beautiful mountains,
Where the first ray of sun soothes,
In everyone's heart.

The rivers flows down the,
Black mountains and dense forest,
Appears in my dream.


People here are free and frank,
Love and affection is what they meant,
Lives in tranquility.
Birds are flying over those green hills,
Cheerful are they, singing in joy,
Beholds in my sleep.


The peerless sunset over the peaks,
Mesmerize the visitors like facades,
Lives in peace and amity.
Cold breeze everywhere,
I lay around and wonder why,
But love my native land.


The memories of those scenery,
Would enlightened my soul,
As my life fades away.
Can I find eternal peace and love,
Somewhere, some how in my country,
You are only the gift,
For we the Bhutanese.

Salary

One of the long-anticipated aspirations of civil servants remains unresolved, as the deliberations on salary revision have yet to materialize within the purview of the second pay commission, a matter left to the discretion of the second parliamentary session. This decision was fortified with an array of justifications, grounded predominantly in the prevailing economic turmoil besieging the nation.

Recent days have seen the circulation of speculations through the media, only to be subsequently debunked by the finance minister who, through the same media channels, definitively clarified the absence of any substantive discourse concerning the proposed remuneration adjustments. Such protracted uncertainties give rise to a palpable sense of disillusionment among the populace, as public expectations have been buoyed by the sanguine promises articulated during your campaign. Your explicit commitment to funding the salary revision through domestically generated revenue kindled optimism, further underscored by televised pledges from governmental representatives.

In the current milieu, the saying in Dzongkha, "Lotoe pai migi hingku," acquires a disconcerting relevance, aptly encapsulating the prevailing circumstances. The unsettling volatility in commodity prices continues unabated, with recent times witnessing a surge in the cost of various essentials. Illustratively, the price of a kilogram of Amul cheese has surged to approximately 440/- from its prior valuation of 393/-, while the cost of 800 grams of daily milk consumption has escalated to around 400/- from its previous mark of 342/-. Regrettably, these fluctuations likely compel economically marginalized citizens to curtail their consumption patterns, straining their ability to access basic necessities.

Conversely, the affluent strata of society remain relatively unaffected by these fluctuations. Regarded from the perspective of ordinary citizens, this dissonance evokes a sense of being deceived by the proverbial barking dog, a creature known for its vocalizations rather than its actions.

In light of these pressing concerns, we implore the second pay commission of Bhutan to expeditiously address the imperative of salary revision. This call to action is underpinned by the recognition that robust economic growth is not only pivotal for enhancing the quality of human existence but also a conduit for facilitating improved healthcare, education, and an array of vital social amenities.

Our collective hopes and prayers are fervently vested in the expectation that the forthcoming recommendations from the pay commission will bear forth constructive outcomes, thereby inching us closer to the realization of Gross National Happiness (GNH) within our beloved nation.

Legacy of my Life

His early existence proved to be a challenging journey, a realization that dawned on him during his formative years between the ages of four and five. In those tender moments, he would often find himself amidst his peers, engaging in play amidst the dusty surroundings. As his runny nose persisted, his once-pristine shirt gradually transformed into a coarse covering, its fabric entwined with the tenacious evidence of his relentless nasal flow. While his companions donned garments of opulence and elegance, his attire resembled more of a makeshift robe than a shirt. The meager cloth struggled to enshroud his entire body, particularly faltering in concealing his lower abdomen, imposing a daily struggle upon him.

This singular shirt became his constant companion, faithfully accompanying him through both the illuminated hours of day and the shrouded moments of night, until the prospect of a replacement emerged. The very fabric that clothed him also provided refuge to tiny inhabitants, as lice sought refuge in its every nook and cranny, their presence an unavoidable consequence he had to accept, particularly with the impending frigid embrace of winter.

In the early hours of dawn, he embarked on the arduous journey to the maize field located kilometers away from his humble abode, tasked with gathering precious consignments of maize corn. Sometimes, he would toil in the maize field, digging and cultivating until the arrival of his school-bound responsibilities beckoned. Amidst this demanding schedule, he managed to steal a brief moment for breakfast before setting off for his educational pursuits.

Another duty called to him: the grazing of his horse. Leading the equine companion to verdant meadows, he would tether it securely, allowing it to indulge in nature's bounty. His school day was a whirlwind of activities, leaving him fatigued even before the commencement of the first period. Yet, driven by an unwavering determination and a thirst for knowledge, he persevered, absorbing the lessons despite the fatigue that threatened to encumber him.

The horse's grazing sessions were a structured part of his day, the creature's patient gaze silently awaiting its owner's direction to shift locations. Moments of leisure and camaraderie with friends were a luxury he could scarcely afford, as he used each break to hasten to his horse's side for its repositioning. This routine persisted through lunchtime as well.

Post-school hours saw him guiding his horse homeward, where his stepmother awaited their return. She would inspect the horse's belly, a visual indicator of whether the animal had been suitably nourished by its grazing activities. The threat of her displeasure loomed – a withholding of meals if the horse's well-being had been neglected.

Tragedy had visited his life at an early age, with the loss of his birth mother when he was just three. While memories of her remained elusive, he later comprehended that he was residing under the care of his stepmother, a figure who entered his life following the void left by his biological mother's departure.

Interview with Ugyen

1. Interviewer: Greetings, Ugyen.
2. Ugyen: Hello, and warm regards.
3. Interviewer: I hope you don't mind, as I have a few inquiries to make of you.
4. Ugyen: Not at all, you have my sincere welcome.
5. Interviewer: Sir, could you kindly share the duration of your tenure as an educator within this esteemed institution?
6. Ugyen: It has been nearly five years now since I commenced my journey here.
7. Interviewer: Could you elaborate on the specific subjects you are currently imparting?
8. Ugyen: Certainly. Over the past five years, I have been dedicated to teaching Physics to students of grades IX and X. Moreover, I have been instructing Physics to students of grade 11 for a span of two years, and I also temporarily taught Mathematics to grade 11 students for a period of one month.
9. Interviewer: Have you had the opportunity to engage in tasks such as exam paper moderation, evaluation, or serving as a visiting examiner?
10. Ugyen: Indeed, I have. I have undertaken visiting examiner responsibilities for a duration of three years. Furthermore, I participated in the evaluation process for grade 12 Physics once, while my involvement in paper moderation has been absent thus far.
11. Interviewer: In comparison to other subjects, could you outline the advantages you perceive as a science teacher?
12. Ugyen: As a science educator, I find myself in a relatively static position presently, owing to my limited attendance at workshops. The content I presently deliver is primarily rooted in my initial training from the institute.
13. Interviewer: Have you ever pursued any of the scholarships facilitated by RCSC?
14. Ugyen: Certainly, I have made attempts. I applied once for the Trongsa Penlop scholarship and another time for the TICA scholarship in Thailand.
15. Interviewer: May I inquire about the outcomes of those attempts?
16. Ugyen: Regrettably, I was listed as a standby candidate for 5 slots in the TPS scholarship selection, and for the TICA scholarship in 2013, I secured the 19th position.
17. Interviewer: Do you harbor intentions of furthering your own education?
18. Ugyen: Yes, I aspire to pursue a master's degree in either Mathematics or Physics. However, it has proven to be a challenge for educators like myself who graduated before 2009, as attending interviews deducts marks due to the absence of an RCSC exam appearance. In contrast, those who graduated after 2009 receive extra marks for attending the RCSC exam. My enthusiasm has waned, and I am contemplating alternative paths.
19. Interviewer: In terms of your professional satisfaction, how do you view your role as an educator?
20. Ugyen: Undoubtedly, I do. Beyond classroom instruction, the multitude of responsibilities and extracurricular involvements make teaching an arduous endeavor. While a simpler focus solely on classroom teaching might seem appealing, the amalgamation of academic and non-academic commitments leaves us with scarce moments to simply pause and reflect.
21. Interviewer: I extend my gratitude for your generous allocation of time. Until we meet again.
22. Ugyen: I appreciate your kind words. Rest assured, this rare occasion is no bother to me, but rather a privilege.

The Bhutanese Losar Celebration: A Tapestry of Tradition and Cultural Richness

I would like to wish all of you a very happy Losar. May this year bring you luck and happiness? Wish you good health always. This is the time where we come together, it is the time where we pray together and wish for only one thing that is good health.

The Bhutanese Losar celebration, also known as "Losar Tshewa," stands as a vibrant testament to the country's deep-rooted traditions and cultural richness. This auspicious festival marks the Bhutanese New Year and encapsulates a tapestry of rituals, festivities, and a profound connection to Bhutan's spiritual heritage.

Derived from the Tibetan term "Lo" meaning "year" and "Sar" meaning "new," Losar signifies the beginning of a new agricultural cycle and is a time for expressing gratitude, seeking blessings, and rejuvenating familial and communal bonds. It typically falls in February or March, aligning with the lunar calendar. The festival, observed with fervor and enthusiasm, not only rejuvenates the Bhutanese spirit but also reinforces their strong ties to their ancestral roots.

Preparations for Losar commence well in advance, as families clean their homes, paint walls, and engage in various purification rituals. Symbolizing the cleansing of the old year's negativity and inviting auspiciousness for the year ahead, this pre-festival ritual embodies the Bhutanese reverence for tradition.

The festival's spiritual facet is perhaps most captivating. It is a time of intense devotion, as Bhutanese Buddhists engage in prayers, offer incense, and make prostrations at monasteries and temples. One of the most striking features is the "Lama Dance," a sacred masked dance performed by monks to ward off evil spirits and usher in blessings. These intricate dance performances, known as "Cham," serve as a spiritual spectacle that brings together both locals and visitors.

Central to the Losar celebrations is the traditional Bhutanese cuisine that delights the senses. Families come together to prepare and savor a sumptuous feast known as "Nyersang." This elaborate meal is a fusion of flavors, textures, and aromas, showcasing Bhutanese culinary artistry. Dishes like "Khapsey" (deep-fried pastries), "Puta" (buckwheat noodles), and "Guthuk" (a hearty soup with dumplings) take center stage. Through this gastronomic journey, Bhutanese people share their love for their culture and bond over their shared heritage.

Losar isn't limited to intimate family gatherings; it spills onto the streets with lively processions and cultural performances. Folk dances, traditional music, and vibrant costumes create a kaleidoscope of colors and rhythms, captivating the senses of all who partake. One of the most iconic elements of the Losar celebration is the "Pemachang" ceremony, where a painted scroll, called "Pemachang," is unveiled and displayed, portraying significant events from the past year and highlighting the Bhutanese way of preserving history through art.

While the festival embodies joy and jubilation, it also emphasizes humility and kindness through the custom of "Thuechhung." During this practice, people visit neighbors, friends, and relatives to exchange well wishes and strengthen social bonds. The exchange of traditional gifts like "Changkol" (traditional Bhutanese wine) or "Khabzey" (local cookies) reinforces the spirit of camaraderie and unity.

Over the years, the Bhutanese Losar celebration has evolved, reflecting changing times while preserving its essence. In recent times, modern elements like sports competitions, musical concerts, and cultural exhibitions have been integrated into the festivities, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary appeal.

In a world where cultural heritage often faces the tide of modernization, the Bhutanese Losar celebration stands as a beacon of continuity, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to preserving a rich and diverse cultural legacy. It is a reminder that while the world may change, the threads that weave the tapestry of Bhutan's heritage remain strong and vibrant, intertwining the past, present, and future in a celebration that resonates deeply with the Bhutanese people's hearts and souls.