COUNTRY BACKGROUND - Gross National Happiness Commission

Communications Sector
II. Review of Past PerformanceII. Review of Past Performance
A. Objectives and Strategies in the 6FYPA. Objectives and Strategies in the 6FYP
Print Media and Sound BroadcastingPrint Media and Sound Broadcasting
16.19 The main objective of media was to disseminate policies, programmes and strategies for social and
economic development and to facilitate the flow of communication among all sections of the society. These
objectives were pursued through the development of institutional capabilities and physical infrastructure.
TelecommunicationsTelecommunications
16.20 The main objective in the 6FYP was to prepare for the implementation of the Telecommunication
Masterplan in the 7FYP. This was achieved through the preparation of a comprehensive telecommunication project
and physical works (land acquisition, land development, mule track construction etc) prior to the purchase and
installation of equipment.
Post, Telegraph and Civil WirelessPost, Telegraph and Civil Wireless
16.21 The main emphasis in this sector was to bring about improvement in the quality of services. Only a modest
expansion was allowed. The strategies for enhancing efficiency were: consolidation and integration of services,
introduction of modern postal technology and development of skilled personnel through training.
B. Achievement of ObjectivesB. Achievement of Objectives
Print Media and Sound BroadcastingPrint Media and Sound Broadcasting
16.22 Transmissions hours for the Bhutan Broadcasting Service were increased from 4 hours during weekdays to
4 hours during weekdays and 6 hours during Sundays in 1987. The clarity of reception was improved when Bhutan
Broadcasting Service changed its frequency to 60 metre band or 5025KHZ in 1989 and FM transmission was
introduced in Thimphu. The main development in 6FYP was the opening of 50 KW broadcasting centre in 1991.
16.23 The Development Support Communication Division continued to provide assistance in developing
communication services. It produced media material on environmental sanitation, health, nutrition, agricultural
extension, education, animal diseases etc.
Telecommunication ServicesTelecommunication Services
16.24 A detailed Telecommunication Development Plan was completed in 1989. In March 1990, a Satellite Earth
Station and a digital telephone exchange was commissioned in Thimphu which enabled a international direct
dialling facility to be introduced for Thimphu telephone subscribers. The international subscriber dialling facility
between India and Bhutan was introduced in August 1989. A direct microwave link between Thimphu and
Phuntsholing was established in 1991.
Postal ServicesPostal Services
16.25 According to 6FYP targets, 10 new post offices were to be established and 45 post offices were to be
upgraded/renovated. The actual implementation has been very low: due to financial constraints, only 2 new post
offices - Pasakha and Tashichhodzong - were established and 2 post offices (Yongphula and Panbang) were
upgraded. Of the 10 mail vans proposed only 2 were purchased. The construction of Thimphu General Post Office
Complex was completed and opened in 1988.
Telegraph and Civil Wireless ServicesTelegraph and Civil Wireless Services
16.26 International telegraph services have been introduced in all wireless stations in 1990. Fax machines were
introduced in post offices in Thimphu, Paro, Chimakoti, Wangdiphodrang and Punakha in 1991. 8 new wireless
stations were opened during the 6FYP period.
III. Objectives and Strategy for the 7FYPIII. Objectives and Strategy for the 7FYP
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