1.1        What are the main objectives of the Gyalsung program?

1.1.1           The Gyalsung program is designed to enable Bhutanese citizens to fulfill a fundamental duty enshrined in the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan.

1.1.2           The objectives of Gyalsung can be summarized as follows:

a.       Endow the youth of Bhutan with the knowledge, skills, and values to actualize their potential in this rapidly changing world and contribute to realizing the national goals and aspirations;

b.       Empower the youth with the capabilities and attributes needed to succeed academically and professionally;

c.       Enhance the awareness of the youth about the challenges that our country faces and meaningfully engage them in finding and implementing collective solutions;

d.       Encourage volunteerism among our citizens to foster the spirit of selfless service in enhancing the well-being of our people;

e.       Ensure that we prepare the future generations to fully shoulder their sacred responsibilities of upholding and promoting the unity, peace, security, and sovereignty of our nation for all times to come.

1.1.3           These objectives will be reviewed by the Gyalsung Council periodically to ensure that the Gyalsung remains relevant and aligned with His Majesty The King’s vision. For more information refer to https://gyalsung.bt

1.2        What are the major stages of the Gyalsung Journey?

1.2.1           The Gyalsung journey shall comprise of the following three phases:

1.2.1.1               Gyalsung Training (from 2026): Cadets, as Gyalsups, shall undergo a one-year full time integrated training program which shall comprise of three months of Basic Military Training and skills training in various areas that are critical for personal self-development as well as enhancement of self-reliance and national security.

1.2.1.2               Gyalsung Duty: Upon completion of the one-year training program, Gyalsups may be called for Mandatory Duty and/ or Voluntary Duty until the age of 35 years.

1.2.1.3               Gyalsung Reserve: Upon completion of Gyalsung Duty, Gyalsups shall remain as Reservists until they attain the age of 45 years at which point, they complete the Gyalsung obligations. Thereafter, they may volunteer to join De-suung.

2.1        Who is required to Sign up & Register for the Gyalsung Program that commences in 2025?

2.1.1           Individuals born in 2006.

2.1.2           Students born after 2006 (who are in Class 12 in 2024) wishing to apply for Early Enlistment and,

2.1.3           Individuals born in 2005 who have received a deferment from the Gyalsung Training 2024.

2.2        Procedure to be completed by eligible youth specified under 2.1.1, 2.1.2 and 2.1.3 for Gyalsung Training 2025.

2.3        When will the Gyalsung Training 2025 commence and end?

2.3.1           Gyalsung Training 2025 shall comprise of two Cohorts:

2.3.1.1       The First Cohort will commence on 1st April 2025 and end on 30th June 2025.

2.3.1.2       The Second Cohort will commence on 1st August 2025 and end on 30th October 2025.

2.4        How will I be selected for the Cohort?

2.4.1           The GHQ will allocate the enlistees into two Cohorts through a computerized algorithmic system developed for the allocation of Cadets.

2.5        I have a scholarship that requires me to start my education in July 2025, I need to be part of the 1st cohort; Can I choose the Cohort?

2.5.1           The GHQ shall allocate the enlistees into two Cohorts across four Gyalsung Academies using a computerized system for the 2024 and 2025 Batch. Allocation is based on capacity of the Academy and the gender ratio.  If the allocation to a particular cohort in 2025 Batch clashes with the academic schedule for further education or training the affected  youth may apply for Exemption through the Gyalsung Portal. Such exemptions for those pursuing further studies or training are granted only for 2024 and 2025 Batches.

2.5.2           Please write to registrar.ghq@ns.bt for further assistance.

2.6        What does the training program for the Gyalsung Training 2025 consist of?

2.6.1           Gyalsung Training 2025 shall consist of Basic Military Training and National Education.

2.7        I was born in 2006 but I am living abroad. Do I have to come to Bhutan to undergo the Gyalsung training in 2025?

2.7.1           Yes, all Bhutanese who attain the age of 18 (born in 2006) regardless of place of residence are required to register for Gyalsung 2025.

2.7.2           But if you are still pursuing education (Class 12 and below) you can apply for Deferment with supporting documents from your school through the Gyalsung portal or

2.7.3           If you are studying in class 12 or equivalent, or college in 2025 you may apply for an Exemption with supporting documents through the Gyalsung portal.

2.8        Why are youth born before 2006 not eligible for Gyalsung Training 2025?

2.8.1           The Gyalsung Act 2022, requires a Bhutanese citizen who attains the age of eighteen to enlist for Gyalsung. Accordingly, youth born between 1st January 2006 – 31st December 2006 attain this legally mandated age for the batch in 2025 and hence the cut-off year.

2.8.2           However, youth born in 2005 and received Deferment from Gyalsung 2024 are eligible for Gyalsung Training 2025.

2.8.3           Gyalsung Training 2025 has been adjusted due to capacity constraints at the four Gyalsung Academies.

2.8.4           Considering the heartfelt desire and deep interest among Bhutanese of all ages to volunteer and serve the Tsawa-Sum, De-Suung training will be continued. Therefore, persons who are not eligible for Gyalsung may join De-Suung.

2.9        Who will assist youth out-of-school or lacking education and literacy to facilitate their registration on the Gyalsung portal?

2.10.1           The youth who require additional support for sign up and registration due to literacy and technical problems may contact or seek assistance from:

2.10.1.1       Gyalsung Headquarter through:

Toll-free Helpline: 2024 (9 am – 10 pm),

WhatsApp: +975 17112350

Email: info@ns.bt

Website: www.gyalsung.bt

2.10.1.2       The respective Gewog Administrative office.

3.1        Who is required/eligible to join the Gyalsung Training 2025?

3.1.1           Individuals born in 2006.

3.1.2           Individuals born in 2005 who have received a deferment from the Gyalsung Training 2024 and

3.1.3           Students born after 2006 (who are in Class 12 in 2024) wishing to apply for Early Enlistment.

3.2        I was born after 2006 and will be completing class 12 in 2024. Am I eligible to undergo Gyalsung Training 2025?

3.2.1           As per the law, any person who attends Gyalsung Training before the age of 18 may do so by applying for early enlistment provided that:

3.2.1.1       They have attained the age of sixteen years and six months on the date of enlistment;

3.2.1.2       They furnish the consent of parents or legal guardians; and

3.2.1.3       They meet/pass the required medical and mental health assessment.

3.2.1.4       The Gyalsung Headquarters accepts the application for early enlistment.

3.2.2           However, students who complete Class 12 before the age of 18 in 2024, may seek exemption from Gyalsung Training 2025 if they continue to pursue full-time tertiary education in 2025 in nationally accredited tertiary institutes.

3.3        The present Class 10 students who are 18 years old will be 20 years old on completion of Class 12. In this case, will he/she still get an opportunity to enlist for Gyalsung?

3.3.1           Yes, the students will get the opportunity to enlist for Gyalsung training.

3.3.2           They must sign up, register, and then apply for Deferment with supporting documents through the Gyalsung Portal.

3.3.3           They need to complete the registration process and re-apply for Deferment each year until the completion of class 12.

3.4        I was born in 2005 and completing class 12 in 2024, am I eligible to undergo the Gyalsung Training 2025?

3.4.1           Yes, you are eligible to undergo the Gyalsung Training 2025 provided you have already registered for Gyalsung Training 2024 and have applied for deferment to complete your Class 12 in 2024.

3.4.2           You will be notified to register to attend the Gyalsung 2025 training. Thereafter attend the Medical Examination and await the enlistment/joining notice from GHQ.

3.4.3           However, you can apply for Exemption if you are planning to pursue tertiary education.

3.5        Can a student who does not pass the Class 12 examination but was born in 2006 enlist for Gyalsung Training in 2025?

3.5.1           Yes, they are age-eligible and still liable to undergo the Gyalsung Training 2025, irrespective of the class 12 examination results.

3.5.2           However, those who wish to repeat class 12 are required to sign up, register and apply for deferment.

3.6        UNDERAGE CASE 1:  Is a student completing Class 12 in 2024 but has not yet attained 18 years of age (born after 2006) eligible to enlist for Gyalsung in 2025?

3.6.1           As per the law, any person who attends Gyalsung Training before the age of 18 may do so by applying for Early Enlistment provided that:

3.6.1.1       They shall have attained the age of sixteen and half on the date of enlistment;

3.6.1.2       They furnish the consent of parents or legal guardians;

3.6.1.3       They passed the medical and mental health assessment and

3.6.1.4       The Gyalsung Headquarters accepts the application for Early Enlistment.

3.6.2           However, students who complete Class 12 before the age of 18 in 2024, may seek exemption from Gyalsung Training 2025 if they continue to pursue full-time tertiary education in 2025 in nationally accredited tertiary institutes.

3.7        OVERAGE CASE 2: Is a student who is older than 18 (born before 2006) but completing Class 12 in 2024 eligible to join Gyalsung Training in 2025?

3.7.1           Yes, the students will get the opportunity to enlist for Gyalsung training as they have applied for deferment through the Gyalsung portal when they were age eligible.

3.7.2           They need to keep on updating the deferment application until the completion of class 12.

3.7.3           They must register again through the Gyalsung portal.

3.8        I am not in school. Can I apply for Early Enlistment as soon as I turn sixteen and a half years of age?

3.8.1           No, you cannot apply for early enlistment if you are not in school. You will have to wait until you are age-appropriate to undergo Gyalsung.

3.8.2           However, you can Sign up through the Gyalsung Portal when you turn 15 years of age so that you can stay in touch with Gyalsung and register as soon as you are age-appropriate.

3.8.3           The objective of the Early Enlistment provision is to facilitate an uninterrupted tertiary education for those students who complete class 12 early.

4.1        When will the Sign-up and Registration for the 2025 intake start?

4.1.1           An announcement was made on 15^th June 2024 for all eligible youth to commence the Sign-up and Registration process from 21^st June 2024 to 18^th Sept 2024.

4.2        How will the Gyalsung Headquarters issue a notice for registration to eligible youth?

4.2.1           Public announcements will be made in the Newspaper and the Bhutan Broadcasting Service.

4.2.2           For youth in Bhutan’s education system, the school network will serve as a secondary channel to issue registration notices.

4.2.3           For Bhutanese youth who are not in school, parents/legal guardians and Local Government leaders will be engaged to notify and provide assistance during the Sign-up and Registration process.

4.2.4           For youth outside the country, the secondary channel will be through the parent/ legal guardian and diplomatic missions, embassies, consulates, and overseas Bhutanese associations.

4.2.5           Furthermore, calls for Sign-up and Registration will be made across all media platforms including our Gyalsung page on social media and website.

4.3        Do you have any instructions or guides for youth to Sign up and Register for Gyalsung?

4.3.1         Instructions and guides can be found on the Gyalsung website https://gyalsung.bt/ and social media pages like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

4.4        What is required to be done by the eligible youth for Registration for Gyalsung Training?

4.4.1           Youths ready to get started should first visit the Gyalsung Portal https://portal.gyalsung.bt

4.4.2           You will need to create an account by signing up as a new user.

4.4.3           After signing up, you can then register for the training program. 

4.4.4           Clear instructions for signing up and registering will be provided through awareness campaigns and detailed guides posted on the Gyalsung website https://gyalsung.bt

5.1        Can a student who has failed the Class 12 examinations and wants to repeat Class 12 or re-sit for the Class 12 examinations do so?

5.1.1           If the student wishes to repeat Class XII or its equivalent, the student can choose to return to school to do so.

5.1.2           The student will still have to sign up, register, and then apply for Deferment to the Gyalsung Headquarters and shall be required to report for Gyalsung Training the following year.

5.1.3           The student would commit an offense of evasion of Gyalsung Training if he or she neither reports for training nor reports to school to repeat school or re-sit for the examination.

5.2        I am currently repeating Class 12. Assuming that I fail my Class 12 examinations again this year and choose to repeat Class 12, would I still be eligible for Deferment to repeat Class 12?

5.2.1           Yes, you are eligible to apply for Deferment for more than one instance provided you fulfill the prescribed criteria.

5.2.2           However, you should complete the registration process and submit a new application for Deferment. Gyalsung HQ will review your request and respond accordingly.

5.3        I am currently 18 years old (born in 2006) and in Class 11. I received the registration notice. What should I do?

5.3.1           You should sign up, register, and then apply for deferment with supporting documents through the Gyalsung Portal.

5.4        Will a religious personality who leaves his or her vocation or monastic order be eligible for Gyalsung Training 2025?

5.4.1           The Gyalsung Act exempts religious personalities from Gyalsung Training. However, if a religious personality chooses to leave his or her vocation before the age of 18 (those born in 2006), he or she will be required to attend Gyalsung Training.

5.5        Will age-eligible pregnant women and nursing mothers be required to attend Gyalsung Training?

5.5.1           The best interest of the mother and child will be given prior consideration.

5.5.2           A pregnant or nursing mother is still required to sign up, register, and apply for Exemption/Deferment with supporting documents through the Gyalsung Portal to ensure that the process for Exemption/Deferment is followed.

5.5.3           Further, if an eligible female is medically certified to be pregnant before the commencement of Gyalsung Training she may apply for Exemption through the Gyalsung Portal to ensure the completion of the process.

5.6        Will persons with disabilities be exempted from Gyalsung Training?

5.6.1           A person deemed permanently medically unfit for physical or mental reasons by the Gyalsung Medical Board will be eligible to apply for Exemption from the Gyalsung Program.

5.7        How long can an individual defer Gyalsung Training? 

5.7.1           All deferments are granted yearly. In principle, the deferments will be given for a year.

5.7.2           However, if the circumstances for deferments remain valid; deferments can be renewed annually upon re-application by the eligible persons.

6.1        What is the purpose of a Medical Examination?

6.1.1           The purpose of Medical Examination is to ensure that eligible youth for Gyalsung training meet the medical conditions required for rigorous training program. Such examinations are done to ensure the well-being of the individual and others.  

6.2        What is included in the Gyalsung Medical Examination?

6.2.1           The Gyalsung Medical Examination is an elaborate examination consisting of medical and mental health screening.

6.2.2           The Medical Examination will include Personal Information, Medical History, Allergies, and General Examination (Height, Weight, BMI, etc.) Systematic Examination (Vision, Hearing, Speech, etc.) Diagnostic Investigation (Blood and Urine Test) and Drug Test.

6.2.3           Youths who fulfill the criteria established by the Gyalsung Medical Board will then be eligible to continue the pre-enlistment process.

6.3        Which are the hospitals assigned for the Medical Examination?

6.3.1           To be confirmed from Ministry of Health.

6.4        Can I conduct my medical examination in an address that is different from the address registered in the Gyalsung Profile. For example, my current address in the Gyalsung profile is Paro, but I am in Mongar during the medical examination period. Can I do the Medical Examination in Mongar?

6.4.1           Yes, you can book a medical examination in a place that may be different from the address in the profile. You will be given the option to choose your preferred date and hospital location while booking the slot for Medical Examination through the Gyalsung Portal.

6.4.2           You can log into your account through the Gyalsung portal and book the slot for Medical Examination.

6.5        I am a monk and age-eligible. Do I have to undergo a Medical Examination?

6.5.1           The Gyalsung Act exempts religious personalities from Gyalsung Training.

6.5.2           You need not have to undergo the Medical Examination as you will be exempted from the Gyalsung Training.

6.6        I am currently (2024) in Class 10, and I intend to apply for deferment after completing my registration for 2025 Training. Do I still need to proceed with Medical Examination?

6.6.1           No, you do not need to undergo the Medical Examination as Deferment is granted to all eligible youth who are studying in schools.

6.7        Do I need to undergo the Medical Examination if my Deferment application has been approved?

6.7.1           No, you need not have to undergo the Medical Examination if your Deferment application has been approved.

6.8        I am living abroad and eligible youth. Can I do the Medical Examination in a clinic or hospital abroad?

6.8.1           The Medical Examination has to be done in Bhutan as authorized by the Gyalsung Medical Board.

6.8.2           Those youth who are residing outside Bhutan can request for the Medical Examination to be done at a time closer to the commencement date of Gyalsung Training so that they do not have to travel to Bhutan just for Medical Examination.

6.9        I already have a Medical Certificate; do I still need to do the Gyalsung Medical Examination?

6.9.1           Gyalsung Medical Examination is different from the regular medical certification screening done at hospitals for employment, travel, or other purposes.

6.9.2           Gyalsung Medical Examination allows HQ to have a uniform and concise medical status of enlistee.

6.9.3           Thus, it is only with certification by the Gyalsung Medical Board that an enlistee can be enrolled in one of the Gyalsung Academies.

6.10     I suffered a fall and broke my arm/leg. This accident happened after I had completed my Medical Examination. What should I do?

6.10.1       You should write to registrar.ghq@ns.bt  or contact us at our Toll-Free no 2024.

6.10.2       The GHQ will have your medical condition verified by the Medical Board and if your condition is critical, you will be required to apply for Deferment or Exemption, as the case may be, through the Gyalsung Portal. 

7.1        When will I know my enlistment date?

7.1.1           You will receive an Enlistment Notice at least one month before your enlistment date.

7.1.2           This notice will inform you of your enlistment date, the academy, and the Cohort assigned.

7.1.3           This notice will also remind you of the things to bring on the first day and the other details needed essential for your parents/legal guardian.

7.2        Can I change my enlistment date?

7.2.1           We do not allow pre-enlistees to choose their enlistment date as the Academy has been programmed to receive a predetermined number of enlistees each day.

7.3        Can I go overseas before my enlistment date is due?

7.3.1           There is currently no restriction for overseas travel. However, eligible youth must ensure that they comply with the enlistment notice issued. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action.

7.3.2         You are advised not to travel overseas up to 5 days before the start of each Cohort’s start date.

8.1        Where are the Gyalsung Academies located or where will the Gyalsung Training be held?

8.1.1         The Gyalsung Academies are located in the following places:

8.1.1.1       Gyalpozhing in Mongar;

8.1.1.2       Jamtsholing in Samtse;

8.1.1.3       Khotokha in Wangduephodrang; and

8.1.1.4       Pemathang in Samdrup Jongkhar

8.2        Will Cadets get any allowance for undergoing Gyalsung Training?

8.2.1           The Academy will provide cadets with all the essentials ranging from clothing, and meals to accommodation.

8.2.2           Those cadets facing financial difficulties may approach his/her respective Company Commanders for action.

8.3        How will the Gyalsung Academies look after the safety and well-being of the youth during the training as many of the academies are in subtropical locations?

8.3.1           Academies are very mindful of the fact that the Gyalsung Training is focused on young people.

8.3.2           Cadets will receive adequate time for rest and recovery from each training conducted.

8.3.3           The training design has also considered the climate and weather conditions to ensure that outdoor and indoor activities are coordinated and sequenced to achieve the intent of the training and ensure safety.

8.4        Will there be an examination at the end of Gyalsung Training to award a pass or fail certificate? Will the Gyalsung Academies administer examinations to assess the performance of the Cadets?

8.4.1           There will be no formal examination at the end of the Gyalsung Training to pass or fail a Cadet.

8.4.2           However, there will be regular assessments of Cadets during the Training. The intention is not to pass or fail anyone but to ensure that all Cadets meet certain minimum standards of training.

8.4.3           Periodic assessments will also help to identify those Cadets who may require additional support/training to meet the objectives of Gyalsung.

8.4.4           The Gyalsung Academies may grant certificates of competencies in areas of specialized training if the trainee has attained a certain level of competencies determined by the Academy or fulfills any existing national, or international standards.

8.5        Will I be allowed to travel back to my hometown to attend religious rituals during my time at the Gyalsung Academy?

8.5.1           Cadets are not entitled to avail leave during their time at Gyalsung Academy except under extraordinary circumstances such as death or critical illness of a family member, or other circumstances as may be deemed necessary by the Commandant.

9.1        Gyalsups have the obligation for Gyalsung Duty till the age of 35 years. Does it mean that he or she cannot continue education or pursue employment till that age?

9.1.1           After the completion of Gyalsung Training, Gyalsups can go on to pursue further studies, training or seek employment.

9.1.2           However, Gyalsups can be called for Mandatory Duty when the Gyalsung Headquarters so requires.

9.1.3           Gyalsups must report for Mandatory Duty whenever it is mobilized.

9.2        Can a Gyalsung Reservist perform Volunteer Duty besides having the obligations only for Mandatory Duty?

9.2.1           The only mandatory obligation for a Gyalsung Reservist is to be called up for Mandatory Duty.

9.2.2           There will not be any restriction if a Gyalsung Reservist wants to volunteer during times of need.

9.3        If a Gyalsup is an employee, for example a teacher, will he or she attending Mandatory Duty be substituted by someone to ensure continuity of service?

9.3.1           Mandatory Duty would be mobilized only in exceptional circumstances or national emergencies.

9.3.2           Hence, the question of replacing or substituting a Gyalsup for continuity during times of emergencies (for example teaching or other services) may not arise.

9.3.3           Mandatory Duty is not conditional to the availability of substitutes.

10.1        A Gyalsung Reservist may choose to become a De-suup upon attaining the age of 45 years. Does this mean that he or she has to undergo training again to become a De-suup? Will he or she remain as a Gyalsup if one chooses not to become a De-suup?

10.1.1           The obligations of a Gyalsup end at the age of 45. If Gyalsup wishes to continue contributing through becoming a De-suup, there is no need for additional training as the Desuung will deploy these individuals based on the skill/training received during his/her tenure as Gyalsup. Desuung may however conduct ceremonies and sessions to induct the Gyalsups as a Desuup and familiarize them with the Desuung Values, Code of Conduct, Desuung organization, uniform, deployment SOPs, etc.

10.1.2           They may also conduct special courses as refresher training for skills important for Desuung deployment as determined by the Desuung HQ from time to time.

10.2        In the future, most people will be Gyalsups. Will Desuung be sustainable as a Training Program after Gyalsung is started?

10.2.1           Desuung is a voluntary training program. It will always be available for people who want to volunteer to serve the Tsawa-Sum.

10.2.2           Besides, Gyalsups can opt to become De-suups after the age of 45 years.

10.2.3           Therefore, Desuung will continue to remain a vibrant and relevant organization.

11.1        Do age eligible Bhutanese citizens who live or study abroad have to attend Gyalsung Training 2025?

11.1.1           Yes all Bhutanese irrespective of the place of residence shall be required to sign up and register in 2024 in order to attend Gyalsung Training in 2025.

11.1.2           Gyalsung is a fundamental duty required of all Bhutanese citizens. Therefore, irrespective of place of residence and education, all Bhutanese citizens who are age appropriate (born in 2006) shall require to register for Gyalsung and undergo Training in one of the four Gyalsung Academies in Bhutan.

11.1.3           Therefore, all Bhutanese who are born between 1st Jan and 31st December 2006 will have to sign up and register for Gyalsung Training 2025.

11.2        What is the equivalent education standard to match these overseas education standards to Bhutan’s Class 12?

11.2.1           In Bhutan, Class 12 is defined as a point in which a person completes 13 years of school education (excluding any time spent repeating). The completion of Class 12 or its equivalent is necessary for a person to be eligible to enter tertiary education (for college/university degrees or training diplomas).

11.2.2           This duration will be matched to other education systems to determine the equivalence to Class 12. Some of the equivalent qualifications of Class 12 equivalent in other education systems include A Levels, GSCE or IGCSE, International Baccalaureate Diploma, ICSE, CBSE etc.

11.3        How will Bhutanese who live or work abroad fulfill their duty obligation?

11.3.1           The Gyalsung Headquarters will work with our diplomatic missions as well as Bhutanese associations abroad to avail the voluntary services of such Gyalsups for various community needs and national events.

11.4        Part of the pre-enlistment process requires Medical Examination. Can these Medical Examinations be done in overseas medical centers? The cost of air travel will be high for families based overseas.

11.4.1           The facility for Medical Examination for Gyalsung will only be provided in the country. Therefore, for youth living abroad, the Medical Examination will be conducted closer to the date of enlistment.

11.5        Is there any correlation between Gyalsung and Citizenship? For example, will an eligible person have to forfeit their Citizenship for failing to undergo Gyalsung as required by law.

11.5.1           Gyalsung is a fundamental duty required of every Bhutanese as enshrined in Article 8.1 of the Constitution.

11.5.2           Therefore, Gyalsung Act of the Kingdom of Bhutan, 2022 mandates all age eligible Bhutanese to render national service. The law clearly outlines offences and penalties for failure to do so.

11.5.3           The law does not stipulate forfeiture of citizenship for failure to undergo Gyalsung. However, a person shall be liable for felony of the fourth degree (as per the Penal Code of Bhutan) for evading Gyalsung.

12.1        Does the completion of Gyalsung Training provide any assurance for further education or employment?

12.1.1           No, completion of Gyalsung Training does not provide such assurance.

Admission in colleges and tertiary institutes shall depend on academic performance in Class 12 or its equivalent examinations and such requirements are set independently by these institutes.

12.1.2           However, the discipline, knowledge and skills provided by Gyalsung Training will enhance capabilities of our youth. This will also enhance employability and success in further studies.

12.1.3           Wherever possible, Gyalsung Headquarters will try to provide guidance for those seeking employment or intending to start up self-employment opportunities.

12.2        Will there be refresher courses for Gyalsups?

12.2.1           Depending on the need, the Gyalsung HQ may organize refresher courses from time to time.

12.3        How will Cadets in the Academies be able to submit applications for college and/or participate in college admission interviews?

12.3.1           As part of the Gyalsung Training Transition services, Gyalsung HQ will help the Cadets/Gyalsars to prepare for life after Gyalsung training by linking them to the available opportunities. For those going to pursue further studies in Bhutan, Gyalsung HQ will work with the relevant tertiary education institutes to ensure their placement processes can be completed while they are undergoing Gyalsung Training.

12.3.2           In a similar manner, for Cadets/Gyalsars pursuing technical and vocational studies, Gyalsung HQ will work with the Ministry of Education and Skills Development for their placements and seamless transition.

12.3.3           Gyalsung HQ will also help those opting to study abroad, or applying for government scholarships by working with the relevant agencies so that Cadets/Gyalsars can fulfill the requirements while undergoing Gyalsung Training. For those opting to join the workforce or do their own business, Gyalsung HQ will link them to the opportunities provided by the Government through on-campus sensitization, recruitment etc.

13.1        What are the consequences if a Bhutanese whether living in Bhutan or living abroad evades Gyalsung Training?

13.1.1           A person who evades Gyalsung Training commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction for felony of the Fourth degree as per the Penal Code of Bhutan.

13.2        A person who evades Gyalsung Training is liable for fourth-degree felony upon conviction. What will happen if the parents or guardians prevent an eligible person from undergoing Gyalsung Training?

13.2.1           Parents or guardians preventing an eligible person from undergoing Gyalsung Training, would be preventing this eligible person from fulfilling his Constitutional duty, and therefore, will be liable for the same offence and penalty.

13.3        What are the consequences if a Bhutanese whether living in Bhutan or living abroad fails to register for Gyalsung Training?

13.3.1         As per the Gyalsung Act, a person who fails to register for Gyalsung Training within the stipulated 100 days commits an offence and shall be fined the daily minimum national wage rate up to a maximum of ninety days.

14.1        What is Gyalsung?

14.1.1           His Majesty the King announced the establishment of Gyalsung – Bhutan’s National Service – during the Royal Address at the 112th National Day on 17 December 2019.

14.1.2           His Majesty has envisioned the institution of the Gyalsung as a means to empower all Bhutanese youth to participate in the process of nation-building to further enhance the security, peace, unity, harmony and sovereignty of our nation.

14.1.3           The Gyalsung program aims to realize the above vision by enabling each and every Bhutanese youth to actualize their potential and become productive and worthy citizens in the service of the Tsawa-Sum.

14.1.4           The Gyalsung or National Service is a Fundamental Duty required of all Bhutanese citizens as enshrined in the Article 8.1 of the Constitution.  The Parliament of Bhutan enacted the Gyalsung Act on 11 November 2022.

14.2        What is Enlistment for Gyalsung training?

14.2.1           Enlistment is the completion of the process from Sign up and registration leading up to assignment of the individual to one of the five Gyalsung Academies thereby becoming a Gyalsar or NS Cadet.

14.3        Age Definition

14.3.1           To determine any specific age requirement under the Gyalsung Act or Rules, etc, the bracket of 1st January and 31st December of that particular year will be considered. For example, the Registration Notice for 2025 Batch of Gyalsung Training will apply to a person who is 18 years of age anytime between 1st January to 31st December, 2024.

14.4        What is Sign Up?

14.4.1           Sign up for National Service refers to the physical signing up or creating an account on the Gyalsung Portal by a person upon receiving the Initial Notice upon attaining 15 years of age.

14.4.2           15 years old who complete the signup will await 2nd notification (registration notice) to register for Gyalsung through the Gyalsung portal.

14.4.3           Initial Notice for Sign Up will be typically issued in the month of May of each year.

14.5        What is Registration for Gyalsung?

14.5.1           Registration for Gyalsung refers to the process in which youth after receiving Registration Notification, login to the Gyalsung Portal to furnish the personnel/family details required and also to select the date/location for Medical Examination, select the skilling preference etc.

14.5.2           In 2023, Registration will be compressed together with Sign Up. Youth eligible for Gyalsung in 2024 will receive a single Notification to complete his/her sign up and registration in a single step.

14.5.3           Youth can only apply for deferment, and exemption after completion of registration.

14.6        What is an Enlistment Notice?

14.6.1           Enlistment notice is a single notification, instruction or document that provide details of the following;

14.6.1.1       The Assigned Academy and Cohort,

14.6.1.2       Date to Report to the assigned Academy (if traveling directly) and

14.6.1.3       Date, time and venue for travel (if traveling with Gyalsung organized transportation)

14.6.1.4       Any other essential details determined time to time by the Gyalsung HQ.

14.7        What is Enlistment Day and Enlistment Date?

14.7.1           Enlistment Date should not be confused by Reporting Date.

14.7.2           Enlistment day generally refers to the first day in an Academy which may be marked by an enlistment ceremony such as taking the Pledge/Honour Code.

14.7.3           The Enlistment Date for Gyalsung Training, with exception for the 2024 Cohort shall be on the 1st March unless otherwise determined by the Gyalsung.

14.8        What does the term Cohort mean in the context of Gyalsung Training 2024?

14.8.1           A Cohort refers to one of the two groups a Cadet is assigned.

14.8.2           For example, Gyalsung Training 2024 Batch will be conducted in Two Cohorts. The Training for the First Cohort will be conducted form 5th September 2024 to 3rd December 2024 and second Cohort from 16th December 2024 to 15th March 2025.

14.8.3           A Cadet will be assigned a Cohort with the Enlistment Notice issued on 31st July 2024.