Her Majesty Gyalyum Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, Hon’ble Founding President of the Tarayana Foundation, launched the special cover page stamp produced in collaboration with Bhutan Post, honouring His Majesty the Great Fourth Druk Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuck as the Father of Gross National Happiness and a global champion of environmental conservation.
His Majesty’s visionary leadership taught us that true development must walk hand in hand with the care of nature. This philosophy is beautifully reflected in the stamp, which features the critically endangered Lady’s Slipper Orchid (Paphiopedilum fairrieanum), one of the world’s rarest orchids. While fewer than 50 plants are recorded globally, over 100 were discovered thriving in and around Rukha Village, Wangduephodrang, within Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, making it one of the most critical sites in the world for the species’ survival.
Rukha Village is home to the Olep community, whose way of life is guided by harmony with nature and the balance of Jung-Waa-Zhi-earth, water, fire, and air. Their stewardship has safeguarded forests, wildlife, and rare plants for generations. At the heart of the village lies Jangchub Sempai Lingka, a conservation garden dedicated to honouring the 70th Birth Anniversaries of His Majesty the Great Fourth, His Holiness the Je Khenpo, and Her Majesty Gyalyum Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, in recognition of their enduring contributions to environmental conservation and holistic rural development.
This cover page stamp is more than a tribute; it is a powerful message of His Majesty’s legacy, community stewardship, and Bhutan’s unwavering commitment to people-centred conservation and holistic development.
The launch was attended by His Eminence Vairochana Rinpoche Ngawang Jigme Jigten Wangchuk, Her Royal Highness Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck, His Serene Highness Dasho Jigje Singye Wangchuck, the Hon’ble Prime Minister, ministers, dignitaries, and guests from the government, international community, artisan communities, and the tourism sector.
When people respect nature, both can thrive.