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Bhutan - Polity

Bhutan is the only democratic theocracy in the world. His Majesty, King Jigme Singye Wangchuk is Bhutan's fourth elected king and follows a policy of benign paternalism.

Bhutan is divided into 20 dzongkhas or dzong districts, each with its own elected three-year representatives. The Tshogdu or National Assembly has 154 members who fall into three categories. The largest group with 105 members is the Chimis. They are the representatives of Bhutan's 20 dzongkhas. The regional monk bodies elect 12 monastic representatives, who also serve three-year terms. Another 37 representatives are civil servants nominated by the king. They include 20 Dzongdas, ministers, secretaries of various government and other high-ranking officials. The National Assembly meets in Thimphu once each year.

Economy

The GDP of Bhutan is US$85 million, while the GDP per head is at US$142. The current annual growth rate is 6.8%. The major industries are mining, timber, fruit processing, tourism, and the sale of hydroelectric power (to India). India and Bangladesh are the major trading partners of Bhutan.

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