Until at least 1980, the country of Bhutan had no television. This remote Himalayan kingdom, known for its stunning landscapes and commitment to Gross National Happiness, was one of the last countries in the world to introduce television broadcasting. The government of Bhutan believed that television could have a negative impact on the country's culture and traditions, so they chose to delay its introduction for as long as possible.

It wasn't until 1999 that Bhutan finally allowed television to be introduced to the country. Even then, restrictions were put in place to limit the amount of foreign programming that could be shown. The government wanted to ensure that Bhutanese culture was not overwhelmed by outside influences, so they carefully curated the television content that was allowed to be broadcast.

Despite these restrictions, the introduction of television had a significant impact on Bhutan. It allowed the country's citizens to access information and entertainment from around the world, broadening their perspectives and exposing them to new ideas. Television also played a role in shaping Bhutanese society, influencing everything from fashion trends to political discourse.

Today, television is a ubiquitous part of life in Bhutan. Most households have at least one television set, and the country has a thriving television industry that produces a wide range of programming, from news and documentaries to dramas and reality shows. Television has become an important tool for educating the public, raising awareness about social issues, and promoting Bhutanese culture on a global scale.

Despite the challenges that came with introducing television to Bhutan, it has ultimately been a positive development for the country. It has helped to connect Bhutan with the rest of the world, while also providing a platform for the country to share its unique culture and values with a global audience. Television may have been a late addition to Bhutan, but it has become an integral part of the country's identity and communication with the world.

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