Bangkok: The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, in collaboration with Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram and the Foundation for the Propagation of Buddhism, has organized an ordination ceremony for highland residents in the year 2568. This event aims to offer merit to His Majesty the King, creating "developers in yellow robes" who will work to improve the quality of life in remote areas.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), presided over the laity, while Phra Dhammawachirathibodi, the abbot of Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram, presided over the monks during the annual ordination ceremony. The event was held to commemorate His Majesty the King's birthday anniversary on July 28, 2025. Attendees included Mr. Anukul Peedkaew, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, Mr. Kantapong Rangsrisawaeng, Director-General of the Department of Social Development and Welfare, executives, civil servants, officers of the Ministry, families, relatives of the ordained monks, and other devotees.
For the highland ordination ceremony of 2568, His Majesty the King bestowed a set of monk robes to the preceptor and authorized the preparation of 196 royal monk robes to be presented as a royal merit-making act, signifying a significant gesture of kindness.
Mr. Varawut emphasized that the ceremony is part of the Dhammajarik project, a collaboration involving the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, the Department of Social Development and Welfare, the Foundation for the Propagation of Buddhism to the Remote Areas, and Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram. The goal is to enhance the quality of life for highland residents while fostering loyalty to national institutions, religion, and the monarchy. This initiative aims to cultivate developers who will bring tangible improvements to highland communities.
Since 1965, the Dharma Travel Project has been active for 60 years, involving 12,167 highland residents who have devoted themselves to Buddhism. Of these, more than 595 have become Dharma Travelers, residing in 315 ashrams nationwide. These individuals contribute to local development by spreading the Dharma and improving community life. In 2025, 196 individuals from ethnic groups across 14 provinces are participating in the ordination ceremony. They will study various Buddhist teachings and disciplines, and those who disrobe will apply their knowledge to benefit their communities.
Over the past six decades, the Dhammajarik Project has received continuous support from the Royal Family, including scholarships and meditation halls. This royal grace supports the preservation of Buddhism in remote areas, making the Dhammajarik a "bridge of hearts" that unites religion, culture, and development.
The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security expressed gratitude to all participants in the Dharma Travel Group, which aims to ensure sustainable development for highland residents. The ministry hopes the newly ordained monks will gain education, embody Buddhist teachings, and contribute to the continuity of Buddhism, benefiting their families, society, and the nation.