Bhutan's early history is obscure but, since at least the 12th century, it has been colonised by a succession of rival Buddhist religious orders from Tibet with the currently ruling Drukpa sect becoming established in the 17th century following a dispute in Lhasa with the Gelugpa sect headed by the Dalai Lama. Bhutanese society is divided into several ethnic groups. They are commonly referred to as the southern Bhutanese. In 1999, Bhutan s population was estimated to be 2.1 million. Economy Bhutan is one of the poorest countries in the world and heavily aid-dependent, with India the largest bilateral donor.
Economic reforms are, however, progressing as a corollary to political reforms.
In 1999, the Government released its 2020 vision statement, which outlined Bhutan s significant development achievements since the 1960s when the average life expectancy of a Bhutanese citizen was 35 years. Bhutans vision statement is set against the backdrop of preserving its strong Buddhist ideals, the monarchy as the Head of State and a fierce desire to maintain independence. The 2020 vision and the economic reforms taking place are generally sensible and appear to be paying some dividends. Potentially lucrative sectors for future development include hydro-electric power, forestry and tourism. Major exports include cement, cardamom, fruit, vegetables and timber products, most of which go to India.