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NEW DELHI, Sunday (AFP) Bhutanese parliamentarians have suggested military training for all able-bodied citizens amid fears of conflict with Indian separatists holed up in the south of the Himalayan kingdom, state media reported.

The Kuensel newspaper reported on its website that numerous members of the national assembly have proposed Swiss-style militia training for Bhutanese so they would be ready to head to sensitive areas or guard vital installations. It said an assembly representative from the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry recommended a three-month training course or all men and women aged 18 to 50 and offered for the business community to bear the expenses. "When the country is passing through a crucial time, we cannot wait for a militia to be formed. I suggest that the military be strengthened," the business delegate was quoted saying.

But Foreign Minister Jigme Thinley was hesitant. "When it comes to safeguarding our country we have always been ready. There is no need to conscript people for militia. If we are needed, we will all come forward," Thinley said.

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