Strengthening partnerships across trade, technology, and visionary initiatives
India’s Ambassador to Bhutan, Sudhakar Dalela, highlighted the robust bilateral relationship between India and Bhutan in 2024, marked by high-level exchanges and significant initiatives. The year saw visits from Bhutanese royalty and leadership to India and reciprocal engagements by Indian leaders, emphasizing mutual respect and collaboration. As both nations transition into 2025, this partnership is set to deepen, guided by visionary leadership on both sides, reported kuenselonline.com.
A Year of Renewed Engagement
The bilateral relationship witnessed unparalleled vigor, with multiple high-level visits underscoring the commitment to cooperation. Key highlights included His Majesty the King of Bhutan’s visit to India, where he discussed groundbreaking initiatives like the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Bhutan earlier in the year, where he was honored with the ‘Order of the Druk Gyalpo,’ further strengthened ties. Such exchanges have reinforced the shared vision for future collaboration.
Boosting Cross-Border Trade and Connectivity
Trade and connectivity initiatives took center stage in 2024. The designation of Darranga in Assam as an immigration checkpoint for third-country nationals is expected to enhance tourism and bolster regional economies. The Commerce Secretary-level meeting in September yielded agreements on trade infrastructure, new trade routes, and the facilitation of exports like arecanut and timber. The “Advantage Assam 2.0” summit in February 2025 is anticipated to open more avenues for investment and collaboration between the two nations.
Gelephu Mindfulness City: A Visionary Project
His Majesty the King’s vision for the Gelephu Mindfulness City represents a transformative approach to sustainable urban development. India has pledged to support this initiative through infrastructure projects like rail links and roads, fostering economic opportunities for the region. Indian businesses have shown keen interest in participating in GMC’s development, emphasizing the project’s potential to redefine economic and cultural ties.
Expanding Development and Technology Partnerships
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India’s development assistance of Nu. 100 billion for Bhutan’s 13th Five Year Plan (FYP) highlights the commitment to shared progress
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This includes projects in education, infrastructure, and technology. After the successful launch of the India-Bhutan Satellite in 2022, the two nations are exploring collaborations in fintech, artificial intelligence, and digital public infrastructure
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Partnerships with institutions like IIT Guwahati aim to enhance STEM education and research capabilities in Bhutan
Clean Energy and Hydropower Collaboration
Hydropower remains a cornerstone of India-Bhutan cooperation. The synchronization of two units of the Punatsangchhu-II project in 2024 underscores ongoing efforts in renewable energy. The joint vision statement on energy partnership aims to expand collaboration in clean energy, benefiting both economies and enhancing energy security. India’s commitment to completing the Punatsangchhu-I project in a technically safe manner reflects the dedication to advancing this partnership.
Youth Engagement and Cultural Exchange
People-to-people connections form the bedrock of India-Bhutan relations. Initiatives like the Gyalsung National Service Programme have received Indian support through training and infrastructure development. Cultural and spiritual ties were further celebrated through events by the Nehru Wangchuck Cultural Centre, fostering dialogue in arts, wellness, and heritage. The upcoming opening of Bhutan’s Lhakhang in Rajgir, Bihar, will symbolize the enduring friendship between the nations.
A Future of Endless Possibilities
Ambassador Dalela emphasized that India-Bhutan ties have evolved to meet the aspirations of a younger, ambitious generation. Traditional areas of cooperation in energy and development are now complemented by emerging fields like space, digital technology, and innovation. This adaptability ensures that the partnership continues to thrive, unlocking immense potential for shared prosperity.
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