The North News
New Delhi, November 12
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to Bhutan’s 13th Five Year Plan, including the Economic Stimulus Programme, during his two-day state visit to the Himalayan nation from November 11–12. The visit underscored the enduring friendship between the two neighbours, rooted in mutual trust, development cooperation, and shared cultural heritage.
In a joint statement, Modi assured full Indian support for King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck’s vision for the Gelephu Mindfulness City, announcing a new Immigration Check Post at Hatisar, Assam, to facilitate smoother movement for investors and visitors. The Bhutanese side expressed gratitude for India’s sustained assistance in implementing key projects and advancing national development goals.
Prime Minister Modi, who attended the 70th Birth Anniversary of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo as Guest of Honour, also participated in the Global Peace Prayer Festival in Thimphu, where sacred Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha from India were displayed for public veneration. Both leaders inaugurated the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, symbolising decades of successful cooperation in hydropower. They also agreed to expedite the completion of the 1,200 MW Punatsangchhu-I Project, which will become the largest joint energy project upon completion.
India announced a ₹40 billion concessional Line of Credit to support Bhutan’s energy infrastructure, while both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cross-border connectivity through new rail links, check posts, and logistics hubs. Bhutan appreciated India’s initiatives to ensure the uninterrupted supply of essential goods and fertilisers, and both nations noted progress in new sectors such as STEM education, fintech, and space cooperation, including the upcoming Phase II of the UPI system for digital payments by Bhutanese travellers in India.
Three key Memoranda of Understanding were signed between India and Bhutan in renewable energy, healthcare, and mental health cooperation.
