India-Bhutan Relations – Strengthening Timeless Ties

Indian-Bhutan Relations Latest News

• The Prime Minister of  India’s two-day state visit to Bhutan marks a momentous occasion — the 70th birthday celebrations of the Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck (K4), father of the current monarch King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. 
• The visit reaffirms the India-Bhutan special partnership, rooted in mutual trust, shared spiritual heritage, and developmental cooperation under India’s Neighbourhood First Policy.

India-Bhutan Relations – Historical Depth and Enduring Friendship

• Early foundations:
  • The Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, ascended the throne in 1972 at age 16, continuing his father’s policy of close ties with India.
  • Appointed Chairman of Bhutan’s Planning Commission (1971), he coordinated the first Five-Year Plans modeled on India’s planning framework with Indian support since 1961.
  • Pegged Bhutan’s currency (Ngultrum) to the Indian Rupee at a 1:1 rate (1974), ensuring stable bilateral trade and financial integration.
• Diplomatic and global outreach:
  • Expanded Bhutan’s diplomatic footprint while keeping India informed — joining the UN (1971) and SAARC (1985) as a founding member.
  • Initiated border talks with China (1984) in consultation with Indian leadership, reflecting strategic transparency and coordination.
• Hydropower cooperation – The economic backbone:
  • Laid the foundation for Bhutan’s hydropower partnership with India — the Chukha (336 MW), Kurichhu (60 MW), and Tala (1,020 MW) projects.
  • These projects, built on a grant-loan model (60:40), became the bedrock of Bhutan’s export revenue and India’s clean energy import.
• Security cooperation:
  • Spearheaded Operation All Clear (2003) with Indian support to eliminate insurgent camps of ULFA, NDFB, and KLO from Bhutanese soil.
  • Strengthened defence and border cooperation, marking a milestone in regional security synergy.
• Democratic transition and treaty modernisation:
  • Abdicated the throne in 2006, paving the way for Bhutan’s democratic transformation (2008).
  • Oversaw the India-Bhutan Friendship Treaty (2007), replacing the 1949 provision that Bhutan would be “guided by India” with mutual cooperation and sovereign equality.

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Indian PM’s Visit – Renewing Partnership and Vision

• Key events and significance:
  • He attended the 70th birthday celebrations of K4, recognising his pivotal role in shaping India-Bhutan ties.
  • Inaugurated the 1,020-MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, a symbol of long-standing energy partnership.
  • Announced a ₹4,000 crore concessional credit line for new energy projects.
  • Reaffirmed India’s ₹10,000 crore assistance under Bhutan’s 12th Five-Year Plan for development across infrastructure, agriculture, finance, and healthcare.
• New frontiers of cooperation:
  • Expansion of collaboration in fin-tech, innovation, entrepreneurship, and space technology.
  • Boosting rail connectivity — linking Gelephu and Samtse with India’s railway network to enhance trade access.
  • Strengthening border infrastructure and inland waterways for regional integration.
  • Finalisation of three MoUs in renewable energy, healthcare, and mental health services.
• Cultural and spiritual ties:
  • Indian PM offered prayers at the Tashichhodzong Monastery to the sacred Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha, underscoring shared Buddhist heritage.
  • Participation in the Global Peace Prayer Festival symbolised India-Bhutan’s shared commitment to peace and harmony.

Bhutan’s Visionary Leadership – The Fourth King’s Legacy

• Gross National Happiness (GNH):
  • Conceptualised the globally recognised philosophy of GNH, redefining development as human well-being beyond GDP.
  • Advocated balance between economic growth, cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, and good governance.
• Guiding hand in modern Bhutan:
  • Even post-abdication, K4 continues to be a strategic advisor for both the Bhutanese monarchy and government.
  • His leadership legacy forms the bedrock of India-Bhutan bilateral relations, with continued engagement by both nations’ policymakers.

Way Forward to Further Strengthen India-Bhutan Relations

• Deepening connectivity: Fast-track the Gelephu-Samtse rail links and border infrastructure to enhance trade and mobility.
• Energy diversification: Expand cooperation in solar, hydro, and green hydrogen under the India-Bhutan Energy Compact.
• Digital integration: Implement UPI integration and promote digital public infrastructure in Bhutan.
• Regional stability: Maintain coordinated security frameworks against trans-border threats.
• Cultural diplomacy: Use shared Buddhist heritage to promote people-to-people connect and regional soft power.

Conclusion

• The Indian PM’s visit to Bhutan not only commemorates the visionary leadership of K4 but also rejuvenates the multidimensional India-Bhutan partnership. 
• From hydropower and connectivity to innovation and spiritual bonds, the relationship epitomises India’s Neighbourhood First and Act East policies.
• As both nations embrace new technological and developmental frontiers, their enduring friendship continues to stand as a model of mutual trust, respect, and shared prosperity in South Asia.

Source: ET | IE | IE