Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Bhutan on Tuesday for a two-day state visit aimed at deepening the “special ties of friendship and cooperation” between India and the Himalayan nation. The visit underscores the time-tested partnership between the two countries and comes at a momentous occasion—the 70th birth anniversary celebrations of Bhutan’s fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, as well as the inauguration of the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project, a major milestone in the Indo-Bhutanese energy partnership.
Upon arrival at Paro Airport, PM Modi was welcomed by Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, marking the beginning of a visit that combines ceremonial, diplomatic, and strategic engagements. Modi described the warm reception as a reflection of the deep-rooted friendship and cooperation that India shares with Bhutan, emphasizing the mutual trust, goodwill, and understanding that have become the hallmark of bilateral relations.
Inauguration of Punatsangchhu-II: A Milestone in Energy Cooperation
One of the key highlights of PM Modi’s visit is the inauguration of the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project, a 1,020-megawatt power facility jointly developed by India and Bhutan. Modi described the event as another major milestone in the countries’ successful energy partnership, which has been a cornerstone of bilateral cooperation for decades.
The Punatsangchhu-II project, located in central Bhutan, represents a strategic collaboration in renewable energy, providing Bhutan with a sustainable source of electricity while also enabling India to tap into hydropower resources to meet its growing energy needs. The project is part of a broader framework in which India has been actively involved in funding, constructing, and operating several hydropower projects in Bhutan, reflecting the countries’ shared commitment to clean energy and regional development.
Modi will jointly inaugurate the project with King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, further reinforcing the ceremonial significance of the event. Speaking ahead of his visit, Modi highlighted that the hydropower initiative is not only a technical or economic achievement but also a symbol of the enduring strategic partnership between the two nations.
Celebrating Bhutan’s Fourth King and Spiritual Ties
The visit coincides with the 70th birthday celebrations of His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, whose reign is credited with modernizing Bhutan while preserving its unique cultural heritage and values. PM Modi expressed his honour in joining the Bhutanese people in celebrating the king’s milestone, highlighting the deep historical and cultural ties that bind the two nations.
In addition to political and energy-related engagements, the Prime Minister’s visit also coincides with the Global Peace Prayer Festival, organized by the Royal Government of Bhutan. During this festival, the sacred Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha, sent from India, are being publicly displayed. Modi will offer prayers at Tashichhodzong, a significant religious and administrative site in Thimphu, underscoring the spiritual and civilizational connections shared between India and Bhutan.
The inclusion of spiritual observances alongside strategic and economic discussions reflects India’s broader approach to its relationship with Bhutan, which blends diplomacy, development, and shared cultural heritage. Modi has often emphasized that such people-to-people and civilizational ties strengthen trust and provide a durable foundation for cooperation in all sectors.
Bilateral Talks and Strategic Engagements
During the two-day visit, PM Modi will hold extensive talks with both King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. These discussions are expected to cover a wide range of topics, from bilateral trade and economic cooperation to regional security and environmental sustainability.
India and Bhutan share a unique partnership model characterized by mutual trust, respect, and a commitment to shared prosperity. The talks are likely to explore ways to expand cooperation in multiple sectors, including energy, infrastructure, education, and regional connectivity. Both sides are expected to exchange views on regional and global developments, ensuring that the partnership continues to evolve in alignment with changing geopolitical and economic realities.
One of the strategic aspects of the visit includes discussions on cross-border connectivity projects. India recently announced plans to construct the first two cross-border railway links with Bhutan, at an estimated cost of ₹4,033 crore. These projects aim to enhance trade, tourism, and economic integration between the countries and are part of India’s broader efforts to promote regional connectivity in South Asia.
Economic and Development Support
India has been a significant development partner for Bhutan, providing both financial and technical support across various sectors. The Indian government funds a substantial portion of Bhutan’s five-year plans, including a commitment of ₹10,000 crore for the 13th Five-Year Plan (2024-2029). Additionally, India has contributed ₹750 crore for Bhutan’s Economic Stimulus Programme and ₹100 crore as a programme grant to support development initiatives.
The energy partnership, exemplified by projects like Punatsangchhu-II, is a key pillar of India’s Neighbourhood First Policy, which aims to strengthen ties with neighboring countries through cooperation, development support, and sustainable initiatives. The collaboration ensures that Bhutan can meet its domestic energy requirements while exporting surplus electricity to India, creating a mutually beneficial economic relationship.
Strengthening People-to-People Ties
Apart from political and economic engagements, the visit also emphasizes the importance of people-to-people connections. Both countries have maintained strong social, educational, and cultural exchanges, which have helped sustain a robust and enduring bilateral relationship. The public celebration of the king’s 70th birthday, participation in spiritual events, and joint ceremonies such as the inauguration of the hydropower project highlight the multi-dimensional nature of the partnership.
PM Modi has often underscored that the trust and goodwill shared between India and Bhutan serve as a model for friendly relations between neighboring countries. By engaging in these high-profile events, the visit aims to reinforce these bonds, promote cultural understanding, and encourage collaborative initiatives in multiple spheres.
Regional and Strategic Significance
The timing and nature of PM Modi’s visit carry broader regional significance. Bhutan, nestled strategically in the Himalayas, shares borders with India and China, making it an important partner in regional security, trade, and infrastructure development. Strengthening India-Bhutan ties through such high-level engagements serves not only to deepen bilateral cooperation but also to enhance regional stability.
Through energy projects, infrastructure investments, and cultural diplomacy, India is reinforcing its role as Bhutan’s trusted neighbor and development partner. The visit also provides an opportunity to align strategies on shared regional challenges, including climate change, sustainable development, and disaster management, areas where both countries face common vulnerabilities.
Looking Ahead: Deepening Cooperation
PM Modi’s two-day visit to Bhutan reflects India’s continued commitment to strengthening the unique, multi-faceted relationship with the Himalayan kingdom. By combining ceremonial, spiritual, economic, and strategic engagements, the visit seeks to consolidate gains in energy cooperation, enhance infrastructure connectivity, and celebrate shared cultural heritage.
The inauguration of the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project, in particular, highlights India’s role in supporting Bhutan’s sustainable development while simultaneously meeting its own energy requirements. The visit also reinforces India’s Neighbourhood First policy, demonstrating how proactive diplomacy, investment, and collaboration can yield enduring benefits for both nations.
In essence, the visit exemplifies a holistic approach to bilateral relations, combining diplomacy, development, culture, and strategy, and sets the stage for continued progress in India-Bhutan ties for years to come.
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