Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Thimphu on a two‑day state visit that highlights the deep Buddhist ties between India and Bhutan. The trip starts on Tuesday and runs through Wednesday, coinciding with a big exhibition of the Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha that India is showing in Bhutan.
During his stay, Modi will pray at Tashichhodzong, the historic fortress in Thimphu, and join the Royal Government of Bhutan’s Global Peace Prayer Festival. The festival brings Buddhists from both countries together for a day of unity and prayer, symbolizing the shared spiritual heritage that runs through both nations.
Buddhism is a cornerstone of national identity in both India and Bhutan. Many Bhutanese pilgrims travel to major Indian sites such as Bodh Gaya, Rajgir, Nalanda and Sarnath each year, and Indian monks visit Bhutan’s monasteries. This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties, and a new Bhutanese temple in Rajgir was built to celebrate the occasion. The temple’s holy statue, that of Zhabdrung—Bhutan’s founding figure—was also displayed in Bhutan with help from Kolkata’s Asiatic Society.
Modi’s visit follows a pattern of high‑level ties. He first visited Bhutan right after taking office in 2014, returned in 2019 for a state visit, and came again in March 2024. In that March trip, he was awarded the Order of the Druk Gyalpo, the highest civilian honor in Bhutan. It was the first time a foreign leader received the award, underscoring Modi’s role in deepening India‑Bhutan friendship and boosting India’s global influence.
While in Bhutan, Modi and King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck will also open the 1020‑MW Punatsangchhu‑II hydroelectric project. This joint venture by India and Bhutan is part of a broader strategy to build renewable energy and support regional development.
The visit will include a celebration of the 70th birthday of former King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the fourth monarch of Bhutan, reflecting on the shared history and future cooperation between the two countries.
Around 50,000 Indians work in Bhutan today, contributing to major sectors like hydropower, infrastructure, education and trade. Their presence highlights the strong people‑to‑people link that underpins the friendly relationship between India and Bhutan.
Source: ianslive
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