India said it will keep backing Bhutan’s 13th Five‑Year Plan and the Economic Stimulus Programme, pressing on toward key development goals and sustainable growth across sectors. The statement came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi ended a two‑day state visit to the Himalayan kingdom.
During the visit, Modi praised Bhutan’s progress on projects underway under the 13th Plan and reaffirmed India’s support for the king’s vision for the new Gelephu Mindfulness City. He also announced a new Immigration Check Post at Hatisar, Assam, to help investors and visitors move more easily to Gelephu. Bhutan’s king thanked India for helping build the Gyalsung academies.
The leaders agreed to restart work on the main dam of the 1200‑MW Punatsangchhu‑I hydroelectric project, the largest joint renewable‑energy venture between the two countries. They also welcomed active participation by Indian companies in Bhutan’s hydropower initiatives.
India will grant a concessional line of credit worth Rs 40 billion to fund Bhutan’s energy projects, and both sides stressed the need to improve border connectivity. They signed a Memorandum of Understanding to set up integrated check posts and boost cross‑border rail links—Gelephu to Kokrajhar and Samtse to Banarhat—which are slated for completion in September 2025. A Steering Committee will drive the rail project forward.
In addition to energy, the PM’s visit produced MoUs on renewable energy cooperation, health and medicine between the ministries of both governments, and on building institutional linkages with the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences.
India also committed to a steady supply of essential commodities and fertilizers. The first consignment of Indian fertilizers arrived under the new arrangement, strengthening the two countries’ close economic ties.
Source: ianslive
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