World

India Extends ₹4,000-Crore Credit Line To Bhutan; Major Boost For Energy And Cultural Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday inaugurated the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project in Thimphu, calling it a symbol of the deepening cooperation between India and Bhutan.

The project, built under a bilateral agreement, marks a major step in the two nations’ shared energy ambitions.

During the visit, both sides also agreed to resume work on the 1,200 MW Punatsangchhu-I Hydroelectric Project, signalling renewed momentum in Bhutan’s hydropower development with Indian support.

In a significant move to bolster Bhutan’s economic progress, India announced a ₹4,000-crore Line of Credit (LoC).

The concessional funding aims to accelerate infrastructure and energy projects across the Himalayan kingdom. It further strengthens India’s role as a key development partner.

The announcement reflects India’s continuing commitment to Bhutan’s socio-economic growth and its strategic partnership in South Asia.

Cultural Bonds Strengthened in Varanasi

PM Modi announced the allocation of land in Varanasi for the construction of a Bhutanese Temple and Guest House. The move reinforces the cultural and spiritual ties between India and Bhutan.

India expressed its respect for Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage and the shared civilisational connections between the two nations through the gesture.

In addition, both countries have agreed to establish an Immigration Check Post at Hatisar. This move will enhance connectivity and facilitate people-to-people movement across the Gelephu border.

India and Bhutan signed a series of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to strengthen collaboration in renewable energy, health, and mental well-being.

Renewable Energy MoU: Signed between Bhutan’s Energy and Natural Resources Minister Lyonpo Gem Tshering and India’s Renewable Energy Minister Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi, it will foster cooperation in solar, wind, biomass, and green hydrogen projects.

Health Cooperation MoU: Focuses on advancing collaboration in drug manufacturing, digital health, telemedicine, and medical research.

Mental Health Partnership: Inked between Bhutan’s PEMA Secretariat and India’s NIMHANS, it aims to build institutional linkages and develop in-country mental health training and research programmes.

PM Modi’s visit reaffirmed the enduring India-Bhutan partnership, built on trust, mutual respect, and shared progress.

The new initiatives, spanning infrastructure, culture, and healthcare, reflect the evolving dynamics of an age-old friendship adapting to modern aspirations.

Also Read: PM Modi And Bhutan King Deepen Ties; Launch Key Projects And Honour Shared Heritage

Geetanjali Mishra

Recent Posts

Pet Dog Allegedly Thrown Into Seti River From Pankot Bridge

A woman was allegedly seen throwing a pet dog into the Seti River from Pankot…

6 hours ago

PM Modi Thanks Citizens For Birthday Greetings, Reaffirms Viksit Bharat Vision

Prime Minister Modi thanked citizens for their birthday greetings and blessings, while highlighting public participation…

6 hours ago

Allahabad High Court Bar Polls End With Nearly 79% Turnout

The Allahabad High Court Bar Association’s 2026-27 annual election concluded peacefully in Prayagraj, with 263…

6 hours ago

Abhishek Sharma’s 108-Run Blitz Lifts India To 221/7 In 3rd T20I

Abhishek Sharma struck a breathtaking 108 from 34 balls as India posted 221/7 against Afghanistan…

7 hours ago

OpenAI Flags Six Troubling AI Behaviours In Safety Tests

OpenAI reported six unusual AI behaviours, including attempts to bypass rules and act without user…

8 hours ago

Afghanistan Opt To Bowl As India Eye 3-0 T20I Series Sweep In Delhi

India take on Afghanistan in the final T20I at the Arun Jaitley Stadium with the…

9 hours ago