Image Source: NDTV
PM Narendra Modi’s anticipated visit to Bhutan, initially delayed due to adverse weather conditions on Thursday, finally materialized on March 22, 2024, as he touched down in Paro for a 24-hour State visit. Welcomed with fervor, including a ceremonial Guard of Honour, Modi’s itinerary promises a significant highlight: the conferral of Bhutan’s highest civilian accolade, the Order of the Druk Gyalpo, a recognition of his relentless efforts in fortifying the Indo-Bhutanese relationship. This visit marks Modi’s maiden voyage since the award’s inception in 2021, with the honor set to be bestowed by Bhutan’s monarch, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, as an acknowledgment of India’s pivotal role, particularly evident in the provision of 500,000 doses of Covid-19 vaccines in 2021.
The timing of Modi’s visit, coming swiftly on the heels of Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay’s recent trip to Delhi, underscores a departure from convention, as bilateral visits post-election scheduling typically taper off. Nevertheless, this gesture underscores India’s unwavering commitment to Bhutan and amplifies the government’s overarching “neighbourhood first” doctrine.
Upon his arrival in Thimphu, Modi is slated for an elaborate ceremonial reception at the Tashichhodzong complex, followed by an audience with the Bhutanese King and an esteemed banquet in his honor. Subsequent engagements include substantive discussions with Prime Minister Tobgay, with a focus on signing mutually beneficial memorandums of understanding (MoUs), including ones on energy conservation and food safety standards. The inauguration of the “Mother and Child Hospital” in Thimphu underscores India’s ongoing support for healthcare infrastructure development in Bhutan.
Beyond bilateral relations, the talks are poised to delve into Bhutan’s boundary negotiations with China, particularly spotlighting contentious areas like Doklam and Sakteng. The recent emergence of boundary disputes in Sakteng raises concerns of Beijing’s strategic maneuvering to exert pressure on Bhutan, potentially complicating the already delicate talks.
Reports suggest India’s cautious approach, evidenced by the suspension of road construction in certain areas at Bhutan’s request, reflecting a nuanced strategy to navigate the evolving dynamics. With Bhutan’s new government, led by PM Tobgay, assuming office in January, the trajectory of future talks with China remains a focal point of observation.
In essence, Modi’s trip to Bhutan symbolizes more than a diplomatic gesture; it embodies a reaffirmation of enduring ties rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and a collective vision for a prosperous future. As the wheels of diplomacy turn and dialogues ensue, the Modi administration’s proactive engagement underscores India’s unwavering commitment to fostering regional stability, economic growth, and societal well-being.
Table of Contents
PM’s relation with Bhutan
After being sworn into office in 2014, the Prime Minister embarked on his inaugural state visit to Bhutan. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, his commitment to international cooperation was evident through initiatives like the Vaccine Maitri scheme. This scheme exemplified the Prime Minister’s dedication to global health and diplomacy by providing vaccines to countries in need. Bhutan, as the destination of his first official visit, underscored the importance of strong bilateral relations and regional cooperation.
Through this visit, the Prime Minister emphasized the significance of Bhutan as a valued partner and highlighted the shared values and objectives between the two nations. This diplomatic endeavor not only strengthened ties but also showcased India’s leadership role in addressing pressing global issues, particularly amidst the unprecedented health crisis.
India stands as Bhutan’s foremost trading ally, with an exponential surge witnessed in non-hydropower trade over the past decade, soaring from US$ 484 million to US$ 1.606 billion, as per government data reported by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Highlighting the depth of bilateral cooperation, India’s contributions have been instrumental, constituting a staggering 73% of Bhutan’s total external grant component during the previous 12th Five Year Plan, amounting to Rs 5000 Cr. (approximately US $600 mn).
Furthermore, the forthcoming discussions in Thimphu are poised to delve into Bhutan’s developmental trajectory outlined in its 13th Five Year Plan (FYP 2024-2029). India’s commitment to fostering Bhutan’s progress is underscored by its pledge of developmental assistance across various sectors. This assistance is strategically tailored to bolster infrastructure development, enhance connectivity encompassing road, rail, air, and digital networks, and bolster critical sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, skill development, and cultural preservation.
In particular, India’s support for Bhutan’s ambitious project, the “Gelephu Mindfulness City,” slated to be established along Bhutan’s southern border with Assam, epitomizes the shared vision for regional prosperity. Prime Minister Modi’s expressed appreciation for this initiative reflects the mutual aspiration for enhanced economic collaboration, paving the way for robust economic and investment linkages between India and Bhutan.
