Bhutan is preparing to welcome Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week, marking his fourth visit to our Kingdom since 2014. The two-day trip—though not yet formally announced by India’s Ministry of External Affairs—signals an important moment in the deep-rooted friendship between our two countries, with a focus on energy partnership and transformative connectivity projects.
The visit coincides with the auspicious 70th birth anniversary of our beloved former King, His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the revered Fourth Druk Gyalpo. Among the key highlights will be the inauguration of the Punatsangchhu-II Hydropower Project, a 1,020 MW milestone co-financed by India through grants and concessional loans. Operational since earlier this year, the project promises to nearly double Bhutan’s electricity capability—solidifying our nation’s position as a leading exporter of clean energy to India and boosting revenue flows significantly.
Prime Minister Modi is also expected to review progress on two new cross-border railway links being jointly developed by India and Bhutan. The Kokrajhar–Gelephu line will connect Assam to southern Bhutan, while the Banarhat–Samtse line will link West Bengal to Bhutan’s growing industrial region in the southwest. Announced in September, the projects cover 69 km and 20 km respectively and aim to redefine trade and mobility across our borders.
The Kokrajhar–Gelephu line, which will pass through six stations and more than 90 bridges, carries a budget of over Nu 4,000 crore and is expected to be completed in four years. Its terminus, Gelephu, is central to the visionary Gelephu Mindfulness City—an economic and spiritual hub conceptualized by His Majesty The King. Meanwhile, the Banarhat–Samtse line, with its focus on freight, will support industrial towns in Samtse district, facilitating the cost-efficient export of commodities including quartzite, dolomite, and ferro-silicon.
India’s Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, has highlighted the broader benefits of these projects—not just for bilateral trade, but for the economic upliftment of border communities on both sides. As Bhutan continues to strengthen its connectivity and trade infrastructure, such initiatives represent a shift toward realizing long-term national goals under the auspices of Gross National Happiness.
India remains Bhutan’s largest development partner, offering unwavering support through successive Five Year Plans. Under Bhutan’s current 13th Plan (2024-29), India has pledged Nu 10,000 crore, reaffirming its role in community development and national growth.
With Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay’s two visits to New Delhi earlier this year, both governments have reaffirmed the value of regular engagement and a shared commitment to strong ties rooted in mutual respect.
As Bhutan looks forward to welcoming Prime Minister Modi once again, the occasion stands as a testament to the enduring relationship between our nations—one that blends historical connection with modern aspirations, powered by trust, respect, and a shared vision for a prosperous region.
