What Projects Did India and Bhutan Approve Together?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
India and Bhutan have come together to approve 297 impactful community development projects, enhancing rural infrastructure and livelihoods. This partnership showcases their commitment to mutual growth and cooperation, which is vital for the development of both nations.
Key Takeaways
- Approval of 297 HICDPs by India and Bhutan.
- Projects valued at Nu. 4.06 billion (Rs 406 crore).
- Focus on rural infrastructure and community development.
- Strengthens India-Bhutan bilateral relations.
- Enhances economic opportunities for local communities.
Thimphu, Sep 18 (NationPress) India and Bhutan convened on Thursday to evaluate and endorse 297 projects totaling Nu. 4.06 billion (Rs 406 crore) as the second installment of High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) for Bhutan's 13th Five Year Plan (FYP) period.
This decision emerged from the 2nd India-Bhutan HICDP Committee Meeting held in Thimphu, attended by officials from both nations.
The Indian delegation was led by Aniket G. Mandavgane, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indian Embassy in Thimphu, while the Bhutanese delegation was headed by Pema Tshomo, Director of the Bilateral Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade.
HICDPs consist of small-scale projects with a short execution timeline, focusing on areas such as rural connectivity, drinking water supply, irrigation, agricultural infrastructure, flood protection, tourism development, township infrastructure development, and waste management. These projects are executed by local governments, primarily in rural and semi-urban regions.
For the 13th Five Year Plan period, the Government of India has pledged assistance of Nu. 100 billion (INR 10,000 crore), with Nu. 10 billion (INR 1,000 crore) specifically allocated for HICDPs.
A statement from the Embassy of India in Bhutan indicated that the meeting also assessed the progress of the first batch of HICDP projects and approved its revision to 275 projects with a total funding of Nu. 4.40 billion (INR 440 crore).
These initiatives aim to improve accessibility and economic prospects for local communities, thereby contributing to enhanced livelihoods, job creation, and food security.
The statement noted, "The meeting was conducted in a friendly and cordial atmosphere, reflecting the unique and enduring ties of friendship and cooperation between the two nations."
Earlier this month, Je Khenpo, Trulku Jigme Choedra, the Chief Abbot of Bhutan, alongside Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of Bhutan, visited India for the Consecration Ceremony of the Royal Bhutan Temple at Rajgir in Bihar.
Post-ceremony, the Bhutanese Prime Minister also visited the Shri Ram Temple at Ayodhya.
Point of View
It's clear that the collaboration between India and Bhutan on these development projects reflects a strong commitment to regional progress. This partnership not only enhances infrastructure but also promotes economic opportunities, ensuring that both nations thrive together in an increasingly interconnected world.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are HICDPs?
High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) are small-scale initiatives aimed at improving essential services in rural and semi-urban areas, focusing on connectivity, water supply, irrigation, and more.
How much has India committed for Bhutan's 13th FYP?
India has pledged assistance of Nu. 100 billion (INR 10,000 crore) for Bhutan's 13th Five Year Plan, with Nu. 10 billion (INR 1,000 crore) allocated specifically for HICDPs.
What is the purpose of the recent meeting?
The recent meeting aimed to review and approve the second batch of HICDPs and assess the progress of the first batch of projects.
What benefits are expected from these projects?
These projects are designed to enhance accessibility and economic opportunities for local communities, contributing to better livelihoods and food security.
Who led the Indian delegation in the meeting?
The Indian delegation was led by Aniket G. Mandavgane, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indian Embassy in Thimphu.
