Gelephu Mindfulness City Initiative to Benefit Bhutan and Assam, Says Minister
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Synopsis
During a meeting in Guwahati, Bhutan’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Younten Phuntsho informed Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya about the Gelephu Mindfulness City project, which aims to foster economic growth and sustainability for both regions.
Key Takeaways
- Gelephu Mindfulness City project spans 2,500 square km.
- Located at a strategic junction for economic growth.
- Focus on mindfulness and sustainable urban development.
- Educational initiatives to empower Bhutanese youth in Assam.
- Strengthening of cultural and economic ties between Assam and Bhutan.
Guwahati, Feb 26 (NationPress) Bhutan’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Younten Phuntsho informed Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya about the forthcoming Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) project during their meeting, emphasizing its prospective advantages for both Bhutan and Assam.
The Minister from Bhutan sought the Governor’s backing and cooperation to ensure the project's successful implementation.
Spanning an area of 2,500 square km, the GMC is a Special Administrative Region in Bhutan, envisioned by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. This project represents a pioneering urban development initiative that merges economic advancement with mindfulness, holistic living, and sustainability.
Located along Datgari in the Chirang district of Assam, the GMC's strategic location at the intersection of key economic areas—including South Asia, ASEAN, and China—along with Bhutan’s dedication to sustainable growth, rich cultural heritage, and robust governance, positions the City as a global frontrunner in mindful and sustainable urban development.
A senior-level delegation from Bhutan, guided by Minister Phuntsho, along with 11 members, addressed various topics with the Assam Governor at Raj Bhavan in Guwahati on Wednesday.
During their discussion, Governor Acharya highlighted the lasting bond between Assam and Bhutan, a relationship cultivated over centuries through cultural, historical, and economic exchanges.
He acknowledged the profound respect both India and Bhutan hold for each other's visionary leadership, as exemplified by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.
The Governor also urged collaborative efforts to advance eco-tourism and conservation in mutually beneficial areas. He proposed the enhancement of spiritual tourism routes to enrich the Assam-Bhutan collaboration.
On the subject of education and skill development, Acharya noted the Assam government’s initiative, where Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma welcomed Bhutanese students with the provision of five reserved seats in government medical colleges. This initiative showcases a commitment to empower Bhutanese youth by granting them access to high-quality education and skills available in Assam.
The Governor praised Bhutan’s initiatives in promoting organic farming, acknowledging the nation's leadership in sustainable agricultural practices.
The Bhutanese delegation congratulated the Assam government for the successful execution of Advantage Assam 2.0, recognizing its role in fostering economic growth and collaboration.
