On November 11, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a large gathering at the Changlimethang Celebration Ground in Thimphu, Bhutan, during his two-day state visit. The event marked the 70th birth anniversary of Bhutan’s Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and highlighted the enduring friendship between the two nations. PM Modi emphasized that India and Bhutan share centuries-old spiritual, cultural, and developmental bonds, rooted in mutual trust and goodwill. He described their partnership as a key pillar of India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and a model for neighboring countries.
In his speech, PM Modi announced several initiatives to strengthen connectivity and prosperity. He revealed plans to link Bhutan’s Gelephu and Samtse to India’s railway network, boosting trade for Bhutanese farmers and industries. India also committed full support for the Gelephu Mindfulness City project, a major economic hub, and pledged to build a new immigration checkpoint near Gelephu to ease travel and investment. Additionally, the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project was inaugurated, underscoring the robust energy cooperation between the two countries. India extended a Line of Credit of Rs 40 billion for new energy projects and reaffirmed Rs 10,000 crore assistance for Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan (2024-2029).
These ties are backed by strong economic data. India is Bhutan’s largest trading partner, accounting for over 75% of its imports and nearly 60% of its exports. Since Bhutan’s First Five-Year Plan in 1971, India has been its principal development partner, funding infrastructure, hydropower, and cross-border projects. PM Modi also noted emotional connections, like providing land in Varanasi for a Bhutanese temple and guest house, and displaying sacred relics from India at Bhutan’s Global Peace Prayer Festival.
The visit concluded on November 12, with PM Modi expressing confidence in continued shared progress. Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck personally accompanied him to the airport, symbolizing the warmth of their relations. This engagement not only deepens bilateral cooperation but also addresses regional challenges like border security and sustainable development. As PM Modi stated, “India and Bhutan are connected by cultures, values, emotions, peace, and progress.”
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
- What was the main purpose of PM Modi’s visit to Bhutan?
PM Modi’s two-day state visit from November 11-12, 2025, aimed to attend the 70th birth anniversary celebrations of Bhutan’s Fourth King and strengthen bilateral ties through discussions on energy, connectivity, and development. It also included inaugurating key projects and announcing new initiatives. - What key announcements did PM Modi make during his address?
He announced railway links for Gelephu and Samtse to India, support for the Gelephu Mindfulness City, a new immigration checkpoint near Gelephu, and Rs 40 billion Line of Credit for energy projects, plus Rs 10,000 crore aid for Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan. - How does India support Bhutan’s economy and development?
India provides over Rs 10,000 crore for Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan, funds hydropower projects like Punatsangchhu-II, and facilitates trade as Bhutan’s top partner with 75% imports and 60% exports from India. It also aids infrastructure and economic stimulus programs. - Why are India-Bhutan ties considered exemplary?
The relations are based on mutual trust since the 1949 Treaty of Friendship, covering hydropower, trade, security, and culture. Shared spiritual heritage, people-to-people bonds, and joint efforts against challenges like border issues make them a model for neighboring countries.