India takes special care of all its neighbouring countries under the ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’. Bilateral
development projects are being implemented all over Bhutan with the assistance from the Indian government. In line with this, the 5th Bhutan-India Small Development Project (SDP)/High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) Committee meeting between the Royal Government of Bhutan and the Government of India for the 12th Five Year Plan (FYP) was held in Thimphu on 28th February.
The Indian Embassy in Bhutan tweeted “The Committee reviewed progress of 524 Projects being implemented across 20 Dzongkhags and 4 Thromdes in Bhutan.” During the meeting, both governments approved Rs. 850
Crore in the 12th Five Year Plan for local governments in areas such as water supply, urban infrastructure, agricultural roads, irrigation channels, bridges, health and education infrastructure.
Apart from this India furthered its commitment to Bhutan’s development on 27th February by extending an initial grant assistance of Rs. 100 Crore towards the Gyalsung Project which aims to help Bhutan’s youth
participate in nation building. India’s Ambassador to Bhutan, Sudhakar Dalela handed over the grant in a special ceremony.
India is expected to continue its development assistance partnership with Bhutan under its ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’ as Thimpu shall keep growing its development agenda.
