PM Modi’s visit to Bhutan on Nov 11-12 to focus on energy, infra, development projects
File picture: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
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ANI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to Bhutan on November 11-12 will focus on strengthening cooperation in energy, infrastructure and development projects and reinforcing its special ties with the country amidst China’s bid to increase its influence in the region.
During the visit, Modi and King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk will inaugurate the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, developed jointly by the two governments, according to the MEA.
The Prime Minister will attend the celebrations dedicated to the 70th birth anniversary of the fourth King of Bhutan Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and will also meet the Prime Minister of Bhutan, Tshering Tobgay.
Modi’s visit coincides with the exposition of the `Sacred Piprahwa Relics’ of Lord Buddha from India. On Saturday, a portion of the holy relics of Lord Buddha from India was enshrined at Tashich-hodzong, the Buddhist monastery and fortress located in Thimphu, that serves as the seat of the Bhutanese government and houses the country’s monastic body. The enshrinement ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Tobgay.
“Heartfelt appreciation to the people and leadership of Bhutan for the reverent welcome accorded to the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha from India,” said Modi on Sunday, adding that the teachings are a sacred link between the two nations.
Talks between Modi and the Bhutanese leadership will also focus on the development partnership between the two countries.
India has committed support of ₹10,000 crore for Bhutan’s 13th Five Year Plan period (2024-2029), which would cover project tied assistance (PTA) projects, high impact community development projects (HICDP), support for economic stimulus programme (ESP) and budgetary support in the form of programme grant.
This will be the Indian PM’s fourth visit to Bhutan since 2014, the last visit as recent as March 2024, as the government focusses on intensifying ties with the landlocked Himalayan kingdom under its `neighbourhood first’ policy.
India wants to consolidate its position as Bhutan’s primary and most reliable development and security partner amidst China’s attempts to increase its economic and diplomatic presence in Bhutan.
Published on November 10, 2025
