THIMPHU, June 26 (ANI) — India has handed over the fifth tranche of Rs 250 crore toward Bhutan’s Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP), bringing total disbursement to Rs 1,250 crore under its Rs 1,500 crore commitment, according to a statement from the Embassy of India in Bhutan.
The cheque was presented by Indian Ambassador Sandeep Arya to Bhutan’s Foreign Minister Lyonpo D.N. Dhungyel, the embassy said.
The ESP is part of India’s support under Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan (2024–2029).
During the handover ceremony, the Bhutanese Foreign Minister expressed gratitude to India for its continued assistance, noting its positive impact on farmers, students, youth, small and medium enterprises, startups, the creative industry, hospitality, and tourism sectors. He also highlighted its role in post-COVID-19 economic recovery and job creation in Bhutan.
He further thanked India for approving funds under the National Fuel Price Smoothening Framework, which has helped mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices in the country.
Ambassador Arya said India has been fulfilling its development commitments to Bhutan efficiently and has been disbursing funds in a timely manner under the 13th Five-Year Plan, including for project assistance, high-impact community development projects, and program grants.
During the meeting, the ambassador also handed over cheques totaling Rs 46.4 crore for various projects, including:
Rs 33.7 crore for professional development and immersion programs for teachers, counselors, and education leaders aimed at improving school education quality in Bhutan.
Rs 6.74 crore for a digital skilling program under Digital Drukyul, designed to create digitally literate citizens through basic and intermediate training, with around 100,000 citizens across all gewogs expected to be trained through GovTech.
Rs 5.97 crore for the recruitment of STEM teachers serving in Bhutanese schools.
India’s total committed support for Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan stands at Rs 10,000 crore, covering project assistance, high-impact community development projects, economic stimulus funding, and budgetary support through program grants. So far, India has released around Rs 3,400 crore within the first two years of the plan period.
According to Bhutan’s 2026–27 budget, more than 30% of capital expenditure is expected to be supported by grants from the Government of India.
India remains Bhutan’s largest development partner, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to continued cooperation and timely implementation of development projects. (ANI)
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