Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed a large gathering at the Changlimethang Celebration Ground in Thimphu, highlighting the centuries-old spiritual, cultural, and developmental partnership between India and Bhutan.
During his November 11-12 visit, the Prime Minister will attend several official programmes and participate in the Global Peace Prayer Festival organised by the Bhutan Government.
Extending greetings to King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the Fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, PM Modi said that the day was significant not only for Bhutan but also for all who believe in world peace. The event marked the Global Peace Prayer Festival and the 70th birth anniversary of the Fourth King, alongside the exposition of the Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha from India.
Addressing the audience, the Prime Minister said he came to Bhutan “with a heavy heart” following the horrific incident in Delhi the previous evening. He said the incident had deeply disturbed the nation and assured that “our agencies will get to the bottom of this conspiracy. The perpetrators behind it will not be spared. All those responsible will be brought to justice.”
Underlining the shared spiritual heritage between the two nations, PM Modi said India draws inspiration from the ancient ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the world is one family – and continues to pray for universal happiness through the mantra Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah. He added that India’s participation in the Peace Prayer Festival reflects the unity of purpose between both countries in promoting peace and compassion worldwide.
PM Modi noted that few may be aware that Vadnagar in Gujarat, his birthplace, holds a sacred connection to the Buddhist tradition, while Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, his workplace, stands as a prominent centre of Buddhist reverence. He also announced that the Government of India will provide land for the construction of a Bhutanese temple and guest house in Varanasi.
Paying tribute to the Fourth King, PM Modi praised his leadership, describing him as a “confluence of wisdom, simplicity, courage, and selfless service.” He credited the Fourth King for guiding Bhutan through transformative years of progress while preserving its traditions, establishing democratic institutions, and promoting peace and development. PM Modi said the King’s concept of Gross National Happiness had become a globally recognized framework for human-centered growth.
The Prime Minister lauded Bhutan for becoming the world’s first carbon-negative country, calling it an “extraordinary achievement.” He also highlighted Bhutan’s leading position in per-capita renewable energy generation and its success in producing 100% of its electricity from renewable sources. Under India-Bhutan energy partnership, a new 1,000-megawatt hydropower project was launched today, which will increase Bhutan’s capacity by 40%, and the resumption of another pending hydropower venture. He also confirmed that India and Bhutan are expanding cooperation in solar energy.
Reinforcing the principle that “Connectivity creates opportunity, and opportunity creates prosperity,” PM Modi announced new initiatives to enhance rail and road connectivity between the two countries. He said cities like Gelephu and Samtse will be linked to India’s railway network, improving trade access for Bhutanese farmers and industries. He also assured India’s full support for the Gelephu Mindfulness City project and announced the establishment of a new immigration checkpoint near Gelephu to facilitate travel and investment.
In 2024, the Government of India announced a support package of ₹10,000 crore for Bhutan’s Five Year Plan, funding key sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, finance, and healthcare. PM Modi also mentioned ongoing efforts to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential items and the expansion of UPI payment facilities in Bhutan.
Emphasizing that youth are the “strongest beneficiaries” of India-Bhutan relations, PM Modi lauded Bhutan’s initiatives in national service, innovation, and technology. He said youth from both countries are collaborating in areas such as education, skill development, sports, and space technology, including the joint development of a satellite.
Highlighting the deep emotional connection between the peoples of both countries, PM Modi referred to the recently inaugurated Royal Bhutanese Temple in Rajgir and announced India’s decision to provide land for a Bhutanese temple and guest house in Varanasi.
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister said, “India and Bhutan are not just connected by borders; they are connected by cultures. Our relationship is one of values, emotions, peace, and progress.” He expressed confidence that the two countries would continue their journey on the path of peace, prosperity, and shared progress, invoking blessings of Lord Buddha and Guru Rinpoche on both nations.