India takes special care of all its neighbouring countries under the ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’. Bilateral development projects are being implemented all over Bhutan with 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 Committee reviewed the progress of 524 Projects being implemented across 20 Dzongkhags and 4 Thromdes in Bhutan and approved Rs. 850 Crore for local governments in areas such as water supply, urban infrastructure, agricultural roads, irrigation channels, bridges, health and education infrastructure. India also extended initial grant assistance of Rs. 100 Crore towards the Gyalsung Project 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
