India and Bhutan Strengthen Bilateral Ties with Key Agreements on Connectivity and Cooperation

India and Bhutan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation across various sectors. Following the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk, several key agreements were reached:

1. Cross-Border Rail Link: They agreed to conduct the Final Location Survey (FLS) for the proposed cross-border rail link connecting Kokrajhar in Assam, India, to Gelephu in Bhutan. The Indian government will provide support for this project.

2. Additional Immigration Check Posts: Darranga (Assam) and Samdrup Jongkhar (Bhutan) will be designated as immigration check posts to facilitate entry and exit of third-country nationals by land route.

3. Concessional Financing for Skill Development: India will consider Bhutan’s request for concessional financing in the area of skill development and capacity building under the GyalSung Project.

4. Additional Trade Route: The Haldibari (West Bengal) – Chilahati (Bangladesh) rail route will be designated as an additional trade route for Bhutan’s trade with Bangladesh.

5. Bridge Financing: India will provide bridge financing for Bhutan’s projects and schemes supported by the Indian government.

6. Trade Infrastructure Strengthening: Both countries will work towards upgrading existing Land Customs stations and developing facilities to enhance trade infrastructure.

7. Environmental Conservation and Wildlife Preservation: They will collaborate on environmental conservation, wildlife preservation, and forestry, underscoring their shared commitment to safeguarding the ecological diversity of the region.

8. Medical Education: Additional MBBS seats will be allocated for Bhutanese students in medical colleges in Assam to ensure access to quality medical education and training.

9. Ambassador’s Scholarship: The outlay under Ambassador’s scholarship for Bhutanese students pursuing higher education in India will be doubled.

These agreements reflect the deepening of ties between India and Bhutan, with a focus on connectivity, trade, education, and environmental conservation.