India Hands Over ₹290 Crore to Bhutan for 13th Five-Year Plan Projects
What Happened
At the 19th Monthly Coordination Meeting in Thimphu on October 13, 2026, the Embassy of India handed over cheques worth ₹290 crore (Nu 2.90 billion) to Bhutan’s Ministry of Finance. This funding is part of India’s commitment under Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan (2024–2029). Key allocations include: Education & Skills: Infrastructure for Royal University of Bhutan colleges, professional development for teachers, and a Digital Skilling Programme (₹8.83 crore) to benefit around 1 million citizens. Healthcare: Renovation of Gelephu General Hospital and commissioning of a 200-bed cancer hospital under the Multi-Disciplinary Super Speciality Hospital project. Infrastructure: Construction of 11 highway bridges, redevelopment of the Phuentsholing Sports Association Ground, and building of the Thimphu District Court. Agriculture: Phase-II of chain-link fencing projects to protect crops across 19 districts. Science & Environment: Establishment of a National Weather and Flood Warning Centre (NWFWC) in Thimphu. The funding follows External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to Bhutan in September 2026 and earlier bilateral plan talks in July.
Key Takeaways
The ₹290 crore disbursement highlights India’s role as Bhutan’s largest development partner, focusing on education, healthcare, infrastructure, and digital inclusion. It strengthens bilateral ties under the Neighbourhood First policy, while supporting Bhutan’s long-term socio-economic goals.