GS Paper 2
Syllabus: International Relations
Source: TH
Context: Bhutan King’s visit to India commenced with his arrival in Assam. India and Bhutan’s focus on infrastructure and connectivity in recent talks signals a move toward bilateral regional initiatives.
Various dimensions of cooperation between India and Bhutan with examples:
New Initiatives Planned: India and Bhutan are jointly planning several development initiatives:
- Rail Links: Ongoing discussions for rail connections between Kokrajhar (Assam) and Gelephu (Bhutan) and between Banarhat (West Bengal) and Samtse (Bhutan).
- Infrastructure Upgrades: Checkpoints along the India-Bhutan border are being upgraded to facilitate smoother trade and movement.
- Special Economic Zone: Bhutan plans to establish a Special Economic Zone at its southern border with Assam to drive growth and investment.
- Airport Development: Proposal for a new airport at Gelephu to enhance accessibility and promote economic development.
- Energy Integration: Planning an ‘energy exchange’ to share hydropower resources among Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, fostering intra-regional growth.
Issues between the two countries:
- Border Dispute: Disputes over the exact demarcation of the border between the two countries.
- Hydropower Projects: Concerns in Bhutan over environmental and social impacts from the project. Also, Bhutan has sought greater revenue from these projects
- Trade Imbalance:Bhutan is heavily dependent on India for its imports.
- Cross-Border Movement: Bhutan has restricted the cross-border movement of Indian workers, citing concerns over the impact on Bhutan’s culture and society.
- Political Interference: Bhutan has accused India of interfering in its internal affairs, particularly during the 2013 elections.
Conclusion:
India-Bhutan relations have remained strong and friendly, characterized by a deep sense of
trust and understanding. Both countries must enhance connectivity which is a central pillar of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ and ‘Act East’ policies.
Inta Links
