Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday embarked on a four-day official visit to Bhutan, leading an Indian delegation to reinforce the enduring economic and developmental partnership between the two Himalayan neighbours. The visit comes at a time when both countries are seeking to enhance bilateral engagement in hydropower, digital finance, and infrastructure.
According to an official release, the Finance Minister will begin her tour with a visit to the historic Sangchen Choekhor Monastery, established in 1765 and home to over 100 monks pursuing advanced Buddhist studies.
During her stay, Sitharaman will visit several key projects supported by the Government of India, including the Kurichhu Hydropower Plant Dam and Powerhouse, the Gyalsung Academy, the Sangchen Choekhor Monastery, and the Punakha Dzong. These initiatives, officials said, highlight the growing breadth of bilateral cooperation, particularly in clean energy and education.
Sitharaman is scheduled to call on Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay. She will also hold bilateral discussions with Bhutan’s Finance Minister, Lekey Dorji, to explore avenues for strengthening economic and financial cooperation between the two nations.
The Ministry of Finance said the discussions would centre on expanding trade and investment opportunities, boosting connectivity, and fostering collaboration in new sectors such as fintech, sustainability, and skill development.
During the visit, the Indian Finance Minister will attend a series of presentations on Bhutan’s key developmental priorities, including an overview of the country’s energy sector by Druk Green Power Corporation Limited (DGPC), Bhutan’s 21st Century Economic Roadmap, and insights into the banking and financial sector by Druk PNB and the Bank of Bhutan.
Also read: Mamata blames Bhutan for north Bengal floods, seeks compensation
A presentation on the Gelephu Mindfulness City project, envisioned as a regional hub for sustainable and mindful living, will also be part of the engagements. The ambitious project, supported by Bhutan’s monarchy, seeks to integrate environmental consciousness with economic growth and regional collaboration.
In a symbolic gesture reflecting the deepening digital and financial ties between the two nations, Sitharaman will visit the Cottage & Small Industries (CSI) Market, where she will witness a transaction made using India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI). The introduction of UPI in Bhutan marked a milestone in bilateral financial connectivity, allowing seamless digital transactions between citizens of both countries.
As part of her itinerary, Sitharaman will travel to the Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s second-oldest and second-largest dzong—considered one of the country’s most sacred monuments. On her way to the dzong, she is expected to interact with Bhutanese farmers to understand local agricultural practices, challenges, and opportunities, in what officials described as a gesture underscoring India’s commitment to inclusive growth and grassroots engagement.
Over the years, Bhutan has remained a key pillar of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, with New Delhi extending substantial financial and technical assistance for the Himalayan nation’s Five-Year Plans. India continues to be Bhutan’s largest trading partner and the principal source of investment and development aid.
The two countries share a unique relationship marked by trust, mutual respect, and extensive cooperation across diverse sectors. Bhutan’s hydropower exports to India form the backbone of its economy, while Indian investments in infrastructure, education, and digital technology have helped Bhutan modernise its development model.
Follow us
