The Indian Government assured that the basic needs such as food, medicines and fuel will be supplied regardless of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) situation. The government recently consulted the Indian government on their plans and policies in case Bhutan steps into the red zone.
Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering also shared that such support from a neighbouring country is a testimony to the true friendship the nations share in the face of such adversity.
In case Bhutan steps into the red zone stage of COVID-19, the lockdown of all affected places will be manoeuvred by the government. This would mean that trade and businesses would cease particularly in the bordering towns.
Concerned by the pandemic, the government consulted India on their plans and policies in case the countries need to lockdown.
“We discussed extensively on the issue and asked for their support especially during such times. We inquired about their plans and policies if the case worsens in their country. They told us that the friendship the two countries share is exemplary and that they would help us especially during such times. They shared that food, medicines and fuel will always be available as always. It is the responsibility of the government and the right time to step up and support the nation and its people,” shared Dr Lotay Tshering, the Prime Minister.
Vehicles for the transportation of goods, drivers, their safety gears and other resources are being identified. The Prime Minister assured that people need not worry about food.
“The Agriculture Ministry and Food Corporation of Bhutan (FCB) is working on and importing basic necessities enough to last for three months. That does not mean that we will import everything but necessary supplies such as food,” said Yeshey Penjor, the Minister for Agriculture and Forests.
As is the mandate of FCB to maintain adequate essential food reserves for the nation at all times, the Ministry currently has 2,200 metric tonnes of the food supply. The Ministry also received Nu 300 M from the Finance Ministry to import more.
Tshering Dendup
