Bhutan received Nu 2.5bn from India today as the fifth tranche of the Economic Stimulus Programme. So far, more than Nu 12bn has been released as part of the Government of India’s commitment of Nu 15bn towards ESP.
The Ambassador of India to Bhutan handed over the cheque to the Foreign Affairs and External Trade Minister.
The foreign minister expressed gratitude to the Government of India for its support to the ESP, noting its positive impact on farmers, students and youth, De-suups, small and medium enterprises, start-ups, creative industry, hospitality and tourism sectors.
The minister highlighted ESP’s contribution to post-COVID-19 pandemic economic revitalisation and employment generation in Bhutan.
Along with the ESP tranche, India also handed over a cheque worth Nu 464 M for three projects in the education and skills sector.
Of this amount, Nu 337 M will support training for teachers, counsellors, and education leaders. Another Nu 67.4 M will go to the Digital Skilling Programme under Digital Drukyul, which will train around 100,000 citizens through GovTech. In addition, Nu 59.7 M will be used to recruit STEM teachers.
India has committed Nu 100bn to Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan, including the Nu 15bn for ESP. Of this amount, around Nu 34bn has already been released.
According to Bhutan’s 2026–27 budget, more than 30 per cent of capital expenditure will continue to be supported by grants from India, making India Bhutan’s largest development cooperation partner.
Kinley Bidha
Edited by Tshering Zam
