Bhutan received Rs 2.15bn for the 13th Five-Year-Plan. The cheque was handed over during the 14th Monthly Coordination Meeting between the government and the Indian embassy yesterday.
According to the finance ministry’s news release, of the Nu 2.15bn, more than half of the amount will be allocated for development of central schools. This includes 20 Central Schools and 17 cluster schools, infrastructure upgrades, technological enhancements, green energy initiatives, safety and security measures, and improved sporting facilities.
Nu 250 M has been allocated for the Royal Bhutan Police’s infrastructure development. This includes the construction and upgrading of offices and police stations, human resource development, and the procurement of firefighting and rescue vehicles.
Nu 239 M has been allocated for upgrading the Samtse–Norbugang Primary National Highway to improve connectivity in southwestern Bhutan, including road widening and enhanced ride quality and safety.
Under the 13th Five Year Plan, Phase II construction at JSW Law will be undertaken to accommodate new academic programmes and the increased strength of students and faculty. It will strengthen infrastructure for legal education and research in the country. For the project, Nu 165 M is allocated.
Additionally, the Royal University of Bhutan will receive Nu 146 M to develop digital infrastructure across its eight colleges. That include the adoption of edtech tools, a digital library, and an Information Management System to enhance teaching, research, and service delivery.
The total budget outlay of the 13th Five-Year Plan is estimated at over Nu 500bn with an additional Nu 15bn Economic Stimulus Programme.
Meanwhile, the coordination meeting also reviewed the progress of projects supported by India under the 13th Five-Year Plan and addressed key implementation issues.
The plan aims to transform Bhutan into a high-income economy by 2034.
Kinzang Lhadon
