India–Bhutan Relations (English)

1. Historical Background

Ancient & Cultural Ties: India and Bhutan share strong Buddhist cultural and spiritual connections. Bhutan follows Mahayana Buddhism, deeply linked with Indian monasteries and Nalanda traditions. People-to-people ties through pilgrimage, festivals, and monastic exchanges have always been strong.

1949 Treaty of Friendship: After India’s independence, Bhutan signed the Treaty of Perpetual Peace and Friendship (1949) with India. Key provisions: Bhutan would be guided by India in external affairs; India would not interfere in Bhutan’s internal matters.

2007 Treaty Revision: The treaty was revised to give Bhutan greater autonomy in foreign policy, while retaining close cooperation with India. Both countries agreed to cooperate on national security, economic development, and cultural exchange.

2. Major Disputes

India and Bhutan do not have bilateral disputes. The main concern is Chinese territorial claims on Bhutanese territory, which indirectly affects India’s security.

Doklam Standoff (2017): China tried to extend a road into Bhutanese territory near the India–China–Bhutan tri-junction. India intervened to stop this construction as it threatened the Siliguri Corridor (Chicken’s Neck), a narrow strip connecting India’s northeast with the rest of the country.

3. Areas of Cooperation

Economic Cooperation: India is Bhutan’s largest trading partner, providing transit, financial aid, and investments.
Hydropower Cooperation: India has helped Bhutan develop projects such as Chukha, Tala, Kurichhu, and Mangdechhu. Bhutan sells surplus electricity to India, making hydropower the backbone of its economy.
Defence & Security: The Indian Military Training Team (IMTRAT) is stationed in Bhutan. India trains Bhutanese armed forces and provides equipment.
Connectivity: Road and rail links from Assam, West Bengal, and Sikkim to Bhutan; petroleum pipeline (Motihari–Amlekhgunj).
Cultural & Educational Ties: Scholarships for Bhutanese students; cultural, religious, and linguistic exchanges.

4. Current Status (2017–2024)

Relations remain warm and problem-free. India continues to be Bhutan’s largest development partner. Projects in hydropower, education, and roads strengthen bilateral ties.
Bhutan faces Chinese encroachments on its northern border, and India supports Bhutan in dealing with these concerns.
High-level visits between leaders are frequent. In 2023–24, Bhutan and China advanced boundary talks, which India monitors closely.

5. Challenges

China Factor: China’s territorial claims on Bhutan pose a direct security concern for India.
Economic Dependence: Bhutan heavily relies on India for trade and hydropower revenues.
Youth Migration: Many Bhutanese youth seek opportunities abroad, impacting bilateral engagement.

6. Way Forward

Deepen economic diversification beyond hydropower.
Strengthen security partnership to counter China’s influence.
Promote cooperation in tourism, IT, and education.
Encourage more cultural and academic exchanges.
Maintain regular high-level dialogues to preserve mutual trust.