TIL BDR GHALLEY | Thimphu
The Changlimithang stadium burst alive with color and devotion on Nov 11 as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined Bhutanese leaders, dignitaries, and citizens to celebrate the 70th birthday of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck.
The milestone occasion coincided with the Global Peace Prayer Festival and the display of the sacred Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha, bringing together centuries of spiritual and cultural connections that bind the two Himalayan nations.
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi opened with a heartfelt tribute, reflecting both the significance of the day and the enduring friendship between India and Bhutan.
“Today is a very important day for Bhutan, for the Bhutanese royal family, and for all those who believe in world peace. India and Bhutan have shared a deep spiritual and cultural bond for centuries. Therefore, it was India’s and my commitment to participate in this important occasion,” PM Modi said.
The Indian Prime Minister then highlighted the spiritual dimension of the event, emphasizing the significance of the relics and prayers.
“Today, on one hand, we are gathered here for the Global Peace Prayer Festival under the blessings of Guru Padmasambhava, and on the other, we have the sacred Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha on display.”
“Together with this, we are also celebrating the 70th birthday of His Majesty the Fourth King. This event, and the dignified presence of so many of you, reflects the strong bond between India and Bhutan,” he stated.
Turning to the legacy of His Majesty the Fourth King, PM Modi described his life as a blend of wisdom, simplicity, courage, and selfless service.
“He took on a great responsibility at just 16 years of age. He gave his country fatherly affection and led it forward with a vision. During his 34-year reign, he carried forward both Bhutan’s heritage and development. “
“His Majesty played a decisive role in establishing democratic systems in Bhutan and establishing peace in the border areas.”
The Prime Minister also reflected on India-Bhutan relations, underscoring their deep-rooted strength.
“His Majesty has also played a vital role in strengthening the friendship between India and Bhutan. The bond between our two countries continues to grow on the foundation he laid. “
“India and Bhutan are connected not just by borders but also by cultures. Our relationship is one of values, emotions, peace, and progress. “
“When I became Prime Minister in 2014, my first foreign trip was to Bhutan. Even now, those memories touch my heart. The friendship between India and Bhutan has great depth and strength,” he remarked.
PM Modi also highlighted the countries’ joint development and energy partnership.
“Today, as both our countries progress rapidly, our energy partnership is further accelerating this growth. The foundation of the India–Bhutan hydropower partnership was also laid under the leadership of His Majesty the Fourth King. “
“Both His Majesty the Fourth King and His Majesty the Fifth King have promoted the idea of sustainable development and protecting the environment. Because of this vision, Bhutan has become the world’s first carbon-negative country.”
“Today, Bhutan is also among the top countries in per capita renewable energy production. Bhutan currently produces 100% of its electricity from renewable energy. Taking this progress forward, another major step is being taken today.”
“A new hydroelectric project of over 1,000 MW is being launched, which will increase Bhutan’s hydropower capacity by nearly 40%.”
“In addition, work is also being resumed on another hydroelectric project that had been stalled for a long time. ”
“And our partnership isn’t limited to hydroelectricity. We are now taking major steps together in solar energy. Important agreements related to this have also been made today,” he said.
Connectivity and development also formed a key part of the Prime Minister’s address.
“Connectivity creates opportunity, and opportunity creates prosperity. With this goal in mind, a decision has been taken to connect Kokrajhar to Gelephu and Banarhat to Samtse.”
“Once completed, this project will provide Bhutanese industries and farmers with easier access to India’s large markets. A long with rail and road connectivity, we are also rapidly progressing on border infrastructure.”
“India is also extending full support to His Majesty’s vision of Gelephu Mindfulness City. Today, I would like to make another important announcement.
“In the near future, India will establish an immigration checkpoint near Gelephu to further facilitate visitors and investors coming here,” PM announced.
During the state visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to support Bhutan’s development priorities.
“India will provide Bhutan with INR 40 billion line of credit,” he added.
As part of a series of agreements that included land for a Bhutanese temple in Varanasi and a new immigration checkpoint at Hatisar near Gelephu to enhance cross-border connectivity.
Highlighting India’s ongoing support, Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted, “Last year, the Government of India announced a contribution of Rs 10,000 crores to support Bhutan’s Five-Year Plan.”
“These funds are being utilized across all sectors — from roads to agriculture, from finance to healthcare, helping improve the ease of living for the people of Bhutan. ”
“And now, the availability of UPI payments is expanding here. We are also working to ensure that Bhutanese citizens also have access to UPI when they visit India.”
PM Modi lauded Bhutanese youth and the shared spiritual heritage that underpins the bilateral relationship.
“Our youth are among the biggest beneficiaries of the strong partnership between India and Bhutan. His Majesty has taken outstanding initiatives in national service, volunteer programs, and innovation.”
“Cooperation between the youth of India and Bhutan is expanding in many areas like education, innovation, skill development, sports, space, and culture.”
“Today, our young people are even working together to build a satellite. This is a proud achievement for both our nations. One of the greatest pillars of India-Bhutan friendship is our shared spiritual heritage.”
“I pray that India and Bhutan keep advancing together in peace, prosperity, and mutual growth. May the blessings of Lord Buddha and Guru Rinpoche guide and protect both our countries. My heartfelt thanks to all of you,” he said.
The celebrations and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s presence underscored the enduring ties between Bhutan and India, reflecting a partnership rooted in shared values, sustainable development, and mutual respect — a friendship that continues to flourish across generations.
