Indo-Bhutan Economic Cooperation and Gelephu Mindfulness City Discussed at Advantage Assam 2.0

CM Sarma: GMC Symbolizes Unity and Shared Prosperity  

Dispur: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday highlighted the deep-rooted economic and cultural ties between India and Bhutan while addressing a session on "Indo-Bhutan Economic Cooperation and Gelephu Mindfulness City – Opportunities for Mutual Collaboration." The event, held as part of Advantage Assam 2.0: Investment & Infrastructure Summit in Guwahati, was attended by Bhutan’s Minister of Agriculture & Livestock, Younten Phuntsho, along with key dignitaries from both nations.  

Sarma emphasized that the Indo-Bhutan relationship, built on mutual respect and trust, remains a top priority under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. He expressed optimism that this historic friendship would continue to flourish in the coming years.  

Indo-Bhutan Economic Cooperation

Discussing the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) project, the Chief Minister described it as a landmark initiative symbolizing unity and shared prosperity between the two nations. He acknowledged Prime Minister Modi’s pivotal role in supporting the project and reiterated Assam’s commitment to aligning with its vision. The state government, he added, is exploring collaborative avenues to mirror similar development initiatives on the Indian side of the border.  

A key component of this strategy, Sarma noted, is the Inland Waterways Terminal at Jogighopa, which aims to bolster regional trade and connectivity, complementing GMC’s broader vision. He also informed the pending approval from the Government of India, Assam will prioritize the development of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) synchronized with the GMC project. This initiative will support the creation of a township in Assam, fostering greater economic collaboration.

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The Chief Minister further stated that External Affairs Minister  S. Jaishankar is actively engaged in advancing Kokrajhar-Gelephu rail connectivity and improving road infrastructure in the region, which would significantly enhance trade and transport links between Assam and Bhutan.  

Addressing the session, Bhutan’s Minister of Agriculture & Livestock Younten Phuntsho reaffirmed Bhutan’s commitment to green energy, agricultural innovation, and economic resilience. He stressed the importance of deeper Indo-Bhutan cooperation to drive innovation, food security, and sustainable development. He also commended Assam’s rapid progress in infrastructure, trade, and connectivity under the leadership of Chief Minister Sarma, emphasizing the potential benefits for Bhutan in the near future.  

The session was attended by several distinguished guests, including Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pobitra Margherita, Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) Chief Pramod Bodo, Assam Minister UG Brahma, and Tata Power CEO & MD Praveer Sinha.