KP Sharma 

The Government of India (GoI) has announced a concessional loan of 15 billion INR to support the Royal Government of Bhutan in the development of infrastructure for the GyalSung Project. 

The memorandum of understanding was signed by Dasho Chhewang Rinzin, interim advisor of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, and Ambassador of India to Bhutan,  Sudhakar Dalela, during a ceremony held in Thimphu yesterday.

This collaborative effort displays the strong diplomatic ties between the two nations and emphasises their commitment to fostering mutual growth and development, according to a press release from the Indian embassy. 

The financial support of 15 billion INR is designated for the advancement of infrastructure associated with the GyalSung project. 

“The financing arrangement will be in addition to the Government of India’s plan assistance to the Royal Government of Bhutan,” stated the press release.

The press release stated that it will build on the earlier collaboration between the Government of India and GyalSung. 

The Government of India had extended a grant assistance of 2 billion INR for the DeSuung for GyalSung programme in February, 2023.

Ambassador Sudhakar Dalela stated that India is privileged to partner with Bhutan on a landmark initiative of His Majesty The King, which puts youth and skill at the heart of nation-building efforts.

The Gyalsung, Bhutan’s National Service was announced by His Majesty the King during the Royal Address to the nation on the 112th National Day of Bhutan on December 17, 2019.

This national service represents a foundational duty that is mandatory for all Bhutanese citizens, as outlined in Article 8.1 of the Constitution.

Accordingly, the Gyalsung Act of the Kingdom of Bhutan was officially adopted by the Parliament of Bhutan on November 11, 2022. Subsequently, the inaugural batch of Gyalsung Training is set to commence in September of this year.

His Majesty has envisioned the institution of Gyalsung as a means to empower all Bhutanese youth to participate in the process of nation-building to further enhance the security, peace, unity, harmony and sovereignty of our nation.