Lyonpo Dr Tandi Dorji receives the items from Indian Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj

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Bhutan received six Skan mobile DR mobile X-Ray machines from the government of India yesterday in Thimphu.

This is the 13th medical consignment delivered to Bhutan by India since the Covid-19 surfaced in the country. The X-ray machines will be used in regional hospitals.

India has been assisting Bhutan to combat Covid-19 through the supply of personal protective equipment (PPE), medicines, and test kits, among others under the aegis of the SAARC Emergency Covid-19 Fund.

“Despite the enormous surge in Covid-19 cases in India, the people and government of India continue to support Bhutan in its response efforts to Covid-19. The government and the people of Bhutan remain deeply grateful for the generous assistance,” a press release from the foreign ministry stated.

So far, India has given 550,000 doses of Covid-19 vaccine, paracetamol, cetrizine, hydroxychloroquine, PPE kits, N95 masks, RT-PCR test kits, and x-ray machines.

According to the Indian Embassy, India’s gesture to continue delivering essential medical supplies reflects the special bonds of trust and understanding between India and Bhutan that have existed over decades. “Going forward, India will continue to extend all possible support to Bhutan to minimise the health and economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.”

“India is also collaborating with Bhutan for strengthening clinical trial research capacity,” a press release from the Indian Embassy stated.

Ambassador of India to Bhutan, Ruchira Kamboj, handed the consignments to Foreign Minister Dr Tandi Dorji.