PM Modi’s Two-Day Visit to Bhutan: Inauguration of Hydropower Project and Visit to Sacred ‘Piprahwa Relics’
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day official visit to Bhutan on November 11 and 12. This marks his fourth visit to the Himalayan nation since 2014. During the visit, he will attend the ‘Global Peace Prayer Festival’, organized by the Royal Government of Bhutan, aimed at promoting world peace and human harmony.
The visit has been planned to strengthen the deep friendship and cooperation between the two neighbouring countries, in line with the tradition of regular high-level bilateral engagements. PM Modi will also hold an audience with His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan.
A Significant Visit
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi will hold bilateral talks with his Bhutanese counterpart Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, focusing on energy, trade, security, and cultural cooperation.
The two leaders will jointly inaugurate the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, a major milestone in India–Bhutan energy collaboration, further reinforcing the strong partnership between the nations.
The visit coincides with the public display of the sacred Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha, brought from India to Bhutan. PM Modi will visit the Tashichho Dzong Monastery in Thimphu to pay homage and offer prayers at the holy relics. He will also participate in the Global Peace Prayer Festival, hosted by the Royal Government of Bhutan.
Leaving for Bhutan, where I will attend various programmes. This visit comes at a time when Bhutan is marking the 70th birthday of His Majesty the Fourth King. I will be holding talks with His Majesty the King of Bhutan, His Majesty the Fourth King and Prime Minister Tshering…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 11, 2025
Focus on Energy, Rail, and Connectivity
On November 11, PM Modi will meet King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, inaugurate the hydropower project, and attend the 70th birthday celebrations of Bhutan’s Fourth King. Later, he will participate in the Global Peace Prayer Festival.
On November 12, PM Modi will meet Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay for detailed discussions on energy, rail and road connectivity, and developmental projects. Talks will also cover India’s support for Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan.
Statements from Indian and Bhutanese Officials
India’s Ministry of External Affairs stated that the visit will give new direction to the exemplary partnership between the two countries. The ministry noted that India–Bhutan ties are rooted in trust, goodwill, and mutual respect, and have continued to grow stronger over time.
India’s Ambassador to Bhutan, Sandeep Arya, described the visit as “special,” coinciding with two major events — the Global Peace Prayer Festival and the 70th birthday celebrations of Bhutan’s Fourth King. He emphasized that this is the first-ever large-scale peace event in Bhutan, made even more significant by PM Modi’s presence.
Bhutanese Minister Lyonpo Gem Tshering reaffirmed that India–Bhutan relations are based on respect and understanding. He said, “At a time when the world faces wars and conflicts, Prime Minister Modi’s participation in the peace prayer ceremony is a moment of pride and inspiration for Bhutan.”
Bhutan’s Strategic Importance for India
Situated in the Himalayas, Bhutan holds strategic significance for India. Though a small nation of just 750,000 people, it lies between India and China, serving as a buffer zone. Increased Chinese influence in Bhutan could pose a potential threat to India’s Siliguri Corridor (Chicken’s Neck) — a critical link between mainland India and its northeastern states.
In 2017, India intervened militarily to block China’s attempt to build a road in Bhutan’s Doklam region. Bhutan also supports India’s bid for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council, underlining the depth of mutual trust and cooperation.