India has handed over the fifth tranche of ₹250 crore to Bhutan under the Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP), taking the total disbursed under the initiative to ₹1,250 crore out of the committed ₹1,500 crore.
The cheque was presented by India’s Ambassador to Bhutan, Sandeep Arya, to Bhutan’s Foreign Minister Lyonpo D.N. Dhungyel in Thimphu. The funding is part of India’s broader development assistance under Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan (2024–2029).
Bhutan said the Economic Stimulus Programme has played a vital role in post-pandemic recovery by supporting farmers, students, youth, MSMEs, startups, the creative industry, hospitality and tourism, while also contributing to employment generation.
India also provided ₹46.4 crore for education and digital skilling initiatives, including projects to improve school education and expand digital literacy across Bhutan.
With a total commitment of ₹10,000 crore for Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan, India continues to be Bhutan’s largest development partner, supporting infrastructure, economic growth, education and community development through grants and project assistance.
