Bhutan Delegation Meets Assam CM to Strengthen Ties, Explore Collaboration on Gelephu Mindfulness City
Why in News?
- An 11-member delegation from Bhutan’s ambitious Gelephu Mindfulness City initiative visited Assam and Meghalaya, engaging with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to explore collaboration opportunities. This meeting marks a significant step in regional cooperation, focusing on sustainable urban development, cross-border connectivity, and youth empowerment.
Important Key Points:
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Visionary Initiative:
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The delegation represents Bhutan’s Gelephu Mindfulness City, envisioned by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck as the world’s first “mindfulness city” grounded in Gross National Happiness, sustainable living, and holistic well‑being.
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Assam’s Support:
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CM Sarma assured full cooperation from Assam, aligning efforts with PM Modi’s vision and expressing readiness to collaborate on infrastructure, education, and enterprise synergies.
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Collaboration Opportunities:
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Discussions included potential for educational exchanges, skilling initiatives, and symbiotic economic partnerships. Assam may host students, entrepreneurs, and technologies, leveraging its institutions and growing SEZ ambitions.
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Cross‑Border Connectivity Plans:
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CM Sarma highlighted ongoing plans for enhanced road and rail links (e.g., the Kokrajhar–Gelephu rail link and a six-lane highway between Bongaigaon and Gelephu), along with waterways and integrated check-posts to support future trade and tourism.
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Deepening Indo‑Bhutan Bonds:
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The meeting underscored historic bilateral friendship, with Sarma inviting Bhutan’s royal family to Assam and reinforcing regional diplomacy, echoing the Indo-Bhutan relationship as a strategic pillar.
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