India Bhutan railway: In a significant growth, India on Monday, September 29, 2025, introduced two new rail hyperlinks with Bhutan, a complete of 89 km. The tasks Kokrajhar-Gelephu in Assam and Banarhat-Samtse in West Bengal will probably be carried out at a value of Rs 4,033 crore. These are the primary rail connectivity tasks between the 2 nations, marking a major step in strengthening bilateral ties.
The announcement was made by International Secretary Vikram Misri at a joint press convention in Delhi with Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Misri described the initiative as a “main new step” to enhance rail connectivity and foster nearer cooperation between India and Bhutan.
These tasks had been initially agreed upon throughout Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s go to to Bhutan in March 2024. The formal MoU for the tasks was signed final 12 months, and a proper settlement is about to be signed on September 29, coinciding with the go to of Bhutanese International Secretary to New Delhi.
Misri Highlights Sturdy India-Bhutan Relations
Talking in regards to the initiative, Misri highlighted the depth of the connection between India and Bhutan. “India and Bhutan share a relationship of remarkable belief, mutual respect, and understanding. It’s rooted in cultural and civilizational ties, robust people-to-people relations, and shared developmental and safety pursuits,” he mentioned.
Misri additionally famous the shut engagement on the highest ranges of management. “His Majesty, the King of Bhutan, and the Prime Minister of Bhutan have been visiting India recurrently. His Majesty attended Mahakumbh earlier, whereas the Prime Minister lately attended the consecration of the Bhutanese temple in Rajgir,” he mentioned.
Infrastructure Partnership Expands
Misri identified that India has been the most important supplier of developmental help to Bhutan. For Bhutan’s thirteenth 5-12 months Plan (2024–2029), India has dedicated Rs 10,000 crore in assist, masking mission help, high-impact group growth, financial stimulus applications, and program grants. This quantity represents a 100% improve over the earlier five-year plan.
In line with studies, the brand new rail hyperlinks are anticipated to boost commerce, journey, and connectivity between India and Bhutan, whereas additionally strengthening financial and cultural ties. Officers imagine the tasks will enhance entry to distant areas and assist Bhutan’s total growth.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and International Secretary Misri collectively addressed the press convention, emphasising the robust partnership and shared imaginative and prescient of India and Bhutan for regional connectivity and growth.