India, Bhutan to Build First-Ever Cross-Border Railway Links

On 27th September 2025, India announced plans to construct two cross-border railway links with Bhutan — the first such connectivity projects between the two countries. Valued at over ₹4,000 crore, the initiative seeks to deepen trade ties and boost economic engagement.

Key Points

Railway Links: Projects will connect Bhutan’s Gelephu with Kokrajhar in Assam, and Samtse with Banarhat in West Bengal.
Diplomatic Engagement: Announcement followed consultations between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Bhutanese Foreign Secretary Aum Pema Choden in New Delhi.
Energy Partnership: Both sides highlighted the commissioning of all six units of the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project under the India-Bhutan Joint Vision on Energy Partnership.
Development Support: India has committed ₹10,000 crore for Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan (2024–2029), doubling its allocation from the previous plan.
Economic Significance: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stressed the importance of seamless connectivity, noting that most of Bhutan’s EXIM trade passes through Indian ports.
Strategic Importance: Projects hold developmental and security value amid increasing Chinese interest in Bhutan.