Over the past five years, nearly 1,200 Bhutanese professionals and government officials have enhanced their skills through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme, marking a significant chapter in the growing partnership between India and Bhutan.
ITEC, one of India’s flagship development assistance initiatives, extends training, education, and capacity-building opportunities to participants from more than 160 countries. Bhutan remains among its key beneficiaries, with a noticeable rise in participation and sectoral diversity.
According to India’s Ambassador to Bhutan, Sandeep Arya, the programme is more than a skills initiative—it is a platform for strengthening people-to-people connections. “ITEC helps build lasting ties by bringing together specialists and giving them the chance to experience India’s institutions, expertise, and culture firsthand,” he said.
The past year alone saw remarkable engagement. India provided close to 1,700 scholarships to Bhutanese students pursuing higher education, while approximately 3,000 Bhutanese professionals received training in military, policing, and security courses. Such initiatives, officials say, reflect the countries’ shared commitment to long-term cooperation.
Bhutan’s Minister for Education and Skills Development, Yeezang De Thapa, emphasized that ITEC has become an essential pillar in the nation’s human resource development strategy. “The programme has played a vital role in strengthening critical sectors—including education, ICT, and health—by equipping Bhutanese professionals with global knowledge and practical skills,” she noted.
As the global skills landscape evolves, so too does ITEC’s scope. The programme is shifting to include cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy—areas that align closely with Bhutan’s future development priorities.
The Embassy of India in Thimphu has also expressed readiness to collaborate more closely with Bhutanese ministries, agencies, and organizations to design customised training modules that address emerging national needs.
With both countries committed to deepening cooperation, the ITEC initiative continues to stand as a cornerstone of India–Bhutan relations—bridging expertise, expanding opportunities, and supporting Bhutan’s journey toward a knowledge-driven future.
