A recent convening of the Project Monitoring Committee (PMC) in the capital highlighted significant headway in development initiatives financed by the Government of India under Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan. Of the Nu 100 billion pledged, nearly Nu 18 billion has been disbursed to date, fueling a diverse portfolio of infrastructure and community projects across the kingdom.
Infrastructure Gains under PTA
Under the Project-Tied Assistance (PTA) umbrella, India allocated Nu 70 billion toward priority infrastructure endeavours, with the PMC green-lighting over Nu 50 billion for rollout. To date, more than Nu 5 billion has been released, driving progress in critical sectors such as health, transportation, and cultural heritage. Notably, the renovation of Lingzhi Dzong has been completed, restoring the 17th-century fortress to its former glory, while the double-lane reinforced concrete bridge at Pangrizampa now stands ready to enhance regional connectivity.
Community Development Takes Root
The High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP), backed by a Nu 10 billion commitment, has seen almost Nu 4 billion disbursed so far. In its initial phase alone, over 280 community-led schemes received approval, ranging from drinking water and irrigation systems to improvements in rural roads. These grassroots investments are designed to bolster livelihoods and access to essential services in Bhutan’s most remote villages.
Economic Stimulus and Programme Grants
In parallel, the Economic Stimulus Programme has mobilised half of its Nu 15 billion allocation, targeting job creation and business revitalisation in the wake of pandemic-related disruptions. Meanwhile, the broader Programme Grant facility has channelled Nu 1 billion out of a Nu 5 billion pledge, underpinning high-priority areas like education and health sector capacity building.
PMC: Ensuring Accountability and Acceleration
The PMC serves as a vital forum for stakeholders from both governments to take stock of project milestones, troubleshoot implementation hurdles, and expedite pending disbursements. Committee members underscored the importance of maintaining the current pace to meet the 13th Plan’s end-of-term targets, stressing close coordination with local administrations and implementing agencies.
Looking Ahead
With almost one-fifth of India’s financial commitment already injected into Bhutan’s development framework, the bilateral partnership continues to drive transformative change. As the PMC charts the course forward, emphasis will remain on sustainable infrastructure, enhanced social services, and inclusive economic growth—critical pillars for Bhutan’s journey toward Gross National Happiness and long-term prosperity.
