In a significant stride towards national development, the Bhutanese government has unveiled plans to execute 283 High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP) valued at Nu 4.172 billion under the ambit of the 13th Five-Year Plan. These initiatives are strategically designed to improve accessibility, foster economic growth, enhance livelihoods, and bolster food security across the nation.
Yesterday marked the inaugural Bhutan-India meeting focused on HICDPs, also referred to as Small Development Projects (SDP). Delegates from Bhutan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MoFAET) and the Indian Embassy participated in the committee meeting, culminating in the formal signing of several key projects. This collaboration underscores the strong bilateral ties between Bhutan and India, with the latter pledging substantial financial support.
The Government of India has committed a total assistance package of Nu 100 billion for Bhutan’s 13th Plan, allocating Nu 10 billion specifically for HICDPs. This support builds on the previous decade’s achievements, where approximately 524 HICDPs were successfully implemented, totaling Nu 8.5 billion during the 12th Plan period.
HICDPs are characterized by their short implementation timelines, allowing for swift intervention in critical sectors. These projects target essential areas such as drinking water supply, irrigation systems, rural road infrastructure, agricultural facilities, flood defense mechanisms, tourism development, township enhancements, and waste management. The focus is particularly on rural and semi-urban regions, ensuring that development benefits reach the grassroots level.
In the initial phase of the 13th Plan, Nu 463.71 million has been earmarked for 16 projects distributed across three thromdes. Thimphu Thromde will oversee five projects with a combined value of Nu 151.21 million, Phuentsholing Thromde is set to implement six projects worth Nu 152.5 million, and Samdrupjongkhar Thromde will manage five projects totaling Nu 160 million.
Pema Tshomo, Director of the Department of Bilateral Affairs at MoFAET, emphasized the collaborative approach in project selection. “These initiatives were developed in close consultation with local governments to align with the specific needs and priorities of each community,” Tshomo stated. “Our focus is on deploying resources in areas that have a tangible impact on the daily lives of our citizens.”
The proposed projects underwent comprehensive evaluations by multiple committees to ensure their viability and effectiveness before receiving cabinet approval. This meticulous review process highlights Bhutan’s commitment to transparent and strategic development planning.
As Bhutan embarks on the implementation of these HICDPs, the partnership with India is poised to play a pivotal role in driving sustainable growth and improving the quality of life for Bhutanese communities across the nation.
