India-Bhutan Inaugurate Modern Hospital as a Testament to Bilateral Development Cooperation
Published On : 2024-03-23T10:53:19+0530 [ IST ] |
Author : Mayur_Tembhare
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In a testament to the enduring friendship between India and Bhutan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay jointly inaugurated the Gyaltsuen Jetsun Pema Wangchuk Mother and Child Hospital in Thimphu, Bhutan. This modern hospital, constructed with Indian assistance, represents a significant milestone in the bilateral development cooperation between the two countries.
The Gyaltsuen Jetsun Pema Wangchuk Mother and Child Hospital, a state-of-the-art facility boasting 150 beds, has been built in two phases with support from the Government of India. The first phase, completed in 2019 at a cost of ₹22 crore, has been operational since then. The second phase, undertaken as part of Bhutan's 12th Five Year Plan with an investment of ₹119 crore, was recently completed. Equipped with advanced infrastructure and facilities for pediatrics, gynecology, obstetrics, anesthesia, neonatal intensive care, and pediatric intensive care, the hospital aims to enhance the quality of mother and child healthcare services in Bhutan.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by both Prime Ministers, underscoring the significance of the occasion in strengthening the India-Bhutan partnership. Prime Minister Modi's visit to Bhutan further solidified the deep-rooted ties between the two nations. During his stay, discussions were held regarding the future of cooperation" target="_blank">bilateral cooperation, including plans to establish a cancer hospital on the hospital campus. This forthcoming addition is poised to elevate tertiary healthcare services in Bhutan, reducing the need for medical referrals to India.
Prime Minister Modi's visit also saw significant announcements, with India pledging support of ₹10,000 crore to Bhutan over the next five years. This generous assistance reflects India's commitment to Bhutan's socio-economic development and underscores the close bond shared by the two countries.
The visit culminated in a public ceremony where Bhutan's King Wangchuck conferred the prestigious ‘Order of the Druk Gyalpo’ upon Prime Minister Modi. This rare honor recognizes Modi's exceptional contributions to strengthening India-Bhutan relations and his people-centric leadership.
Modi, expressing humility and gratitude, dedicated the award to the people of India and reiterated his confidence in the continued growth of India-Bhutan relations for the mutual benefit of both nations.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1968, India and Bhutan have maintained a steadfast partnership, anchored by the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation. Modi's visit reaffirmed the enduring friendship and shared commitment to progress and prosperity between India and Bhutan, paving the way for deeper collaboration in various sectors in the years to come.
Source : PMO
Tags : Narendra Modi , Tshering Tobgay , development assistance , bilateral cooperation , hospital inauguration , Bhutan , India , healthcare ,
Summary : Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bhutanese counterpart Tshering Tobgay inaugurated the Gyaltsuen Jetsun Pema Wangchuk Mother and Child Hospital in Thimphu, Bhutan. Built with Indian assistance, the state-of-the-art facility symbolizes the strong partnership between the two nations. The hospital, equipped with modern amenities, aims to enhance mother and child healthcare services in Bhutan. Additionally, discussions during Modi's visit included plans for a cancer hospital to further bolster healthcare services. Modi's trip reaffirmed the deep-rooted friendship between India and Bhutan, with India pledging significant financial support to Bhutan over the next five years.
