Write a note on "India-Bhutan Relations".

India and Bhutan are neighbouring countries. India has a time tested relationship with Bhutan. As it is a Buffer state between India and china, the relationship holds much geopolitical importance. Bhutan becomes a democratic nation very recently and this changed the dynamism of the relation between India and Bhutan. Bhutan now comes very close to India.

In 1949, India and Bhutan had a friendship treaty. Recently it was reviewed and new clauses added. Now Bhutan can follow an independent foreign policy. Bhutan is free to acquire weapons without India’s permission. Both have also new extradition provisions.

India and Bhutan has many infrastructure cooperation treaty. Bhutan has a hydroelectric potential of unto 30000 MW. Bhutan is exporting 70% of its total electricity production to India and using remaining 30% itself. India as already constructed chukka and Tata power projects. Recently India has signed six new power projects with Bhutan. In Roadways sector, Indian Border Road organization assists Bhutan to construct roads especially in border areas. India started first ever rail-link from Hastimara in North Bengal to Phunt shoeling in Bhutan is constructed by India to commemorate first visit of first Prime Minister of India Nehrus to Bhutan 50 years ago. Bhutan also helped India on front of terrorism and security as Army of Bhutan conducted ‘operation All Clear’ to demolish insurgent’s camps belonging to ULFA, NDFB and KLO.\

So, it can be said that Indo-Bhutan diplomatic ties are very close and India should try to further deepen this relation.

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