Press Release

The 4^th Bhutan-India Small Development Project Committee (SDPC) meeting was held on 16^th May 2016 in Thimphu. The Bhutanese delegation was led by Mr.Thinley Namgyel, Director, Gross National Happiness Commission and the Indian Delegation by Mr. Bishwadip Dey, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of India, Thimphu. 

The meeting reviewed the progress of the 1^st batch of 46 projects amounting to Nu.1424.185 million approved in March 2014, 2^nd batch of 257 projects amounting to Nu.3125.273 million approved in November 2014 and 3^rd batch of 182 projects amounting to Nu. 2360.095 million approved in August 2015.

The two sides noted that Nu.4524.422 million has been received for the 3 batches of SDP and agreed to expedite the pending release of Nu.142.419 million. Further, the meeting approved 104 new projects amounting to Nu.1418.703 million under the 4^th batch of SDP. Blacktopping of Gewog connectivity roads, construction of permanent structures, staff quarters, irrigation channels, motorable bridges, water supply and farm roads were some of the major project approved.

Some of the new projects approved under the 4^th batch of SDP are, development of landfill in Thimphu, integrated vegetable market complex in Phuentsholing, integrated water resources utilization and management in Thimphu, commercialization of winter vegetable and early chilli production in Samdrupjongkhar.

With the approval of 4^th batch of SDP, a total of Nu.8318.723 million has been programmed out of the GoI’s overall commitment of Nu. 8500 under the SDP. The remaining nu.181.277 million will be programmed in the subsequent SDPC meeting, tentatively planned towards July 2016.

The Leader of Bhutanese delegation expressed gratitude to GoI for their continued support, cooperation and goodwill.