India and Bhutan Reaffirm Power Sector Cooperation Commitment
Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs Shri Manohar Lal held a bilateral meeting with Bhutan's Minister of Energy and Natural Resources H.E. Lyonpo Gem Tshering in New Delhi on August 7, 2026. The meeting reaffirmed the special and enduring partnership between India and Bhutan in the power sector, which has been described as a cornerstone of the close bilateral relationship between the two countries.
The ministers conducted wide-ranging discussions covering multiple aspects of energy cooperation, including hydropower development, cross-border electricity trade, transmission connectivity, renewable energy initiatives, institutional cooperation, and capacity building. Specific hydropower projects discussed included Punatsangchhu-I, Punatsangchhu-II, Sankosh, and Chukha. The ministers also reviewed progress under existing bilateral institutional mechanisms established to facilitate regular engagement and enhance cooperation in the power sector.
Both sides recognized the importance of energy cooperation in promoting sustainable development and regional energy security. They reiterated their commitment to further deepen collaboration through continued dialogue, close coordination, and timely implementation of mutually beneficial initiatives. Shri Manohar Lal reiterated India's steadfast commitment to supporting the long-standing India-Bhutan partnership in the power sector, while H.E. Lyonpo Gem Tshering appreciated India's continued support and conveyed Bhutan's commitment to further expanding the energy partnership.
The meeting concluded on a positive note with both ministers expressing satisfaction over the progress achieved in bilateral energy cooperation and reaffirming their shared resolve to strengthen the India–Bhutan partnership for the benefit of both countries.