Narendra Modi addresses the event to mark the 70th birth anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan

Narendra Modi addressed the event to mark the 70th birth anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan at Changlimethang Celebration Ground in Thimphu, Bhutan today. Prime Minister extended warm greetings to The King of Bhutan, His Majesty, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and the Fourth King, His Majesty, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. He respectfully acknowledged the esteemed members of the Royal Family, the Prime Minister of Bhutan, H.E. Mr. Tshering Tobgay, and other distinguished dignitaries present.

Prime Minister remarked that today is a significant day for Bhutan, for the Royal Family of Bhutan, and for all those who believe in world peace. He highlighted the deep emotional and cultural ties between India and Bhutan that have existed for centuries, and stated that participating in this important occasion was a commitment of both India and himself. However, Shri Modi noted that he arrived in Bhutan with a heavy heart, as the horrific incident that occurred in Delhi last evening has deeply disturbed everyone. He expressed his understanding of the grief of the affected families and affirmed that the entire nation stands with them. The Prime Minister shared that he was in constant contact throughout the night with all agencies involved in investigating the incident. He emphasized that Indian agencies will uncover the full conspiracy and assured that the conspirators behind the attack will not be spared. “All those responsible will be brought to justice”, declared the Prime Minister.

Highlighting that today, under the blessings of Guru Padmasambhava, Shri Modi noted that the Global Peace Prayer Festival is being held in Bhutan, alongside the sacred viewing of Lord Buddha’s Piprahwa relics. He noted that this occasion also marks the celebration of the 70th birth anniversary of His Majesty, The Fourth King, with the dignified presence of so many individuals reflecting the strength of India-Bhutan relations. 

Emphasising that India draws inspiration from the ancient ideal of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam"—the world is one family, the Prime Minister reiterated India’s prayers for universal happiness through the mantra "Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah" and invoked the Vedic verses calling for peace in the heavens, space, earth, water, herbs, vegetation, and all living beings. He stated that with these sentiments, India joins Bhutan in the Global Peace Prayer Festival, where saints from across the world are united in praying for global peace, and 140 crore Indians’ prayers are part of this collective spirit. Shri Modi shared that few may know that Vadnagar in Gujarat, his birthplace, is a sacred site linked to Buddhist tradition, and Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, his workplace, is a pinnacle of Buddhist reverence. He remarked that attending this ceremony is therefore personally meaningful and added that the lamp of peace may illuminate every home in Bhutan and across the world.

Paying tribute to His Majesty The Fourth King of Bhutan, describing his life as a confluence of wisdom, simplicity, courage, and selfless service to the nation, Shri Modi noted that His Majesty assumed great responsibility at the young age of 16, nurturing the country with paternal affection and visionary leadership. The Prime Minister highlighted that during his 34-year reign, His Majesty advanced Bhutan by preserving its heritage while ensuring development. From establishing democratic institutions to fostering peace in border areas, His Majesty played a decisive role. The Prime Minister further emphasized that the concept of “Gross National Happiness” introduced by His Majesty has become a globally recognized parameter for defining growth. He remarked that His Majesty has demonstrated that nation-building is not solely about GDP, but about the welfare of humanity.

Shri Modi stated that His Majesty The Fourth King of Bhutan has played a pivotal role in strengthening the friendship between India and Bhutan. He noted that the foundation laid by His Majesty continues to nourish the flourishing ties between the two nations. On behalf of all Indians, the Prime Minister extended heartfelt greetings to His Majesty and wished him good health and a long life. 

“India and Bhutan are not just connected by borders, they are  connected by cultures. Our relationship is one of values, emotions, peace and  progress”, emphasised Shri Modi. Recalling his first foreign visit to Bhutan after assuming office in 2014, the Prime Minister shared that the memories of that visit still fill him with emotion. He underlined the strength and richness of India-Bhutan relations, noting that both countries have stood together in times of difficulty, faced challenges jointly, and are now moving forward together on the path of progress and prosperity. Shri Modi remarked that His Majesty The King is leading Bhutan to new heights, and the partnership of trust and development between India and Bhutan stands as a significant model for the entire region.

Highlighting that as India and Bhutan advance rapidly, their energy partnership is propelling this growth, the Prime Minister noted that the foundation of the India-Bhutan hydropower collaboration was laid under the leadership of His Majesty The Fourth King. Both His Majesty The Fourth King and His Majesty The Fifth King have championed the vision of sustainable development and an environment-first approach in Bhutan. Shri Modi remarked that this visionary foundation has enabled Bhutan to become the world’s first carbon-negative country—an extraordinary achievement. He added that Bhutan ranks among the highest globally in per-capita renewable energy generation and currently produces 100% of its electricity from renewable sources. Expanding this capacity further, a new hydroelectric project exceeding 1,000 megawatts is being launched today, increasing Bhutan’s hydropower capacity by 40%. Additionally, work is resuming on another long-pending hydroelectric project. The Prime Minister emphasized that this partnership is not limited to hydro-electric power; India and Bhutan are now taking significant steps together in solar energy as well, with key agreements signed today.

Emphasizing that alongside energy cooperation, India and Bhutan are also focusing on enhancing connectivity, Shri Modi stated that “Connectivity Creates Opportunity, and Opportunity Creates Prosperity,” and under this vision, a decision has been made to connect the cities of Gelephu and Samtse to India’s vast railway network. The Prime Minister noted that upon completion, this project will significantly improve access for Bhutanese industries and farmers to India’s large market. He added that in addition to rail and road connectivity, both countries are rapidly advancing border infrastructure. Referring to the visionary Gelephu Mindfulness City initiative launched by His Majesty, the Prime Minister affirmed India’s full support for its development. He announced that India will soon establish an immigration checkpoint near Gelephu to further facilitate visitors and investors.