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Key Points

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met with a Bhutanese delegation to discuss the Gelephu Mindfulness City project. He emphasized Assam's support for the initiative, aligning with PM Modi's vision for regional cooperation. The project aims to strengthen institutional ties and create opportunities for youth in education and skill development. Sarma also expressed hopes to host Bhutan's royal family in the future.

Key Points: Assam CM Sarma Backs Bhutan's Gelephu Mindfulness City Project

  • Sarma highlights project's role in Assam-Bhutan ties
  • Focus on youth skill development and cultural exchange
  • Delegation explores institutional collaboration
  • Bhutanese King's past visit recalled for future engagements
3 min read

Gelephu Mindfulness City to strengthen institutional collaboration between Assam and Bhutan: CM Sarma

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma pledges state support for Bhutan's Gelephu Mindfulness City to boost regional cooperation and youth opportunities.

"The Assam government stands committed to supporting this project - Himanta Biswa Sarma"

Dispur, June 10

An eleven-member delegation from Bhutan's Gelephu Mindfulness City Project met the Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma at the latter's office at Lok Sewa Bhawan here on Tuesday, officials said.

The delegation included members of the core working group of the Gelephu Mindfulness City project and officials from the Royal Bhutanese Consulate General.

The meeting marked a warm and cordial exchange of ideas, reaffirming the ties between Assam and Bhutan.

Welcoming the delegates, CM Sarma extended his heartfelt appreciation for their visit and underscored the significance of the Gelephu Mindfulness City Project in promoting regional cooperation and sustainable development.

He said that the Assam government, aligned with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stands committed to supporting this project.

He assured the delegation of cooperation and collaboration from the state administration in working closely with both the Royal Government of Bhutan and the core working group.

The Chief Minister noted that the project would serve as an important platform to deepen institutional collaboration as well as people-to-people ties between Assam and Bhutan.

He also highlighted the project's potential benefits for the youth of both regions through opportunities in education, skill development, entrepreneurship, cultural exchange, etc.

Chief Minister Sarma encouraged the delegation to visit key institutions in Assam, such as institutions of higher education and medical facilities, to explore further areas of synergy and cooperation.

He also invited them to make use of various state-run facilities that may serve as models or partners in developing the Gelephu Mindfulness City.

Recalling Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck's previous visit to Assam, the Chief Minister expressed his desire to host the entire royal family in the future.

Chief Minister Sarma emphasised the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration, saying that during the next visit of the core working group, a broader and multi-sectoral meeting would be organised.

This gathering would bring together a diverse group of stakeholders to enrich the discussions and support a holistic approach to development and partnership, he added.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation to strengthening bilateral ties for achieving shared goals.

Chief Minister Sarma was joined by Special Chief Secretary Syedain Abbasi, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister K.K. Dwivedi, Vice-Chancellor of Gauhati University Nani Gopal Mahanta, and other senior officials from the line departments.

The Bhutanese delegation was led by Dasho Arun Kapur and included former Chief Justice of Bhutan Dasho Tshering Wangchuk, Member of the National Council of Bhutan and MP Dasho Tashi Wangyal, along with other members of the core working group of the Gelephu Mindfulness City project.

Two officials from the Royal Bhutanese Consulate General -- Consul General Jigme Thinlye Namgyal and Consul Phurpa Tshering -- were also present.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
This is such a positive development! Bhutan has always been India's closest friend in the region. The Gelephu project can create wonderful opportunities for our Northeast youth. Hope they focus on eco-tourism and cultural exchanges too 🙏
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Priya M.
While I appreciate the collaboration, I hope Assam government ensures our local interests are protected. Sometimes these international projects benefit the other side more. The youth skill development aspect sounds promising though.
A
Arjun S.
Bhutan is like our little brother in the Himalayas ❤️ This mindfulness city concept is interesting - maybe we can learn something about their Gross National Happiness approach. Our Northeast deserves more such peaceful collaborations rather than conflicts.
S
Sunita P.
The medical facilities collaboration could be a game-changer! Many from Bhutan already come to Assam for treatment. If they develop world-class facilities in Gelephu, it will reduce pressure on our hospitals while creating jobs. Win-win!
V
Vikram J.
Good initiative but implementation is key. Hope this doesn't become another paperwork exercise. The mention of multi-sectoral meetings gives me hope - need concrete action plans with deadlines. Assam-Bhutan ties are too important to mess up.
N
Neha R.
As someone from Guwahati, I'm excited about the cultural exchange possibilities! Our Bihu and their traditional dances would make for amazing festivals. Maybe they can include an Assam-Bhutan food street in the mindfulness city? Momos and pitha together! 😋

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