India’s Power and Housing and Urban Affairs Minister visited the Punatsangchhu-I and Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project sites in Bhutan during an official trip. The visit underlined the strategic importance of bilateral cooperation in clean energy, with both projects forming a central part of Bhutan’s hydropower-led development model and India’s regional energy partnership.
Punatsangchhu-I Milestone
At Punatsangchhu-I, the minister attended the ceremony for pouring concrete for the dam. This is a major construction milestone in a large hydropower project. Punatsangchhu-I is the largest joint hydropower venture between India and Bhutan. Once completed, it is expected to add substantially to Bhutan’s electricity generation capacity.
India-Bhutan Energy Partnership
The visit brought into light the long-standing cooperation between India and Bhutan in the energy sector. India has supported Bhutan’s hydropower development through financial assistance and technical collaboration. The project reflects a model of cross-border partnership based on clean energy, infrastructure development and mutual economic benefit.
Punatsangchhu-II Operational Review
The minister also reviewed Punatsangchhu-II, which was jointly inaugurated on 11 November 2025 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. The project has already generated electricity and revenue and is supplying clean power to India. Its operational performance was described as efficient, with a positive contribution to Bhutan’s economy.
Broader Bhutan Visit
During the four-day visit from 9 to 12 April, the minister inspected the powerhouse and dam sites and was briefed on implementation status. He also visited Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, a historic monastery-fortress that represents Bhutan’s cultural heritage. The visit reaffirmed India’s commitment to Bhutan’s sustainable energy development and continued cooperation in the Himalayan region.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026