Why in news?
India and Bhutan have signed several MoUs across various fields recently, reflecting strong bilateral cooperation.
Key recent MoUs include those on agriculture and allied sectors, space cooperation, energy efficiency, trade facilitation, rail link establishment, and cultural exchange.
 
MoU on Agriculture and Allied Sectors (August 2025)

• India and Bhutan signed an MoU to strengthen cooperation in agriculture, livestock, food processing, post-harvest management, seed development, agricultural research, and capacity building.
• This MoU emphasizes sustainable farming, food security, technology exchange, and rural prosperity.
• It also set up a Joint Technical Working Group (JTWG) for action planning and implementation, highlighting priority areas like climate-resilient agriculture and farmer support.

MoU on Space Cooperation (November 2020)

• MoU was signed to pursue cooperation in space technology involving remote sensing, satellite communication, satellite navigation, space science, and planetary exploration.
• A Joint Working Group was formed for coordinated implementation, benefiting both countries' technological capabilities and applications.

MoU on Energy, Trade, and Rail Links (March 2024)
Several MoUs were signed including:

• Facilitation of petroleum, oil, and lubricant supplies from India to Bhutan.
• Trade facilitation by recognizing Bhutanese export inspection certificates for the Indian market.
• Promotion of energy efficiency through star labeling of appliances.
• Development of two proposed rail links between India and Bhutan: Kokrajhar-Gelephu and Banarhat-Samtse.
• Cooperation in pharmaceuticals regulation and affordable generic medicine supply.
• Digital connectivity enhancement via the National Knowledge Network and Druk Research and Education Network.

India-Bhutan Foundation MoU (August 2003)

• This foundational MoU established the India-Bhutan Foundation aimed at enhancing educational, cultural, scientific, and technical exchanges.
• It is governed by a board co-chaired by ambassadors from both countries and funded through a trust fund.

These MoUs underscore India and Bhutan's commitment to deepening bilateral relations across strategic, economic, social, and technological domains. They highlight ongoing collaboration in sustainable development, connectivity, innovation, and people-to-people ties.

Download Pdf