03-February-2025-Editorial

INDIA-BHUTAN RELATIONS

India and Bhutan share deep-rooted ties based on geographical proximity, cultural links, and economic cooperation. The recent visit of the King of Bhutan to India reinforced these relations, with a focus on economic support, hydropower collaboration, and cross-border connectivity.

Assam, as a neighboring Indian state, can play a crucial role in strengthening these ties through subnational diplomacy.

Key Outcomes of the Bhutan King’s Visit to India

Strengthened Economic Cooperation

• Bhutan appreciated India’s financial aid for its 13th Five-Year Plan (2024-29).
• India assured continued funding for Bhutan’s Economic Stimulus Programme.

Support for Economic Projects

• India pledged assistance for Bhutan’s Mindfulness City Project, a sustainable economic hub.

Advancements in Hydropower Cooperation

• Significant progress in the 1020 MW Punatshangchhu-II hydro project.
• Agreement to expedite the completion of Punatsangchhu-I hydro project.

Boost in Cross-Border Connectivity

• Inauguration of the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Darranga, Assam, to improve trade and tourism.

About Subnational Diplomacy

Subnational diplomacy (also called paradiplomacy) involves states or regions engaging in foreign relations to enhance mutual economic, cultural, and developmental interests.

Institutional Framework in India

• States Division under MEA: Helps states interact with foreign governments in trade, tourism, and investments.
• Consular and Federal Foreign Affairs Offices: Aid diplomatic efforts at subnational levels.
• City Diplomacy: Encourages city-to-city collaborations, such as Ahmedabad-Kobe (Japan) sister city agreement.

Global Examples of Subnational Diplomacy

• São Paulo (Brazil): Has its own international policy with national government support.
• Barcelona (Spain), Quebec (Canada), California (USA), London (UK), and Vancouver (Canada) also engage in international diplomacy.

Subnational Diplomacy in India

• States enjoy some autonomy in foreign policy execution in trade, commerce, and cultural exchange.

Notable instances:

• 2015: Andhra Pradesh’s CM visited China before India’s PM.
• West Bengal CM joined India’s PM in Bangladesh discussions.
• Gujarat’s Vibrant Gujarat Summit attracts global investors.
• Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Bihar promote FDI through state initiatives.
• 1996 Farakka Water Treaty: West Bengal CM played a role in resolving water-sharing issues with Bangladesh.

Benefits of Subnational Diplomacy

• Stronger State Influence in Foreign Relations: Aligns state policies with federal policies in areas like land, labor, and health.
• Enhanced Trade and Economic Cooperation: Helps states attract investments and forge international trade agreements.
• Addressing Global Challenges: Climate change, disaster management, and pandemic recovery efforts can be more effective with state-level cooperation.
• Long-Term Diplomatic Relations: Encourages people-to-people (P2P) and business-to-business (B2B) collaborations.

Challenges of Subnational Diplomacy

• Constitutional Limitations: Foreign affairs fall under the Union List, limiting states’ independent role.
• National Security Risks: States near sensitive borders (e.g., Northeast India, Pakistan, and China) require cautious diplomatic engagements.
• External Influence and Manipulation: Smaller states or cities could be vulnerable to foreign interference and misinformation.
• Public and Political Backlash: Conflicting interests between state and national foreign policies may cause diplomatic friction.

How Assam Can Strengthen India-Bhutan Ties Through Subnational Diplomacy

Trade and Cross-Border Connectivity

• More Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) like Darranga can boost commerce.
• Railway links such as Kokrajhar-Gelephu and Banarhat-Samtse can enhance connectivity.
• Assam’s agricultural products (tea, oil, Joha rice, Bhut Jolokia chili) can improve trade with Bhutan.
• Currently, over 70% of India-Bhutan trade passes through Jaigaon Land Customs Station (LCS) in West Bengal.

Energy Cooperation

• Assam can sign a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Bhutan’s hydroelectric companies.
• Hydropower contributes 63% of Bhutan’s GDP, making it a key economic factor.

Maritime and River Connectivity

• Bhutan can lower transport costs to Bangladesh by using the Dhubri River Port in Assam.
• Assam’s Asom Mala initiative (infrastructure development) can further improve regional trade.

Environmental and Ecological Collaboration

• Cooperation in wildlife conservation and eco-tourism through joint efforts at Manas National Park (Assam) and Royal Manas National Park (Bhutan).

Cultural and Educational Exchanges

• Assam and Bhutan share historical and cultural ties that can be strengthened through student exchange programs, festivals, and tourism promotion.

Conclusion

Subnational diplomacy, especially through Assam, is crucial in enhancing India-Bhutan bilateral relations. It promotes trade, energy cooperation, connectivity, cultural exchange, and environmental conservation. While there are challenges related to constitutional restrictions and national security, effective collaboration at the state level can lead to stronger regional partnerships and long-term diplomatic success.