Image Credit: X account @AgriGoI
India, Bhutan Sign Agriculture Cooperation MoU
India and Bhutan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen cooperation in agriculture and allied sectors. The agreement was formalized in Thimphu by Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary of India’s Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, and Thinley Namgyel, Secretary of Bhutan’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.
Focus Areas of the Agreement
The MoU provides a framework for collaboration in agricultural research, innovation, livestock health and production, post-harvest management, food processing, value chain development, seed sector improvement, marketing cooperatives, and capacity building. Both sides highlighted that the initiative aims to strengthen food security and sustainable rural development.
Joint Working Group Initiated
Following the signing, the first meeting of the Joint Technical Working Group (JTWG) was held to finalize terms of reference and determine priority areas. Officials said the mechanism will guide the implementation of projects under the MoU and ensure consistent coordination between the two countries.
Broader Cooperation Context
This step builds on existing agricultural ties. Recently, India’s Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Limited signed a five-year fertilizer export agreement with Bhutan’s National Seed Centre, providing reliable input support to Bhutan’s farming sector. The new MoU adds momentum to such initiatives by broadening the scope of bilateral collaboration.
