India and Bhutan Sign MoU for Agricultural Cooperation

In a significant diplomatic and developmental stride, India and Bhutan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen cooperation in agriculture and allied sectors, including livestock development. The agreement, signed in Thimphu, reaffirms the strong bilateral partnership and shared vision for food security, sustainable agriculture, and rural development.

Signing of the MoU

The MoU was formally signed by Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (India), and Thinley Namgyel, Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (Bhutan). Both parties acknowledged the long-standing collaboration between the two countries and described the agreement as a milestone in Indo-Bhutan agricultural relations.

Key Areas of Collaboration

The MoU sets a structured framework for mutual cooperation across various segments of agriculture and allied domains. The areas identified include,

• Agricultural research and innovation
• Livestock health and production
• Post-harvest management
• Value chain development
• Seed sector advancement
• Food processing and marketing
• Capacity building and knowledge exchange

The collaboration also prioritizes climate-resilient practices, digital agriculture solutions, risk mitigation strategies, and farmer-centric credit support—highlighting India’s agricultural reform agenda.

Joint Technical Working Group (JTWG)

Following the MoU, the first session of the Joint Technical Working Group (JTWG) was convened. The two sides agreed upon the terms of reference for the group and identified priority areas for immediate collaboration. These will guide the implementation of various technical projects and ensure results-oriented cooperation.

The JTWG will also serve as a monitoring and coordinating mechanism, ensuring timely execution of agreed initiatives. The next JTWG meeting is scheduled to be held in India on a mutually convenient date.

Significance of the Agreement

This agreement comes at a time when agricultural sustainability, food security, and farmer welfare are gaining central focus in global and regional agendas. The MoU,

• Enhances bilateral diplomatic engagement in developmental areas
• Strengthens South-South cooperation in agriculture
• Boosts knowledge sharing, especially in research and innovation
• Supports livelihood and rural economy growth in both countries

India’s role as an agricultural knowledge hub in South Asia is further cemented by this agreement, which supports Bhutan’s vision for inclusive rural development.