A high-level bilateral meeting on trans-border rivers took place on August seven, 2026 in New Delhi between a Bhutanese delegation led by Lyonpo Gem Tshering, Minister for Energy and Natural Resources, and an Indian delegation led by Union Jal Shakti Minister C R Paatil. The Ministers reviewed cooperation in the water resources sector with focus on trans-border river management, flood forecasting and hydrological data sharing. Both sides reaffirmed commitment to sustainable management of trans-border water resources and agreed to deepen technical collaboration, mutual trust and regular institutional engagement.

The Ministers reviewed progress on the Punatsangchhu-I Hydroelectric Project, which is being implemented in Bhutan in partnership with India, and discussed measures for its expeditious implementation. They discussed proposals to upgrade the hydro-meteorological network in Bhutan and to enhance the mechanism for sharing hydrological data on trans-border rivers. The meeting highlighted the importance of timely data exchange and technical assistance to improve flood preparedness and early warning.

Extending engagement across the energy sector, Union Minister of Power and Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal held a bilateral meeting with Lyonpo Gem Tshering in New Delhi to reaffirm the special and enduring partnership between India and Bhutan in the power sector. The Ministers reviewed ongoing cooperation and discussed avenues for strengthening collaboration on hydropower development, cross-border electricity trade, transmission connectivity, renewable energy, institutional cooperation and capacity building. They also reviewed progress under bilateral institutional mechanisms established to facilitate regular engagement and enhance cooperation in the power sector.

Among the key projects discussed were Punatsangchhu-I, Punatsangchhu-II, Sankosh and Chukha, with both sides recognising the role of energy cooperation in promoting sustainable development and regional energy security. Both Governments reiterated commitment to deepen collaboration through continued dialogue, close coordination and timely implementation of mutually beneficial initiatives. The Indian side reiterated steadfast support for the long-standing partnership in the power sector and the Bhutanese side conveyed commitment to further expand the energy partnership, with the meeting concluding on a positive note and a shared resolve to strengthen bilateral ties.