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APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 06/12/2024

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (06-12-2024).

India and Bhutan share a unique partnership characterized by cultural, economic, and strategic dimensions. Discuss the relevance of recent initiatives like the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav and the Gelephu Mindfulness City in strengthening this bilateral relationship. (250 words)

Model Answer

Introduction

India and Bhutan share a time-tested partnership built on mutual respect, cultural affinity, and shared developmental goals. Recent initiatives, such as the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav and Bhutan’s Gelephu Mindfulness City, underscore the evolving dynamics of this relationship, highlighting cultural unity, economic interdependence, and regional stability.

Cultural Dimension

Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav:
- Promoted Northeast India’s crafts, cuisines, and cultural heritage, emphasizing its role as a bridge to Bhutan.
- Strengthened people-to-people ties, fostering cross-cultural appreciation.
Cultural Diplomacy:
- Such events align with India’s Act East Policy, integrating the Northeast into global cultural and economic circuits.

Economic Dimension

Hydropower Collaboration:
- Bhutan’s hydropower exports to India (e.g., Tala, Mangdechhu) contribute 30% of its GDP, reinforcing economic interdependence.
- Gelephu Mindfulness City, a sustainable urban development project, aims to boost trade and tourism in the region.
Trade Boost:
- India accounts for over 80% of Bhutan’s trade, with recent talks focusing on renewable energy and technology exchange.

Supporting Data:

India doubled its development assistance to Bhutan for the 13th Five-Year Plan.
Bhutan’s exports to India grew by 8.4% in FY 2023-24, with significant contributions from hydropower and tourism.

Strategic Dimension

Geopolitical Stability:
- Collaborative projects like Gelephu strengthen Bhutan’s border regions, countering potential external influences.
- Joint efforts in disaster management, particularly in addressing glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), enhance climate resilience.
Regional Connectivity:
- Infrastructure investments under the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) improve cross-border trade and mobility.

Diagram: Key Aspects of India-Bhutan Relations

(Illustrative Diagram – Venn Diagram highlighting cultural, economic, and strategic dimensions with overlapping areas like people-to-people ties and hydropower collaboration.)

Conclusion India-Bhutan relations exemplify the synergy of shared culture, economic interdependence, and strategic priorities. Initiatives like the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav and Gelephu Mindfulness City reflect a forward-looking approach to deepening ties. By leveraging such efforts, the partnership can address emerging challenges while ensuring mutual growth and regional stability.

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