PM Modi thanks King of Bhutan for sacred stupa dedicated in his honour

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep gratitude to Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck after a sacred Buddhist stupa was dedicated in his honour in Gelephu Mindfulness City, describing the gesture as an enduring symbol of shared spiritual heritage and deep civilisational ties between India and Bhutan.

The 76th Jangchub Chorten was officially dedicated to Prime Minister Modi following the consecration of 108 stupas in Gelephu. Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck unveiled the dedication plaque alongside India's Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju. The King stated that the dedication reflects his profound appreciation for Prime Minister Modi's commitment and India's steadfast support for the realization of the Gelephu Mindfulness City vision.

Responding on social media, Prime Minister Modi said he accepted the honour with gratitude on behalf of the people of India, noting that the Jangchub Chorten stands as a testament to the special warmth, generosity, and friendship between the two partner nations.

Strengthening regional partnerships and national infrastructure

The deepening ties with Bhutan come as India accelerates its domestic infrastructure transformation and economic development. Highlighting national progress, Prime Minister Modi noted that sustained economic growth and proactive governance have delivered tangible improvements in public transport, connectivity, and poverty reduction across the country.

In urban transport, India has rapidly expanded its transit footprint, becoming one of the top three metro networks globally. The operational metro network nationwide has grown dramatically over the past decade.

Urban transport and poverty reduction achievements

Underlining the government's focus on ease of living, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the 23-km Pune Metro Line 3 (Pink Line), built at a cost of over ₹8,300 crore to connect the Hinjewadi IT hub to the District Court station. Foundation stones were also laid for Pune Metro Phase-II, estimated at ₹13,500 crore, alongside four new metro corridors involving a total investment of ₹21,800 crore.

Citing a World Bank report, Prime Minister Modi pointed out that around 50 crore people in India have been lifted out of extreme poverty over the last 10 to 12 years. He emphasized that economic growth and poverty eradication are interconnected, with large-scale investments in housing, tap water, sanitation, LPG connections, and transport networks creating sustainable employment and empowering citizens.