India, Bhutan open new border checkpoints to boost tourism, connectivity

New Delhi, Nov 7: A new border crossing was opened at Darranga in Assam, allowing third-country nationals to travel between India and Bhutan by land. This new Immigration Check Post was inaugurated by Bhutan’s Prime Minister, Dasho Tshering Tobgay.

This development follows an agreement reached in November 2023 during the visit of Bhutan’s King to India. It designates Darranga (Assam) and Samdrup Jongkhar (Bhutan) as an official checkpoint for foreigners traveling by land.

At the event, Assam’s Governor, Lakshman Prasad Acharya, emphasised the close friendship between India and Bhutan and highlighted recent efforts to improve cross-border infrastructure and connections between the two countries. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening ties in line with Bhutan’s priorities.

Prime Minister Tobgay welcomed the new checkpoint, which he said will boost tourism and economic growth in eastern Bhutan. He also thanked India for supporting regional connectivity.

Dignitaries, including India’s Ministers of State for Home Affairs and External Affairs, Bhutan’s Leader of Opposition, Dasho Pema Chewang, and other officials, attended the event.

Previously, foreign nationals could only enter or exit Bhutan through the Paro International Airport or the Jaigaon-Phuentsholing land route. This new checkpoint is expected to enhance connectivity, tourism, and people-to-people ties between the two countries.