Embassy of IndiaThimphu

Ambassador’s remarks at the Republic Day Reception 2026

(27 January 2026)

Namaste, Good evening, Churu Dele la

I thank you all for honouring us by your presence on the occasion of our 77^th Republic Day function.

This Day marks the coming into effect of the Constitution of the largest democratic republic in the world, enshrining the ideals of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity as the foundations of our country.

Since 26 January 1950, India has seen an enormous journey of development and progress touching every domain of human endeavours. Today, India’s path forward remains sound – be it in terms of political vibrancy, economic growth, national development, social parameters of progress of our people, culture, sports, cinema and so on. The goal of Viksit Bharat or Developed India by 2047 inspires and guides the nation towards its future.

This month, reports by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reaffirm that India remains the world’s fastest growing major economy, despite global uncertainties. India will become the world’s third largest economy in the near future. Infrastructure, technology and start-ups in frontier areas such as AI, defence & space are driving India’s path ahead. The Government of India is focusing on economic reforms, improved social services, renewed thrust on agriculture, education, healthcare and digital applications.

India’s global standing speaks for itself; today the Presidents of both the European Commission and the European Council announced in Delhi India-EU Free Trade Agreement, India-EU Defence Partnership and India-EU Comprehensive Strategic Framework. Two days back, the second Global Buddhist Summit in New Delhi gathered venerable revered Buddhist monks from 40 countries, including His Eminence Tsugla Lopen from Bhutan.

On my first national day in the wonderful nation of Bhutan, I would like to mention how special it feels to be in Bhutan – this fabulous land, the people, the nature, the culture, the Royal family and the Royal Government. As an Indian, I have been particularly touched by the warmth, kindness and generosity of the country and its people.

Located in the same geography, India and Bhutan have a very remarkable similarity of values, ideals and ethos in terms of spirituality’s role in the lives of the people, social or family norms, youth aspirations and the blend of traditions and modernity.

These similarities are reflected in the special bonds of affinity between the two countries, their people, the governments and the leaders. As the Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi observed at the historic Changlimithang stadium in Thimphu on 11 November 2025, India-Bhutan relationship is one of values, emotions, peace, progress, trust, development and prosperity. He called India-Bhutan partnership as a model for the entire region.

It is heartening to note that the World Bank Global Economic Prospects Report released this month places India and Bhutan as top performing economies in South Asia at 7.2% & 7% growth for this year and they will also lead the region in economic growth projection for the next year. The leadership of the two countries are focused, the polities are stable, the social fabric is sound, people are committed and forward-looking.

On the occasion of the Republic Day yesterday, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi wished on his social media – May the special bonds of friendship and unique ties between the nations of India and Bhutan continue to grow from strength to strength. As the Indian Ambassador, I am privileged to work towards that effort, with the support & cooperation of you all.

Thank you, Tashi Delek.