India's Relations with Bhutan
India has always given a strategic importance to its neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Maldives. India has been watchful in its diplomatic relations careful not to seem either intimidating or indulgent in their internal affairs.
In the case of Bhutan, India's stand was made clear by Nehru back in 1950's and Bhutan was co operative to India's efforts to a mutual understanding. Justifiably, India has been watchful about Chinese interests in the region, didn't want to antagonize Bhutan. Keeping this in mind, Nehru had made warm cordial relations with the royal family of Bhutan.
Recently, the fourth King of Bhutan introduced democracy in the country, and subsequently, Bhutan had an elected prime minster for the first time. Jgimy Thinley. Since then, there has been a noticeable change in Bhutan's foreign policy, which has strained its relationship with India.
The international outlook of Thinley was highlighted in his election campaigns, and he remained true to his image. He is keen in establishing diplomatic ties with China, a move which has totally taken India by surprise.As a reactionary step, India had a check on its its economic dealings with Bhutan, Creating some difficulty in the national affairs of Bhutan. India also stopped giving certain aids to Bhutan, which is perceived as a punishment for Bhutan's supposed warming with China.
The opposition party, PDP, has strongly come against the ruling government's lukewarm attitude towards India. Thineley's agenda of Gross National Happiness' and it's international publicizing has also met with much criticism.
India has always given a strategic importance to its neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Maldives. India has been watchful in its diplomatic relations careful not to seem either intimidating or indulgent in their internal affairs.
Recently, the fourth King of Bhutan introduced democracy in the country, and subsequently, Bhutan had an elected prime minster for the first time. Jgimy Thinley. Since then, there has been a noticeable change in Bhutan's foreign policy, which has strained its relationship with India.
The international outlook of Thinley was highlighted in his election campaigns, and he remained true to his image. He is keen in establishing diplomatic ties with China, a move which has totally taken India by surprise.As a reactionary step, India had a check on its its economic dealings with Bhutan, Creating some difficulty in the national affairs of Bhutan. India also stopped giving certain aids to Bhutan, which is perceived as a punishment for Bhutan's supposed warming with China.
The opposition party, PDP, has strongly come against the ruling government's lukewarm attitude towards India. Thineley's agenda of Gross National Happiness' and it's international publicizing has also met with much criticism.
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