Statement by India during the 4th Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of Bhutan in the 47th Session of UPR Working Group (4 to 15 November 2024) delivered by H.E. Mr. Arindam Bagchi, Permanent Representative of India, Geneva,

6 November 2024

Mr. Vice President,

India warmly welcomes the delegation of the Kingdom of Bhutan led by their Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade and thanks them for the presentation of their national report.

2. We appreciate the progress made by Bhutan in upholding the human rights of its citizens, anchored in its unique concept of Gross National Happiness. As Bhutan's steadfast development partner, we are delighted to note Bhutan’s graduation from the UN’s Least Developed Country category in December 2023.

3. We welcome Bhutan's efforts towards socio-economic development through its 13th Five Year Plan, and commend the successful conclusion of its fourth general elections in January this year. We appreciate the significant progress made by Bhutan in the areas of education; health; gender equality; poverty reduction; and combating corruption. Bhutan’s ratification of the Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities in March 2024 is also noteworthy.

4. In the spirit of constructive engagement, we recommend the following to Bhutan:

• One, Implement key objectives of economic development and social protection as envisaged in its five year plan;
• Two, Continue to implement reforms for improved access to quality education;

And three, Continue to make efforts to combat unemployment and gender gap in the labour force, and address the gender gap in political representation.

5. India wishes Bhutan all success in its future endeavours.

I thank you Mr. Vice President

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