Context-

In an era marked by global connectivity projects and urban development initiatives, Bhutan's proposal for a regional economic hub at Gelephu has emerged as a significant endeavor. Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay's visit to India this week includes discussions on this ambitious project, which aims to establish a "Gelephu Mindfulness City" (GMC) spanning 1,000 square kilometers. With a unique architectural blueprint and investor-friendly laws, Gelephu is envisioned as a carbon-neutral city focusing on non-polluting industries, education, healthcare, and wellness sectors.

Arguments in Support:

Advantages of a Carbon-Neutral City:

●     Gelephu's emphasis on being a carbon-neutral city highlights its commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation.

●     The city would prioritize non-polluting industries such as IT, education, hospitality, and healthcare, positioning itself as an attractive investment destination and a center for health and wellness.

●     Gelephu's model aligns more closely with modern planned cities like Neom in Saudi Arabia and Nusantara in Indonesia, emphasizing sustainable development over traditional financial hubs characterized by skyscrapers.

Enhancing India's Connectivity Plans:

●     Gelephu's strategic location places it at the nexus of India's "Act East" policy, facilitating connectivity to Myanmar, ASEAN, and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

●     It complements India's bilateral connectivity initiatives with Japan, including plans for infrastructure development in India's northeastern states through Bangladesh to the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean.

●     The city's development can contribute to lateral land-based connectivity across the Indian Ocean region, supplementing maritime flows and fostering regional integration.

Arguments Against:

Geographical Challenges:

●     Gelephu's unique geography, characterized by a broad plain amidst mountainous terrain, presents logistical and environmental challenges.

●     The region experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, leading to flooding, which could disrupt infrastructure and development projects.

Locational Factors:

●     Gelephu's proximity to forests and wildlife habitats, including elephant corridors, raises concerns about environmental conservation and wildlife protection.

●     As a landlocked area, Gelephu is dependent on neighboring countries, particularly India, for trade and transportation infrastructure, which may pose logistical challenges and constraints.

Security Concerns:

●     Past insurgencies in neighboring states, such as Assam and northeastern states, as well as across the Indian border in Myanmar, have posed security challenges.

●     Bhutan's military operation in 2003, in collaboration with the Indian Army, to address militant groups in the region underscores the historical security risks associated with the area.

India's Strategic Interest:

India's response to the Gelephu project reflects its strategic interests in the region and its enduring partnership with Bhutan. Bhutan's geopolitical significance as a close ally not aligned with China underscores India's vested interest in supporting Bhutan's economic development and stability. India's substantial investments in Bhutan, comprising 50% of its total foreign direct investment, highlight the depth of the bilateral relationship. Moreover, India aims to prevent Bhutan from drifting into China's sphere of influence, as evidenced by its proactive engagement and assistance in infrastructure development.

Strategic Alignment with India's Connectivity Plans:

The Gelephu project aligns with India's broader connectivity initiatives in the region, contributing to enhanced regional integration and economic cooperation. India's "Act East" policy, aimed at strengthening connectivity with Southeast Asia, intersects with the Gelephu project's geographical location, positioning it as a gateway to the region. Furthermore, India's collaboration with Japan on connectivity projects, including the trilateral highway through Bangladesh, underscores the strategic convergence with the Gelephu project. Additionally, India's plans for a South Asian power grid and renewable energy projects complement Gelephu's vision of sustainability and energy security.

Regional Implications and Geostrategic Considerations:

The Gelephu project has broader implications for regional dynamics and geostrategic alignments, shaping India's regional influence and countering external pressures. Amidst growing geopolitical competition and shifting alliances, India seeks to foster closer ties with neighboring countries through infrastructure development and economic cooperation. Bhutan's engagement with India on the Gelephu project serves as a testament to the enduring friendship and mutual interests shared by both nations. Furthermore, the project offers a platform for India to consolidate its influence in the region and counter external pressures, particularly from China, by promoting shared prosperity and stability.

Conclusion:

The Gelephu project represents a significant opportunity for Bhutan to diversify its economy, enhance regional connectivity, and strengthen diplomatic ties with India. India's support for the project underscores its commitment to fostering strategic partnerships and promoting shared prosperity in the region. Despite challenges and uncertainties, the Gelephu project holds immense potential as a catalyst for economic growth and geopolitical stability. Through collaborative efforts and strategic investments, India and Bhutan can capitalize on this transformative initiative to realize their shared vision of a prosperous and interconnected South Asia.

Source- The Hindu