Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi recently visited the Gyalsung Academy in Jamtsholing, a significant national service training initiative inaugurated by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. Launched in 2019, this program aims to equip over 13,000 Bhutanese youth each year with military training alongside practical skills in areas like coding, agriculture, and life management.
The academy’s first training cycle commenced in September 2024, following substantial support through a $10 million aid package from India. During his visit, General Dwivedi received an in-depth briefing on the program’s objectives and infrastructure, praising its comprehensive approach to nation-building and youth empowerment. He characterized it as a transformative model that resonates with the Fifth King’s vision for a robust and self-reliant Bhutan.
This visit comes at a time of heightened cooperation between India and Bhutan regarding security and training, particularly in response to the growing challenges in the region. Since 2020, China’s increased presence along Bhutan’s borders has prompted intensified military collaboration between the two Himalayan nations. India continues to play a pivotal role through its Indian Military Training Team (IMTRAT), which is composed of around 2,000 personnel dedicated to training the Royal Bhutan Army.
In his remarks, General Dwivedi underscored the significance of collaborative regional development, reflecting themes discussed during the February 2025 bilateral talks in Kolkata, where both nations explored the integration of advanced technologies into their joint military training initiatives.
General Dwivedi’s four-day official visit commenced on July 1 and is marked by high-level engagements. Upon his arrival, he received a ceremonial welcome at Tashichhodzong and had the honor of meeting with the King and Queen of Bhutan, further reinforcing the longstanding and strategic ties between the two countries.
