Army Chief Reinforces India-Bhutan Military Ties During IMTRAT Visit
In a demonstration of India's robust military ties with Bhutan, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi visited the Indian Military Training Team (IMTRAT) stationed in Bhutan today. This visit underscored the enduring defense collaboration between the Indian Army and the Royal Bhutan Army (RBA), a partnership established on mutual trust and regional security cooperation since 1962.
During his visit to the IMTRAT base, General Dwivedi received briefings on the mission's operations and its crucial role in training and mentoring Bhutanese military personnel. IMTRAT has been a key element in the defense relationship, training over 10,000 Bhutanese soldiers over the years. The Army chief commended the joint efforts of Indian and Bhutanese forces, particularly in leadership development and enhancing interoperability in modern warfare.
One of the ceremonial highlights of General Dwivedi's visit included the presentation of awards to RBA officers, symbolizing the lasting camaraderie between the two military forces. He also engaged in community outreach, warmly interacting with Bhutanese citizens, including children, and distributing gifts as a gesture of goodwill.
The visit also underscored India's critical role in Bhutan's defense, notably during Operation All Clear in 2003, when the Indian Air Force supported efforts to expel insurgents from Bhutanese territory. This cooperation remains crucial against the backdrop of increasing Chinese military activity near Bhutan's northern border, particularly following Tibet's annexation by China in 1959.
General Dwivedi's visit to IMTRAT highlights India's "Neighbourhood First" policy and underscores the shared commitment to regional peace and stability. The India-Bhutan defense partnership exemplifies a unique model of cooperation, balancing national sovereignty with collective strategic interests.
