Guwahati, Nov 7: Marking a significant step in enhancing the cross-border connectivity and economic relations between India and Bhutan, Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Thursday inaugurated the Darranga Immigration Check Post (ICP) in the presence of Bhutan’s Prime Minister Daso Tshering Tobgay in Assam’s Tamulpur district, just 700 meters from the Bhutanese border.
The ICP spans 14.5 acres and has advanced infrastructure to facilitate seamless travel and trade between the two nations. The strategic location of the ICP near National Highway 27, coupled with Bhutan’s upgraded customs facilities, is set to boost regional economic growth by streamlining cross-border operations and supporting enhanced economic engagement.
This development underscores the commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and regional integration in the Indo-Bhutan border area. Speaking on the occasion, Governor Acharya highlighted the occasion as a historic milestone, emphasizing its role in strengthening the unique friendship and cooperation between India and Bhutan.
He noted Assam’s pivotal geographic position, envisioning it as a central platform for enhancing Indo-Bhutan relations, with the state poised to foster closer ties due to its proximity to Bhutan.
Acharya expressed gratitude to the Central government for its initiatives in reinforcing border infrastructure, facilitating seamless trade, and promoting economic integration. He emphasized that the new ICP will streamline travel, bolster trade, and encourage cultural exchanges, enhancing the region’s shared heritage and strategic cooperation. Additionally, he acknowledged ongoing efforts to further connectivity, including potential rail links, which promise to deepen bilateral ties.
The Governor lauded the collective efforts of the governments, officials, and citizens of both nations in advancing this bilateral relationship, viewing the ICP as a gateway to new regional opportunities and cooperation. This new facility, Acharya remarked, symbolizes the enduring and evolving partnership between India and Bhutan.
The function was attended by Union Ministers Bandi Sanjay Kumar (Home Affairs) and Pabitra Margherita (External Affairs), along with Assam’s Minister for Act East Policy Affairs, Chandra Mohan Patowary.
Other notable attendees included MP Dilip Kumar Saikia, Land Port Authority of India Chairman Aditya Mishra, Border Management Secretary Dr. Rajendra Kumar, Assam’s Additional Secretary Dr. JB Ekka, and Indian Ambassador to Bhutan Sudhakar Dalela.
The new ICP stands as a strategic gateway that not only serves as a commercial hub but also as a critical immigration checkpoint, expected to stimulate cross-border trade and cultural exchange.
With India’s ongoing development initiatives and Bhutan’s increasing industrial output from areas like Mottanga, the ICP is positioned to expand trade. Bhutan’s “Samjong” brand and the lively markets in Samdrup-Jongkhar reflect the vibrant economic partnership between the two countries.
Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, ICP Darranga is set to enhance the local economy by facilitating smooth cross-border movement and commerce. These developments reinforce the mutual commitment between India and Bhutan, making the ICP a cornerstone of transnational trade, travel, and collaboration.
