Centre for Escalation of Peace (CEP), Royal Institute for Governance and Strategic Studies (RIGSS) and Pallavan Learning Systems (PLS) conducted the 3rd India-Bhutan Youth Summit from September 9-18, 2024. The first India-Bhutan Youth Summit was organised in 2018 to mark the 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The launch of the India-Bhutan Youth Summit came at an opportune time to celebrate the 50 years of friendship and partnership. The second summit was organised in 2019.
The main objective of the youth summit was to enhance the understanding and appreciation of the youth on the importance of building India-Bhutan friendship, and to create a pool of potential ambassadors of this special relationship in both countries who will carry forward the collaboration for many years to come. The summit sought to provide an opportunity for the youth to engage in meaningful conversations on various aspects of India-Bhutan collaboration and promote networking and bonding.
This year, the summit had participants from both countries congregate in the Kingdom of Bhutan. The 10-day programme was structured in a manner where learning experiences would incorporate a combination of exposure and adventure. It included an introduction to Bhutan, a three-day trek across the pristine land of Bhutan, interactions amongst the participants on core issues, and meetings between the participants and eminent persons in Bhutan. The participants also visited places of interest and interacted with people to gain a better understanding of the country and the aspirations of the citizens.
At the end of the summit, the participants were asked to share their experiences and reflect on the entire programme. In addition to giving detailed feedback on the summit, they were asked to submit a programme report detailing their individual journey during the summit. Also, in groups, they prepared a presentation and a project proposal on one of the most pressing issues surrounding the India-Bhutan relationship. In addition, they were asked to write an essay on ‘what makes you an adult’. It is expected that the participants will go on to become successful spokespersons and ambassadors of the India-Bhutan Youth Summit community that will continue to grow over the years.
Click here to explore the coffee table book detailing the summit.
