India and Bhutan Forge Agreement in Food Safety
The Union Cabinet has approved a significant Agreement between the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA) and India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This agreement aims to enhance cooperation in the crucial area of food safety between the two neighboring nations.
BFDA will now issue Health Certificates to demonstrate compliance with FSSAI’s requirements when exporting products to India. This move is expected to bolster trade relations, promoting Ease of Doing Business, and reducing compliance costs for both countries.
Inter-Governmental Framework Agreement with UAE for India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor
The Union Cabinet has given ex-post facto approval to the Inter-Governmental Framework Agreement (IGFA) signed between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on cooperation for the India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). This agreement, signed during a recent high-level visit, focuses on empowering and operating the IMEC, with a special emphasis on enhancing bilateral relations in the Ports, Maritime, and Logistics sectors.
The IGFA outlines areas of cooperation to explore joint investments and collaborations for the development of the IMEC. This framework is built upon mutually agreed principles and guidelines, aligning with both countries’ jurisdictional regulations.
Expansion of Delhi Metro’s Phase-IV Projects
In a move to enhance Delhi’s Metro connectivity, the Union Cabinet has approved two new corridors as part of Delhi Metro’s Phase-IV project. These corridors are set to improve transportation links in the national capital:
a) Inderlok to Indraprastha: 12.377 km
b) Lajpat Nagar to Saket G Block: 8.385 km
With a total project cost of Rs. 8,399 crore, funding will be sourced from the Government of India, Government of Delhi, and international funding agencies. These new corridors, totaling 20.762 km, will provide crucial interchange stations connecting various existing Metro lines, thus improving interconnectivity and easing commuting for Delhi residents. The project is expected to be completed in stages by March 2026.
MoU between India and Bhutan on General Supply of Petroleum Products
The Union Cabinet has approved the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Bhutan concerning the General Supply of Petroleum, Oil, Lubricants (POL), and related products from India to Bhutan. This MoU aims to strengthen economic and commercial ties between the two countries, particularly in the hydrocarbon sector.
The agreement will facilitate bilateral trade in the hydrocarbon sector, ensuring a secure and long-term supply of petroleum products to Bhutan. This step aligns with India’s vision of self-reliance and fits within its ‘Neighborhood First Policy’ as an Energy Bridge.
India-Bhutan MoU on Energy Efficiency and Conservation
Lastly, the Union Cabinet has approved the signing of a MoU between India and Bhutan on cooperation in Energy Efficiency and Energy Conservation Measures. This MoU, signed between the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, India, and Bhutan’s Department of Energy, aims to enhance energy efficiency in Bhutan’s household sector.
India will assist Bhutan in adopting its star labelling program, developing building codes suited to Bhutan’s climate, and training energy auditors and retailers. This cooperation will lead to the availability of energy-efficient products in Bhutan’s market and promote energy conservation initiatives.
