Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay has described Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as an avatar of Vishnu, specifically identifying him as Kalki, the final avatar associated with overcoming disorder and restoring dharma. Tobgay first shared this view with Modi in 2019, and after five years of reflection, he has affirmed and specified his assessment.
Reflecting on Leadership and Vision
Speaking on Modi's leadership, Tobgay recalled their meeting in Delhi on July 27, 2019, when he met Modi as a private citizen, having been out of office. He expressed gratitude for Modi's support and shared his belief that Modi was an 'enlightened ruler,' a concept revered in Bhutan's Buddhist tradition.
Tobgay's conviction deepened as he observed Modi's governance, from his nearly 13 years as Gujarat Chief Minister—where the state became a benchmark for growth and infrastructure—to his national leadership. He highlighted Modi's unwavering dedication, which he believes has instilled a powerful sense of belief and ambition in Indians, making them prouder of their country and its global standing.
The Bhutanese PM linked these qualities to the Buddhist concept of Rigsum Gonpo, a trinity of Bodhisattvas representing wisdom, compassion, and courage. He sees these attributes converging in Modi's vision of 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) by 2047, which he described as a national mission reflecting the collective aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians, encapsulated in the mantra 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' (Together with all, Development for all).
India-Bhutan Relations and Support
For Tobgay, 'Viksit Bharat' carries direct significance for Bhutan, stating, “Viksit Bharat means Viksit Bhutan.” He reminisced about Modi's first foreign visit as Prime Minister in June 2014, to Bhutan, where Modi coined the phrase “B4B: Bharat for Bhutan; Bhutan for Bharat,” symbolizing the strong bilateral relationship.
This commitment has been evident in India's substantial support for Bhutan's Five-Year Plans. Upon Tobgay's return to office in 2024, Modi doubled India's support for Bhutan's 13th Plan to ₹10,000 crore. This assistance is visible across Bhutanese schools, hospitals, infrastructure, hydropower projects, and technology initiatives.
Tobgay also acknowledged India’s full support for Bhutan's ambitious Gelephu Mindfulness City project, with commitments materializing in rail links, border infrastructure, and improved connectivity. Investments from major Indian companies like Tata Power, Adani Group, and JSW Energy further underscore India's role in Bhutan's economic transformation.
Modi's Milestone and Personal Mentorship
These remarks coincide with Prime Minister Modi completing 25 continuous years as the head of an elected government, a journey that began on October 7, 2001, as Gujarat Chief Minister. This milestone was recognized by the Union Cabinet as “25 years of continuous leadership as head of government.”
Modi has also received Bhutan’s highest honor, the Order of the Druk Gyalpo, making him the first and only foreign leader to be conferred the award. Beyond diplomatic ties, Tobgay views Modi as an elder brother and mentor, finding instruction in Modi’s example as a public servant rather than direct guidance.