India is also collaborating with Bhutan for conducting Phase-III clinical trials of the COVID-19 vaccine candidates

In keeping with India’s stand to assist its close neighbors first amid the pandemic, the government of India has handed over a consignment of COVID-19 RT-PCR test kits for 20,000 tests to Bhutan on Thursday.

This is the ninth consignment of medical supplies handed over by the Government of India to the Royal Government of Bhutan since March.

“In keeping with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurance that India would stand by its close friend and neighbor, Bhutan, in fighting the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, a consignment of COVID-19 RT-PCR test kits for 20,000 tests was delivered at Phuentsholing, today,” the Indian embassy in Bhutan said in a statement.


The delivery of these RT-PCR test kits will assist Bhutan’s Ministry of Health in carrying out essential testing, given the recent enforcement of a nationwide lockdown in the country.

As a close friend and neighbor, India has accorded utmost priority to the requirements of Bhutan.

Since March, the government of India has delivered nine consignments of essential medicines including Paracetamol, Cetrizine, Hydroxychloroquine, and medical equipment including PPE kits, N95 masks, RT-PCR test kits, x-ray machine to Bhutan.

India is also collaborating with Bhutan for conducting Phase-III clinical trials of the COVID-19 vaccine candidates.

“India’s ‘gesture’ to continue delivery of essential medical supplies is a reflection of the special bonds of trust and understanding between India and Bhutan that have existed over the decades. Going forward, India will continue to extend all possible support to Bhutan to minimize the health and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” the embassy said in the statement.

Assuring India’s commitment to further assist Bhutan in times of need, Indian ambassador to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj said in a statement, “India stands alongside Bhutan. Together, we will fight the COVID-19 pandemic, through a sustainable recovery.”