Tilak had been struggling with persistently low haemoglobin levels, and investigations revealed kidney failure caused by the underlying disorder. As the family explored transplant options, multiple centres abroad reportedly declined the case, citing the high surgical risk for both donor and recipient. Tilak’s father, despite sharing the same disorder, insisted on donating his kidney.

The family eventually reached Narayana Hospital, where a multidisciplinary transplant team led by Dr Deepak Sekhar Roy decided to proceed after extensive planning, risk assessment, and counselling. Surgeons meticulously managed bleeding risks throughout the operation, making the procedure one of exceptional complexity.

The transplant was successful, and both Tilak and his father have recovered. The family publicly thanked the Bhutanese King for financial support and the medical team for saving Tilak’s life. Doctors say the

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Modi and King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck attended the Kalachakra ‘Wheel of Time’ Empowerment ceremony in Thimphu’s Changlimithang Stadium. The sacred ritual was led by Je Khenpo, Bhutan’s Chief Abbot. More than 30,000 devotees and visitors from several countries joined the event, celebrating Buddhist unity and peace.

The Prime Minister also met the Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and wished him on his 70th birthday. He reaffirmed India’s strong commitment to friendship and regional progress through mutual cooperation.

India and Bhutan signed several MoUs in renewable energy, health, and mental health. The pacts focus on solar power, wind energy, telemedicine, and mental health training. Partnerships between NIMHANS and Bhutan’s PEMA Secretariat will help develop training programs and research initiatives.

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On Tuesday, Prime Minister Modi joined celebrations marking the 70th birth anniversary of the Fourth King, highlighting the deep cultural and spiritual ties between the two nations. Jigme Singye Wangchuck, who ruled Bhutan from 1972 to 2006, is known for promoting national unity and introducing the happiness-based development model.

Modi and Bhutan’s current King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck also held extensive discussions on energy, connectivity, defence, and technology. Both leaders inaugurated the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II hydroelectric project, a major milestone in bilateral energy cooperation.

Earlier, Modi and the Bhutanese King offered prayers before the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha at Thimphu’s Tashichhodzong. The relics were sent from India to mark the Fourth King’s 70th birth anniversary and Bhutan’s Global Peace Prayer Festival.

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The World Bank increased India’s GDP forecast for FY26 to 6.5%, up from 6.3% projected in June. The rise comes from resilient domestic demand, tax reforms, and strong rural recovery. Bangladesh’s growth is pegged at 4.8%, while Bhutan’s estimate fell to 7.3% due to hydropower delays. Growth in Maldives is expected at 3.9%, and Nepal may slow to 2.1% amid unrest.

Sri Lanka’s forecast has been upgraded to 3.5%, supported by tourism and service exports. South Asia’s overall growth is projected at 6.6% in 2025 but may ease to 5.8% in 2026 due to global and regional risks, including trade uncertainty and AI-related disruptions.

World Bank Vice President Johannes Zutt urged South Asian nations to address risks and embrace AI for productivity gains. The report also advised reforms to boost jobs, improve connectivity, and expand safety nets for workers affected by technology shifts.

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He stated that the Security Council’s current structure is outdated and unrepresentative. Tobgay argued that reforms should expand both permanent and non-permanent memberships. He said nations like India and Japan deserve a place due to their economic growth, diplomatic leadership, and global influence.

Bhutan has consistently advocated UNSC reforms, calling the current Council a “relic of the past.” Tobgay reiterated that a reformed Council must reflect today’s geopolitical and economic landscape. The focus should be on effective multilateralism that delivers outcomes, not just resolutions.

By supporting India and Japan, Bhutan adds its voice to the growing international call for balanced and inclusive global governance. Tobgay’s statements underscore Bhutan’s commitment to a more representative UN capable of addressing modern global challenges efficiently.

The post Bhutan Backs India, Japan for UNSC Reform appeared first on India Podcast.

Nadda noted FSSAI’s role in developing global food safety standards, including rapid testing kits and mobile laboratories. India hosts the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs and has developed 14 global standards while coordinating regional cooperation in Asia.

He also mentioned international partnerships through MoUs with countries like Bhutan, Argentina, Chile, New Zealand, Brazil, and Australia. At the national level, FSSAI modernized standards, approved rapid testing kits, expanded labs, and improved food import safety through accredited overseas labs and SWIFT integration.

Emphasizing the importance of food safety, Nadda said diet quality influences body, mind, and life. He warned that lapses in food safety can trigger public health crises, disrupt trade, and harm global trust. He called for stronger compliance to ensure the health and well-being of populations worldwide.

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