Bhutan receives COVID19 vaccine from India
Update 20th January 2021
The aircraft of Indian Air Force delivered 150,000 doses of Covishield vaccines from India, making Bhutan the first country to receive the gift, just four days after India’s own massive roll out of the vaccine.
Led by Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering, the health minister Dechen Wangmo, Foreign secretary Kinga Singye and a few other senior officials received the vaccines at the Paro International Airport.
Representing the friendly neighbour was the Ambassador of India to Bhutan, Her Excellency Ruchira Kamboj and the embassy officials who handed over the vaccines the Oxford-Astra Zeneca vaccine, manufactured by the Serum Institute of India.
Receiving the vaccine, Prime Minister said it was a gift from a trusted friend, who has been with Bhutan all through the decades and in this pandemic too.
“As we celebrate the arrival of vaccine as the new milestone in our battle to beat the pandemic at home, we applaud the gesture that signifies the compassion and generousity of the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, and the people of India for the wellbeing of the humanity,” he said.
“It is the display of altruism at best, and an exhibit of India’s sincerity in the relationship we cherish,” Prime Minister said, adding it comes despite enormous challenges India was facing due to the pandemic.
The dispatch of the vaccine was the testimony to India’s commitment of “neighbourhood first” and its leadership in the global fight against COVID-19.
Prime Minister said these supports translate into hope and confidence for all the countries to successfully sail across the pandemic soon.
The contribution of 150,000 vaccines prepares Bhutan to wage forward to protect the people and heal from the destructions of the pandemic, together with the rest of the world. India has also extended timely and generous support through supply of medicines, medical equipment and personal protective equipment since March last year.
Meanwhile, the Indian government has assured to cover the two doses requirement of Bhutan’s target population of slightly over 533,500 and has committed to deliver the remaining consignments soon.
Is it possible to travel to Bhutan now or in near future?
All tourism visas starting from 6th March onwards are suspended until further notice. Travel also remains subject to various restrictions imposed by the countries through which travelers are entering Bhutan. We are closely following any prospect when tourism might reopen.
What is Always Bhutan Travel’s policy towards COVID-19 cancellations?
We are currently refunding the full amount we received for cancellations. However, we still recommend you postpone your trip if you have a booking for this spring or fall. This is to ensure that your trip can still be planned once this pandemic gets over and also to avoid any losses due to reverse transactions.
Is Bhutan under lockdown?
At the moment, Bhutan is still under its second lockdown however borders with India is now closed and all entry is restricted.
Wearing masks is compulsory and Social distancing still applies.