PM Modi Unveils 21-Point Plan to Strengthen BIMSTEC Ties

PM Narendra Modi at the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, Thailand.

During the sixth BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, Thailand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a wide-ranging 21-point action plan aimed at deepening regional cooperation. His proposals covered key areas including trade, technology, disaster preparedness, education, and connectivity. The action plan reflects India’s growing leadership in the grouping and aligns with its ‘Neighbourhood First,’ ‘Act East,’ and Indo-Pacific strategies.

Sharing his thoughts on X (https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1908047019555320284), Modi described BIMSTEC as a vital platform for advancing global good. He emphasized the need for stronger engagement and institutional development within the forum. “It is imperative we strengthen it and deepen our engagement,” he said. “In this context, I proposed a 21-point action plan covering different aspects of our cooperation.”

Boosting Trade and Business Integration

Modi called for greater economic collaboration among BIMSTEC countries. He proposed creating a BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce to foster business networking. Additionally, he recommended organizing an annual BIMSTEC Business Summit. He also suggested conducting a feasibility study to explore trade in local currencies. These steps, he noted, would reduce dependence on external systems and make trade more accessible.

Enhancing Digital Infrastructure

With digital transformation in mind, the prime minister urged member states to leverage the strength of the IT sector. He proposed a pilot study to evaluate how BIMSTEC nations could benefit from India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) model. Moreover, he called for linking India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with payment systems across the region. This, he said, would simplify cross-border financial transactions.

Stronger Disaster Preparedness

Referring to the recent earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand, Modi stressed the importance of regional cooperation in disaster management. He announced the establishment of a BIMSTEC Centre of Excellence for Disaster Management in India. Furthermore, he confirmed that India would host the fourth joint disaster response exercise later this year. These steps aim to build resilience and improve coordination in emergencies.

Security and Space Collaboration

Addressing regional security concerns, Modi welcomed the institutionalisation of the BIMSTEC Home Ministers’ Mechanism. He proposed hosting its first meeting in India. He also suggested cooperation in space technology. This includes training at ground stations, joint development and launch of nano-satellites, and using remote sensing data for planning and development.

Human Capital Development through BODHI

Emphasizing the importance of skill-building, Modi announced the BODHI initiative—BIMSTEC for Organised Development of Human Resource Infrastructure. Under this, India will train 300 youths from member countries annually. He also offered scholarships for students to study at the Forest Research Institute and Nalanda University. In addition, he proposed training programs for young diplomats and cancer care training supported by the Tata Memorial Centre.

Research and Agriculture Support

To promote knowledge exchange, Modi proposed setting up a Centre of Excellence for traditional medicine research. He also announced another centre dedicated to agricultural innovation and best practices. These institutions will support farmers and researchers across BIMSTEC nations, enhancing sustainability and food security.

Energy and Youth Engagement

Modi emphasized the need for stronger energy connectivity. He noted that the BIMSTEC Energy Centre in Bengaluru is already operational. It will train youth in energy technologies and coordinate regional grid initiatives. He called for fast-tracking electric grid interconnections to improve energy access.

Youth engagement formed another major pillar of the plan. Modi announced the BIMSTEC Young Leaders’ Summit, a regional hackathon, and a Young Professionals Visitors Programme. These initiatives are designed to build leadership and foster innovation among the region’s youth.

Cultural and Maritime Connectivity

Highlighting the power of cultural ties, Modi proposed hosting a BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival in India. He also announced the creation of a Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre. This institution will promote maritime policy coordination, capacity building, and innovation.

Accelerating BIMSTEC’s Strategic Momentum

While BIMSTEC was formally established in 1997, it gained momentum after 2016. That year, Modi hosted a retreat with BIMSTEC leaders in Goa during the BRICS Summit. This meeting redefined the forum’s strategic direction. Since then, India has consistently elevated BIMSTEC through its regional initiatives.

In 2019, Modi invited BIMSTEC leaders to his swearing-in ceremony—an act that reaffirmed India’s commitment to regional unity. Under his leadership, India has promoted physical, digital, and energy connectivity across the grouping. The BIMSTEC Energy Centre now plays a vital role in coordinating projects under the ‘One World, One Sun, One Grid’ vision.

India’s responsiveness during crises has also been noteworthy. After the recent 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar, India launched Operation Brahma to provide immediate aid. This reinforced India’s role as the region’s first responder in emergencies.

A Blueprint for Regional Progress

Modi’s 21-point action plan marks a significant step in positioning BIMSTEC as a proactive and forward-looking regional platform. His proposals reflect a shared vision of prosperity, resilience, and innovation. As BIMSTEC evolves, India’s leadership continues to shape it into a cohesive and effective mechanism for regional cooperation.

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