India Strengthens Power Ties with Neighbouring Countries Through Cross-Border Projects and MoUs

The Ministry of Power, Government of India, along with its Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs), is actively strengthening regional cooperation in the power sector with neighbouring countries including Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Sri Lanka.

A series of Memoranda of Understanding and agreements have been signed to enhance collaboration in areas such as power generation, transmission connectivity and energy efficiency. Key Indian entities involved include NHPC Limited, NTPC Limited, Power Grid Corporation of India and SJVN Limited.

India is also partnering in major cross-border power generation projects, particularly in Nepal and Bhutan. Notable projects include the 900 MW Arun-3 and 669 MW Lower Arun in Nepal, and large hydropower projects in Bhutan such as Tala (1020 MW), Mangdechhu (720 MW) and Punatsangchhu-I & II. In Bangladesh, the 1320 MW Maitree Super Thermal Power Project reflects strong bilateral cooperation.

Cross-border transmission infrastructure is being expanded through multiple high-capacity interconnections. Key links include the Muzaffarpur–Dhalkebar 400 kV line with Nepal, Tala–Siliguri and Punatsangchhu–Alipurduar links with Bhutan, Baharampur–Bheramara HVDC link with Bangladesh, and planned high-capacity connections with Myanmar and Sri Lanka, including a 1000 MW HVDC link between Madurai and Mannar.

These initiatives aim to enhance regional energy security, enable power trade, optimise resource utilisation and strengthen India’s role as a key energy partner in South Asia.