Shillong, Oct 26: The 4th Indo-Bhutan Youth Summit 2025 began with its India leg hosted at IF Farms’ Mawphlang, a serene and eco-conscious Rainbow Trout Farm facility located adjacent to the historic David Scott Trail.
Participants trekked 3km through the picturesque hills to reach the farm, where they spent two memorable days surrounded by nature and community.
This year’s summit brought together 27 participants, comprising 22 students (11 each from India and Bhutan) and 5 coordinators, jointly organized by the Centre of Escalation of Peace (India), the Royal Institute for Governance and Strategic Studies (Bhutan), the India-Bhutan Foundation (Bhutan), and Pallavan Learning Systems (India).
The participants represent leading institutions from both countries, including IIT Madras, Dibrugarh University, St. Stephen’s College (New Delhi), Sherubtse College (Bhutan), Jigme Namgyel Engineering College (JNEC, Bhutan), and the College of Science and Technology (CST, Bhutan), among others.
The main objective of the Indo-Bhutan Youth Summit is to enhance the understanding and appreciation of youth on the importance of building India-Bhutan friendship and to create a pool of young ambassadors who will continue to strengthen this special relationship in the years to come. The nine-day fellowship aims to provide participants with opportunities to exchange ideas, experiences, and perspectives on bilateral collaboration while engaging in meaningful dialogue on issues impacting the two nations and the world at large.
During the Shillong chapter, hosted by IF Farms’ Mawphlang, the group participated in treks to Lawkyntang and Mawnguidbriew, held interactive sessions and activities at the farm, and camped for two nights in the lap of nature. Participants also enjoyed traditional Khasi cuisine, music, storytelling, and a putharo (Khasi rice bread) cooking demonstration, gaining a deeper appreciation of the rich Khasi culture and hospitality.
Although the farm operates without regular electricity or network connectivity, lighting was provided through solar and generator systems, creating a sustainable and peaceful atmosphere. One of the participants, Dawa Choden from Bhutan, beautifully expressed the sentiment of the group, saying, “Though there was no connectivity, it didn’t feel so — because we got a better chance to truly connect with each other.”
The participants will now continue the second leg of the Youth Summit in Phuentsholing, Bhutan, where further dialogues, cultural exchanges, and collaborative activities will take place in continuation of this meaningful journey.
