Syllabus: GS-2, International Relations

Mains: India – Bhutan relations

Context:

Cabinet approves signing of an MoU between India and Bhutan on cooperation in the field of Energy Efficiency and Energy Conservation Measures.

Details:

The MoU was signed between the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, Ministry of Power, Government of India and the Department of Energy, Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, Royal Government of Bhutan.
As part of this MoU, India aims to assist Bhutan in enhancing energy efficiency in the household sector by promoting the star labelling programme of BEE.
India will assist in the formulation of building codes to suit the climate conditions of Bhutan.
Retailers will also be trained in the dissemination of energy-efficient products with consumer audiences regarding savings from star-rated appliances.
The MoU will enable the exchange of information, data and technical experts related to energy efficiency and energy conservation between India and Bhutan.
Background:

Energy-intensive appliances are the main products leading to higher consumption in households or commercial establishments.
Given the rapid growth in energy-intensive consumer goods, the demand for electrical energy has been increasing every year.
This rising demand can be optimized, if the consumers prefer high-efficiency appliances.
BEE is spearheading the star-labelling program that now covers 37 appliances used in daily life.
The Star Labelling Programme has been formulated by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001.
The objectives of the labelling program are to provide the consumer with an informed choice about energy-saving and thereby the cost-saving potential of the marketed household and other equipment.
Additional Information about India – Bhutan:

The Cabinet also approved the signing of an MoU between the two countries in the area of cooperation in food safety.
The MoU was signed between the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA), Ministry of Health, Royal Government of Bhutan and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
BFDA will issue a Health Certificate as proof of compliance with the requirements prescribed by FSSAI while exporting products to India providing for ease of doing business between Bhutan and India.
The Cabinet also approved an MoU between both countries that will promote bilateral trade in the hydrocarbon sector and will ensure a secured and long-term supply of petroleum products to Bhutan.

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