Key Takeaways:

• Gusthal Mahavihar and Agam restored in Patan with Rs 120m Indian grant
• Project implemented by DUDBC with design consultancy from INTACH
• Leaders hailed restoration as symbol of Nepal–India cultural ties
• India has supported 30 heritage sites, plus housing, schools and health facilities under reconstruction aid

KATHMANDU, JULY 29 India and Nepal on Tuesday jointly inaugurated the restored Gusthal Mahavihar and Agam of Prathamshree Mahavihar in Guita Tole, Patan, a cultural heritage project rebuilt under India's post-earthquake reconstruction assistance. The inauguration was jointly performed by Member of Parliament Jagdish Kharel, Lalitpur Metropolitan City Mayor Chiribabu Maharjan, and Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava. Officials from the Government of Nepal's Department of Urban Development and Building Construction (DUDBC), representatives of the local community, and the Embassy of India also attended the ceremony. The restoration was carried out with an Indian grant of approximately Rs 120 million (NPR 12 crore) under India's post-earthquake reconstruction programme. The project was implemented by the Central Level Project Implementation Unit (Building and Housing) under the DUDBC, while the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) provided design and project management consultancy services. Speaking at the event, MP Kharel praised the resilience of the local community and stressed the importance of preserving Nepal's living cultural heritage. Mayor Maharjan acknowledged India's continued support for restoring heritage sites in Lalitpur and other districts, while appreciating the contribution of local residents to the project. Ambassador Srivastava said the restoration reflected the deep cultural ties between Nepal and India, adding that the rebuilt monument stood as a lasting symbol of the two countries' shared heritage and longstanding friendship. According to the Indian Embassy, India has supported the conservation of 30 cultural heritage sites across eight districts under its post-earthquake reconstruction assistance. The programme has also funded the reconstruction of 50,000 private houses in Gorkha and Nuwakot, 85 educational institutions across eight districts, and 133 health facilities in 11 districts. The embassy said the project highlights the broad development partnership between Nepal and India while complementing Nepal's post-earthquake reconstruction efforts.