Kathmandu, January 26

On the occasion of the 68th Republic Day of India, the Embassy of India in Nepal today donated books to 60 educational institutions, including libraries, primary schools, senior secondary schools and universities located in different regions of Nepal.

Further reaffirming the commitment of the Government of India towards economic development of Nepal, the embassy also gifted 20 ambulances and four buses to various hospitals, non-profitable charitable organisations and educational institutions of different districts of Nepal.

Indian Ambassador to Nepal Ranjit Rae presented keys to these beneficiaries in an effort to further strengthen educational and health services in Nepal.

According to a press release issued by the embassy, India has gifted as many as 602 ambulances to various organisations across 73 districts in Nepal since 1994. The southern neighbour has so far gifted 118 buses to various educational and welfare institutions across 28 districts in Nepal.

Meanwhile, the 68th Republic Day was marked amid a public ceremony held on the premises of the Indian Embassy today.  On the occasion, Ambassador Rae hoisted the Indian national flag and read out the message of Indian President Pranab Mukherjee. The president in his message has stressed on India’s support for peace and stability in its neighbourhood.

On the occasion, the Coffee Table Book marking the visit of President Mukherjee to Nepal was released.  Reiterating its commitment to help ex-servicemen, the Defence Wing unveiled the Bhu Puu- 2016 magazine publicising the welfare initiatives of India for ex-servicemen domiciled in Nepal.

The Indian envoy felicitated 14 ex-servicemen, widows and next of kins of deceased soldiers of Indian Armed Forces, by distributing cheques worth Rs 3.75 crore and a blanket each from Defence Attache, Welfare Fund.  Two Ambulances was presented to ex-servicemen’s organisation in Nepal.

The 68th Republic Day function was attended by over 1,000 guests, including embassy officials, their families, members of the Indian community and other guests. Separately, Rae also hosted a reception which was attended by over 1,500 persons, including senior leadersand representatives of various sections of Nepali society.