At separate public functions held on November 1 and 2, 2008, Ambassador of India, Shri Rakesh Sood, laid the foundation stones for new buildings of Shree Janata Secondary School, Harkathwa and Shree Janata Secondary School, Nawalpur in district Sarlahi and of Shree Sukdev Secondary School, Suga in district Mahottari. He also laid the foundation stone for rural electrification project for six VDCs  in district Sarlahi. These infrastructures are being constructed with grant assistance from the Government of India of NRs.17.42 millions, NRs.15.94 millions, NRs. 16.88 millions and NRs.28.43 millions respectively.  

These three schools cover a large catchment area covering a number of adjoining VDCs. Established during 1950s and 1960s, these are also among the oldest in their respective areas and together fulfill the educational needs of close to three thousand students. The new infrastructure being constructed with India's assistance will help these schools with additional space to upgrade and meet the requirements of increasing number of students.

The rural electrification project in district Sarlahi covers six VDCs, namely Manpur, Bhawanipur, Mahinatpur, Dhankaul, Ramnagar Bahuarwa and Rajghat. The new electrical transmission line with transformers and required accessories is expected to benefit about 4000 people.  

These projects are being implemented by concerned District Development Committees, while separate oversight committees with local community participation oversee the projects for their effective and timely implementation.

Addressing these functions, Ambassador Sood highlighted the importance of India-Nepal Economic Cooperation Programme as a cornerstone of the bilateral relations between the two countries and expressed the hope that the various projects being implemented under the programme would contribute to Nepal's overall development. He emphasised the need for development particularly in the areas of education, health and infrastructure for smooth and peaceful democratic transition of Nepal and said that India would continue to extend all possible assistance in this direction.