Indian Assistance of NRs.2,98,76,834/- for Mahendra Multiple Campus, Nepalgunj, Banke and assistance of NRs.25,08,243/- for Bheri Bridha Ashram, Nepalgunj, Banke

The foundation stones for construction of campus building and girls hostel for Mahendra Multiple Campus, Nepalgunj, Banke and building for Bheri Bridha Ashram, Nepalgunj, Banke were laid by Dr. Kheya Bhattacharya, Minister(Economic Cooperation) on behalf of Ambassador of India on September 8, 2006 in the presence of the representatives of local Government and community leaders at a public gathering. The need for a degree block, girls hostel and boundary wall for Mahendra Multiple Campus, at a cost of NRs.2,98,76,834/- , had long been felt by the campus and it is hoped that the additional infrastructure will not only contribute to higher education in Banke and adjoining districts but also provide better environment for learning to the girl students. The construction of building for Bheri Bridha Ashram will benefit the elderly and senior citizens of the Ashram, which is the only ashram for elderly people and destitute in mid western region and is one of the model houses selected by the Government of Nepal.

The commitment of India to triple the development assistance and double the scholarships for Nepalese students to strengthen and diversify bilateral economic cooperation, following Prime Minister of Nepal’s visit to India in June 2006 was reiterated during the function as well as the need for development of education as the most important requirement for the overall development in Nepal. Other speakers at the meeting expressed deep appreciation for India’s continuing contribution in the education and infrastructure sector.

Currently the bilateral cooperartion programme between the two countries is witnessing the realization of 155 projects in education, health and infrastructure sector in all 75 districts of Nepal with an outlay of NRs. 1800 crores. These are ongoing projects, and distinct from the NRs.1600 crores economic package announced during the visit of Prime Minister Koirala to India.