Kathmandu, Nepal - March 22, 2024

The Embassy of India in Kathmandu commemorated the 59th Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Day in a grand ceremony yesterday. Around 300 guests, including prominent figures from Nepal's government and academic sectors, gathered to celebrate the enduring partnership between the two nations.

Launched in 1964, the ITEC program offers capacity-building opportunities for professionals from over 160 countries. It provides short and long-term training programs in Indian institutions, empowering government officials, industry leaders, and academics.

Highlighting Deep Ties

India's Ambassador to Nepal, Shri Naveen Srivastava, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the collaborative spirit embodied by the ITEC program. He cited the ancient Indian philosophy of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (the world is one family) and the contemporary motto of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas" (collective effort, inclusive growth, mutual trust and shared endeavor) as guiding principles for India's partnerships.

Ambassador Srivastava highlighted the program's success in Nepal, with a record-breaking 440 Nepalese professionals availing training opportunities in 2023-24. He announced the introduction of more customized courses tailored to Nepal's specific needs, including programs for administrators, railway officials, agriculturists, and parliamentary staff.

Sharing Experiences and Strengthening Bonds

The ceremony featured a panel discussion with distinguished ITEC alumni from Nepal. Justice Baidhyanath Upadhyay, Dr. Dina Mani Pokhrel, Mr. Dinesh Ghimire, Mr. Rojnath Pandey, and Major General Santosh Kumar Dhakal shared their enriching experiences with the program. A captivating Odissi dance performance by a renowned Indian artist, Ms. Kakali Bose, further enriched the cultural exchange.

Honoring a Legacy

Another ITEC alumnus, Dr. Shekhar Koirala, a Member of Parliament and an AIIMS graduate, spoke about his experience and envisioned stronger India-Nepal collaboration in education and development sectors.

The press release also detailed specific examples of the program's impact in Nepal. Over 440 Nepalese professionals received training in various fields in 2023-24. Additionally, 30 engineers are pursuing a two-year Master's program at IIT Roorkee, and young researchers participated in the ITEC-sponsored Neighbourhood-First Fellowship Program.

A Mutually Beneficial Partnership

Nepal's active participation in the ITEC program underscores the close ties between the two countries. Over 2,000 Nepalese officials have benefitted from the program in the past 15 years alone. India, through ITEC, not only fosters human resource development in Nepal but also gains valuable insights for regional socio-economic progress.