Kathmandu, January 27, 2025 – India and Nepal convened the 5th Joint Project Monitoring Committee (JPMC) meeting to assess the progress of post-earthquake reconstruction projects supported by the Government of India. The meeting, held in Kathmandu, marked another significant step in the collaborative efforts of both nations to rebuild Nepal following the devastating April 2015 earthquake. India had committed a grant of USD 250 million for the reconstruction projects, divided into four key sectors: Housing (USD 100 million), Education (USD 50 million), Health (USD 50 million), and Cultural Heritage (USD 50 million).

High-Level Representation and Comprehensive Review
The Indian delegation was led by Shri Munu Mahawar, Additional Secretary (North), Ministry of External Affairs, while the Nepalese team was headed by Mr. Padma Kumar Mainalee, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Urban Development. The meeting was attended by officials from both governments, consultants, and other stakeholders involved in the implementation of the projects.

During the meeting, the participants conducted a thorough review of the progress in all four sectors. It was noted that projects under the housing sector were successfully completed in 2021, providing vital housing solutions to those affected by the earthquake. Similarly, the education sector saw the successful completion of its projects in 2024, including the renovation of significant educational institutions like the Tribhuvan University Central Library in Kathmandu.

Progress in Health and Cultural Heritage
In the health and cultural heritage sectors, both sides expressed satisfaction with the progress made. Since the last JPMC meeting in October 2023, India has handed over 26 education projects, 32 health projects, and 3 cultural heritage projects. These contributions amounted to NPR 335.08 crores. Additionally, 43 health projects and 9 cultural heritage projects, worth NPR 173.49 crores, were completed during the same period.

The meeting emphasized the positive socio-economic impacts of these projects, particularly in generating employment opportunities and enhancing health and education services in remote areas.

Focus on Cultural Heritage
As part of the visit, Shri Munu Mahawar toured the Gusthal Mahavihar reconstruction project, a culturally significant heritage site located in Guita Tole, Lalitpur. He reviewed the project’s progress and engaged with members of the local user community, reaffirming India’s commitment to preserving Nepal’s rich cultural heritage.

Commitment to Continued Collaboration
Both India and Nepal reaffirmed their dedication to expediting the remaining projects in health and cultural heritage sectors. The two nations agreed to hold the next JPMC meeting at a mutually convenient date, underscoring their shared commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and ensuring the timely completion of the reconstruction initiatives.

The post-earthquake reconstruction projects have become a cornerstone of India-Nepal cooperation, reflecting the enduring partnership between the two nations and their shared vision for a resilient and prosperous Nepal.