SUNDARHARAICHA, MORANG: A foundation stone laying ceremony was held recently for the construction of a new building for Shree Panchayat Secondary School in Sundarharaicha Municipality, Morang District. The event marked a significant step forward in enhancing educational infrastructure in the region, supported by the Government of India.

The ceremony was jointly officiated by Mr. Panchakarna Rai, Hon’ble Minister of Social Development for Koshi Province; Mr. Kedar Prasad Guragain, Mayor of Sundarharaicha Municipality; and Ms. Garima Nautiyal, Second Secretary at the Embassy of India, Kathmandu. The event saw the participation of political representatives, government officials, social workers, school staff, students, and parents.

The new triple-storied school building, along with allied facilities, is being constructed with a financial assistance of NRs 28.10 million from the Government of India under the ‘Nepal-India Development Cooperation’ framework. This project is classified as a High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) and is being implemented through the Sundarharaicha Municipality.

Established in 1965, Shree Panchayat Secondary School serves approximately 750 students from Nursery to 12th standard, with girls constituting 60% of the student body.

During the ceremony, Minister Rai, Mayor Guragain, and other stakeholders expressed their appreciation for the developmental support provided by India. They conveyed confidence that the new infrastructure would significantly improve the learning environment, provide better educational opportunities for students, and contribute to the overall development of the education sector in the area.

The Importance of Indian Support in Nepal

India's development assistance is a crucial component of the bilateral relationship with Nepal, focusing on grassroots infrastructure development and capacity building. The 'Nepal-India Development Cooperation' program, particularly through HICDPs, aims to support projects that have a direct and tangible impact on local communities.

Since 2003, India has undertaken over 573 HICDPs across various sectors in Nepal, completing 495 of them. In Koshi Province alone, 91 such projects have been initiated, including 16 in Morang District. These projects span sectors like education, health, community infrastructure, and rural development, directly benefiting the people of Nepal by augmenting local government efforts.

Furthermore, India has gifted 1009 ambulances and 300 school buses to various health and educational institutions throughout Nepal, enhancing access to essential services. Koshi Province has received 146 ambulances and 48 school buses, with Morang District specifically benefiting from 21 ambulances and 15 school buses.

This consistent support underscores the close and multi-faceted partnership between India and Nepal. By investing in priority sectors identified by Nepal, India contributes to the socio-economic development of its neighbour, strengthening the foundations of community well-being and reflecting a commitment to shared growth and prosperity. The construction of the Shree Panchayat Secondary School building is the latest example of this enduring cooperation.

India In Nepal