On its 67th Republic day, India has donated 40 ambulances and eight buses to various hospitals, non-profit charitable organisations and educational institutions in Nepal to strengthen the education and health services in the Himalayan nation.
Among them, 33 ambulances and six buses were distributed at a function at the Indian embassy here while seven other ambulances and two buses were gifted by the Consulate General of India, Birgunj, to different organisations under its consular jurisdiction.
Since 1994, the Government of India has gifted 542 ambulances to various organisations across 73 districts in Nepal.
"This has helped in bringing healthcare services to the doorstep of thousands of people who do not have access to healthcare services," the Indian Embassy later said in a statement.
India has so far gifted 106 buses to various educational and welfare institutions across 25 districts in Nepal, making access to education easier for thousands of students.
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Earlier during the day, Indian Ambassador to Nepal Ranjit Rae hoisted the national flag at a function in the embassy premises and read out the message of Indian President Pranab Mukherjee that stressed, among other things, on India's support for peace, stability and development in its neighbourhood.
The event was marked by unveiling of the 'Bhu Puu (ex-army men) 2015 Magazine', published by the Defence Wing of the Embassy to publicise all welfare initiatives of the Indian government for ex-servicemen domiciled in Nepal.
The widows and dependents of ex-servicemen and disabled ex-servicemen were handed over cheques and blankets by the ambassador. In addition, books were donated to 52 libraries, and educational and training institutions located in different regions of Nepal, including the remote districts.
Ambassador Rae also hosted a reception, attended by senior leaders, public personalities and representatives of various sections of the Nepalese society, as well as prominent Indian citizens here.
