Daijiworld Media Network – Kathmandu

Kathmandu, May 29: India has committed Nepali Rupees 560.2 million for the construction of 14 schools in earthquake-affected regions of Nepal, continuing its support towards the neighbouring country’s reconstruction and development efforts following devastating earthquakes.

According to a statement issued by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu, agreements related to the project were signed by the Central Level Project Implementation Unit-Education under Nepal’s Ministry of Education and Sports.

The schools will be constructed across eight districts — Gorkha, Nuwakot, Dhading, Dolakha, Kathmandu, Kavrepalanchowk, Ramechhap and Sindhupalchok — which were among the worst-affected areas during the major earthquakes that struck Nepal in recent years.

Nepal witnessed its deadliest earthquake in 2015, which claimed nearly 9,000 lives and caused massive destruction to infrastructure, homes and public institutions across the country.

Officials stated that the new school buildings will be developed in accordance with Nepal government guidelines for earthquake-resilient infrastructure. The facilities are expected to include academic blocks, furnished classrooms and separate sanitation facilities for boys and girls.

India has been actively supporting Nepal’s post-earthquake reconstruction initiatives over the years. In January 2024, India had completed and handed over 70 schools across eight districts, along with the Tribhuvan University Central Library in Kathmandu, under its reconstruction assistance programme.

The Indian government has reiterated its commitment to closely work with Nepal and its institutions on socio-economic development initiatives, particularly projects linked to post-earthquake rehabilitation and recovery efforts.