Kathmandu, Jan 26 (IANS): On the occasion of its 65th Republic Day, India Sunday gifted 20 ambulances and four buses to hospitals and charitable institutions in Nepal.

At a public function held at the Indian embassy here, India's Ambassdor Ranjit Rae hoisted the Tricolour and read out the message of President Pranab Mukherjee that stressed India's support to peace, stability and development in Nepal.

The ambassador presented 17 ambulances and four buses to recepient organisations from 27 districts of Nepal.

Three other ambulances were gifted by the Consulate General of India in Birgunj to organisations under its jurisdiction, the embassy said.

The ambassador also gifted books to 50 educational and training institutions.

Since 1994, India has gifted 422 ambulances to hospitals in 71 districts and 82 buses to educational and welfare institutions in 24 districts.

"This has helped in bringing health care services to the doorstep of thousands of people," the embassy statement said.

The gifts were part of the India-Nepal Development Partnership with an overall outlay of NRs.65 billion.

Nepal President Ram Baran Yadav and chairman of the council of ministers Khil Raj Regmi extended their best wishes on India's Republic Day.

In congratulatory messages to President Pranab Mukharjee and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, they expressed confidence that the age-old friendly relations between the two countries will grow further in the years ahead. They also wished for the progress and prosperity of the people of India.