The Embassy of India, Kathmandu, celebrated the 69th Republic Day of India on Friday.

Indian Ambassador to Nepal Shri Manjeev Singh Puri hoisted the national flag and read out the President of India’s message on the occasion.

During the programme, the Ambassador felicitated widows, kins of deceased soldiers and disabled soldiers of Indian Armed Forces by distributing their dues worth around Rs 40 million and a blanket to each, read the statement issued by the Indian Embassy today.

Reiterating its commitment towards helping the Bhu Puu, the Defence Wing of the Embassy unveiled the Bhu Puu-2017 magazine covering the welfare initiatives of the Government of India for ex-servicemen domiciled in Nepal.

On the occasion, the Ambassador presented keys of 30 ambulances and 6 buses to various hospitals, non-profit charity organisations and educational institutions of different districts of Nepal.

Since 1994, the Government of India has gifted 662 ambulances and 130 buses to various organisations across Nepal to expand access to healthcare and educational services in Nepal.

The Embassy also announced to distribute book grant to 41 educational institutions and libraries across Nepal to provide educational materials to students in remote areas.

Later in the day, the Ambassador also hosted a reception at India House to celebrate the Republic Day of India which coincides with 70 years of establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Nepal.

Vice President of Nepal Nanda Bahadur Pun graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.