Nepal: Construction of hospital emergency block begins with Indian aid
Kathmandu, April 24
A hospital emergency block is being constructed at Ilam Hospital, located in Ilam Municipality in eastern Nepal, with financial assistance from the government of India.
Gitanjali Brandon, counsellor at the Indian Embassy in Nepal and Kedar Thapa, Mayor of the municipality, jointly laid the foundation stone for the construction of the emergency block at the hospital on Friday, according to a statement issued by the Indian Embassy.
The emergency block is being built with the financial assistance of approximately NPR 94 million from the government of India, the Embassy said.
On the occasion, Mayor Thapa and other local stakeholders expressed appreciation for the continued developmental support extended by India. They highlighted that the new emergency facility is expected to significantly improve access to quality healthcare services for residents of Ilam Municipality and surrounding areas.
The project falls under the High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) framework, and the municipality will be responsible for its implementation, according to the Indian Embassy.
"As close neighbours, Nepal and India maintain wide-ranging cooperation across multiple sectors," the Embassy stated. "The implementation of HICDPs underscores India's ongoing support to Nepal's development efforts, particularly in strengthening infrastructure in priority sectors such as health, education, and community services."
Since the formation of the new government led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah on March 27, foundation stones have been laid for two health infrastructure projects, one school building, and one waste management centre to be constructed with the Indian government's assistance. Likewise, Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) have been signed to implement seven different local infrastructure projects under the HICDP framework.
The HICDP programme has emerged as a key pillar of the India-Nepal development partnership, supporting grassroots development initiatives in Nepal.
Launched in 2003, HICDPs were previously known as Small Development Projects. The initiative supports small-scale infrastructure and community-based projects across Nepal through local authorities, focusing on priority sectors identified by the Government of Nepal, including health, education, drinking water, sanitation and drainage, rural electrification, hydropower, and river training works.
In a significant boost to the initiative, a new agreement reached in January 2024 increased the ceiling of Indian financial assistance to NPR 20 million per project, up from NPR 5 million.
— IANS
Reader Comments
The HICDP programme is genuinely impactful—NPR 94 million is substantial for a hospital block. India-Nepal relations have always been unique, closer than just neighbours. The increased ceiling to NPR 20 million per project shows commitment. 👏
Foundation stones being laid for multiple projects since the new government took charge is encouraging. But I wish the article mentioned if local communities were consulted properly. True development happens when people on the ground have a say.
This is exactly the kind of partnership we need more of—healthcare is a basic need. India's assistance in sectors like health and education builds lasting goodwill. Ilam is a beautiful place, and better facilities will help both locals and tourists. 🏥❤️
While this is positive, I wonder if the funds are monitored properly. Many projects in Nepal face corruption issues. India should ensure transparency and accountability mechanisms are in place. Good intentions alone aren't enough.
Finally, some concrete work happening! Since PM Shah took charge, I see more coordination with India. These small but meaningful projects often have a bigger impact than big loans. Wishing the Ilam hospital team all the best! 🎉
N Nitin Z India's consistent We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.