KATHMANDU: The Government of India has handed over essential security equipment and vehicles to Nepal for the upcoming House of Representatives elections scheduled for March 5.
The handover ceremony was held on Thursday at the Ministry of Finance, where Indian officials officially delivered riot control equipment and various transport vehicles.
Speaking at the event, Finance Minister Rameshwar Khanal emphasized the significance of the assistance, noting that it would play a crucial role in strengthening Nepal’s democratic process at a time when the national budget did not fully account for election-related security arrangements.
Minister Khanal described India as Nepal’s “first responder,” recalling the prompt and coordinated aid provided by India during the devastating 2015 earthquake.
He highlighted that many vehicles of the Nepal Police and Armed Police Force were damaged during past civil movements, and the newly provided vehicles are expected to enhance the operational efficiency of security forces.
“Had the government purchased these materials on its own, it would have posed a significant financial burden on the state. India’s support has helped reduce this cost,” Khanal said. “India has always stood as Nepal’s first supporter, whether during natural disasters or now on the eve of elections.”
The minister also underlined that the relationship between Nepal and India goes beyond mere neighborliness, representing a dependable development partnership, and expressed confidence that the friendship would continue to grow stronger in the future.
As part of the grant, India provided Nepal with 250 vehicles. According to Indian officials, out of the 650 vehicles promised, 250 were delivered during the ceremony, while the remaining units are expected to arrive within the next week.
Minister Khanal confirmed that the vehicles received as grants would be used specifically for election-related security purposes, reinforcing the commitment of both nations to supporting a safe and credible electoral process.
