Kathmandu: In a bid to strengthen bilateral ties, Nepal and India have renewed their commitment to High Impact Community Development Projects, marking a significant milestone in cross-border collaboration. The agreements, aimed at fostering socio-economic development, have undergone a comprehensive review and enhancement.
Originally initiated on November 7, 2003, with a modest budget of NPR 3 crores, the High Impact Community Development Projects have evolved to become a cornerstone of cooperation between the two nations. The current renewal, effective January 4, 2024, signifies a substantial increase in financial allocations, reaching approximately NPR 20 crores per project.
Under the renewed framework, these projects encompass both physical and social infrastructure, with a particular emphasis on community welfare. The collaboration involves local governmental bodies, NGOs, and other stakeholders, creating a tripartite agreement structure.
One noteworthy change is the expansion of eligibility, allowing non-governmental organizations to participate in project implementation, subject to approval from the Social Welfare Council. Additionally, the involvement of local entities requires endorsement from the concerned ministry, streamlining the project execution process.
Financial disbursement will follow an updated mechanism, with funds being made available from the Nepalese government’s budgetary system. For projects operating within non-governmental entities, the Ministry of Finance will grant approval based on advice from the respective ministry, and funding will be directly sought from the Indian government.
The collaborative efforts also include a robust monitoring system, with a Joint Monitoring Committee overseeing the bimonthly progress of the projects. Comprising representatives from the Ministry of Federal Affairs, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Indian Embassy, this committee ensures transparency and adherence to the agreed-upon objectives.
The current agreements reflect the commitment of both nations to fostering sustainable development and nurturing a strong, cooperative relationship for the benefit of their citizens.
