Embassy of India in Kathmandu Celebrates 78th Independence Day

The Embassy of India in Kathmandu marked the 78th Independence Day of India on August 15, 2024, with a grand celebration. The event commenced with the hoisting of the Indian national flag by the Ambassador of India to Nepal Naveen Srivastava, setting a patriotic tone for the day.

Following the flag-hoisting ceremony, a video message from the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, was played. In her address to the nation, President Murmu reflected on the progress India has made over the past 77 years, and paid homage to the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s independence.

As part of the celebrations, the Embassy announced a book grant for 21 educational institutions and libraries spread across five provinces in Nepal. This initiative is aimed at enhancing access to educational resources for students in remote areas, addressing the needs highlighted in various requests received by the Embassy.

In a gesture of solidarity and respect, the Ambassador honored the widows and next of kin of deceased Gorkha soldiers who served in the Indian Armed Forces. The Ambassador distributed financial dues totaling NRs 5.50 Crore and a blanket to each recipient. Additionally, NRs 12.55 Crore was disbursed to the widows and next of kin of 107 deceased members of the Indian Armed Forces. This sum covers benefits under the Army Group Insurance (AGI) programme, including death-in-service benefits, extended insurance benefits, and AGI maturity payments for 2024.

The celebration drew attendance from members of the Indian community in Nepal, friends of India, Embassy officials, and their families. The event featured vibrant performances of patriotic songs and dances by teachers and students from the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Center at the Embassy and Kendriya Vidyalaya, Kathmandu.

The Independence Day celebrations were also live streamed on the Mission’s social media platforms, allowing a wider audience to participate in this momentous occasion.