Napichandra Mahavihar Reopens in Lalitpur with Indian Aid

In a collaborative effort aimed at preserving Nepal’s cultural heritage, Naveen Srivastava, the Ambassador of India to Nepal, and Chiri Babu Maharjan, the Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City, jointly inaugurated the newly reconstructed building of Shree Napichandra Mahavihar in Lalitpur. The reconstruction project, valued at approximately NPR 3.5 crore, was undertaken as part of the Government of India’s post-earthquake reconstruction grant in Nepal’s cultural heritage sector.

The event was attended by Buddhiraj Bajracharya, President of Lalitpur Development Society, representatives from the local community, INTACH (the Project Management Consultant for the project), officials from the Government of Nepal, and the Embassy of India in Kathmandu.

The reconstruction of Napichandra Mahavihar was essential due to the damage it sustained during the 2015 Gorkha earthquake. Thanks to the support of the Government of India, the historic site has been restored to its former glory. The project was executed by the Central Level Project Implementation Unit (CLPIU – Building & Housing) under the Department of Urban Development and Building Construction (DUDBC) of the Government of Nepal.

During the inauguration, Ambassador Srivastava emphasized the robust ongoing development cooperation between India and Nepal, highlighting its significance in their bilateral partnership. Mayor Maharjan expressed gratitude to the Government of India for its support, benefiting not only Lalitpur but also Nepal as a whole through asset creation.

India and Nepal share a deep-rooted cultural connection and a commitment to preserving their shared heritage for future generations. The restoration of cultural heritage sites is a joint endeavor that reflects the strength of their friendly relationship. To further this cause, the Government of India has pledged to conserve 28 cultural heritage sites across seven districts of Nepal.

Additionally, as part of the post-earthquake reconstruction grant, India has supported the reconstruction of 50,000 private houses in Gorkha and Nuwakot districts, 71 educational institutions across eight districts, and 132 health facilities across ten districts in Nepal. These initiatives not only showcase India’s development partnership with Nepal but also complement the reconstruction efforts of the Government of Nepal in the aftermath of the earthquake.