India gifts 40 ambulances to various health institutions across Nepal
'The vehicle handover ceremony was organised simultaneously at four locations, including the Embassy of India in Kathmandu, the Consulate General of India in Birgunj and the Pension Paying Offices of the Embassy of India in Pokhara and Dharan,' a release from the Indian Embassy in Nepal stated.
As per the embassy, 40 ambulances were gifted today, which covers 33 districts across all 7 provinces of Nepal. 'Out of these, 22 ambulances were handed over in Kathmandu. Further, 7 ambulances were handed over in Birgunj, 7 ambulances in Pokhara and 4 ambulances in Dharan by representatives of the Government of India,' the release added.
At the ceremony held in Kathmandu, the keys of the vehicles were handed over by Prasanna Shrivastava, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of India, Kathmandu.
During the event, the Deputy Chief of Mission highlighted that gifting of ambulances has been one of the long-standing initiatives of the Government of India under the Nepal-India Development Partnership to bolster the efforts of the Government of Nepal to strengthen its infrastructure in the health sector.
He added that 'this initiative is a part of the larger robust and vibrant development partnership between India and Nepal, which has expanded, deepened and diversified over the last seven decades.'
During their interactions with the Deputy Chief of Mission at the event, the beneficiaries expressed their gratitude for India's support towards various ongoing developmental projects in their districts and Nepal at large. They expressed confidence that the newly gifted ambulances will help enhance accessibility to health services in their respective regions. Similar sentiments were expressed by the beneficiaries in Birgunj, Pokhara and Dharan as well.
https://x.com/IndiaInNepal/status/1933873364109844827
The Government of India has been gifting ambulances for more than three decades to various beneficiary organisations in different parts of Nepal, giving high priority to Nepal's health sector.
Since 1994, the Government of India has gifted 1049 ambulances across Nepal, including those gifted today. Similar vehicle-related logistical support has been extended to the Government of Nepal on previous occasions as well. To date, 300 school buses have been gifted to various educational institutions in Nepal.
In 2022, 200 vehicles were gifted to the law enforcement agencies and the Election Commission of Nepal for the conduct of elections. More recently, in May 2025, 15 electric vehicles were gifted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nepal to facilitate the organisation of the first edition of the 'Sagarmatha Sambaad'.
India and Nepal enjoy a multi-faceted and multi-sectoral development partnership that is reflective of the closeness of the people of both countries. The extension of these logistical provisions reflects the continued commitment of the Government of India to the development of Nepal and to further strengthening of the people-to-people links between both countries.
Mayors and Chairpersons of Municipalities and Rural Municipalities of various districts of Bagmati, Karnali, Lumbini and Sudurpaschim provinces, as well as representatives of various beneficiary organisations, political representatives, and social workers, were also present on the occasion. (ANI)
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
India Today
2 hours ago
- India Today
An edge that endures Top Medical University
AIIMS continues as the top choice of postgraduate students not only for its cutting-edge facilities, superb faculty and exposure to vast patient inflow, but also for its eager embrace of latest tech like AI No. 1: All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), was conceived as an institution of excellence that embodied the hopes of a new India, and it has stayed true to that vision. Established in 1956 as an institution of national importance, it was envisioned by then prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and spearheaded by Union health minister Rajkumari Amrit Kaur. Over the decades, AIIMS Delhi has emerged as India's premier medical institution, renowned for its cutting-edge research, high patient turnover, and specialised treatment facilities. While an MBBS degree from here is much coveted, a PG degree is no less sought after. Postgraduate education at AIIMS Delhi is widely regarded as the pinnacle of medical training in India, offering an unmatched blend of academic excellence, clinical exposure and research opportunities. The institute attracts the country's brightest minds through the highly competitive bi-annual INI-CET exam for admission to the MD/ MS/ DM/ MCh courses. It is taken by 50,000 MBBS and 25,000 dental graduates annually, yet less than one per cent secure a seat. Spread over a large, green campus in South Delhi's Ansari Nagar, the institute offers world-class facilities that promote both professional and personal growth. Students say the highlight of PG education here is the faculty. They guide residents through complex clinical cases, research methodology, biostatistics and critical thinking. With a focus on both teaching and innovation, AIIMS faculty members are not just instructors, they are role models who shape the future of Indian and global healthcare. In 2024 itself, the AIIMS faculty had many achievements to their credit. This year, Dr Neerja Bhatla, head of Gynae Oncology, was honoured with the Padma Shri this year for her pioneering work in cervical cancer prevention. Under Dr DeepakAgrawal's leadership, AIIMS became the first in India to employ Gamma Knife radiosurgery for treating retinoblastoma (cancer in the retina) in children. Dr AshokKumarMahapatra led a groundbreaking multi-hour separation of conjoined craniopagus twins (joined at the head) at AIIMS Delhi, earning national acclaim. Dr PrasunChatterjee was elected Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh (December 2024) and serves on the WHO Technical Advisory Group for Healthy Ageing. Another big plus point of AIIMS Delhi is its vast and diverse patient inflow from across India, providing PG students with unparalleled exposure to rare and complex cases. This strengthens clinical skills and diagnostic acumen. AIIMS operates one of the busiest trauma centres in Asia, which means students learn how to cope with emergencies and high stress cases from day one itself. There is also the central library, one of the best in Asia, which offers access to thousands of medical journals, e-resources and research databases. Dedicated reading zones and 24/7 digital access are available for PG students. Most importantly, PG students are encouraged to engage in original research, supported by the AIIMS research cell, ethics committees and institutional funding, and aided by the latest medical equipment. Dedicated laboratories for pathology, molecular biology, genetics and radiology support such work. Moreover, AIIMS has collaborations with global institutes like the Harvard Medical School and the World Health Organization, enabling exchange programmes and joint research initiatives. The research results speak volumes. Last year, a team of PG researchers—Trapti Shrivastava, Harshal Chaudhari and Vrijendra Singh—developed a machine learning model for early autism detection. Recently, AIIMS, in collaboration with IIT Delhi, has established a stateoftheart Centre of Excellence for AI in healthcare, proving that it is constantly upgrading, innovating and spearheading excellence in health research. Career prospects after PG at AIIMS Delhi are exceptional. Graduates are sought after for senior residencies, teaching posts and fellowships abroad, and leadership roles in government and private healthcare. Being a PG student at AIIMS Delhi is more than pursuing a degree, it is a transformative experience that equips doctors with the skills and confidence to lead in healthcare. FACULTY COLUMN | The pinnacle is not enough By Dr M. Srinivas, Director, AIIMS Delhi The founding mission of AIIMS Delhi included achieving self-reliance in advanced medical education. Education and research are conducted across nearly 100 disciplines. In 2024 alone, the institute managed 906 extramural research projects funded by national and international organisations and supported 269 intramural research initiatives, with a cumulative grant value exceeding Rs 208 crore. AIIMS Delhi students receive exposure to a diverse array of clinical cases and cutting-edge diagnostic and therapeutic technologies. Responding to evolving healthcare needs, AIIMS has introduced new academic programmes—including a DM in Psychosomatic Medicine under the Department of Psychiatry. The institute places strong emphasis on student wellness. The Department of Psychiatry operates an on-campus wellness centre for students. Recently, an intramural research funding scheme specifically designed to empower postgraduate researchers, was launched. Key developments and initiatives at AIIMS Delhi include the K.L. Wig Centre for Medical Education, Technology & Innovation (CMETi) that hosted multiple capacity-building programmes for faculty and students, and Robotic Surgery Training Facility (MeHNAT), a high-tech training initiative leveraging Medtronic Hugo robotic systems to equip residents and faculty with advanced surgical skills via the SET (Skills, E-learning, Telemedicine) Facility. The SET Facility is the backbone of the National Medical College Network under the Union ministry of health. It supports e-Education and national telehealth efforts by linking medical colleges across India. A wide range of digital learning tools are accessible to students too. Finally, AIIMS Delhi is making notable strides in applying Artificial Intelligence to domains like oncology, medical imaging, ophthalmology and dermatology. It has been designated as a Centre of Excellence for AI/ ML by the Union ministries of health and education. CAMPUS NOTES | The art of medicine Dr Aradhana Sarma, Junior Resident, Dept of Biochemistry Stepping upon the lush expanse of AIIMS Delhi feels transformative, and I consider myself privileged to live and learn within India's most prestigious medical campus. During the week, I find myself immersed in the weekly Journal Club, guest lectures and interactive sessions where faculty and students engage freely in critical discussions. My academic duties include leading case-based discussions, problem-based learning sessions and practicals for MBBS students. These are designed to embed basic biochemical ideas in patient-centred settings, allowing future physicians to relate textbook learning with real-life clinical scenarios. Perhaps the most intriguing portion is thesis work. Our substantial MD projects are driven by complex approaches and continuous trial and error. AIIMS supports this deeply: labs and equipment are accessible 24×7, enabling flexible work schedules. AIIMS can be considered a microcosm of India. Residents bring with them vibrant languages, cuisines, traditions and perspectives. Festivals like Diwali, Onam, Bihu, Baisakhi, Ganesh Chaturthi and Lohri are celebrated together, and language disparities serve as natural bridges for friendships. Of course, life here is intense. AIIMS receives a massive intake of patients, offering unparalleled clinical exposure. Residents use a variety of stress-relieving practices. Some go to the gym or swimming pool, while many, myself included, take late-night walks. For me, a week at AIIMS is an amalgam of intense academics, research opportunities, teaching and moments of community. Here, ambition finds direction and medical education is elevated to an art.
The Hindu
4 hours ago
- The Hindu
Support systems key to improving breastfeeding rates and maternal health, say experts
Carnatic vocalist Nithyashree Mahadevan inaugurated a week-long awareness campaign to mark World Breastfeeding Week (August 1 to 7) at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (SRIHER). Drawing from personal experience, she stressed the role of emotional well-being in successful breastfeeding. S. Srinivasan, expert advisor to the National Health Mission, Tamil Nadu, said only 42% of Indian mothers breastfeed and cited a Spanish study showing that rate of breastfeeding increased with peer, professional, and family support. Uma Sekar, the institute's Vice-Chancellor, emphasised breastfeeding's impact on bonding and cancer prevention. K. Balaji Singh, dean, highlighted lactation support from labour rooms and a state-of-the-art human milk bank. The campaign is being led by Latha Ravichandran, dean of education, along with the heads of obstetrics and gynaecology, neonatology, paediatrics, nursing and clinical nutrition.
Time of India
7 hours ago
- Time of India
8 Indian street foods that boost gut health naturally
Indian street food isn't just about indulgence, it can also quietly support your gut health in the most delicious ways. While most people associate roadside snacks with deep-frying and spice overload, a closer look reveals that many traditional favourites are naturally packed with fibre, fermented ingredients, and digestion-boosting spices. From tangy pani puri to cooling curd rice, these 8 flavour-packed street foods can help balance your microbiome, reduce bloating, and even soothe an irritated stomach. So the next time you're reaching for your favourite chaat, know that your taste buds and your gut can both walk away happy. 8 Indian street foods that aid gut health Pani puri that aids digestion and soothes bloating Pani puri, also known as golgappe is more than a tangy snack. The spiced water, often made with cumin, mint, hing, and tamarind, helps kick-start digestion and ease bloating. Of course, hygiene matters. Stick to vendors who prepare the pani fresh and use clean water, and you're in for a treat that's both fun and gut-friendly. Dhokla packed with fermented goodness This fluffy, steamed Gujarati snack is made from fermented gram-flour batter. Each bite delivers probiotics, the friendly bacteria that support digestion. Light and low in fat, dhokla is easy to digest and helps balance your gut bacteria naturally, without making you feel weighed down. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like New Container Houses Honduras (Prices May Surprise You) Container House | Search ads Search Now Undo Curd‑rice (pazhaya sadam) for calming the gut A South Indian comfort food made by soaking leftover rice overnight and mixing with curd or freshly churned chaas, curd‑rice offers soothing probiotics and natural cooling effects. It gently nourishes your digestive system and is particularly helpful if your gut feels irritated or sluggish. Misal pav made with prebiotic sprouts and moth beans Misal pav isn't just spicy, it's smart. The star ingredient, sprouted moth beans, brings dietary fibre and prebiotics, which feed your gut microbiome and aid digestion. Served with onions, lemon, and pav (bread), it's a flavour-packed gut helper wrapped in a spicy, crunchy package. Moong dal chaat: Fibre-high protein snack Crunchy, colourful, and loaded with fibre, moong dal chaat combines sprouted moong or roasted dal with fresh vegetables and spices. This protein-rich, minimally processed snack helps support digestion, keeps gut bacteria happy, and makes for a satisfying street treat. Rasam: Liquid spice for gut immunity This fiery South Indian broth is more than comfort food, it's functional. With garlic, pepper, tamarind, and curry leaves, rasam helps soothe the stomach, speed up digestion, and support gut immunity. Served over rice or on its own, it's a liquid healer in every spoonful. Roasted corn (bhutta) fibre-rich and easy on the gut Lightly roasted over coal and topped with lemon and chaat masala, corn on the cob (bhutta) is a low-fat, high-fibre street snack. It supports digestion, helps prevent constipation, and delivers vitamins and antioxidants, all without the greasy guilt. Curd‑rice combo: Probiotic powerhouse in one bowl A classic cooling meal made with yogurt and rice, curd‑rice is packed with probiotics that ease acidity and improve nutrient absorption. It's a go-to after spicy meals or during warm weather and provides a soothing reset for your gut microbes. Smart tips to maximize gut benefits Choose clean vendors and fresh preparations. Go light on fried toppings like sev or papri. Pair fermented foods with fresh ingredients like onion, lemon, or coriander. Eat moderate portions, balance is key. These dishes are either fermented, fibre-rich, or packed with probiotics, key elements for digestive wellness. They help support a balanced microbiome, reduce bloating, and ease digestion without extra sugar or oil. Street food lovers can enjoy great snacks without compromise. Eating street food and supporting gut health can go hand in hand. These eight choices show how Indian snacks can be both flavourful and functional. If you're craving spice without the gut drama, these are the picks to make. Also read| No rice, no roti for 30 days: Surprising changes in your body
