Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri handed over different types of vehicles to chief election commissioner Dr. Ayodhee Prasad Yadavtowards India’s logistical support for smooth conduct of elections.

According to a press release issued by Indian Embassy, these vehicles have been donated by the Government of India to the Election Commission of Nepal as per the request made by Nepal. As requested, the Government of India is providing support with different types of vehicles that include 35 double cabin pickups, 7 Scorpio jeeps, 4 sedan cars, 1 XUV car, 1 minibus, 1 microbus, 30 pulsar motorcycles and 7 scooters.

“These vehicles have been procured at total cost of NRs 89.17 million and would be used in different parts of the country for conduct of elections,” said a press release.

During the ceremony, ambassador Puri congratulated the Election Commission of Nepal on their extensive preparations to hold elections in a free and fair manner. Recalling the conversation between the Prime Ministers of India and Nepal last week, Ambassador Puri reiterated that India would extend all possible assistance for elections and is ready to support every effort to achieve peace, stability and socio-economic transformation in Nepal.

He said that gifting of vehicles marks India’s continued support towards fulfilling the democratic aspirations of the people of Nepal. He saidthat free and fairelections are hallmark of a successful democracy. He conveyed best wishes on behalf of the Government and people of India to the Election Commission of Nepal for conduct of elections.

“The Government of India has been extending support in the form of vehicles and other logistical requirements as per the request of the Government of Nepal for various elections. During 2nd Constituent Assembly elections, the Government of India had gifted 48 vehicles to the Election Commission and 716 vehicles for security forces in Nepal. Besides, in August 2016, 17 fire tenders were gifted to the Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development for enhancing fire-fighting capacity of municipal administration in different parts of Nepal. The Government of India has also donated 602 ambulances and 118 buses to different organizations, schools, health posts thus improving accessibility to health and education infrastructure in Nepal,” said a press release.