As part of a cultural exchange initiative to foster deeper ties between India and Nepal, a delegation of school children from Nepal undertook a goodwill visit to India from 14 to 19 April 2025. The programme was designed to enhance mutual understanding, promote cultural harmony, and build enduring people-to-people connections among the youth of the two neighbouring countries.
The delegation comprised 35 students and 6 staff members from Nepal Bharat Maitri Vidyalaya, Pokhara.
The visit commenced on 14 April with a warm reception at the Indo-Nepal border near Panitanki, followed by a welcome lunch, an interactive session with Indian personnel, and a special screening at a local auditorium.
On 15 April, the delegation arrived in Gangtok, where they were received with great enthusiasm. After a day of orientation and rest, the students prepared for a series of enriching activities scheduled over the following days.
16 April featured immersive educational and cultural experiences in Gangtok, including a welcome address by a local school principal, a tour of the Space Lab, and a virtual interaction. The students also enjoyed a friendly basketball match, visits to Tashi View Point, Ganesh Tok, and MG Marg.
The journey continued to Darjeeling on 17 April, where the students visited key historical and scenic landmarks such as Batasia Loop and Chowrasta.
18 April offered further explorations with visits to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute Museum, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, HMI Campus, Peace Pagoda, and Mall Road. The evening concluded with a lively campfire session, fostering camaraderie and cultural exchange among the young participants.
The final day, 19 April, saw the delegation travel to Sukna, where they explored a military museum and interacted with senior officers of the Indian Army. A group photograph and farewell lunch were followed by a ceremonial send-off at Panitanki, marking the successful culmination of the visit.
Lieutenant General Zubin Minwalla, GOC Trishakti Corps, remarked on the occasion:
“The youth are the bridge to a shared and brighter future between Nepal and India. This visit reflects our history and enduring friendship between two friends. We are delighted to host these bright young minds and trust that this experience will inspire lasting connections and mutual respect.”
This cultural immersion not only provided the visiting students a unique perspective on India’s rich diversity and warmth but also served to strengthen the historic and cultural bonds that unite India and Nepal.
(Edited by Pratyusha Mukherjee)
(With inputs from PRO Defence Guwahati)
