India provides Rs116 million for goitre control programme in Nepal

Kathmandu, May 23 (UNI) India will provide Rs 116 million for the control of goitre and iodine deficiency disorders in Nepal.

A tripartite agreement between the Government of Nepal, the Government of India, and the Salt Trading Corporation Ltd of Nepal for grant assistance of 116 million for this purpose was signed here today, Indian embassy said in a press release here.

Bilateral cooperation for 26 years in this important area of health has resulted in eradication of visible goitre from Nepal and has made a significant dent in the cure of goitre, especially in the remote and hilly areas.

The programme has also encouraged increased consumption of iodised granular salt amongst Nepal's population, it said.

Altogether 22 districts out of 75 of the Himalayan nation have been identified for distribution of iodised salt for treatment and prophylactic activities.

At present the Government of India is implementing 137 projects at a cost of Rs 1800 crores in the areas of health, education and infrastructure in over sixty districts of Nepal, according to the embassy.

UNI XC SB KN2009