NAY PI TAW, Dec 6: Several key projects aimed at improving civilian infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for the people of Myanmar through India’s grant-in-aid of $500,000 per annum were inaugurated in Nay Pyi Taw on Friday.

India’s Ambassador to Myanmar, Abhay Thakur, launched the Border Areas Development Programme (BADP) and Rakhine State Development Programme (RSDP) projects in collaboration with Myanmar’s Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement (MOSWRR) Dr. Soe Win and Border Affairs (MOBA) Minister Lt Gen. Tun Tun Naung.

The inaugurated projects are expected to bring about significant socio-economic benefits to the local population, particularly in Chin State and the Naga Self-Administered Zone. In Chin State, the completion of 16 roads and bridges, along with one education center, marks a major milestone in improving the region’s infrastructure. Similarly, in the Naga Self-Administered Zone, 19 roads and bridges, and two education centers have been successfully completed.

The total cost of these projects is USD 4.5 million, which includes notable initiatives such as the construction of a water supply system in Gwa township and an incinerator in Mrauk U township. These projects are designed to enhance essential services and focus on environmental conservation, with the total cost of these specific initiatives amounting to USD 609,020.

Under the framework of the BADP and RSDP, the Indian government provides financial assistance of $5 million per annum, focusing on enhancing infrastructure and improving the quality of life in sectors such as water supply, healthcare, electricity, road construction, school development, and education.

The ongoing collaboration between India and Myanmar also saw successful initiatives last year, such as renewable energy projects, e-learning, and rural infrastructure development across various regions, including Yangon Region, Nay Pyi Taw, Tanintharyi Region, Sagaing Region, Magway Region, and Mandalay Region.

“This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of both governments to uplift and empower communities in border areas like Sagaing, Chin state, and Rakhine state, ensuring sustainable development and improved living conditions for the people of Myanmar,” the Indian Embassy stated.

This event follows an October signing ceremony for five Government of India-assisted Quick Impact Projects (QIP), aimed at enhancing civilian infrastructure in agriculture, rural development, education, handloom, and disaster risk reduction across Myanmar.