Kathmandu— Nepal’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal announced that the government is prioritizing the rescue, relief, and repatriation of Nepali citizens facing difficulties overseas. A budget of Rs. 150 million has been allocated in Fiscal Year 2026/27 specifically for these efforts, with a detailed procedure outlining fund administration currently pending approval from the Ministry of Finance. The announcement came during parliamentary questioning regarding the delayed return of the remains of Santosh Rai, who died while receiving medical care in Cambodia, and addresses broader concerns about supporting Nepali nationals abroad through both emergency assistance and routine consular services.

Budgetary Procedure Nears Approval

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has prepared a procedure for administering the allocated budget, titled 'Procedure for Administering the Budget Allocated for the Rescue, Relief and Repatriation of Nepali Citizens Stranded Abroad, 2083.' This document was submitted to the Ministry of Finance on Friday for final approval. Minister Khanal explained that careful consideration was given to how funds should be utilized, necessitating a thorough procedure. The proposed guidelines allow for expenditures up to Rs. 1.2 million per person for repatriation, including costs associated with deceased citizens.

Challenges in Repatriation and Rescue

Repatriating the bodies of Nepali citizens and rescuing those in distress is often more straightforward when individuals have traveled abroad legally and obtained labor approval, as they are typically covered by insurance through the Department of Foreign Employment. However, cases involving irregular travel present legal and financial complexities. Minister Khanal emphasized the government’s dual responsibility to protect its citizens while ensuring responsible use of taxpayer funds, acknowledging concerns that providing assistance to those engaged in illegal activities could inadvertently encourage such behavior.

Recent Rescue Efforts and Repatriation Numbers

In recent months, Nepal has undertaken significant rescue operations. Approximately 860 Nepali citizens who traveled to Cambodia on visit visas but were found working in scam centers have been rescued and returned home over several months. Additionally, the government has repatriated the remains of around 160 Nepali citizens within the past four months alone. The case of Santosh Rai, who died in Cambodia on May 14th, is currently being addressed with an estimated cost of US$1,000 to cover outstanding medical bills, mortuary charges, and airfare.

Plans for Overseas Infrastructure Development

To reduce long-term costs associated with renting embassy and residential buildings abroad, the government plans to construct new facilities on land already owned by Nepali diplomatic missions. This initiative will be implemented gradually, prioritizing locations where land is available. Last year, Nepal spent Rs. 1.39 billion—approximately 17 percent of the MoFA’s total budget—on rent for overseas missions. Legal provisions allowing embassies to manage construction projects have been established through amendments to the Public Procurement Act 2063, and work has begun on projects in Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively working with relevant stakeholders to finalize the budgetary procedure and initiate construction projects aimed at improving Nepal’s diplomatic infrastructure abroad, ensuring more effective support for Nepali citizens worldwide.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.