The Indian government has reinforced its support for Cambodia's mine clearance efforts with an additional $50,000 grant to clear landmines across a 196,810-square-metre area in Koh Por village, Bak Khlang commune in Koh Kong province’s Mondul Seima district.

The grant was formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on December 13 under the “Quick Impact Projects” initiative. The agreement was signed by Senior Minister Ly Thuch, first vice-president of the Cambodian Mine Action Authority (CMAA), and Indian ambassador to Cambodia Devyani Uttam Khobragade.

Thuch expressed gratitude for India’s continued support, stating, “Your unwavering commitment and hard work have been instrumental in advancing this life-saving initiative, which will bring safety, hope and development opportunities to the people of Koh Kong province.”

He noted that the grant for mine clearance in the village underscores India’s dedication to humanitarian causes and sustainable development in Cambodia.

According to the CMAA, India has been involved in humanitarian mine clearance efforts in Cambodia since 2022, working with the CMAA to clear approximately 2.2 square kilometres of land in the province. These efforts are carried out by the National Centre for Peacekeeping Forces (NPMEC).

In addition to mine clearance, the Indian embassy has supported over 700 landmine survivors and individuals affected by explosive remnants of war (ERW) by providing them with prosthetic limbs in Banteay Meanchey province.

Ambassador Khobragade highlighted that under the “Quick Impact Projects” initiative, India’s contributions extend beyond mine clearance to include rural development, education and gender empowerment projects.