Nepal PM Balen Shah Thanks India, China For Flood Aid After Minister’s ‘Climate Compensation’ Demand

Kathmandu: Prime Minister Balen Shah formally thanked India and China for their timely aid during Nepal's devastating floods that have claimed over 1,000 lives. On the first day itself, Indian technicians conducted reconnaissance, including aerial assessments, to gauge the extent of the damage and determine if access to the affected areas was feasible.

Shah made these remarks while addressing the Nepal Parliament, according to News 18. He emphasized the exceptional nature of the situation, noting that the mud and sludge were so intense that not even army or police personnel could find a place to stand.

This response follows Nepal's Foreign Affairs Minister Shisir Khanal's call for a transition from conventional humanitarian aid to climate compensation from major emitters, including India, China, and the United States. Khanal stated that Nepal's diplomatic approach is shifting from aid to justice and compensation, highlighting that this is not merely a matter of charity but a matter of legal and moral responsibility. He added that Nepal would pursue this issue with "absolute firmness and clarity" at international forums.

India is providing both relief supplies and specialized assistance, delivering a fifth tranche of aid. The Indian Air Force has conducted multiple sorties to transport emergency supplies. Beyond this, India has also offered specialized search and rescue assistance in the wake of the disaster.