PHNOM PENH, July 19, 2024 — The collaborative project titled “Mine-Free Villages in Koh Kong Province” has successfully concluded, marking a significant achievement in the region’s safety and development. This initiative was a joint effort involving the Cambodia Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA), the Embassy of India in Phnom Penh, Koh Kong provincial authorities, and the National Centre for Peacekeeping, Mine and ERW Clearance (NPMEC).
The project's completion ceremony took place on July 18, with officials including Tep Kallyan, Deputy Secretary General of CMAA, Sreng Hong, Deputy Governor of Koh Kong province, and Major General Chhoeun Chomnit of NPMEC in attendance. The event also saw representation from the Embassy of India by First Secretary Richhpal Singh, alongside over 250 local residents and students from the newly declared mine-free villages.
The initiative successfully cleared landmines from four villages—Tam Kan, Prolean, Chamkar Leu, and Thma Sa—benefiting over 7,000 people. This project was part of the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation, under which India has provided grant assistance for 54 Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) across Cambodia, enhancing sectors such as education, health, sanitation, agriculture, and more.
During the ceremony, both the deputy secretary general of CMAA and the deputy governor of Koh Kong expressed their gratitude for India's support. First Secretary Singh highlighted the ongoing demining cooperation between India and Cambodia, a crucial endeavor supported by both civilian and military efforts.
Looking ahead, another significant project under the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation is set to begin shortly, aiming to clear nearly 2 million square meters of landmines in Botum Sakor, Sre Ambel, Thmar Baing districts, and Trapeang Rung commune, with a total grant of US$426,709 from India. This effort is expected to benefit over 86,000 residents.
India's contributions to Cambodia's demining activities include training NPMEC personnel, providing sniffer dogs, and a US$1.5 million grant for demining equipment to the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces. Additionally, last year, over 650 Cambodian nationals received artificial limbs at a camp in Banteay Meanchey province under the "India for Humanity" initiative.
