Nepal at top in India's Neighbourhood First policy: Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today assured Nepal that it is at the top of India's Neighbourhood First policy as he announced a Rs 100 crore package to develop Janakpur - the sacred city for Hindus - while invoking mythological links between the two countries.

Speaking at a civic reception by the Janakpur Sub-Metropolitan City at Barhabigha ground here, Modi briefly spoke in Nepali and Maithili.

He began his address by chanting "Jay Siya Ram" slogan three times.

In a speech that invoked mythological references and symbolism, Modi said he has come to Janakpur not as the Prime Minister but as the chief pilgrim, amid applause.

Modi, who is on his third visit to Nepal since assuming office in 2014, read out a verse from Ramcharitmanas which says 'one cannot remain isolated from the suffering of a friend and a true friend always helps his friend in the time of suffering.'
Welcoming Modi, Chief Minister Raut said the "open borders between Nepal and India have been instrumental in connecting the peoples of the two countries."