India and Cambodia Sign MoU for Humanitarian Demining Project in Pursat Province

A new step has been taken to support humanitarian demining activities in Cambodia's Pursat Province. On July 27, 2026, the Indian Embassy in Phnom Penh and the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to implement a Quick Impact Project (QIP) for humanitarian demining in Mol Village, Phnum Kravanh District, Pursat Province. The MoU further strengthens the robust and continuous cooperation between India and Cambodia in the field of demining. Indian Ambassador Vanlalvawna Bawitlung emphasized that demining activities not only remove the dangers buried in the ground but also open opportunities for sustainable development, improvement of community livelihoods, and assurance of a safer and more prosperous future for local communities. Meanwhile, Dr. Bou Rith, Secretary-General of the CMAA, expressed deep gratitude to the government and people of India for their long-standing partnership in addressing Cambodia's mine problem. He also praised the value of India's humanitarian assistance to mine victims through the "India for Humanity" initiative, noting that it has helped hundreds of Cambodian mine victims regain their mobility, prosperity, and opportunities to build productive lives. This QIP, supported by India's QIP framework, will contribute to Cambodia's national mine action efforts by clearing approximately 163,207 square meters of land threatened by mines and unexploded ordnance in Mol Village. The initiative aims to benefit around 1,403 residents (369 households), restoring land safety for agricultural production, housing construction, and community development. The project also includes awareness education on the risks of unexploded ordnance to enhance community understanding and ensure safety. The signing of this MoU reflects the deep and long-standing friendship between India and Cambodia, and highlights the joint commitment of both countries to promote humanitarian security, sustainable development, and the well-being of communities affected by the legacy of landmines. In the past, India and the CMAA have successfully implemented four demining projects under the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation framework through QIPs. These projects have brought significant benefits to residents in various areas of Koh Kong and Pursat provinces. During the visit of the Vice President of India to Cambodia in 2022, India announced special assistance to support humanitarian demining in areas such as Botum Sakor, Sre Ambel, Thmar Bang, and Trapeang Rung. Some of these areas have already been declared mine-free, marking a significant achievement in the joint efforts of India and Cambodia towards a mine-free future. India has consistently supported Cambodia's mine action program since the early 1990s through technical assistance, capacity building, provision of demining equipment, donation of mine-detecting dogs, assistance to mine victims, and grant funding for humanitarian demining projects.