India officials on Thursday pledged $1 billion in aid to help neighboring country Nepal in its rebuilding efforts after the devastating earthquake that killed more than 8,800 people and injured more than 22,000 others. External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj announced the donation at the kickoff of the International Conference on Nepal's Reconstruction in Kathmandu. India also vowed to provide technical assistance and expertise in reconstruction and rebuilding. More than 280 delegates from 30 countries are participating in the day-long event.