IFAD/MoICS: Sustainable Operations of MRCs In Dhankuta

Established with the support from the Rural Enterprises and Remittances Project (RERP) SAMRIDDHI—a collaborative initiative by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supply (MoICS), in partnership with local governments (Palikas)—the Migration Resource Center (MRC) and Migration Information Desk (MID) are now integral parts of several local governments. As the Samriddhi Project nears its closure, Dhankuta Municipality in Koshi Province has successfully integrated the MRC into its structural framework, serving as a sustainability model for MRCs. Dhankuta Municipality has distinguished itself as the first municipality in Nepal to adopt a migration and reintegration policy. This initiative is now being followed by other municipalities across the Koshi and Madhesh Provinces as the RERP project reaches its final stages.

By Keshab Poudel Jun 21, 2024

IFAD/MOICS: Promoting Youth in Agriculture

Desperate for employment, over 700,00 young people are migrating to different parts of the world. Additionally, over 500,000 youths are returning to Nepal after working abroad for a certain period. Nepal is now focusing on reintegrating these returnees, utilizing their savings, and providing employment opportunities within the country. Implemented jointly by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supply (MoICS), the Rural Enterprises and Remittances Project (RERP) Samriddhi has demonstrated that youth can earn a decent income back home. The mass movement of youth has created a scarcity of agricultural laborers in rural areas, negatively impacting agricultural production. However, a group of 27 youths in Arundada, Bardibas Municipality Ward 10 of Mahottari district, has shown a successful venture, preventing youth from migrating abroad and integrating returning migrants into the local agricultural economy.

By Keshab Poudel Jun 20, 2024

IFAD/MoICS: RERP SAMRIDDHI Empowering Women Through Skills

The Rural Enterprise and Remittance Project (RERP) SAMRIDDHI, a collaborative initiative by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supply (MoICS), has significantly impacted the lives of women from underprivileged and marginalized communities across 16 districts in the Koshi, Madhesh, and Bagmati provinces. SAMRIDDHI focuses on equipping women with technical skills and financial literacy, enabling them to enhance their economic conditions. These skills not only improve their livelihoods but also empower them to make informed decisions regarding the use of remittances sent by their migrant worker spouses.

By Keshab Poudel Jun 17, 2024

IFAD/MoICS: Commercialization of Agriculture Reintegrates and Retunes Migrants

With technical skills, knowledge, and grant support for purchasing tunnels, seeds, and fertilizers provided by the Rural Enterprise and Remittance Project (RERP) SAMRIDDHI, a joint initiative of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supply (MoICS), returnee migrants from Urleni, Ward 14 of Diktel-Rupakot-Majuwagadhi Municipality in the Khotang district are transforming their living standards. With women taking on leadership roles, these returnees are now earning more income than they did in foreign employment. At a time when the Nepalese government is seeking ways to reintegrate returnee migrants into society, the lessons learned from RERP in Khotang offer a viable solution. Migrants, who had left Nepal with a bleak future and subsistence-based agricultural practices, are now benefiting from RERP’s on-farm program. Implemented in the Koshi, Madhesh, and Bagmati provinces, this program demonstrates how the commercialization of agriculture can reintegrate returnees, enhancing their income and living standards.

By Keshab Poudel Jun 16, 2024

400 KV TRANSMISSION LINE: A Historic Milestone

The completion of the Inaruwa-Dhalkebar Transmission Line at 400 kV is a significant achievement for the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA). Under the leadership of Managing Director Kul Man Ghising, the NEA team has worked diligently to bring this project to fruition, marking a momentous milestone in Nepal's electricity history. With the establishment of key substations, including the 400 kV substation in Hetauda, MD Ghising's leadership has once again proven successful with the completion of this transmission line project.

By Keshab Poudel Jun 14, 2024

IFAD/MOICS’ RERP-SAMRIDDHI : Success of Three Returnee Migrants-Operated Cooperatives

Amidst a widespread liquidity crisis impacting many cooperatives due to high withdrawals and bad loans, three cooperatives operated by returning migrants with majority women members have demonstrated resilience and success. Supported by the Rural Enterprises and Remittances (RERP) SAMRIDDHI Project—a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supply (MoICS) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)—these cooperatives have thrived under challenging conditions. The Financial Education and Entrepreneurial Knowledge (FEEK) component of the SAMRIDDHI Project has played a pivotal role. Through comprehensive training and institutional support, FEEK has significantly enhanced the capacity of cooperative employees and management. This support has helped institutionalize processes for delivering remittance-based savings and loans to women from poor and vulnerable communities and returnee migrants. As the RERP nears completion, the FEEK initiative has demonstrated how small interventions can lead to substantial improvements in cooperative operations and the livelihoods of poor women, marginalized communities, and migrant workers across 148 Palikas in 16 districts of Koshi, Madhesh, and Bagmati Provinces.

By Keshab Poudel Jun 12, 2024

TRISHULI 3B SUBSTATION: Supply Of Green And Clean Energy

The commissioning of the Trishuli 3B Substation, despite facing delays, marks a significant milestone in the supply of clean and green energy. This substation will play a crucial role in evacuating the green electricity generated in the Trishuli area, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels and helping Nepal achieve its goal of zero emissions by 2045.

By Keshab Poudel May 30, 2024

NEPAL-INDIA RELATIONS: Dispute Over New Currency

Amidst the deteriorating Nepal-India relations caused by Nepal's decision to print hundred rupees notes featuring a new map, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Naryan Kazi Shrestha has made efforts to address the situation. During a recent program, DPM Shrestha emphasized that Nepal's relations with India should not be influenced by any other country and that issues with India should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. Considering the ongoing dispute over Nepal's independent decision, DPM Shrestha's call for talks is a positive step forward.

By Keshab Poudel May 29, 2024

JAPAN’S FM KANIKAWA’S VISIT TO NEPAL: Strengthening Friendship

Ms. KAMIKAWA, Japan's Foreign Minister, commenced her recent official tours from the iconic Mt. Fuji. As a fitting conclusion to her extensive journey across Africa and South Asia, she opted for Nepal, a nation renowned for its awe-inspiring Himalayas. On her first journey to the land of Mount Everest, she immersed herself in the local culture by visiting heritage sites and bookstores, observing the deep and lasting bonds between people.

By Keshab Poudel May 13, 2024

SAMRIDDHI: IFAD/MoICS Partnership With Local Governments

The Rural Enterprises and Remittances SAMRIDDHI Project, a collaboration between the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies (MoICS), has shown the value of working with local governments to create effective institutions. SAMRIDDHI has played a crucial role in creating institutions and implementing necessary legislation, policies, and guidelines at the local level to streamline skill training programs. It has made significant contributions since it was launched, just before the introduction of functional federal structures and institutions at the provincial and local level. As the project ends, Bhojpur and Terhathum Municipality in Koshi Province, as well as Barahthawa and Harion Municipality in Madhesh and Dudhauli Municipality in Bagmati Province, are making local rules and policies. Samriddhi is also helping 12 local governments in Koshi, Madhesh, and Bagmati provinces create TVET guidelines. It is also helping four local governments, including Itahari Submetropolitan City and Duhabi Municipality, create TVET policies. With new institution and legislations and guidelines built in collaboration will the project, local governments are now able to create uniform quality training

By Keshab Poudel May 13, 2024

SAMRIDDHI: IFAD/MOICS COLLABORATION Reducing Reliance on Remittances

In a time when a large number of families left behind by migrant workers lack skills and job opportunities, the money earned by these workers is often spent on consumption and services. However, the Rural Enterprises and Remittances Project (RERP) SAMRIDDHI Project, a collaborative effort between the Government of Nepal (GoN) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), overseen by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies (MoICS), has provided a solution. By focusing on the art of traditional Dhaka weaving, which was on the verge of disappearing in many hilly regions, SAMRIDDHI has economically empowered female members of left-behind families in the Koshi Province of Nepal, enabling them to achieve economic independence. The Samriddhy Project has implemented various off-farm and on-farm programs targeting the spouses of migrant males in the Koshi, Madhesh, and Bagmati provinces. Additionally, the promotion of Dhaka weaving has also supported the Government of Nepal's "Make in Nepal" campaign.

By Keshab Poudel May 10, 2024

SAMRIDDHI: IFAD AND MoICS: Transformation of Subsistence Agriculture Through Women

Supported by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and executed by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supply (MoICS), the Rural Enterprises and Remittances Project (RERP) SAMRIDDHI has organized Vocational Skill Training (VST) that integrates market chains and modern technology. This initiative has empowered numerous young women from 16 districts in the Koshi, Madhesh, and Bagmati Provinces to shift from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture, thereby boosting rural prosperity. In Bhojpur and Bara Districts, where unique climatic and cultural characteristics prevail, two women have exemplified how commercializing agriculture can help combat poverty. Despite the diversity in climate and culture, the Samriddhi project has proven that VST is a unifying factor in the transition from subsistence farming to a profitable enterprise, ultimately increasing women's income.

By Keshab Poudel May 06, 2024

IFAD/MoICS’s SMRIDDHI: Retaining Returnee Workers

The Rural Enterprises and Remittances Project (RERP) or SAMRIDDHI, implemented by IFAD/MoICS, aims to support returnee workers from Koshi, Madhesh, and Bagmati Provinces in finding employment opportunities in their home country. However, many of these individuals are struggling to secure jobs. Fortunately, the Vocational Skill Training (VST) and Leading to Apprenticeship Model -1 (LAM-1) program, provided by Helvetas Nepal, has proven to be an effective solution in turning their aspirations into reality. With the financial backing of IFAD and the execution by MoICS, SAMRIDDHI has successfully integrated and engaged returnee migrants, promoting job creation and entrepreneurship within their communities. Operating in 16 districts across Koshi, Madhesh, and Bagmati Provinces, the Samriddhi Project has made a significant impact

By Keshab Poudel May 03, 2024

MoICS/IFAD: SAMRIDDHI’S Leading To Apprenticeship

The Rural Enterprises and Remittances Project (RERP) Samriddhi's Leading to Apprenticeship Program has emerged as a solution during a time when young individuals are facing unemployment challenges and businesses are struggling with a shortage of skilled labor. This project, a collaboration between the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supply (MoICS) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), has effectively showcased the creation of job opportunities for the unemployed and addressing the scarcity of skilled labor in industries. With financial support from IFAD and supervision from MoICS, the Learning to Apprenticeship model is currently being executed in partnership with the Federation of Nepalese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), the largest umbrella organization of the private sector. This initiative is specifically designed to target unemployed individuals from impoverished and marginalized communities, with the goal of providing them with training and apprenticeship opportunities. By tapping into the local population, particularly those who are currently unemployed and lack skills, the project is aiding industries in recruiting trained and skilled human resources. On the occasion of International Labor Day, Nepal is commemorating the event by highlighting the collaboration between employees, employers, and the government project. Supported by MoICS/IFAD, this partnership demonstrates how a conducive environment for decent jobs can be created through working together.

By Keshab Poudel May 01, 2024

MoICS AND IFAD: SAMRIDDHI For Entrepreneur And Employment

Numerous adolescents originating from diverse areas of Koshi, Madhesh, and Bagmati Provinces are currently exploring job prospects overseas. Nonetheless, after undergoing Vocational and Skill Training provided by the Samriddhi project, they are finding employment opportunities within their own nation. With the backing of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and under the management of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supply (MoICS), the Rural Enterprises and Remittances Project (SAMRIDDHI) has effectively illustrated a pathway to stimulate job creation and entrepreneurship at a local level.

By Keshab Poudel Apr 29, 2024

IWMI: SoLAR Global Science-Policy Forum Conference

The three-day SoLAR Global Science-Policy Forum organized by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) in Kathmandu has attracted the participation of more than 200 scientists, policymakers, and experts from 20 countries .

By Keshab Poudel Apr 25, 2024

CLA: Samriddhi For Skill Development

In the absence of suitable training and job prospects in their home country, numerous returning migrant workers were grappling with the decision of either going back abroad or starting a new self-venture in Nepal. Jointly implemented by International Fund For Agricultural Development ( IFAD) and Ministry of Industry, Commerce And Supplies of Nepal Government, Samriddhi's Community Livestock Assistant Training (CLA) Level I (390 hours) provides these migrant workers with the opportunity to pursue a future in their traditional occupation.

By Keshab Poudel Apr 23, 2024

ECONOMY: Growth At 3.3

The economy of Nepal is progressing positively despite encountering obstacles, as highlighted in the latest World Bank report revealing a growth rate of 3.3%. Despite a hung parliament and three coalition Governments in quick succession, the nation's efforts towards economic revitalization persist. The reports also emphasized Nepal's growth resurgence despite the limited private investment.

By Keshab Poudel Apr 16, 2024

DPM’s SHRESTHA’S CHINA VISIT High Profile, Low Key

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Narayan Kazi Shrestha concluded his high-level low key visit to China successful

By Keshab Poudel Apr 14, 2024

Maha Kumbha In Barahkshetra: A Sacred Festival In Sacred Koshi (Kaushiki) River

The Maha Kumbha in Barahkshetra is a revered festival that takes place in the sacred Koshi (Kaushiki) River.

By Keshab Poudel Apr 09, 2024

Keshab Poudel