Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari has emphasized the crucial role of local governments in conserving Nepal’s archaeological heritages. Speaking at an event organized by the Chundevi Temple Reconstruction Committee in Budhanilkantha Municipality-13 on Sunday, marking Shree Krishna Janmashtami, Bhandari praised the efforts made by local levels in heritage conservation.
During her address, Bhandari underscored the importance of active community involvement in preserving and developing local arts and culture. She highlighted the increased participation of youths and women in these efforts, noting that their involvement is essential not only for developmental projects but also for the revitalization of arts and culture.
“The presence of youths and women is inevitable in developmental endeavors and in the preservation and promotion of local arts and culture,” said Bhandari, the first female President of Nepal. She urged initiatives that actively engage the younger generation in heritage preservation.
Bhandari also called on people’s representatives to work closely with the public, respecting their sentiments and needs. She expressed confidence that collaboration between political parties’ representatives and the people would yield better results.
Furthermore, she stressed the importance of a development model that balances physical infrastructure with humanitarian aspects. “In addition to developing physical infrastructures, there is a need to advance basic services such as education and healthcare,” Bhandari argued. She encouraged representatives to assess the progress of development initiatives and focus on both infrastructure and human development.
CPN (UML) Standing Committee member Rajan Bhattarai also spoke at the event, emphasizing the local level’s role in heritage conservation. Budhanilkantha Municipality Mayor Mitharam Adhikari added that the reconstruction of earthquake-damaged heritages in the municipality was nearing completion.
