NRNA to hold knowledge convention in January 2027

Kathmandu, July 29

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has stepped up preparations for the 4^th NRNA Global Knowledge Convention 2027.

On Tuesday, it presented the event's concept paper to senior government officials, including Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal, Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation Mahabir Pun and National Planning Commission (NPC) Vice-Chair Dr. Gunakar Bhatta, while seeking closer collaboration to mobilise the expertise of the Nepali diaspora for national development.

The NRNA delegation said the convention, scheduled for January 2027 in cooperation with the government, aims to connect knowledge, skills, technology, research, innovation and investment from Nepalis living abroad with the country's development priorities.

During separate meetings, NRNA Vice-President and Head of the Skills, Knowledge and Technology Transfer Department Dr. Gyanendra Regmi said the convention would build on the 'Networking for Development' initiative launched in 2018. He said this edition would shift from discussion-based engagements to a solution-oriented model by incorporating recommendations from the previous three conventions into government planning and policy processes.

Dr. Regmi said the convention would focus on six thematic areas aligned with the priorities of the National Planning Commission.

According to the NRNA, the convention aims to bring together more than 300,000 Nepali experts, researchers, scientists, technologists, entrepreneurs and professionals worldwide with policymakers, government agencies, universities, research institutions and the private sector to promote knowledge transfer and international best practices.

Foreign Minister Khanal said the government was prepared to cooperate in organising the convention and remained committed to utilising the knowledge and experience of Nepalis living abroad for Nepal's development.

He also said the government was preparing legal amendments relating to property ownership, investment and visa provisions to facilitate greater participation by non-resident Nepalis in economic activities.

Likewise, Minister Pun said the government was preparing to revive the Brain Gain Centre and stressed the need to link the expertise of Nepali scientists, researchers, entrepreneurs and professionals abroad with national development. He said international collaboration in research and knowledge transfer would support innovation and a knowledge-based economy.

Similarly, Vice-Chair Dr. Bhatta said the commission was willing to work with the NRNA on governance, institutional strengthening, legal reforms and the adoption of international practices. He also identified digitalisation of the non-financial sector, higher education, transport infrastructure and tunnel road development outside the Kathmandu Valley as potential areas for cooperation.

NRNA Vice-President Rosina Pradhan Rai called for the implementation of provisions relating to non-resident Nepali citizenship and the amendment of the Non-Resident Nepali Act. She also urged the government to establish the NRN Development Fund and introduce policy measures to engage second-generation Nepalis in national development.

CEO of NRNA Development Fund Anal Raj Bhattarai said preparations to operationalise the development fund were underway, with one legal amendment remaining before its launch. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 30 July 2026.         

NRNA, ECAN collaborate to reform abroad studies process

Kathmandu, Apr. 7

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) and the Educational Consultancy Association of Nepal (ECAN) have agreed to make the process for abroad study safer, more managed and outcome-oriented through a collaboration between the two organisations.

At an introductory meeting held in Kathmandu on Sunday, leaders from both organisations agreed to lay the groundwork for long-term cooperation, placing student welfare at the centre. The meeting was attended by NRNA President Dr. Hemraj Sharma, ECAN President Laxman Poudel (Andrew), and other officials.

According to a statement issued by the NRNA, discussions were focused on making pre-departure orientation (PDO) more effective, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for students, and improving the quality of counselling services.

Both sides also discussed jointly developing a ‘Nepali Career Portal’ to create an integrated information system on post-study employment and career opportunities.

Likewise, they also agreed to conduct targeted training programmes to enhance the capacity of counsellors, test student support systems through pilot projects, and undertake skill mapping based on different countries and regions.

"Special programmes focusing on mental health and psychosocial awareness will also be prioritised," read the statement.

The meeting further agreed to jointly advocate with relevant authorities for policy reforms in areas such as health insurance, dissemination of scholarship information, and student tax management. Preparations are also underway to sign a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the near future.

The meeting stressed that institutional collaboration is essential to make the sector more organised and credible.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 April 2026.      

NRNA delegation discusses 12th convention with FM Sharma

Kathmandu, Jan. 10

In line with the broad unity agreement reached on 30 November 2025, the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has held a meeting with Minister for Foreign Affairs Balanand Sharma to discuss preparations for the 12th General Convention and International Conference.

The convention is scheduled to be held in Kathmandu from 23 to 25 February 2026.

During the meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), a delegation led by NRNA co-presidents Dr. Badri KC and Mahesh Shrestha met Foreign Minister Sharma. On the occasion, the minister advised that it would be appropriate to conduct the upcoming 12th General Convention of the NRNA in accordance with the association’s statute.

“There are many positive aspects to holding it physically in Nepal, and my preference is that it be organised here,” Minister Sharma said. “However, we must adhere to the prevailing rules and regulations. Therefore, it would be best to proceed as stipulated in your statute, because members who are unable to come to Nepal should not be deprived of their voting rights.”

Article 14 of the NRNA’s amended statute of 2003 (revised in 2022) states that the General Convention and General Assembly may be held either online or through physical presence. It further provides that arrangements must be made for representatives who are unable to attend physically to participate in the General Assembly and vote in elections through online means.

Meanwhile, the NRNA delegation requested FM Sharma to facilitate the formation of a main organising committee for the 12th General Convention. As per the existing provision, a high-level organising committee for the NRNA General Convention is to be formed under the chairmanship of the Minister for Foreign Affairs.

On the occasion, co-president Shrestha informed the minister that the 12th General Convention is being organised particularly after the broad unity process, and that efforts are under way to further strengthen unity within the organisation.

He also pointed out the need for further joint refinement of the draft NRNA Act currently being prepared by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in coordination with the association.

Co-president Dr. KC urged the ministry to facilitate the full implementation of non-resident Nepali citizenship. He said that despite the issuance of non-resident Nepali citizenship certificates, delays in implementation have prevented holders from enjoying the economic, social and cultural rights guaranteed by the constitution. He noted that even after citizenship has been issued, various legal complexities have emerged in its practical use, highlighting the need for clear legislation to address these issues.

Former president Binod Kunwar also shared the difficulties faced due to the lack of effective implementation of non-resident Nepali citizenship.

In another context, the delegation also requested facilitation for the operation of the Nepal NRN Development Fund.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 11 January 2026. 

NRNA should be apolitical organisation: Gagan Thapa

Kathmandu, Apr. 25

General Secretary of the Nepali Congress, Gagan Kumar Thapa, called for an inclusive unity convention to resolve the ongoing disputes within the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA).

During a meeting with a delegation led by NRNA President Dr. Badri KC in Kathmandu on Friday, Thapa stressed that any unity efforts must be genuinely aimed at reconciliation and should include all stakeholders without exception.

“I have observed the NRNA since its inception. It must remain apolitical and free from partisan influence,” Thapa said.

Regarding the Non-Resident Nepali Act, Thapa noted that amendments to some related laws were also necessary, the NRNA informed in a statement.

He informed the delegation that he had submitted suggestions to the relevant parliamentary committee to advance these changes. He also urged the NRNA to present a draft proposal from its side, adding, “We will work towards completing the process in the upcoming parliamentary[U1]  session.”

Dr. KC expressed concerns that despite the introduction of NRN citizenship 18 months ago, full implementation has yet to occur. He said that this delay has hindered non-resident Nepalis from exercising their constitutional economic, social and cultural rights.

“We may be far from the country and unable to protest on the streets, but that doesn't mean we aren't suffering. The very citizenship granted by the government is not being recognised by it,” he said.

Dr. KC also criticised the provision in the ordinance that exempts NRNs from visa fees for 10 years, calling it unfair. “Citizenship and visa are not separate issues, yet the ordinance limits the provision to only ten years. While other countries have broader legal frameworks, ours has become more restrictive. This has created obstacles for investment, engagement of second-generation NRNs and cultural exchange,” he said.

He further mentioned that the revised Non-Resident Nepali Act is currently under review at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and urged that the act be tabled in Parliament and passed at the earliest.

Likewise, Vice President of the NRNA, Dr. Hemraj Sharma, said, “The MoFA has already issued correspondence to postpone the general convention. However, the Shesh Ghale faction refuses to recognise the 11^th Executive Committee. There has been no National Coordination Centre (NCC) election, and membership has not been issued as per the statute.”

When General Secretary Thapa asked whether the issue could be resolved in court, both President KC and Vice President Sharma confirmed that the Supreme Court had requested case files from all parties involved and that the matter is currently under review.

Speaking on the evolving draft of the Act, Dr Sharma said, “We were consulted in the initial stages, but not anymore. The definition of a non-resident Nepali has also been altered. While political parties seem supportive, the draft still requires significant revisions.”

Similarly, founding member Ram Pratap Thapa said he distanced himself from the high-level committee after it began taking unilateral actions without adhering to established policies or statutes. “The Supreme Court instructed us to work towards unification, but a small group is now proceeding without any proper process or consensus. Can such an arbitrary and authoritarian committee truly hold a unity convention? If such illegitimate actions continue, the global credibility of the NRNA will be at risk,” he said.

Vice President Rojina Pradhan Rai also stated her belief that the organisation should not be politicised.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 26 April 2025.        

NRN Infra Company reports three-fold increase in profits

 Kathmandu, Feb. 12

The NRN Infrastructure and Development Limited has reported more than a three-fold increase in its net profit alongside rising revenues, according to its recently published financial report.

As per the report, the company recorded a net profit of Rs. 53.7 million by the second quarter of the current Fiscal Year 2024/25, compared to Rs. 16.3 million in the same period of the previous year. During the review period, the company’s total revenue surged by 209.94 per cent, reaching Rs. 801 million.

The company’s total expenses stood at Rs. 9.87 million, up from Rs. 5.49 million last year. Meanwhile, its retained earnings amounted to Rs. 105.5 million, informed the company in a statement on Wednesday.

NRN Infrastructure and Development’s total current assets were reported at Rs. 381.4 million, while its total current liabilities stood at Rs. 14.1 million.

The company also recorded a significant improvement in earnings per share (EPS), which increased from Rs. 2.67 in the previous year’s second quarter to Rs. 8.37 during the same period this year.

Likewise, its net worth per share reached Rs. 172.10, while the price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio was recorded at 135.65 times, said the company. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 13 February 2025.  

NRNA to organise Youth Conference in Bangkok

 Kathmandu, Jan. 12

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA)'s International Coordination Council is organising the second International Youth Conference in Bangkok of Thailand on 15-16 March this year.

The conference is being organised to empower Nepali expatriate youth and link them to Nepal’s progress and development.

"The conference aims to establish strong partnerships between Nepali expatriate youth, PNOs, and local youth in Nepal. It will serve as a platform for sharing success stories, struggles, and learning experiences, inspiring a culture of innovation and empowerment among the youth," said the NRNA in a statement issued after a press meet it organised to inform about the event.

Roshan Thapa, Vice President for Youth Affairs, and Ram Sharan Simkhada, People of Nepali Origin (PNOs) Division In-Charge and Vice President are leading the preparations of the event.

"As hundreds of thousands of Nepali youths continue to migrate abroad annually, the country faces a dwindling active population. In this context, it has become imperative to connect expatriate youth and the second generation of NRNs with their homeland, fostering a sense of belonging," said Simkhada.

Meanwhile, in the aftermath of World War II, millions of Nepali-origin individuals residing in countries such as Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Fiji, and Mauritius have sought to reconnect with Nepal’s prosperity and identity over generations. These individuals, proud of their Nepali heritage, identify as PNOs and are advocating for recognition and inclusion, according to the NRNA.

It informed that the conference will build robust ties between Nepali expatriate and local youth, and facilitate the creation of cooperative projects focusing on education, employment, and community development

It is also expected that it will support the establishment of a global network of empowered youths.

Meanwhile, following the youth conference, the 10^th Asia-Pacific Regional Conference, titled 'Sangam', will be held on 18–19 March in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

The conference is said to address critical issues such as the role of NRNs in nation-building, full implementation of non-resident citizenship, PNOs' demands, investment, tourism, and the contribution of Nepali experts abroad to Nepal’s progress.

Key topics of the conference include women’s empowerment, gender equality, dignified foreign employment, and social security. The event will also focus on strengthening collaboration between National Coordination Councils (NCCs) within the Asia-Pacific region through shared learning and experiences.

NRNA said that both events are expected to host over 300 delegates, including representatives from the Government of Nepal, officials from host nations, NRNA founders, former presidents, prominent activists, and delegates from NCCs across Asia-Pacific, Europe, America, Oceania, Africa, and the Middle East.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 13 January 2025. 

Country ready for flight of progress: PM Oli

Kathmandu, Oct. 27

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that since the ground work for the development of the country has been done, the country will be ushered into the path of progress if everyone worked together.

Addressing the opening session of the Non-Resident Nepali Day and Annual General Meeting of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) in the Capital on Sunday, Prime Minister Oli said, "We now have latest technology and equipment while the necessary infrastructure for development such as roads have been developed. There is no district or land that is remote. If we work together, we can make the country prosperous."

He urged the NRNA to maintain the image of the organisation and keep it united, and avoid 'political tug of war'. Stating that there would be no interference from the government in the matters of the Association, he said, "I am the Prime Minister of the country, not only chair of the CPN (UML). Likewise, the President of the country also does not belong to any particular political party, he is the head of the nation. All the posts of Speaker of the parliament, chief justice are common posts. We will act accordingly."

Recalling that he talked about the NRN movement with Dr. Updnera Mahato in Moscow in 1999, Prime Minister Oli stated that the government will not skimp on giving recognition and necessary facilities to the NRNs.

Speaking on the occasion, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak said that the NRNs have greatly contributed to the nation.

"NRNs are unpaid ambassadors around the world. Nepal's image will be like how you project Nepal," he said. Home Minister Lekhak said that even though citizenship was given to non-resident Nepalis, it was not used. He also promised to create necessary provisions to facilitate the NRNs in using the citizenship in government offices and related works.

President of the NRNA, Dr. Badri KC, said that government interference has created problems in the movement of the NRNA. "The problem created by repeated government intervention can be solved through discussions. I have reached more than 115 countries of the world to introduce Nepal and improve its image. We are always ready to assist when natural disasters occur in Nepal," he said.

Stating that Nepalis living abroad have sent more than Rs. 1,500 billion remittances annually, he said that some large investment has also come in.

"But we are investing in Nepal as foreigners. The law should be amended to allow all types and sizes of investment," said Dr. KC. According to him, the citizenship provided by the government to the NRNs is of no use for them in any government work. He objected to the moves of the Crime Investigation Bureau of the Nepal Police during the last general assembly and arrests of NRN officials.

The annual general meeting and Global Conclave 2024 on 'Transformation and Unity: Continuity in Labour, Investment and Citizenship' will run till Monday. The event features seven plenary sessions which are being attended by over 500 representatives.

The first day of the conclave discussed infrastructure development for Nepal’s economic transformation, citizenship for Non-Resident Nepalis, voting rights, and issues concerning Gurkhas and people of Nepali origin abroad (PNO), as well as the impacts of climate change on women and children. The topics will also include science, knowledge, and technology transfer for a prosperous Nepal.

The second day will cover topics such as empowering expatriate youth for nation-building, ensuring safe, organised, and dignified foreign employment and social security, and promoting tourism in Nepal: policy development, expectations, challenges, and the role of NRNs.

The AGM of the NRNA will be held on October 28, with representatives from over 60 countries participating in person and virtually. Officials and delegates from most of the chapters are in Kathmandu to attend it. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 28 October 2024. 

NRNA distributes relief to 120 families in Dakshinkali, Indrasarowar

Kathmandu, Oct. 6

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has distributed relief to 120 families affected by floods, inundation and landslides in Dakshinkali Municipality of Kathmandu and Sisneri in Indrasarowar Rural Municipality of Makwanpur on Sunday.

The NRNA distributed the items including clothes, blankets, mattresses, tarpaulins, solar lamps and hygiene kits to 50 families in Dakshinkali and 70 families in Indrasarowar affected by the disasters. The relief materials were distributed to the needy people in cooperation with the concerned local body, according to the statement issued by NRNA.

Earlier, the Association had announced to provide Rs. 10 million in assistance to the victims of floods, inundation and landslides. The relief has been distributed in the first phase in Dakshinkali and Indrasarowar. Likewise, preparations have been completed to distribute relief to the victims of the disasters in Panauti Municipality of Kavre and Thosne Khola of Lalitpur on Monday.

"The NRNA is also coordinating with the local levels for distribution of relief in various districts of the Tarai. We have already decided to provide financial support to the Prime Minister's Disaster Relief Fund," read the statement.

A team led by NRNA President Dr Badri KC, Vice President Rojina Pradhan Rai, Vice President Ram Sharan Simkhada, Deputy General Secretary Som Sapkota and other office bearers reached the locations to distribute the relief. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 7 October 2024. 

NRNA regrets its decision to buy Lalita Niwas land for its global secretariate

Kathmandu, Feb. 18

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has expressed regrets over the confusion and controversy on its decision to invest in buying land at the Lalita Niwas and constructing its global secretariat there.

"We regret that such a big and sensitive investment decision of the NRNA could not be free from confusion and controversy. The association is committed to resolving the confusion and inconvenience caused to all donors and members," it said in a statement on Sunday.

The NRNA had spent about Rs. 290 million in purchasing the land, existing buildings and construction of the secretariat. The funds were the social investment from all the members, well-wishers, national coordinating councils and central officials from all over the world.

The NRNA had purchased 3 ropanis (48 aanas) of land about eight years ago at the rate of Rs. 2.65 million per aana along with a building from Shovakanta Dhakal, Ramkumar Subedi, Sandip Dhakal, Uma Kumari Dhakal and Madhavi Subedi.

It informed that the payment was made in a cheque via bank.

In its recent decision, the Special Court had given its verdict to nationalise about 284 ropanis of land including the NRNA's office building in Lalita Niwas.

Since the NRNA purchased the land as per the Cabinet decision and got a discount in land registration, we were clear about the legality of the land, it said while expressing sorrow at the news that the land had been confiscated.

Likewise, the Association said that it would appeal against the decision of the Special Court and its effect to the Supreme Court for final resolution.

Until the Supreme Court issues its verdict, the right of use and ownership of the land shall remain with the NRNA, it claimed.

"During the construction of the current central secretariat building built with the Association's investment, approval was obtained from the Kathmandu Metropolitan City and the construction of the building was completed by the decision of the Supreme Court," it said.

According to the NRNA, if the Supreme Court decides otherwise, it has the right to file a case in District Court Kathmandu against the sellers of the land to claim compensation. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 February 2024.        

NRNA hands over blood bus to Koshi

Kathmandu, Jan. 17

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has handed over a mobile blood bus to the Dharan Red Cross Society of Koshi Province.

 The mobile bus was handed over to the Blood Transfusion Service Center run by the Sunsari District Branch by the NRNA on Wednesday.  

President of the NRNA, Dr. Badri KC, and Chief Minister of Koshi, Kedar Karki, handed the Rs. 7-million bus over to Umesh Thapa, President of Red Cross Society Sunsari, the NRNA informed in a statement.

Speaking on the occasion, CM Karki asked the non-resident Nepalis to cooperate for the prosperity of Koshi Province. He said that there are many possibilities for investment in the province and proposed to work together with the non-resident Nepalis to cooperate in potential areas of investment there.

He said that there should be unity among the Nepalis living abroad and there should be no differences between the Nepalis living in Europe and America and those living in the Middle East.

 Chief Minister Karki said that many women still die due to lack of blood during childbirth at a young age as they are often forced into early marriages. 

Chief Minister Karki thanked the NRN for operating such bus service which made possible to collect and provide blood on the way. He said that the provincial government would operate the bus in all districts of the province.

The bus, equipped with two beds, will reach houses of blood donors with a slogan 'One House, One Blood Donor.

Similarly, NRNA President, Dr. KC, said that the non-resident Nepalis are active in attracting investment in Nepal and their investment is more sustainable.

He said that for the prosperity of Koshi Province, the association was ready to cooperate with the NRNA in the fields of infrastructure.

Vice-president of the NRNA, Dr. Hemraj Sharma informed that the Association has done more than Rs. 1 billion in charity work since its inception. He said that the non-resident Nepalis are active in bringing the knowledge, skills and technology learned abroad into the country.

Dr. Sharma said that the Association has been working on the areas – bringing investment in Nepal, charity works, and raising voices for the rights and interests of Nepalis living abroad.

The NRNA has prepared to transfer mobile blood buses to the Lumbini and Madhesh provinces as well.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 18 January 2024.   

NRNA files complaint in police

Kathmandu, Nov. 1

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has said that it has filed a complaint against the Rajendra Kumar (RK) Sharma group, alleging obstruction of the regular operations at the NRNA secretariat and the harassment of Mahesh Basnet, a leader of CPN-UML. Basnet had visited the office to extend an invitation to the newly elected President of the Association's International Coordination Committee, Dr. Badri KC, and other office bearers.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the NRNA stated that RK Sharma and his team have rejected the results of the election held before Dashain and persistently disrupted the normal functioning of the Association, causing disturbances in the office and among the staff.

The statement reads, "They have engaged in highly inappropriate activities, such as mentally harassing employees by compelling them to work according to their own interests and sending letters to close the bank accounts used for the Association's routine operations. The secretariat staff is unable to physically attend the office and carry out their tasks."

The police and administration have been informed about this situation, and the police have increased their monitoring of the situation.

Similarly, the Sharma-led group, including Buddhi Sagar Subedi, Gangadhar Gautam, Thakur Prasad Dhungana, and others, also harassed UML leader Basnet on Tuesday when he visited the secretariat to invite the newly elected office bearers to a tea party organised by the CPN-UML, as stated by the NRNA in their statement.

"We are deeply saddened by the incident that occurred at the association's central office. In this regard, we have filed a complaint with the Nepal Police and have called for an investigation and action against the culprits," read the statement.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 2 November 2023. 

NRNA global convention kicks off in Kathmandu

President Poudel urges NRNs to preserve Nepali culture 

Kathmandu, Oct. 17

The 11^th Global Conference of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has kicked off in Kathmandu on Tuesday with plans for multiple conferences, forums and deliberations for four days and election for the new International Coordination Council.

More than 4,200 delegates are participating in the conference physically or virtually.

Addressing the inaugural programme of the conference, President of Nepal, Ramchandra Poudel, praised Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) for their active role in uniting Nepalis across the globe and urged them to preserve the culture and traditions.

He said that while the country's political restructuring has been come in to the desired shape, restructuring of the character and way of life of the state is yet to be done. "The federal democratic republic has certain values, principles and philosophy. Until we can assimilate those values, principles and philosophy, we will not be able to face the challenges that emerged due to the long transition period."

He drew the attention of the NRNs to two major issues: preserving Nepali culture and impact of climate change on our resources. President Poudel said, "I request you to be more cautious about teaching Nepali culture and traditions to your children and bring them to Nepal time and again, and contribute to the preservation of bio-diversity and sources of fresh water."

Stating that Nepal has focused on the development of infrastructure, industrialisation and domestic production in order to achieve the targets of economic development, President Poudel stressed on multilateral partnership for the same.

"The capital, knowledge, skills, experience, investment and entrepreneurship that you have acquired can be relevant and useful in that initiative. In the past, the investments that you have been making individually and collectively in various areas of Nepal have helped in the development and prosperity of Nepal," he stated.

President Poudel also urged the Nepalis from across the globe to take advantage of the immense potential of investment in Nepal and to encourage the investors in the countries where they are living to invest in Nepal.

According to him, only if the internal capacity of Nepal is strengthened and rapid economic development is achieved, the heads of Nepalis living abroad will also be high. "The prestige of Nepalese cannot increase until Nepal becomes prosperous," he said.

Minister for Foreign Affairs, NP Saud, who is also the Chair of the High Level Organising Committee of the Global Conference, said that since the NRNA has supported in strengthening the relations between the Nepali living abroad and their home country, the knowledge, skill and technology of NRNs would be instrumental in the development of the country.

"To fulfill the national and international commitment for development and prosperity, we need to mobilise all possible channels of investment and cooperation. Your support in this drive is very important and highly expected," he said.

He stated that the government has given importance to the NRNA movement and has been providing support whenever needed.

"Non-resident citizenship is being given with the right of economic and cultural rights. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda has handed over the citizenship to non-resident Nepalis. I am hopeful that the providence of citizenship would inspire and motivate you to bring in more investment and support in the national development drive," said FM Saud.

According to him, NRNs can play an important role in sending tourists and investment to Nepal and finding the markets for the products made in Nepal.

Likewise, Chandra Prasad Dhakal, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FNCCI), called the NRNs for jointly creating businesses, attracting investment and promoting Nepali trade.

He said that the NRNA has an immense potential at the domestic as well as international fronts so they need to realise this potential and lead the country to economic growth and prosperity.

Hanna Singer, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Nepal, said that the NRNA promoted concepts of knowledge and transformation are the foundation of prosperity.

According to her, recent diaspora map survey conducted by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in collaboration with the NRNA found that majority of the Nepalis living abroad are first generation migrants and wanted to have strong connections with their home country.

"Recognizing the unique needs of the diaspora is pivotal, including aspects such as language and cultural integration, access to legal resources, and social integration," said Singer, "By addressing these specific needs, we can unlock the potential for long-term engagement, not only among the first generation but also among their descendants, thereby fully harnessing the potential of the diaspora networks."

Similarly, Dr. Upendra Mahato, Founding President of the NRNA, called for the NRNs support in the national development of Nepal stating that individual achievement wouldn't count if the country remains backward and poor.

"Nepalis have the capacity needed for the nation building. Why don't we succeed in making the country prosperity? Because we lack the national willpower needed for it," he said, "The country has put high hopes from you. Every individual, government and other stakeholders have extended a great respect to all of you."

He urged all NRNs to come forward in supporting the country's national motion of development of prosperity.

Dr. Mahato also maintained that they don't want to detach NRNA from the political philosophies but save it from the political interference or colour of particular political party or philosophy.

Rabina Thapa, a President of the NRNA, said that they wanted a dedicated ministry to look after the NRNs issues.

Despite having three presidents for the current tenure, we have been successful in running the office without any dispute and collecting all of you here for the Global Conference, she said.

Kul Acharya, another President of the NRNA, thanked the Government of Nepal for the launch of citizenship distribution for the NRNs.

"I would like to urge all NRNs not to sell the property in Nepal and take the money to foreign countries. This is the time we should be bringing investment and technology to Nepal, instead," he said.

Dr. Badri KC, Executive President of the NRNA, said that the citizenship is not just a facility but a huge responsibility that the country has entrusted to the NRNs.

"We want to collaborate with the government and Nepali missions abroad in every possible way to support in the drive of national development and prosperity," he said. He also praised the government for removing various hurdles in bringing the FDI in various sectors in Nepal.

"While banking on our hopes on about Rs. 1300 billion remittance, we must not forget the consequences of foreign employment on social and economic aspects of the society and family. Many Nepalis are facing troubles in many countries just because they couldn't get their passport immediately after its expiration," said Dr. KC.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 18 October 2023. 

Sharma files candidacy for NRNA President

 Kathmandu, Oct. 14

Rajendra Kumar (RK) Sharma has filed candidacy for the post of the president of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) the other day and said that he has an agenda to unite the organisation around the world including the Middle East.

Sharma said that his pledge includes a plan to include NRNs living in the Middle East, Europe, America and other countries. He also said that if he is elected, he will try to fulfill his election promise honestly.

According to him, the Middle East region has not been successful to elect a president of the NRNA in its about two-decade long history, so his candidacy aimed to fulfill this gap.

Sharma asserted that he has received the support of all political parties in fulfilling the sacred purpose of NRNA and said that he is aware that there should be no politics in NRNA but the organization should work in cooperation with the parties.

In his election manifesto, he has pledged to fulfill 24 tasks including NRNA development fund and implementing reforms in 24 months.

"For some time now, there has been no unity in the NRNA. It has hindered us from achieving our target. We have the responsibility to unite it in any way," he said.

Sharma's panel includes the candidacy of Khagendra Neupane (Malaysia), Robindra Prasad Shrestha 'Govinda' (Japan), Shashi Poudel (Netherlands), Abhiman Singh Basnet (Australia) and Raj Regmi for vice-presidents.

Likewise, Abdul Basid (Qatar) has vied for the post of Youth Vice President, Pravin Gurung (Qatar) for Deputy Secretary General, Lok Dahal (Belgium), Tank Gaire (Japan), Manoj Kumar Shrestha Gorkhali (UAE), and RC Pokharel (America) for secretaries.

Similarly, Thakur Dhungana has filed candidacy for Treasurer, and Devika KC for Women's Coordinator. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 15 October 2023. 

NRN World Knowledge meet from Oct 17-18

Kathmandu, Aug. 12

The third NRN World Knowledge Conference of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) is slated for October 17 and 18 this year.

More than 300 presenters from more than 100 prestigious universities and research centres of more than 25 countries will participate in the conference and 200 working papers will be presented and discussed, Raju Adhikari, coordinator of the conference, informed in the virtual press conference held the other day.

He added that all necessary preparations have been completed.

The conference, which will be organised with the theme ‘scientific exploration and investment for social economy development’, includes four plenary sessions based on economy, science, infrastructure, agriculture and energy where non-resident Nepali experts, experts from Nepal, and foreign experts connected with Nepal in various forms will present papers in 11 different categories.

Sustainable urban development planning, sustainable agriculture and food security, environment, disaster and risk management, renewable energy, biotechnology and business opportunities, science and technology investment and policies, and digital and AI technologies are the major areas of discussion for the conference.  Likewise, it will also deliberate on population and public health, economy and foreign investment, sustainable infrastructure and construction materials, foreign employment, and vocational and technical education.

“We expect the conference to transform the traditional economy into a knowledge and technology-based economy and address the Sustainable Development Goals.” said Adhikari.

He said that the conference will also focus on current government policies, investment in education, science and technology development and its research.

According to him, through the conference, calls will be made for close contact, cooperation, exchange and transfer of knowledge between Nepali and non-resident Nepali experts, scientists and researchers.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 13 August 2023.   

VP Yadav to take initiative to support in NRNA investment

 Kathmandu, Mar. 29

Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav has expressed his commitment to take an initiative to solve the problem regarding the investment of non-resident Nepalis (NRNs) in Nepal at the earliest.

"I am positive to pave the way for investment of the capital and knowledge the NRNs have acquired abroad. I would also like to encourage you to confidently invest in Nepal's technical and business knowledge as well as skill development sector," VP Yadav said with a delegation of the NRN Association that called on him at his office on Wednesday.

The delegation led by Executive President of the NRNA Rabina Thapa and President Kul Acharya discussed the issues of continuation of citizenship, security of property of Nepalis living abroad, creation of easy investment environment in Nepal and cooperation to make Nepal prosperous.

NRNA's International Coordination Committee's Vice President Durga Acharya, Secretary Govind Prasad Gautam, former ICC member Ram Belbase, Regional Coordinator (Middle East) Manoj Kumar Shrestha, Bhagirath Yogi and other representatives of various countries and Ravi Kiran Adhikari, Chief Executive Officer of the Association were present on the occasion.

In the meeting, executive president of the NRNA, Rabina Thapa, drew the attention of Vice President Yadav to the need to take positive steps for the continuation of citizenship.

Similarly, the president of the association, Kul Acharya, said that positive initiatives should be taken to make the law related to security of property more friendly to non-resident Nepalis and to solve the existing obstacles for investment. He said that it is sad that the issue of citizenship has not been resolved despite repeated efforts.

Vice president of the association, RK Sharma, said that the country should be able to respect the contribution of the workers abroad and emphasized that the highest body of the state should also take a positive initiative for that.

The youth coordinator of the association, Abdul Basid, requested the Vice President to assist in revising the Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act and related regulations and orders, including the Non-Resident Nepali Act, which are directly related to the non-resident Nepalis, and to remove the existing minimum ceiling set for the foreign investment.

The founding president of the association, Dr. Upendra Mahato, said that the non-resident Nepalis scattered all over the world are embarking on a campaign to make Nepal prosperous soon, and said that cooperation with the government and the support of the state agencies are necessary in this campaign.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 30 March 2023.  

NRNA welcomes SSF’s move to include migrants under its scheme

Kathmandu, Dec. 21

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has welcomed the Social Security Fund (SSF)'s step to include Nepali migrant workers employed in foreign countries and Nepalis running businesses outside the country in its social security scheme.

In a programme organised on Tuesday, the SSF had announced that the informal sector workers and Nepalis employed abroad can participate in the social security scheme run in their homeland. The SSF has implemented the contribution-based social security scheme run by the Social Security Fund (SSF) which will come into effect by the second week of March 2023. A 'procedure for the operation of contribution-based social security scheme for workers in foreign employment and self-employment' is recently ratified by the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MoLESS) to facilitate Nepali migrant workers into the social security scheme.

Stating that the NRNA had been advocating and lobbying that the Nepalis living abroad also be included in this fund, the organisation maintained that it has been discussing and coordinating with the government at various stages by taking responsibility for this matter.

"Also, the NRNA represented the voices of Nepali workers in the labour market, especially in India, the Middle East and elsewhere. Today, after more than a decade, that discussion and initiative of the association has borne fruit," DB Chhetri, Vice President and Head, Foreign Employment Department of the NRNA, said in a statement.

The new scheme has opened the way for millions of Nepali workers who are employed abroad to formally join the SSF.

According to Chhetri, the NRNA had initiated the campaign to include migrant Nepali workers in social security programme. In 2016, an agreement was reached between the organisation and the government to cooperate in the security fund. In the same year, an agreement had also been signed with the Employees' Provident Fund.

Meanwhile, President of NRNA, Rabina Thapa said that the step to include Nepalis staying in foreign land under the SSF has sent a positive message among the Nepali communities across the globe. "It will make the immigration more secure and dignified," she said. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 22 December 2022.