Kathmandu, 15 January 2026
On the occasion of Maghi (Maghe Sankranti), 2082, Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav has underlined the importance of conserving biological resources and promoting their sustainable use across Nepal.
In his festival message today, Vice President Yadav highlighted that Maghi is not only a cultural celebration but is also observed as National Agrobiodiversity Day in Nepal. He called on citizens and stakeholders from all sectors to remain vigilant and committed to protecting the country’s biological resources for future generations.
“Nepal celebrates Maghi as National Agrobiodiversity Day,” said Vice President Yadav. “With conservation responsibilities entrusted to all three levels of government and Nepal being a signatory to several international environmental agreements, the significance of biodiversity protection has grown even more. It is essential that every citizen and stakeholder remain conscious of this responsibility and promote the sustainable use of our natural resources.”
Vice President Yadav also pointed out that Nepal’s Constitution includes provisions that mandate the protection and sustainable utilization of biological resources as part of the state’s policy framework.
Reflecting on the broader cultural significance of the festival, the Vice President stated that the shared messages of festivals-including national unity, brotherhood, harmony, friendship, and social cohesion-play a key role in strengthening societal bonds.
He added that cultural celebrations like Maghi can inspire Nepalis to uphold the nation’s independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, unity, and dignity, while also encouraging progress toward citizen rights, local governance, and prosperity.
Cultural Diversity and Unity
Maghi, celebrated every year on Magh 1, holds varied cultural significance across Nepal’s diverse communities and regions. While the Tharu community marks it as the traditional beginning of the New Year, the Magar community observes it as their indigenous New Year. In Madheshi society, the day is known as Tila Sankranti, among the Kirat community it is celebrated as Yele Sambat in remembrance of King Yalambar, and the Chhantyal community calls it Chhar Mhenga. Despite differences in nomenclature and rituals, the underlying message remains one of unity in diversity and shared cultural pride.
Religious Practices and Social Harmony
Vice President Yadav noted that for many Hindu devotees, Maghi is considered an auspicious day to worship the Sun God (Surya Dev) and Lord Vishnu. Since this festival coincides with the beginning of the sun’s northward movement (Uttarayan), many people observe traditions such as bathing in sacred rivers, giving alms, and performing religious rites.
“These practices contribute to keeping alive the traditions and cultures of various ethnic groups, while also reinforcing social harmony and religious faith,” the Vice President remarked.
He further emphasized that the longstanding tradition of charitable giving on this day helps cultivate compassion, cooperation, and coexistence within communities. Acts of giving and support for the vulnerable, he said, help strengthen the social responsibility and collective spirit of Nepali society.
