Lalitpur, April 24, 2025 – The Nepal Development Research Institute (NDRI) celebrated its 22nd Annual Day on Tuesday at Hotel Himalaya, Lalitpur, gathering over 120 distinguished guests, including ambassadors, academicians, government officials, and representatives from national and international organizations. The event served as a platform to discuss Nepal’s developmental challenges and opportunities in the context of evolving global and regional dynamics.
The highlight of the celebration was a keynote lecture delivered by Ms. Chandni Joshi, Gender, Rights, and Policy Specialist, on the theme, “Nepal’s Pathway to Inclusive, Resilient Development in the Evolving National and International Context.” The keynote session, chaired by NDRI President Dr. Krishna Pahari, set the tone for a thought-provoking dialogue on the future of Nepal’s development.
Dr. Yuba Raj Khatiwada, Economic and Development Advisor to the Prime Minister of Nepal, graced the event as Chief Guest, while Ms. Alice Akunga, UNICEF Representative and UN Resident Coordinator (a.i.), participated as Special Guest. Both emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to achieve sustainable and inclusive growth in Nepal.
The program also featured a panel discussion titled “Way Forward for an Inclusive, Resilient, and Sustainable Future in the Shifting Global and Regional Landscape.” The session was chaired by Prof. Dr. Lekhnath Sharma, Executive Chairperson of the Policy Research Institute, and moderated by Prof. Dr. Punya Prasad Regmi, Senior Research Specialist at NDRI.
Prominent panelists included:
Prof. Ram Prasad Gyanwali, Central Department of Economics, Tribhuvan University
Ms. Sangeeta Rana Thapa, Gender Equality Expert and former UN Women Country Representative
Mr. Bishow Parajuli, Former UN Resident Coordinator and WFP Director of Partnerships and Government Relations
The panelists shared insights into strategies for building an inclusive and resilient Nepal amidst shifting global priorities. Discussions highlighted the importance of gender equality, policy innovation, and international cooperation to address emerging challenges.
NDRI’s 22nd Annual Day underscored its commitment to advancing research-based solutions for Nepal’s development. By fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, the institute continues to play a pivotal role in shaping policies for a sustainable future.
