Surkhet, Jan 15: Karnali State's chief minister Mahendra Bahadur Shahi has said the challenge now is to protect the language, culture and the costumes of various communities.    

Chief Minister Shahi said this addressing the foundation-laying programme organized by Nepal Magar Association here today. On the occasion, he also laid the foundation stone for the construction of Magar Cultural Museum at Birendranagar municipality-9 of Surkhet district.    

On the occasion, the Chief Minister urged Nepalis to use their cultural costumes and not emulate 'imported culture'.    

Stating that the Magar community has made important contribution in the social and political change in the country, he said the political movement was now over and it was time for all communities to protect their unique identity.    

"No other community or race will protect the Magar culture. It is the Magars themselves who have to do it. The Magar language is on the verge of extinction. Preserve your language and script. Educate your children in the Magar language and feel proud of the language," he said.    

According to him, the construction of the museum would not be allowed to be halted just because of lack of budget. Chief Minister Shahi pledged support on behalf the state government.    

The Magar Museum is being constructed at a cost of Rs 36 million 868 thousand on two kaththa plot of land provided by founding president of the Association, Hon Capt Jahar Singh Thapa.