Kathmandu, Nov. 5: Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba lauded that the founder of Nepal Sambat and luminary Shankhadhar Sakhwa made historic contributions during his lifetime.

At a programme organized to mark Nepal Sambat 1142 here today, PM Deuba said that Sakhwa's poverty alleviation campaign and founding of Nepal Sambat had contributed in establishing peace, enhancing Nepali people's independence and sovereignty.

Deuba further praised that Shakhwa had freed many Nepalis people from the slavery and debt thereby enabling an environment where everyone could live with dignity and liberty.

He spoke of the need to publicize the contributions of Shakwa's incomparable contributions at grass root level and educate people about historical significance, practicality and cultural importance of Nepal Sambat.

Prime Minister Deuba expressed the belief that Sakhwa's contribution would not only reach to the people but the religious and cultural heritage would be preserved, and the importance of our cultural tradition would be highlighted.

Applauding with high respect Sakhwa's spirit of humanitarian service on the occasion of the Nepal Sambat 1142 New Year, PM stressed spreading a positive message by publicising Sakhwa's contributions to the people within the country and abroad.