Utilising NRNs’ Expertise
BMD
When the idea of forming the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) as a common forum of Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) had materialised about 18 years back, it had brought a lot of cheerfulness and hope among NRNs as well as Nepalis. The founders of this association had envisaged bringing the Nepali diaspora together and utilising their knowledge, skills and resources for contributing to the socio-economic development of Nepal.
There is no doubt that NRNA has been doing its bit to achieve its objectives through implementing different projects. Some of the remarkable schemes launched by it include Laprak Model Settlement Development Project, Ujyalo Nepal Foundation, Nepal Science Foundation, Blood Transfusion System, NRNA Foundation and Uterus Prolapse Project, among others. It has also made contributions in a number of areas ranging from education, public health, human resource development, agriculture and tourism promotion, women empowerment and skill enhancement to the welfare of underprivileged children and disabled.
Besides promoting Nepal as a promising investment destination abroad, NRNs have invested a huge amount of money in hydropower, tourism, agriculture and numerous other sectors. These initiatives have directly or indirectly supported the country’s socio-economic development process. Had COVID-19 not broken out, Nepal would have witnessed many more NRNA-supported projects. However, a lot of NRNs still seem to be showing their interest in investing in different sectors within the country.
With its good global network, NRNA had played a crucial role in the post-quake reconstruction and relief distribution for the needy people. Immediately after the occurrence of the devastating April 2015 earthquake in the country, NRNs came up with relief and rebuilding plans. They extended their helping hand to those in need. The association also mobilised its members worldwide to provide medical and other forms of assistance to Nepalis in the time of the global public health crisis.
As Nepal’s economy has now been in the doldrums owing to lockdowns and other restrictions imposed to rein in the deadly viral disease, the country has expected NRNs to play more proactive roles in reviving the economy. Tourism is one the most potential sectors to contribute to the country’s economic progress. With COVID-19 receding gradually worldwide, NRNA now needs to help promote Nepal as an appealing tourist destination by utilising its ever expanding network. It is needless to mention that NRNs have been making Nepal known worldwide by promoting the Nepali culture there.
A lot of NRNs have now been in Kathmandu to attend the 10th NRNA International General Assembly and NRN Global Conference. With this gathering, they have become united. Instead of being divided, they must stand united so that they could achieve their mission. In the initial phase, the association had been very strong and dedicated to doing something important for Nepal and Nepalis. The NRNA’s new leadership is expected to follow the footprints of its dynamic predecessors like Upendra Mahato and Shesh Ghale so as to maintain their legacy. Instead of hankering after name and fame, NRNs should stick to their ideals and principles of supporting their motherland.
Nepal can move on the path to prosperity only with the technology transfer and investment promotion. This is possible only with the help of NRNs. Even the three-tier government and the private sector may find the ideas and suggestions given by NRNs to be very useful. The State should always motivate NRNs to invest in priority areas.