A policy dialogue and consultation program concerning non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society organizations (CSOs) has been successfully conducted in Dhangadhi, Sudurpaschim Province on 31st May 2024. Various challenges both in policy formulation and practical implementation, related to the regulation and coordination of CSOs at the local level, tax offices, district administration office, social welfare council, and government agencies were thoroughly discussed, together with the proposed courses of action. Discussions also centered on enhancing the efficacy of partnerships and collaborations between international NGOs, development partners, and local organizations. Bhavaraj Regmi, the Secretary of NGO Federation of Nepal, presented the results of the discussions among the stakeholders and requested for addressal. Khagraj Bhushal, the head of the District Coordination Committee, Kailali and the chief guest in the event, emphasized the pivotal role of social organizations and presented examples of the impact of social work on leadership development. Moreover, he also requested the Civil Society Organizations to fulfil their duties along with exercising their rights. Raj Bahadur Air, President of Ward No. 3 of Dhangadi sub-metropolitan city, urged the CSOs to review their activities and ensure accountability to local government as well. He also requested NFN to submit the outcomes of the discussion to the municipality for due consideration and action. Shivraj Joshi, Administrative Officer of the District Administration Office in Kailali, highlighted the complexities within the Organization Registration Act, calling for necessary amendments. He acknowledged that the working styles of various District Administration Offices differ somewhat, and they are facing legal hurdles concerning property sales. Additionally, he also highlighted a common practice between organizations where old organizations are abandoned without renewal and new ones are registered. As a result, he said it was difficult to locate organizations’ addresses. Ganesh B.K., Vice-President of the Policy and Planning Commission in Sudurpaschim province, highlighted the prevalence of generalizations regarding NGOs and emphasized the need for a thorough understanding of their varied activities. He stressed the need for restructuring the Social Welfare Council. Additionally, he also expressed that the sustainable development goals do not fully address local needs and conditions, and they needed amendments. Ram Prasad Subedi, President of the NGO Federation of Nepal, underlined the adherence of local organizations to existing laws and standards while emphasizing the responsibility of local government in ensuring effective regulation, facilitation, and participation. Nanimaya Thapa, Treasurer of NGO Federation of Nepal (NFN), along with Arjun Bhattarai, the General Secretary, President Ram Prasad Subedi, and former President Jitram Lama, stressed the necessity for collaborative efforts among NGOs to address pertinent issues. Following the Policy Dialogue and Consultation event, a Women’s Conference also held in Kailali, which was chaired by the Deputy Speaker of Sudurpaschim Province Assembly, Honroable Koili Devi Chaudhary. The conference focused on women’s issues in the Sudurpaschim province, highlighting positive developments such as the decline in the practice of Chhaupadi.
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