Mugu — The Nepalese government’s program of providing free rice to residents of the former Karnali region for birth and funeral ceremonies is showing increasing impact. Under the initiative, 30 kg of rice per person is now being distributed across Mugu, Kalikot, Dolpa, Jumla, and Humla.
The program was initially announced on September 8, 2016 (Bhadra 23, 2073 BS) by then Maoist Center Chairman and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal in parliament, pledging 20 kg of rice per person to help residents conduct social ceremonies for births and deaths.
The program was implemented from February 13, 2017 (Falgun 1, 2073 BS), and in fiscal year 2081/082 BS, the government increased the allocation to 30 kg per person. Transportation wages were also provided based on distance, bringing satisfaction to local communities.
Rice distribution is carried out annually from designated centers upon presentation of necessary certificates. Residents like Putsingh Baduwal from Chhayanath Rara Municipality Ward No. 12 expressed happiness at receiving free rice for births and funerals.
However, some residents, including Ramdevi Nepali from Soru Rural Municipality-8, have reported difficulties in completing the required paperwork to access the program.
Overall, the initiative has been increasingly effective in supporting citizens of the five districts of the former Karnali region since its inception in fiscal year 2073/074 BS.
