Kathmandu, Mar. 7: Embassy of India, Kathmandu, in association with Maiti Nepal celebrated International Women’s Day at the premises of Maiti Nepal on Wednesday. The event was organized to honour and recognize the contributions of women under the theme of “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress” and “Inspire Inclusion”. Ashta Lakshmi Shakya, the first woman Chief Minister of Nepal graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Prasanna Shrivastava, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of India, also attended the celebrations along with Anuradha Koirala, founder of Maiti Nepal. Several other political leaders, representatives of social organizations, girl students of Maiti Nepal as well as distinguished women from different walks of life participated in the event. 

Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Chief of Mission, Prasanna Shrivastava highlighted the significance of the occasion and applauded extraordinary efforts of Maiti Nepal for the welfare and prosperity of the women of Nepal. He also mentioned that  Koirala’s endeavours in this regard have been well recognized by the Government of India, noting that in 2017, she was bestowed with the prestigious 'Padma Shri' award by the Government of India. 

Ashta Lakshmi Shakya highlighted the importance of the unique India-Nepal relationship and advocated greater collective efforts for empowerment of women in Nepal. Addressing the event, Anuradha Koirala spoke about the initiatives and wide range of activities being conducted by Maiti Nepal. She also thanked the Embassy for its continued support and cooperation. 

Ashta Lakshmi Shakya and Deputy Chief of Mission, Prasanna Shrivastava felicitated  Menuka Paudel and Ratna Kumari Sunuwar on the occasion for their inspiring achievements. Menuka Paudel, hailing from Kathmandu, through her singing talent has won accolades in Nepal and India, and most recently at the Indian Idol (2023). Ratna Kumari Sunuwar captured headlines last year after she passed the class 12 at the age of 80, showing that age is no barrier for learning. The Embassy of India also gifted books to the students of Maiti Nepal on this occasion.

The celebrations witnessed musical performance by women instrumentalists from Kathmandu organized by the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre of the Embassy of India, Kathmandu and cultural performances by the girl students of Maiti Nepal. Ms Menuka Paudel also captivated the audience with her melodious songs. 

The Embassy of India, Kathmandu is committed to promote stronger ties between India and Nepal and support the efforts of Government of Nepal for empowerment of girls and women.