Bardiya: An agreement (MoU) has been signed between the Government of Nepal and the Government of the Republic of Korea for the implementation of the Inclusive Rural Development Project (IRDP) in Bardiya District. Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, Ghanashyam Upadhyay, and the Korean Ambassador to Nepal, Park Tae Young, signed the agreement at a ceremony held at the Ministry of Finance today.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the Korean government will provide assistance equivalent to 8 million US dollars for this project through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). The project will be operational until December 2029 and will be implemented in eight local levels of Bardiya district. It aims to support rural communities by increasing agricultural production, establishing value chains, enhancing roads and infrastructure, creating market access, fostering entrepreneurship development, and generating employment.
The Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration will facilitate policy coordination and guidance, while the eight municipalities of Bardiya will act as implementing bodies. Korean Ambassador Park Tae Young highlighted that the project emphasizes people-centered, inclusive, and sustainable development, creating long-term opportunities for local communities while maintaining environmental balance.
Finance Secretary Upadhyay expressed confidence that the project, supported by Korean assistance, will empower local governments and communities. He also noted the potential for this initiative to serve as a pilot project demonstrating the benefits of a decentralized governance system. Muhung Kong, Director of KOICA for Nepal, expressed optimism for positive and outcome-oriented achievements through the cooperation of local government and stakeholders. KOICA has previously supported areas such as agriculture, health, technical training, rural infrastructure, and information technology in Nepal.