Consultative panel on inclusive policy and accessibility concludes in Lalitpur

Lalitpur: A consultative panel discussion on “Challenges in Inclusive Policy and Implementation with Accessibility” was successfully held today at Square Hotel, Lalitpur.

A key presentation on national policies, legal frameworks, and practical challenges was delivered by Shri Manoj Gohiwar, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Specialist. He highlighted Nepal’s inclusive policy framework, existing accessibility provisions, and the implementation gaps seen at the local level.

More than 60 participants, including a large number of youths, actively took part in the discussion. They raised practical issues related to building code compliance, transportation permits, access to public services, and improvements in public infrastructure.

The panel included Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Urban Development Nawaraj Pyakurel, Neeradevi Adhikari from the Ministry of Women, Children and Senior Citizens, and AIN Coordinator Saqib. The session was moderated by Sarita Lamichhane. The program was chaired by Shri Devidatta Acharya, Central President of the National Federation of Persons with Disabilities Nepal (NFDN).

Presenting the overall reflections, President of the National Federation of the Blind (NAB) Shishir Khanal stressed the need for strong partnerships, better government coordination, and practical reforms at the local level to narrow the gap between policy and implementation.

In his closing remarks, Chairperson Acharya said inclusive policies in Nepal are adequate but real progress depends on honest implementation and collective responsibility. He added that youth participation, OPD leadership, and structural reforms are key to bringing change.

The program was organized jointly by FairMed, AIN, PIN, NFDN and Handicap International Nepal (HI). Participants expressed hope that such discussions would continue regularly, with a focus on practical solutions, technical support, and stronger government coordination.