Trade fairs and festivals vital for economic growth: FNCCI President Dhakal

Ranjha (Banke), Dec 25: President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Chandra Prasad Dhakal, has said that trade fairs and festivals play a key role in strengthening the economy and promoting tourism.

Inaugurating the Kohalpur Festival–2025 in Banke on Wednesday, Dhakal said such events stimulate economic activities across the country and also contribute to positive change in the social sector. He noted that despite unfavorable weather, he and other central office bearers of FNCCI attended the festival, encouraged by the enthusiasm shown by local residents and entrepreneurs.

“The festival will help make Kohalpur economically vibrant by creating an investment-friendly environment and encouraging entrepreneurship,” Dhakal said, expressing confidence that the event would contribute to the city’s overall development.

Former minister Maheshwor Gahatraj, speaking on the occasion, said the organization of the Kohalpur Festival was a matter of pride for the region and would help establish a strong local identity while supporting development efforts.

Chairperson of the Kohalpur Chamber of Commerce and Industry and festival organizing committee coordinator, Pradeep Bhattarai, said the festival aims to promote Kohalpur as an emerging trade hub. He added that the event is being organized to market local products, create employment opportunities and strengthen Kohalpur’s identity at the national level.

The festival, the seventh in the series held in Banke since 2065 BS, features cultural performances and rallies, with a large number of locals participating in a procession that began from Cauraha prior to the inauguration.

A total of 300 stalls have been set up at the event, including 10 thematic displays, 15 promotional stalls, 250 commercial product stalls and 22 hotel service stalls. The ‘Tharu Village’ section has been introduced as a special attraction for visitors.