Inclusive Development Possible Only with Participation of Indigenous Women: Minister Shrestha

Kathmandu, Jan 18: Minister for Women, Children and Senior Citizens Shradha Shrestha has emphasized that inclusive and sustainable development cannot be achieved without the meaningful participation of indigenous women in parliament and policymaking.

She made the remarks while addressing the 25th anniversary of the National Indigenous Women’s Federation Nepal in Kathmandu on Sunday.

Minister Shrestha highlighted that gender inequality, social discrimination, limited economic opportunities, and cultural exclusion remain major challenges for women from ethnic communities. She stressed that these issues could be addressed through education, awareness campaigns, community-level empowerment, institutional advocacy, and integrated action.

Reaffirming her commitment to increasing indigenous women’s representation in policymaking, the Minister called for their active engagement to uphold the principles of inclusiveness, equality, and social justice guaranteed by the Constitution.

She further stated that her ministry is dedicated to promoting women voters, encouraging women candidacies, and ensuring the participation of senior citizens and marginalized communities in the electoral process.