Supporters gathered to welcome former King Gyanendra Shah upon his return from Kaski, expressing dissatisfaction with the current political system. However, in Rupakot, Rupa Rural Municipality, where the former king stayed at a resort, local residents appeared less concerned about the monarchy. Instead, they were more focused on the challenge of retaining people in their villages despite significant development brought by the federal system.
Citizens of Rupa Rural Municipality celebrated its establishment day with enthusiasm, coming together from various settlements. People from diverse communities—Muslim, Newa, Magar, Gurung, Brahmin, Chhetri, and Dalit—participated in traditional attire, accompanied by musical instruments and cultural performances.
The event showcased local culture, traditional food, and products from newly established agricultural farms, including locally raised goats, honey, and medicinal herbs. The municipality also honored individuals for their contributions in various sectors.
Federalism brings development, but people are leaving
Residents acknowledged that the federal system had rapidly improved roads, electricity, drinking water, and other essential services. “In the past, we had no roads, electricity, or healthcare services. Villagers had to travel to the district headquarters or rely on political connections to access basic services,” said Abdul Miya, who attended the event. “Now, with the municipality in place, we can directly hold our representatives accountable, and even minor issues can be resolved at the ward level.”
Despite these advancements, concerns persist about population decline. Gopilal Joshi of Rupa-5 noted that while services and infrastructure had improved, the bigger question was how to keep people in the village.
Til Bahadur Khadka of Rupa-6 emphasised that the current system had transformed elected representatives from rulers into public servants. “The government provides roads, electricity, drinking water, and healthcare, but people’s desire for quick earnings and urban lifestyles has led to disappointment,” he said. “We’ve experienced different regimes—from Rana rule to Panchayat to the current republic—but never has the system been as open and accessible as it is now.”
The challenge of retaining youth in villages
Previously, people stayed in villages despite underdevelopment, but now, despite better infrastructure, the youth are leaving. Many fields lie barren, and villages are increasingly populated only by the elderly. Tejadevi Regmi highlighted that foreign employment offers quick income, prompting many to send their children to city schools. “Jobs here don’t pay enough, and when people see their neighbors building houses quickly, they want to follow suit,” she said. “Even monkey infestations in villages have increased.”
In Rupa, roads are being paved, electricity has reached every household, and a comprehensive drinking water scheme is nearing completion. A 25-bed hospital with specialists is now operational, and agricultural initiatives, including the ‘One House, One Beehive’ program, have gained popularity.
Sant Bahadur Bhujel acknowledged the significant progress. “Development has arrived. We receive services at the ward level, and we can directly communicate with representatives from the local to the provincial and federal levels. But the key concern remains: how do we keep people in the villages?”
Before the municipality was established, Rupa lacked even a single meter of paved road. Today, nearly 100 kilometers have been blacktopped. The municipality has registered 392 agricultural farms, and locally produced honey is increasingly being consumed in Pokhara. Every ward has a well-equipped health post, and a model school project is underway.
Strengthening the system, not replacing it
Despite progress, youth migration remains a challenge. “Development plans from the provincial and federal levels are reaching villages, but people are becoming less attached to them,” Khadka said. “Frustration with politicians and governance has fueled doubts about the system, but this is not because of a lack of progress—people are simply comparing Nepal with more developed countries.”
Khadka believes that while political disillusionment is valid, strengthening the existing system is the only way forward.
Rupa Rural Municipality Chairman Navaraj Ojha echoed this concern. “Physical infrastructure has reached every village, but the real challenge is ensuring people stay,” he said. “Our priority is to boost local production, attract city dwellers to invest, and create an environment where people can see opportunities in the village.”
To achieve this, the municipality has been honoring individuals contributing to Rupa’s development. This year, 11 people were recognized as ‘Rupa Ratna’ for their achievements in agriculture, cultural preservation, and other sectors. The municipality also hosts an annual volleyball tournament to nurture local talent.
Former Gandaki Province Chief Minister Khagaraj Adhikari dismissed claims that nothing had improved in villages. “Rupa is proving that development is happening. Honoring contributors and fostering local engagement is key,” he said. “There is no alternative to strengthening the current system.”
