Points to rampant gender discrimination there

Kathmandu, June 6:

Socially and economically disadvantaged far-west and mid-west need behaviour change intervention programmes to achieve social transformation, states a study report titled ‘Gender and Social Discrimination’ disseminated today.

Compared to other regions, gender and caste-based discrimination is more deep-rooted in the two regions.

The discriminatory practices are reinforced and reiterated by faith, fear, and superstition, says the report.

The report, based on the study conducted by Samuhik Abhiyan, says introduction of community capacity building can play a pivotal role in achieving social transformation, which can be implemented through appropriate training and exposure to the members and leaders of community organisations and local political leaders.

Rural Village Water Resources Management Project will incorporate the recommendations in its activities in water resources management, sanitation, irrigation, energy, and environment protection, said Basu Dev Neupane, a representative of Samuhik Abhiyan.

The project, which is being supported by the Department of Local Infrastructure Development and Agricultural Roads and the government of Finland, is working in 10 districts of the far and mid- western regions.

Eighty village development committees in Kailali, Dadeldhura, Doti, Accham, Bajhang, Bajura, Darchula and Baitadi districts in the far-west and Humla and Dailekh in the mid-west are ranked as poor in the Human Development Index.

Gender responsive and inclusive livelihood improvement initiatives programmes should be formulated and implemented ensuring equitable distribution of resources, the report says.

The report suggests alternatives to firewood such as solar energy and improved cooking stoves, adding that small hydropower projects should be executed at the community level.