KATHMANDU: After 21 years of unpaid service as a Female Community Health Volunteer in Syuchatar, 69-year-old Nanu Maiya Gautam retired today by appointing her daughter-in-law to replace her.

“I am glad that the government has recognised my contribution to the community,” Nanu said at a felicitation programme today. She considers volunteering to attend deliveries more important than doing household chores.

Kali Tamang of Manamaiju VDC was one of the 13 retiring FCHVs. “My age doesn’t permit me to carry on anymore,” Kali said. The volunteers would be provided training twice a year. “I put my service above self,” said Kali.

Chudamani Bhandari, chief, District Public Health Office, praised the volunteers’ effort in improving the public health.