Kathmandu, January 10

Senior leader of CPN-UML Madhav Kumar Nepal today stressed on instilling optimism in youth for the development of the country.

Speaking at an interaction on ‘Role of youth in reconstruction in Nepal’ organised by Nepal Free Youth Association with support from the Ministry of Youth and Sports and Building Right Back, Nepal said there was a need for instilling positive feelings in youth for the development of country in the aftermath of April and May earthquakes.

“Currently, there are people who have only been demanding rights without fulfilling their responsibilities.

This is not good for a developing country like Nepal,” he said, adding, developed countries give importance to their youth because they have immense potential to transform the country.

“The developed countries give priority to road construction, electricity generation and communication development for the progress of country,” he said, adding, “We also need to develop plans and strategies on how to deploy youths for the development of the country.”

Gopinath Mainali, joint-secretary, National Planning Commission, said the planning commission has been conducting relief programmes since April 30.

“Due to lack of political commitment, we are about to begin reconstruction works after eight months,” he said, adding, “By now, we should have accomplished much.”

Homraj Acharya, president, Building Right Back, said many cultural heritages were damaged and destroyed in the devastating quake.

Thus, while reconstructing them, they should be made earthquake resilient and environment friendly, said Acharya.