KHOTANG: Minister of State for Federal Affairs and Local Development Biraj Bahadur Bista on Friday said development projects were affected due to absence of elected representatives in the local bodies.

Addressing a function organised to mark the 23rd district council in Khotang, Bista said development of the country was possible only if local polls were held soon.

“Election to the local bodies will pave the way for employment opportunities, which will help stop brain drain,” he claimed. Bista promised to take initiatives for promoting Halesi as a tourist destination.