Sustainable Development Village in Tarakeshwor marks first anniversary with major achievements

Kathmandu: The Sustainable Development Experimental Village in Dharmasthali, Tarakeshwor Municipality celebrated its first anniversary with great dedication. The event celebrated the completion of various projects by the China Foundation for Rural Development (CFRD), coinciding with the 69th anniversary of Nepal-China diplomatic relations.

Launched in May 2023, the Sustainable Development Experimental Village aimed to transfer successful Chinese rural development practices to Nepalese communities. CFRD invested over $776,861 in projects spanning water supply, education, nutrition, and skill training, benefiting 11,976 people. The projects included a village water system, educational support, child nutrition programs, and skill enhancement for farmers.

The ceremony highlighted the achievements of 80 farmers who received training in off-seasonal vegetable production. They also received agricultural tools and equipment. Additionally, beneficiary schools received kitchen materials and rewards for Mothers’ Group Members.

Attended by the Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, His Excellency Chen Song, and Krishna Hari Maharjan, Tarakeshwor Mayor, the event underscored the strengthened cooperation between Nepal and China. The celebration also featured contributions from national media, local officials, and community members.

The Smiling Children project, benefiting 3,315 students, provides 729,591 meals to improve nutrition and education. The training, conducted by New Light Foundation and MultiTrade Technical Training Institute, included practical and theoretical knowledge, with post-training support such as water tanks and tractors.

CFRD Nepal Office’s Country Director Zou Zhiqiang and other dignitaries praised the project’s success and expressed gratitude to stakeholders. The event underscored the collective effort to promote sustainable development and agricultural innovation.