The Rural Self-Reliance Development Centre (RSDC) commemorated the 116th International Women’s Day on 8 March by organizing a formal event in collaboration with Janasuchana Swabalamban Environment Conservation Cooperative Ltd. The program highlighted women’s leadership and contributions in advancing environmental sustainability and community development.

The event was chaired by Ms. Gyanu Karki Thapa, Chairperson of the cooperative, and attended by Mr. Rajendra Shrestha, Ward Chairperson of Ward No. 2, Budhanilkantha Municipality, as Chief Guest. Special guests included Ms. Sabitri Sharma, Member of the RSDC Management Committee, and Mr. Shiva Basyal, Executive Director of RSDC.

In his remarks, the Chief Guest acknowledged the critical role of women in social and economic transformation and extended his appreciation to all women on the occasion. He further highlighted the progress achieved in plastic waste management in Ward No. 2 through RSDC’s support and reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to sustaining and institutionalizing these initiatives as part of local development priorities.

Speakers emphasized the importance of International Women’s Day as a platform to recognize women’s contributions and promote gender equality. The Executive Director of RSDC underscored the significant role of women both globally and in Nepal, highlighting their leadership and resilience. He also shared updates on RSDC’s ongoing interventions in Budhanilkantha Municipality and encouraged continued collaboration with local government to ensure sustainability of project outcomes beyond the project cycle.

The program was facilitated by Ms. Bhagarati Bhatt, Secretary of the cooperative. Welcome remarks were delivered by Ms. Shanti Pahari, while Ms. Sabitri Dhital highlighted the significance of the day.

The event was organized at the site of ongoing infrastructure development under the Womenpreneurs4Plastic project, including a Plastic Bank, Plastic Recycling Unit, and Learning Center. Participants were provided with a guided site visit and orientation on project progress and planned outcomes.

Participants appreciated RSDC’s efforts as a model intervention and expressed their commitment to actively contribute to the continuation and scaling of plastic waste management initiatives under the leadership of the cooperative.