Following the successful first day, the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) continued its impactful two-day training on August 10, 2024, focusing on the discussion and review of the Bhumlu Indigenous Workplan Policy with members of Bhumlu Rural Municipality. The second day of the training was facilitated by Ms. Dwarika Thebe, the Executive Director of NIWF, who brought her extensive experience and leadership to guide the sessions. 

The day began with a compelling presentation by Mr. Kamal Sampang Rai, who addressed the critical topic of biodiversity, particularly in the context of climate change. Mr. Rai's presentation shed light on how Nepal's rich biodiversity is being increasingly threatened by the effects of climate change. He discussed the various ways in which rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and habitat loss are impacting flora and fauna across the country. What made Mr. Rai's presentation particularly engaging was his exploration of the deep connection between Indigenous Peoples and biodiversity. He emphasized that Indigenous communities have a profound understanding of their natural environment, which is rooted in centuries of traditional knowledge and practices. This knowledge not only helps preserve biodiversity but also offers sustainable ways to protect and manage natural resources. Mr. Rai’s insights highlighted the invaluable role that Indigenous Peoples play in the global effort to combat climate change and preserve biodiversity.

The discussion on climate change continued with an in-depth presentation by Mr. Bijay Kumar Singh, who focused on the specific impacts of climate change on Indigenous communities. Mr. Singh articulated how these communities are disproportionately affected by environmental changes, given their close relationship with the land and natural resources. He outlined several critical areas where climate change has disrupted traditional practices, including agriculture, fishing, and hunting. These disruptions have threatened food security, exacerbated poverty, and increased the vulnerability of Indigenous communities to natural disasters such as floods and landslides. Mr. Singh's presentation underscored the urgent need for targeted climate adaptation strategies that are culturally sensitive and community-driven, ensuring that Indigenous voices are central to policy-making processes.

The final presentation of the day was delivered by Mr. Hom Yamphu, who provided an informative overview of key international frameworks that are vital for safeguarding the rights of Indigenous communities. Mr. Yamphu focused on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR), the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), and ILO Convention 169. He explained how these international frameworks could be effectively integrated into the governance procedures of Bhumlu Rural Municipality. Mr. Yamphu discussed the relevance of each framework in protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples, emphasizing how these international standards offer a robust foundation for local policies and practices. He also provided practical guidance on how local authorities could implement these frameworks, ensuring that the rights of Indigenous communities are respected and upheld.

The training concluded with heartfelt speeches from two representatives of Bhumlu Rural Municipality. They expressed their sincere gratitude to NIWF for organizing such a comprehensive and enlightening event. The representatives shared how the training had significantly deepened their understanding of CEDAW General Recommendation 39, as well as other critical international frameworks like UPR, CBD, UNDRIP, and ILO Convention 169.

The second day of the training was a resounding success, building on the momentum of Day 1 and leaving participants with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in advancing the rights of Indigenous Peoples. The event not only facilitated knowledge sharing but also strengthened the resolve of local leaders to implement policies that honor and protect the heritage, rights, and well-being of Indigenous communities.