On November 30th and December 1st, 2024, National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF), in collaboration with the Freed Kamlari Development Forum (FKDF), hosted a significant two-day program in Janaki Rural Municipality, Kailali district. The program, titled “The Role of Local Government in the Upliftment of Freed Kamlaris and Indigenous Women and Youth,” sought to bring together stakeholders to discuss pathways to empowerment, policy implementation, and sustainable development for these marginalized groups.

The event was graced by Janaki Rural Municipality Vice-Chairperson Lalmati Kathariya, who served as the chief guest. Ward No. 3 Chairperson Suresh Chaudhary joined as the special guest, alongside representatives from various organizations. A notable aspect of the program was the active participation of freed Kamlaris, whose firsthand experiences and insights enriched the discussions. Their presence highlighted the importance of inclusive dialogue in addressing the challenges faced by freed Kamlaris and Indigenous women and youth. A central feature of the program was an informative presentation by Mr. Hom Yamphu. His session focused on the existing policies and regulations that impact freed Kamlaris, shedding light on their rights, entitlements, and the gaps in policy implementation. The presentation laid the foundation for an engaging discussion session, where participants exchanged ideas, shared experiences, and proposed actionable solutions to address the systemic challenges faced by freed Kamlaris.

The program concluded with the presentation of a memorandum to Vice-Chairperson Lalmati Kathariya. The memorandum captured the demands and pressing concerns of freed Kamlaris, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced support and interventions from local governments. Issues such as access to education, economic opportunities, healthcare, and social reintegration were highlighted as critical areas requiring immediate attention. This two-day initiative underscored the collective commitment of all stakeholders to foster meaningful change. By providing a platform for dialogue, the program not only amplified the voices of freed Kamlaris but also reaffirmed the role of local governments in promoting equity, empowerment, and sustainable development for marginalized communities. The discussions and outcomes of the event serve as a stepping stone toward ensuring that the rights and aspirations of freed Kamlaris and Indigenous women and youth are fully realized.

On 2nd December 2024, National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) in collaboration with the Freed Kamlari Development Forum (FKDF) submitted the Memorandum to Hon. Bir Bahadur Thapa Minister for Land Management, Agriculture, and Cooperatives. The Memorandum outlines the demands and pressing issues faced by freed Kamlaris.