The second year of Anupam Abhiyan, known as the Year of Yatras, kicked off with a grand East-West Yatra—a journey from Mechi to Mahakali—followed by 236 yatras across all 77 districts of Nepal. This phase concluded with the Padmalaya AA Convening held in Sehari, Nawalpur district, marking the transition to the third year of the movement. Over 520 participants from 48 districts attended, representing women, men, trans men, trans women, lesbians, disabled individuals, caste-based minority groups, and guests from organizations like UN Women, KURVE Wustrow, Tewa, Nagarik Aawaj, Kalam and Ukaalo.
The convening began on March 22, 2025, with a Rudri Puja for positive energy, followed by an exhibition of photos and videos by Freedom Studio, showcasing the year-long yatras. Rita Thapa introduced Anupam Abhiyan’s objectives, expressing gratitude to the Steering Committee, donors, Tewa, Nagarik Aawaj team and all participants. She also acknowledged everyone’s dedication to making the convening a success.
The second day, March 23, 2025, focused on wellness, celebration, and dialogue. The morning began with yoga sessions and naumati baja performances, creating an uplifting environment. Following this, a motivational video by Freedom Studio showcased the efforts of everyone involved in the Anupam Abhiyan. Dr. Susan then shared the origin story of the movement and acknowledged the contributions of Rita Thapa, Tewa, Steering Committee members, and other supporters.
A panel discussion with representatives from all seven provinces, moderated by Pratima Sharma. Panelists Radha Pradhan (Koshi), Rita Mahato (Madhesh), Januka Neupane (Bagmati), Hari Devkota (Gandaki), Kalpana Neupane (Lumbini), Pushpa Nepali (Karnali) and Debaki Joshi (Sudurpashchim) discussed their experiences, achievements, challenges, and future visions of Anupam Abhiyan. This was followed by province-wise group discussions, facilitated by Steering Committee members, where participants reflected on their learnings and planned for the future.
The day concluded with an open panel discussion with the Steering Committee members, where Rita Thapa acknowledged their efforts and contributions, while also informing them on the work IGFF has done to date and plans for the 2084 local-level elections.
The final day, March 24, 2025, began with a parade of participants dressed in traditional ethnic attire, marching province-wise with chants of feminist songs and slogans.
The next event continued with Dr. Sucheta Pyakuryal’s presentation of the study, “Elected Women’s Access to Leadership in Local Governance”, conducted by IIDS across all 77 districts of Nepal. An open discussion followed, engaging participants with the findings.
A panel discussion with political representatives from five major parties, moderated by Manushi Yami Bhattarai (Naya Shakti), highlighted women’s political journeys, challenges, and visions for inclusive leadership. Panelists included Hon. Sumana Shrestha (Rastriya Swatantra Party), Hon. Laxmi Pariyar (Nepali Congress), Hon. Dr. Binda Pandey (CPN-UML), Hon. Amrita Thapa Magar (CPN-MC) and Ranju Kumari Jha (People’s Socialist Party).
The convening ended with Rita Thapa and the Steering Committee presenting the third year’s focus: the Signature Campaign for Political Vigilance and Rajnaitik Khabardari (Political Vigilance)—initiatives aimed at promoting political accountability and inclusive representation across the country.









Leave a comment