BIRATNAGAR: The National Conference of Deputy Mayors and Vice-Chairpersons from local levels across the country is taking place in Biratnagar from today.
Organized for the first time with the objective of institutionalizing federalism, the two-day event is being held at Birendra Hall on May 6 and 7, 2025. The conference is hosted by Biratnagar Metropolitan City.
According to Shilpa Nirala Karki, Deputy Mayor of Biratnagar, the conference aims to promote inter-municipal exchange of experiences to enhance the effectiveness of judicial committees.
It also seeks to clarify the role of deputy mayors and vice-chairpersons in the annual planning, monitoring, and evaluation processes of plans and programs.
Discussions will focus on improving internal revenue generation at the local level and strengthening the contribution of local representatives in consolidating federalism.
The conference will also provide a platform to share experiences in service delivery and prepare a joint declaration with recommendations for amending conflicting or unclear laws. These suggestions will be forwarded to the federal and provincial governments.
A total of 291 deputy mayors and vice-chairpersons from metropolitan cities, sub-metropolitan cities, municipalities, and rural municipalities are participating.
However, organizers noted that changing weather conditions may affect full attendance from all local levels.
Three thematic papers will be presented during the event. Constitutional expert Kashiraj Dahal will speak on the role of judicial committees within the constitutional system.
Dr. Gopi Khanal will present on the local level’s role in institutionalizing fiscal federalism, while Ramesh Adhikari will discuss the contribution of deputy mayors and vice-chairpersons in local governance and the development process.
Deputy mayors and vice-chairpersons from six metropolitan cities, eleven sub-metropolitan cities, and numerous municipalities across all seven provinces are expected to attend. Biratnagar Metropolitan City has confirmed that many participants have already arrived. Biratnagar remains the only metropolitan city in Koshi Province.
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