Our recent Know Your Country- KYC (देश दर्शन) excursion was more than just a field visit; it was a profound immersion into the administrative and social fabric of Eastern Nepal. We represent Koshi Group of the Basic Administration Training (BAT) 40 from the Nepal Administrative Staff College (NASC) and our journey began from Kathmandu-Makwanpur-Udaypur-Sunsari and through to the districts of Dhankuta and Morang.
Administrative Insights and Challenges:
In both districts, we engaged directly with designated officials and observed the daily operations of various administrative offices. While the commitment to serve is evident, the challenges are stark:
• Morang: We witnessed the strain of high-density populations, where government offices face significant overcrowding, highlighting an urgent need for infrastructure expansion and digital service integration.
• Dhankuta: The primary concern shifted toward the socio-economic landscape, where outmigration poses a threat to the local workforce and community stability, requiring immediate policy interventions to retain talent and energy.
Potential and Heritage:
Beyond the offices, our tour was complemented by visits to pilgrimage sites like Tinjure Height and Barah Kshetra as well as breathtaking tourist landmarks.
The contrast between the two districts revealed Nepal’s diverse potential. Morang stands as a powerhouse for industrial growth, while Dhankuta, with its refreshing climate and rolling hills, remains a fertile ground for high-value agriculture and tourism.
A highlight of our visit was the cultural exchange with the Aathpahariya Rai community in Dhankuta. Their unique traditions and heritage added a layer of depth to our understanding of Nepal’s social mosaic.
Academic Culmination:
To synthesize these experiences, our group prepared a comprehensive report and presentation. I had the honor of presenting our findings at NASC, and I am humbled by the overwhelmingly positive response i received from evaluators and peers alike.
Endnote:
This KYC visit served as a mercurial break and a vital practical bridge following the completion of our four-month classroom sessions, packed with nine intensive modules. It allowed us to experience the vast topography and diverse administrative realities of our nation.
As I look forward to the next chapter—a two-month internship in Jhapa—I carry these lessons with me.
My deepest gratitude goes to our Class Coordinators- Mrs. Saroja Shakya and Mrs. Aashma Adhikari, the Nepal Administrative Staff College, and my dear colleagues of the Koshi Group for making this experience unforgettable.
- Subrat Ghimire (BAT40 Koshi Group)
