Institute for Rural Development (IRD)

Official Registration

IRD is now officially registered as a non-governmental organization under Nepal’s Association Registration Act, 1977, and affiliated with the Social Welfare Council (SWC Affiliation No.: 000799, dated 2080/12/13 B.S.). This milestone opens new doors for impact, collaboration, and transparency as we work to empower rural communities.

International Partnerships

The Oxford Diplomatic Society recently hosted a successful Nepal visit, culminating in a formal MoU to promote cross-cultural exchange and rural development. The delegation’s visit to Panchakanya, Nuwakot, led to plans for sustainable tourism and ongoing collaboration.

Youth Voices at National Level

IRD coordinated and moderated a roundtable at the Prime Minister’s Office with Chief Advisor Bishnu Rimal and youth leaders from IT/AI backgrounds, discussing mentorship, “learn and earn” policy, and Nepal’s digital future.

Community Health

In February, IRD organized a two-day free dental camp in Panchakanya, Nuwakot, serving many locals with support from Dr. Sudin Shakya, the Nepalese Society of Multidisciplinary Dentistry, local leaders, and volunteers.

Sports for Youth Empowerment

Peak Potential Partnership: Together with Hong Kong’s student-led Peak Potential, IRD completed a multi-purpose sports facility in Panchakanya, Nuwakot. The new court is already in use, and a youth club is forming to organize tournaments and activities.

Mentorship Program Success

IRD’s first mentorship program, led by Laxman Bista and Sadrish Acharya, helped students gain admission to top universities including Penn, Brown, Vanderbilt, Wellesley, Soka, and more.

Flagship Initiatives

We’ve launched the Conscious Village Initiative using a multi-sector rural development model in select villages, along with the One App, One Tap and Save the Heritage initiatives. These support digital solutions likeKrishimitra (finalist in a US competition), Surakshya (women’s safety),Aayush (telehealth), a Disaster Warning System, and ongoing efforts to document and promote Nepal’s cultural sites.

Global Climate Leadership

IRD President represented Nepal’s rural voices at Sagarmatha Sambaad, the country’s flagship international climate dialogue.

Summer Internship Program

Welcomed six diverse interns from Brown, Chicago, Soka, Dartmouth, and Kenyon, contributing to research, health, education, and visual storytelling.