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On 21st February 2022 Vivekananda International Foundation organised a virtual book discussion on “The Janajatis of Nepal” authored by Professor Hari Bansh Jha. The welcome address was delivered Dr. Arvind Gupta, Director, Vivekananda International Foundation. The speakers included Mr. Rajendra Mahato, Former Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of Loktantrik Samajbadi Party, Nepal, Professor Hari Bansh Jha, Executive Director, Centre for Economic and Technical Studies, Kathmandu, Nepal. The book discussants were Professor Kapil Shrestha, Political Scientist, Human Rights Expert and Civil Society Activist in Nepal, Mr Buddh Chhering Moktan, Janjati Expert, Kathmandu, Nepal, Professor Sangeeta Thapliyal Jawaharlal Nehru University, and Ambassador Ranjit Rae, India’s Former Ambassador to Nepal.

About the Book

The Janajatis of Nepal authored by Professor Hari Bansh Jha provides insights on various dimensions of the Janajatis (indigenous people) who happen to be the largest ethnic group in Nepal. Apart from the socio-economic conditions, the monograph presents their place in state and other affairs. Also, it gives details on the different agencies that have been working for their upliftment. The discussants mentioned that Janajati is the future of Nepal and requiring detailed study and research. Additionally, Janjathis are confined to the Kathmandu Valley and Nepal’s democracy depends on them.

The discussion was followed by questions from the audience and closing remarks by Director VIF. The distinguished audience included retired diplomats, scholars and others.