Since its creation, Non resident Nepalese Association (NRNA) is being led by Russia-based businessman Dr Upendra Mahato. The upcoming convention of the association, schedued for October this year, will not allow Mahato, by law, to continue in the same top job. To succeed him, three veterans have announced their candidacy – Bhim Udas, Ram Pratap Thapa and Dev Man Hirachan.

Bhim Udas, current general secretary, was born in Bhojpur district 59 years ago. With MA in international relations, Udas joined the UN service in 1986 and has been serving currently as UN Country Director and Representative in Lesotho. He has also worked in Myanmar, Russia, Jordan, Geneva, Armenia, Rome/Italy and Pakistan. He has published a poem collection, worked briefly as journalist as well and is member of Rotary International. Recipient of the Medal for Humanitarian Service from Russian Federation, Udas is associated with NRNA since 2001.

Ram Pratap Thapa, 59, co-founder and current vice president, was educated in Kathmandu and Nuremberg, Germany. An MBA with financing and marketing, he has lived in Germany since 1976 and works as a bank analyst. Honorary Consul of Nepal for three German states, Thapa is the President of German-Nepal Friendship Association besides being a literature enthusiast.

Dev Man Hirachan, 56, born in Pokhara, did his graduate studies in radiology from Japan University and has been working with Nozaki Hospital, Osaka in Japan for last 10 years. He runs several travel agencies in Kathmandu and Japan that help exchange visitors between the two countries. Current vice president of the NRNA, he also leads the Nepal Future Thinking Association, Japan, the Educational and Social Development Center (ESODEC), Japan and the Educational and Social Development Center (ESODEC), Nepal.

Nepalnews brings their views on varieties of issues concerning Nepal and the condition of Nepalese abroad.Excerpts from email interview with two of the candidates: Dev Man Hirachan and Ram Pratap Thapa.

Why you think yourself to be an able candidate to lead NRNA?

Bhim UdasUdas: I believe I am an able candidate for president for a number of reasons. I am one of the founding members of the organisation and I have held key positions from the very beginning. Prior to its establishment in October 2003, I served as the International Coordinator of the movement and hence had the privilege to organise the First NRN Global Conference. I also had the honor to prepare the Concept Paper for the establishment of the NRN Association. Moreover, I have been actively involved in strategic and operational facets of the organisation

In addition, as an official of the United Nations, my 28 years of international development experience will continue to be a fundamental source of my contribution to the overall goal of the NRNA. My job has allowed me to live in numerous countries and given me the opportunity to meet the Nepalese Diaspora in various places.

Ram Pratap ThapaThapa: NRNA constitution prescribes no specific qualifications for presidential candidates, but I consider myself an able candidate for many reasons: I have been serving the Nepali Diaspora for many years. I am a co-founder of NRNA and joined hands in architecting its vision, mission and goals. I have travelled to many countries to meet with NRNs and have been involved in establishing most of the European National Councils. Working closely with our founder-president Dr. Upendra Mahato, I have learned much and gained insights that will be vital to leading NRNA. I am neither a politician nor beholden to any political party. I visit Nepal frequently, keep up with developments there and maintain regular contact with a broad network of Nepalese. I am ready to provide strong leadership to NRNA.

Dev Man HirachanHirachan: From its very inception I have been active in the NRNA and have served the organization at various capacities. I coordinated third NRN Global Conference in 2007 and NRN Regional Conference in Bangkok in 2008. Now I am coordinating NRNA Registration and reform the NRN related Laws and Rules. I am also coordinating the task force on One Village One Product (OVOP) movement. I have participated in various events around the globe and have been fortunate to meet NRNs from around the globe which helped me to learn and gauge their aspirations, expectations and concerns. I think I understand what we can achieve and what we need to do. If given the opportunity, I think I can lead the organization successfully.

What are your agendas? And what should be the priorities for NRNA in coming years?

Udas: My agenda is to: i) continue to facilitate communication and dialogue amongst the Nepalese Diaspora for the protection and welfare of Nepalese globally; and ii) maintain our excellent partnership with the government and public/private institutions for socio-economic development of Nepal.

In my opinion, the short-term priorities of NRNA in coming years should be to: i) improve the conditions of foreign employment and explore new markets; ii) continue to follow-up on a definition of NRNs and the issue of dual nationality, iii) utilise knowledge, skills and technical know-how of NRNs in our country’s development; iii) promote Nepal and Nepalese products abroad.

The long-term priorities would be largely based on a partnership with the government and public/private financial institutions for investment in infrastructure development of Nepal. NRNA could also be actively involved in peace building and the stability of Nepal.

Thapa: NRNA’s achievement in six years has been amazing, but important things remain to be accomplished. The three-fold NRNA mission must constitute our priority and agenda: (1) economic support to Nepalese in our matribhumi; (2) improving living standard and working conditions of Nepalese in the land/countries they are living and (3) sustainability of NRNA. We must advance these priorities in a balanced, judicious manner.

Hirachan: During the past few years, we have shown our presence and have started and completed a few philanthropic projects. We need to continue what we have initiated and focus on sustainable development of NRNA. We need to develop institutional capabilities. We need to firmly establish the rights of Nepalese living outside of Nepal. We need to look on how the NRN community can contribute to the transformation of Nepal. We need to find ways and means to take most to our location (in Nepal). I think the NRNs can contribute in a significant manner in linking Nepal with the world.

What are your strategies to implement those agendas and priorities?

Udas: The immediate need is to collect suggestions from National Coordinating Councils (NCCs) to improve the conditions of foreign employment and work together with the government for its legislation and implementation; work together with International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to mobilise Nepalese Diaspora human resources for its utilisation in Nepal; intensify public information of NRN’s success story and achievements abroad; and establish a Nepal House in NCC countries wherever feasible.

For the long-run: i) advocate for creating investment friendly policy and working conditions; and ii) establish NRN Development Mutual Fund to invest in shares for multiple development projects, such as, hydro-power, ITC, roads and basic needs.
Thapa: Succinctly, strengthen NRNA’s non-political nature and status; equality of treatment for all Nepalese everywhere; and the maximum possible involvement and engagement of most NRNs in meaningful projects.

Hirachan: We need to work together with Nepal government and institutions there. We also need to respond to the interest of the diverse group of NRNs. I think there is something for each and every NRN in our movement. I strongly believe in dialogue and cooperation, we need to change our thoughts from my and me to our and us.

Should NRNA concentrate on only on development of Nepal or see ways to promote Nepalese abroad? How can that be done?

Udas: Both should be done simultaneously. The more capable, strong and united the NRNs are the more effective and significant contributions we can have in Nepal. As we have seen from our Indian and Chinese counterparts, a strong and united Diaspora community can make a significant difference to the country’s bottom line.

Thapa: NRNA’s three fundamental foci — (a) develop Nepal, (b) support Nepalese Diaspora, and (c) sustain NRNA. They are interdependent, interlinked and complimentary. My goal is to advance them simultaneously, synergistically.

Hirachan: Promotion of Nepalese abroad or rather their interests and wellbeing goes hand in hand with the efforts of contributing to Nepal. Success of Nepalese wherever they areshould make each of us proud.

Are you satisfied with the provisions in the NRNA Act?

Udas: Absolutely not. The current law does not fully satisfy the aspirations of NRNs. It is in desperate need of improvement and regulation has given us some hope in that direction.

Thapa: Personally, a definite “NO.” With the Act, a real beginning was made — that is important. It took much to get the government to pass it. We can all take pride in the Act, regardless of its shortcomings. We should also be proud that the associated regulations have been approved by the government, thanks to our President Dr Mahato’s hard work. The government, accepting there is much room for improvement, has assured us of timely amendments.

Hirachan: The question is not of satisfaction. One cannot be absolutely satisfied. There are always rooms for improvement. The enacting of the law and rules are indeed positive developments. We certainly do not agree with the definition of NRNs as given in the NRN Act. We are saddened by the fact that there is nothing in the Act regarding the safeguarding of the interests of our compatriots in foreign employment. The provisions on Nepalese who have obtained foreign citizenship are totally inadequate.

NRNA has been criticised for ineffective role played for political stability in Nepal as they are divided themselves supporting specific parties.

Udas: This criticism has no base. We are on record for raising our strong and united voice against ex-King Gyanendra’s move to quell democratic rights. We were among the first few organizations to take that stance. We also issued a similar statement during the Maoist government last year. Having said that, I would like to clarify that NRN is a non-political organisation.

Thapa: This involves individual choice and political freedom; the criticism is not justified. NRNA is non-political, without political agenda. We respectfully ask all to not politicise NRNA and to park their political baggage outside the NRNA door.

Hirachan: There are different people with their own political ideology and socio cultural values. You can not expect the NRNs to be over and above the situation in Nepal. We all want to see Nepal united, democratic and prosperous. NRNA is non-political though individuals may be adhering to some ideology. The NRNA is against violence and stands for democratic polity, political stability, adherence of human rights and Nepal’s territorial integrity.

What s your stand on dual citizenship? How do you think such provision would help Nepal and the NRNs?

Udas: Dual nationality is a win-win proposition for both Nepal and NRNs. Nepal has nothing to lose from this. First, they will invest in Nepal; second, they will lobby for Nepal in their country of residence being a political pressure group; third, be catalyst for FDI; forth, win the minds and hearts of NRNs, including their second/third generation; fifth, brain gain from brain drain. They will contribute to Nepal’s development by utilizing their skills and knowledge they have gained abroad.

Thapa: As the coordinator of NRN Task Force on ‘Dual Citizenship’, I fully support the idea. This has been a major expectation of ours from the Nepal government. By now, nobody in Nepal is against it. Dual citizenship, under whatever rubric, to NRNs is an investment in the future of Nepal and Nepalese. It is critical for second-generation NRNs worldwide and for the betterment of Nepal and Nepalese.

Hirachan: The dual citizenship will help to maintain the links of those who obtain foreign citizenship with Nepal and our society. Many countries including our neighbor have opted for such provision. The number of countries allowing dual citizenship is increasing. For me personally it may have no meaning as Japan does not accept dual nationality.

NRNA campaign for 100 million dollar development fund has not achieved its target. How do you plan to make it more effective?

Udas: Yes, it has not achieved its target due to technical reasons, but we are committed to starting this fund. Once the association is registered in Nepal, we will vigorously pursue to establish this fund, in collaboration with public/private financial institutions and our partner FNCCI.

Thapa: The fund has not been realised yet; the technical reason being that it has not been possible to get NRNA registered. This project has raised many expectations, enjoys strong support in NRN community, and remains our active goal. Once NRNA is registered, the project will move forward.

Hirachan: The idea of 100 million dollar fund was not meant to be a charity but a collective fund for investment in Nepal and abroad. Various reasons like non-registration of NRNA, lack of proper rules and our own inexperience in managing funds have caused delays. Investments will come when the country becomes ‘ready’ for it.

How do you plan to promote ‘send home a friend’ to increase tourist flow to Nepal?

Udas: It should be developed and marketed as Nepal’s project rather than that of NTB. Tourists love Nepal and Nepali people. But tourists will not come unless peace and security prevails and air and ground services are adequate.

Thapa: Being an Honorary Consul of Nepal, this issue is close to me, and I know where the shoe pinches. This concept was born in Berlin at an ITB Fair with a Minister and NTB personnel present. It is a very strong concept; unfortunately, its implementation has been dismal. Implemented properly, it can be instrumental in increasing tourist flow to Nepal.

Hirachan: Being involved in travel business, I have always been promoting Nepal. But our problems in Nepal, the frequent bandhs, lack of proper and adequate air connections, our poor tourist infrastructure have hampered the industry. We need to improve in these areas

What is your opinion on promoting or not promoting Foreign Direct Investment in Nepal? Do you have any plans to increase FDI in Nepal?

Udas: FDI is extremely important for a country’s development and we have seen good examples of that in China and India. We must find ways to increase the flow of FDI to Nepal. We should be open and flexible in our economic and trade policies, so that we can genuinely facilitate joint ventures and attract FDI.

Thapa: Like many other countries, Nepal has been craving FDI. It has been unlucky so far for various reasons. I would really like to promote it. Cost is a consideration. The expanding NRN community worldwide could be a very good alternative. Hence, our demand is for more conducive investment environment and facilities in Nepal for NRNs. No doubt the Nepalese Diaspora will become increasingly engaged in FDI, embracing our motto “for Nepalese by Nepalese.”

Hirachan: FDI is a must to technology and knowledge transfer. The NRNs can be the catalyst in promoting it. Some NRNs and their companies may directly invest while others may encourage the companies they are involved in to do so. Others may provide some business to Nepalese firms and individuals.

What are the biggest challenges the NRNs face while living abroad and what is NRNAs role to solve them?

Udas: Most NRNs would like to maintain their Nepalese identity, preserve Nepali arts and culture, and promote Nepali language and literature wherever they are. That is one of the five objectives of NRNA. Several media, cultural and literary associations are already working in many countries. But we need to do more and we will.

Thapa: Maintaining ties with family and friends back in Nepal and preserving cultural, religious and linguistic heritage and traditions constitute their major challenges, particularly, for NRNs with children and grandchildren. NRNA serves as the most visible, vocal and dedicated vehicle in the interest of the Diaspora to this front. Its role is vital to the maintenance of a viable two-way bridge between NRNs and Nepal, Nepalese and their government.

Hirachan: The NRNs want to maintain their identity, preserve their culture, language, and heritage and hand it over to their children. The fear of losing one’s identity is the biggest challenge. nepalnews.com Indra Adhikari June 02 09