Inclusive Rural Development Project in Bardiya District by KOICA

EDUCAST, KOICA and the Government of Nepal have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on July 18, 2025, to launch the Inclusive Rural Development Project (IRDP) in Bardiya District. The agreement, worth US$ 8 million, will be implemented until December 31, 2029. The aim is to promote inclusive and sustainable development in rural areas of Nepal.

The MoU was signed by Mr. Ghanshyam Upadhyaya, Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, and H.E. Mr. Park Tae-Young, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Nepal. The signing was witnessed by KOICA, MoFAGA, and other stakeholders. The project will benefit eight municipalities in Bardiya, including Gulariya and Thakurbaba, focusing on agricultural productivity, market linkages, and ecotourism.

Municipalities of Bardiya will serve as local implementing agencies while MoFAGA will coordinate at the federal level. The Finance Secretary expressed that the project supports Nepal’s federal governance and enhances collaboration between national and local levels through international cooperation.

Ambassador Park emphasized that the project supports Nepal’s long-term priorities in economic opportunity and environmental sustainability. KOICA Country Director Mr. Mooheon Kong acknowledged the teamwork of all involved municipalities and expressed optimism about the project’s outcomes and the Nepal-Korea bilateral partnership.

Since 1991, Korea has supported Nepal in health, IT, and rural development. KOICA’s total support has exceeded 200 million US dollars. Nepal being a Core Partnership Country for 15 consecutive years reflects the deep cooperation and shared commitment to development goals.