Minister Shrestha highlights policy reforms, Digital governance, and social impact in 100-day progress report

KATHMANDU: Minister for Women, Children and Senior Citizens Shradha Shrestha has claimed “significant achievements” in policy reform, service delivery, and social empowerment within a short tenure, unveiling an extensive 100-day progress report that underscores Nepal’s push toward inclusive governance and social sector transformation.

Presenting her report, Minister Shrestha described her tenure as brief yet deeply impactful, offering critical insights into policymaking complexities, institutional coordination, and challenges in improving frontline service delivery. She noted that her prior experience in the tourism sector provided a foundation, but her ministerial role enabled deeper engagement with issues concerning women, children, persons with disabilities, and gender and sexual minorities.

Policy Reform Drive Gains Momentum

The Ministry prioritized policy formulation and structural reform during the review period. Among the key milestones is the approval and implementation of the National Policy Against Human Trafficking, 2082, alongside several critical frameworks including:

National Gender Audit Procedure, 2082
Project Facilitation Procedure for International Non-Governmental Organizations, 2082
Child-Responsive Budget Coding and Management Procedure, 2082
Women Entrepreneur Advancement Award Procedure, 2082

Additionally, a draft National Roadmap for Effective Implementation of CEDAW has been endorsed, translating international commitments into time-bound national actions.

The Ministry has also prepared drafts of major policy instruments such as the National Action Plan against Gender-Based Violence, guidelines on dignified menstruation, amendments to human trafficking regulations, and the implementation plan for the National Child Policy 2080.

Service Delivery and Social Protection Improvements

On the service delivery front, the Ministry reported tangible progress. A separate juvenile correction facility has been established at Nuwakot Prison, with 81 juveniles above 18 years relocated from Bhaktapur and Parsa centers. Plans are also underway to establish a child daycare center in Bhaktapur.

In a notable intervention, 19 high-risk pregnant and postpartum women from remote regions were rescued via helicopter, highlighting targeted efforts in maternal health support.

Senior citizens have benefited from the 1115 hotline service, operated in coordination with the Ministry of Health and Population Nepal, providing access to health-related information and services. Efforts are also ongoing to standardize disability and senior citizen identity cards across all 753 local levels.

Accessibility measures—including Braille-embossed boards and inclusive communication tools—have been introduced within the Ministry to ensure equitable access to services.

Digital Governance and Institutional Strengthening

To improve transparency and efficiency, the Ministry has introduced a digital service delivery system for project approvals and monitoring through the Social Welfare Council. The rollout of an integrated office management system (GIOMS) further aims to streamline internal operations.

The Ministry is also drafting directives on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CFT) for non-profit organizations, addressing financial compliance risks in the social sector.

A comprehensive data system covering 76 districts has been developed to support evidence-based policymaking, with plans to expand integration and coordination across federal, provincial, and local governments.

International Engagement and Global Commitments

At the global level, Nepal reinforced its commitment to gender equality during the Commission on the Status of Women 70th Session held in New York (Falgun 25–Chaitra 5 / March 9–19, 2026 AD).

Nepal showcased its progress and challenges in areas such as ending child marriage, reducing gender-based violence, improving access to justice, and advancing sexual and reproductive health rights.

Bilateral engagements were conducted with representatives from the United States, European Union, China, India, UN agencies, and development partners, focusing on human trafficking, social development, and women’s empowerment.

Inclusive Elections and Public Awareness Campaigns

The Ministry also played a proactive role in promoting inclusive and participatory elections, coordinating with the Election Commission Nepal, political parties, and development partners.

Election-related public service announcements were produced in 10 national languages and broadcast through 386 community radio stations in collaboration with the Association of Community Radio Broadcasters, aiming to enhance women’s participation as voters and candidates.

Addressing Structural Challenges

Monitoring visits to senior citizen homes and juvenile facilities revealed gaps such as shortages of healthcare personnel and ambulance services, which the Ministry plans to address in upcoming budgets.

In a significant governance intervention, the Ministry resolved the leadership dispute within the Nepal Red Cross Society by dissolving rival executive committees and forming a nine-member ad hoc committee to amend statutes and conduct elections. Although initial delays occurred due to a Supreme Court interim order, the process resumed following judicial direction. The tenure of the ad hoc committee has now been extended until Ashar 2082 (June/July 2026 AD).

Stakeholder Collaboration and Social Transformation

Minister Shrestha emphasized that the Ministry’s achievements go beyond physical outputs, focusing on behavioral change, social transformation, and inclusive development. She acknowledged the contributions of federal, provincial, and local governments, civil society, development partners, activists, and media.

She also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Sushila Karki for entrusting her with the leadership role during a challenging period.

The Ministry’s progress report positions these reforms as foundational steps toward strengthening Nepal’s social protection system, gender equality framework, and inclusive economic participation, with an emphasis on sustainability and long-term institutional impact.