On 22 May 2025, National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) celebrated World Biodiversity Day under the global theme, “Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development.” The event brought together government representatives, development partners, Indigenous leaders, and civil society actors to reaffirm the vital role of Indigenous Peoples in biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. The program was facilitated by Mr. Kamal Kumar Rai, Indigenous rights activist and environmental advocate, who guided the discussions around the intersections of Indigenous knowledge, biodiversity, and policy. The event was graced by Hon. Rupa B.K., State Minister for Forests and Environment, as the Chief Guest. In her remarks, Hon. B.K. acknowledged the historical and ongoing contributions of Indigenous communities in preserving biodiversity and committed to ensuring the inclusion of Indigenous voices in Nepal’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP).

Special guests at the event included: Dr. K.C. Paudel, Team Leader of NBSAP, Mr. Rajendra Dhungana, Under Secretary, Ministry of Forests and Environment, Mr. Raghu Ram Parajuli, Senior Scientific Officer, Department of Plant Resources, Mr. Bijaya Singh, Assistant Resident Representative, UNDP, Mr. Divas Rai, General Secretary, Nepal Federation of Indigenous Nationalities (NEFIN), Ms. Seema Khan, Chairperson, Nepal Muslim Women Welfare Society, Mr. Amrit Sunuwar, Chairperson, Sunuwar Samaj, Mr. Fulman Bal, General Manager, Nepal Television.

Each speaker shared valuable insights on the importance of World Biodiversity Day and reaffirmed their commitment to promoting inclusive, rights-based, and ecologically balanced development. They highlighted the urgent need to protect Indigenous knowledge systems, land rights, and traditional practices as essential components of biodiversity conservation. The program concluded with closing remarks by Ms. Suni Lama, Chairperson of NIWF, who expressed gratitude to all participants and reaffirmed NIWF’s commitment to advocating for the inclusion of Indigenous perspectives in national and global environmental policies.