Localizing SDGs in Nepal: Chandragiri Municipality’s Voluntary Local Review
27th april 2025, Kathmandu
Chandragiri Municipality has launched its Voluntary Local Review (VLR) Report and Action Plan Framework for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This step shows the municipality’s dedication to aligning local goals with global SDG targets.
Localizing SDGs in Nepal
Mayor Presents Report to the United Nations
Ghanshyam Giri, Mayor of Chandragiri, previously presented the municipality’s Voluntary Local Review Report at the United Nations. The report outlines the municipality’s efforts toward achieving the SDGs.
It highlights five priority areas: good health and well-being, inclusive education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, and sustainable cities and communities.
These areas were chosen for their critical importance to local development. The municipality has ensured that its policies and programs are designed to support these goals.
The integration of SDGs into the budgeting process is another significant step. This approach links financial decisions directly with sustainable development. This practice has been acknowledged as innovative in the Asia-Pacific region.
Key Areas of Focus for Sustainable Development
Chandragiri Municipality has focused on five key SDGs:
Good Health and Well-being – Providing accessible healthcare for all.
Inclusive and Quality Education – Promoting education that is accessible and equitable.
Gender Equality – Ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all genders.
Clean Water and Sanitation – Ensuring access to safe drinking water and sanitation.
Sustainable Cities and Communities – Developing resilient, sustainable urban environments.
These areas are central to the municipality’s development programs. The local government has committed to addressing these priorities through well-designed policies and initiatives.
Innovative Approach to Budgeting
One of the key innovations is the alignment of the municipality’s budget with SDG priorities. This budgeting practice ensures that financial resources are allocated to initiatives that support the achievement of the SDGs. This method has been recognized as a novel practice in the region, setting a standard for other municipalities to follow.
Key Presentations at the Event
The Nepali version of the VLR Report and Action Plan Framework was officially presented at an event held at the municipality’s council hall. The event was attended by prominent figures such as Mayor Ghanshyam Giri, Chief Administrative Officer Surendra Thapa Magar, and Pragya Pradhan, a representative from UN-Habitat.
During the event, Mayor Giri emphasized that prosperity depends not only on physical infrastructure but also on building an economically, socially, and technologically advanced society.
He shared, “I have already presented the Voluntary Local Review Report at the United Nations. The municipality has prioritized five key SDGs. Our policies, programs, and budget are all focused on achieving these goals.”
Continuous Efforts to Achieve SDGs
Chief Administrative Officer Surendra Thapa Magar added that the municipality’s policies and budget are structured to ensure the achievement of SDGs. He assured that all programs are centered around these objectives. Pragya Pradhan from UN-Habitat also highlighted the significance of the VLR Report. She noted that it provides an important tool for tracking local progress towards the SDGs.
Looking Ahead
Chandragiri Municipality is committed to monitoring and adjusting its efforts to ensure that it remains on track to achieve its SDG targets. The Voluntary Local Review Report and Action Plan Framework will guide future municipal planning and decision-making. These documents will help the municipality stay focused on its sustainability goals and contribute to global development efforts.
In conclusion, the launch of the VLR Report and Action Plan Framework represents a major milestone for Chandragiri Municipality. The municipality’s innovative approach to budgeting and its focus on key development areas will serve as a model for local governments in Nepal and the broader region. The municipality’s commitment to the SDGs demonstrates its leadership in sustainable urban development.
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