Kathmandu Valley is the realm of handicrafts: Minister Pandey

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, June 14: Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Badri Pandey, has said that the Kathmandu Valley is the realm of handicrafts. 

Speaking at the inauguration of the Second Handicraft Promotion Fair held in Kathmandu on Friday, Minister Pandey highlighted the importance and contribution of handicrafts to economic development.

“The Kathmandu Valley is the empire of handicrafts,” said the Minister. “The people here have kept art and culture alive. Handicrafts have made an invaluable contribution to sustainable development.”

Stating that dedication and patience are essential in handicraft creation, the Minister said that mental preparation is also crucial for this work. “Handicraft is not only physical labour, it is also a mental art,” he said. “From a commercial perspective as well, this sector holds a great potential.”

Minister Pandey also added that the three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley have been successfully reconstructed in their original style and form and stressed the need for cooperation among all three levels of government to preserve art, civilisation, and culture.

“It is time for the government to move forward with clear policies,” he said. “The ministry is committed to advancing the cultural sector in an institutional and policy-driven manner.”

 Highlighting the need for an integrated policy, he informed that preparations are underway to organise a national-level cultural dialogue.

Based on the success of the National Tourism Dialogue recently held with the participation of the Prime Minister, the Minister announced plans to organise a National Cultural Dialogue. 

He expressed his belief that this initiative would further contribute to the preservation and promotion of Nepali art and culture.