23 April 2025, Lalitpur.

On April 22, 2025, Chandragiri Municipality launched its Voluntary Local Review (VLR) Report (Nepali Edition) and the National VLR Template, a major step towards localizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nepal. The event was organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Urban Development (MoUD) and with technical support from UN-Habitat, under the project supported by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA).

Addressing the event, the Mayor of Chandragiri Municipality, Mr. Ghanashyam Giri, highlighted the municipality’s journey over the past decade and transformation of the development efforts that initially focused on physical infrastructure to a holistic approach encompassing economic, social, cultural, and technological priorities.  He emphasized the efforts of VLR that has provided a strong foundation for future development and offers a good example for other municipalities across Nepal. The mayor further elaborated how the municipality has started integrating VLR findings into the municipal planning process. This includes initiatives like the TB prevention campaign, initiation of psycho-social counseling at ward level to minimize mental health issues, and establishment of a municipal data and communication section to foster data and evidence-based planning. The mayor also stressed that to achieve the SDGs, alongside the municipal efforts, support from federal and provincial governments, as well as development partners will be crucial.

The Chief Administrative Officer, Mr. Surendra Thapa Magar, underscored the importance of linking municipal development with the principles of "leaving no one behind" and the broader goals encompassing People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnerships. He emphasized on documenting progress, identifying gaps, and connecting local action with national and global efforts as a way forward. He called for better coordination between government agencies, non-government actors, and communities to strengthen local SDG actions.