In what is being hailed as a historic step toward land reform and social justice, Rong Rural Municipality-1 in Shantipur, Ilam, has become the first locality in Koshi Province to distribute land ownership certificates to landless and unorganized settlers—an initiative that could transform the region's socio-economic landscape.
The event, held at the ward office premises in Shantipur, saw 72 individuals formally receiving their long-awaited land ownership certificates, a moment that drew emotion, celebration, and a renewed sense of belonging among local residents. Though certificates for 150 individuals had been prepared in the first phase, only those who completed revenue payments—72 in total—received the official documents on the day.
"This is a turning point for our community," said Mani Kumar Syangbo, president of Rong Rural Municipality. "Land is more than property—it's security, identity, and the gateway to dignity. Today, we are delivering justice that has been delayed for generations."
The air was thick with gratitude as recipients, many of whom have spent decades navigating life without proof of land ownership, expressed joy and relief. Several individuals stated that the lack of legal documentation had long prevented them from accessing government services, educational opportunities, health benefits, and even building secure homes.
With the certificates in hand, expectations are high that residents will now find smoother access to services like school admissions, healthcare enrollment, agricultural loans, and building permits—rights previously just out of reach.
At the forefront of the effort is the National Land Commission. Its central chairman, Hari Prasad Rijal, who attended the event as chief guest, reaffirmed the commission's commitment: "Our goal is to ensure no citizen is left stateless on their own Land. The rights of landless and unorganized settlers are not a matter of charity—they are a matter of justice."
The program also drew a strong show of political and civic unity. Koshi Province Coordinator Anil Krishna Prasai, District President Prakash Adhikari, former Provincial Assembly member Kajiman Kagate, Nepali Congress Ilam District Secretary Niraj Khadgi, and CPN-UML District President Ganesh Baral were all in attendance, lending cross-party support to the cause.
Bishnumaya Khawas, Vice President of Rong Rural Municipality, underlined the broader social impact: "This is about inclusion. For years, these citizens were invisible to the state. Today, that changes."
The event was formally opened by Ward President Manohari Khadka, who delivered a welcome speech that acknowledged the long-standing efforts of local activists and the persistent voices of affected families. Netra Prasad Pokharel, an officer from the Administration Branch of Rong Rural Municipality, smoothly conducted the program, ensuring that the occasion remained focused on its core objective—land justice.
A Model for the Province
This pilot initiative in Rong-1 could serve as a blueprint for the rest of Koshi Province—and beyond. The process involved field verification, community mobilization, and collaboration between local, provincial, and federal bodies.
With around 78 more certificates from the first phase still pending distribution, officials are optimistic about completing this milestone soon. Meanwhile, plans for the next phase are reportedly underway, which could expand the program's reach to neighbouring wards and municipalities.
A New Chapter Begins
For the 72 residents who now hold legal proof of what they've long considered home, life begins anew. And for Koshi Province, Rong-1 has set the tone for a more equitable, inclusive future—one certificate at a time.
