The policy regarding Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) citizenship in Nepal remains vague, and its implementation has been delayed. The government needs to legally clarify the concept of ‘Once a Nepali, Always a Nepali.’ Non-resident Nepalis can play a significant role in Nepal’s development through investment and skill contributions. Decades ago, Nepal was merely a dream of foreign lands, but today there is hardly any corner of the world where Nepalis have not reached. Spread through studies, research, employment, industry, and tourism, Nepalis continue to be dispersed globally. They have continuously integrated their skills, technology, and capital accumulated abroad and are eager to invest in their homeland Nepal. Consequently, NRNs around the world have become key partners in Nepal’s economic, social, and intellectual development.
Although the Nepalese government has made some positive initiatives concerning NRN citizenship, clarity and decisiveness are still lacking. The Constitution of Nepal 2072 (2015) has provisions relating to NRN citizenship and attempts to redefine the formal relationship between the state and the NRN community. Following this, there have been implementation efforts through the Citizenship Act and regulations, but the process remains complicated and obscure. The current government, led by the National Independent Party with senior leader Balendra Shah as Prime Minister, campaigned vigorously with the commitment slogan ‘Once a Nepali, Always a Nepali’ before the February 21 elections.
The slogan ‘Once a Nepali, Always a Nepali’ has revived the attachment of Nepalis worldwide to their homeland and sparked new affection. It is true that this slogan has deeply inspired hope and enthusiasm within the NRN community. However, many still harbor doubts about how effectively this pledge will be put into practice. Repeated assurances from past governments, followed by ineffectiveness, have fostered disappointment. Therefore, the government has so far failed to transform the slogan into clear and concrete policy.
Despite some constructive steps from the government on NRN citizenship, the expected clarity and firmness are missing. Because of this, the slogan has not taken practical shape, and non-resident Nepalis continue to be deprived of clear rights and benefits. NRNs are a dependable source of investment in Nepal, and their emotional connection suggests potential for long-term and reliable investment.
The government must focus not only on declarations but also on concrete implementation regarding NRN policy. Specifically, it must legally clarify the ‘Once a Nepali, Always a Nepali’ concept, simplify and make the citizenship process transparent, create an investment-friendly environment, and effectively implement a one-door service system. Non-resident Nepalis are not just remittance senders but development partners for Nepal.
Author: Lokprasad Dahal (Vice President of Dahal Non-Resident Nepali Association – NRNA).
