Butwal: Dr. Lharkyal Lama (Khempo Chimé Chhiring), the newly appointed Vice-Chairman of Lumbini Development Fund, assumed office on Thursday.

Dr. Lama (Khempo Chimé Chhiring), the Vice-Chairman of Lumbini Development Fund, has expressed his commitment to strengthen the dignity, prestige, and development of Lumbini and to motivate the employees for their dedicated efforts. In a program held at Lumbini Development Fund on Thursday, the newly appointed Vice-Chairman Dr. Lama emphasized on restoring the tarnished image of Lumbini through improved performance during his tenure.

While addressing the gathering, Dr. Lama said, “I have heard that there are many irregularities in Lumbini, but I am not well-informed about it. However, I have a commitment to work collectively with everyone to restore Lumbini’s honor, reputation, and development. Media has often portrayed me differently, but I am not just a person in the media’s eyes. As the Vice-Chairman, I will work in harmony with all the employees of the Fund and bring improvements during my tenure.

He stated ‘from a long time, I have been working towards spreading Buddha’s message along the path of Buddha, and I intend to promote Lumbini internationally while serving as the Vice-Chairman.’

He further added that he will focus on increasing the respect for Buddha’s birthplace in the world’s eyes and bringing an environment conducive for tourists from around the globe to visit Lumbini. Dr. Lama expressed his determination to continue the preservation and excavation work of ancient relics found along the banks of the Devdaha River, 7 kilometers south of Lumbini, which were created during the Kushan period.

Dr. Lharkyal Lama mentioned that his work will be centered on enhancing the respect and reputation of sacred places like Lumbini and that he will not engage in any personal gains. He assured that his commitment will remain aligned with the ideals of promoting Lumbini’s sanctity.

During the welcoming program, Vice-Chairman Dr. Lharkyal Lama highlighted the significance of Lumbini as a place of importance for both Buddhism and humanity. He shared his experiences of working towards creating an environment that attracts tourists to Lumbini, drawing from his previous endeavors. He emphasized that he is focused on Lumbini’s development and will utilize his experience and expertise to contribute to its progress.

The program was attended by leaders of the Nepal Communist Party (Maoist Center), former Minister and Wakil Musalman, Secretary of the Fund Sanuraja Shakya, Chief Planner Saroj Bhattarai, Chief Administrative Officer Jnanin Rai, and other officials who welcomed Dr. Lharkyal Lama to his new position.

Prior to assuming the role, Dr. Lharkyal Lama had already decided to undertake excavation and preservation work of an ancient relic site created during the Kushan period, located 7 kilometers south of Buddha’s birthplace, Lumbini, near the banks of the Devdaha River, which is currently at risk due to flooding.

The post he assumes comes after the end of the term of Vice-Chairperson Bhikshu Maittya (Avadhesh Tripathi) on July 16, and the government appointed Dr. Lama as the new Vice-Chairman from July 16. Dr. Lama, a former Minister of Finance and a member of the Constituent Assembly, is also a central member of the Nepal Communist Party (Maoist Center).