Ruby Rauniyar

Ranju first entered politics at 19 and contested the Kathmandu mayoral election at the age of 21. Though she was defeated then, she has now secured a decisive victory in the 2082 House of Representatives election, marking a significant milestone in her political journey.

While leaders campaign for votes, many youths—hailed as the nation’s future—are preparing to leave it behind.

“When asking for votes, I urge voters to choose candidates who are honest and committed to real work,” Pun told Republica. “I am listening to the people to understand their actual needs rather than making flashy promises.”

The education system must grant autonomy to higher education

On Friday, crowds of sadhus and devotees flocked to the temple, eager to beat the larger throngs expected on the main festival day.

Nine months pregnant, she has been visiting voters’ doorsteps with remarkable energy and determination, earning praise from many who describe her as courageous. She says the encouragement from voters has strengthened her resolve.

The EC has divided the 165 constituencies for direct elections into five categories based on geography, accessibility, facilities, and service networks. Candidates are allowed to spend only within the limits set for their respective areas.

Women’s presence in national politics is still weak, and within parties, female members often lack influence. As a result, women make up only 11.35% of all candidates—a small rise from 9.3% in the 2079 BS election.

29 percent of households without children; 77.7 percent of children live with both parents

Despite progress, disparities persist in Madhesh Province, where literacy stands at 66 percent, and around 770,000 children aged 5–17 remain out of school.