INF Nepal are hosting a hybrid international conference on 18^th and 19^th February in Kathmandu, to explore the development of primary palliative care in rural Nepal. You are cordially invited to attend the interactive virtual conference. The face to face and virtual conferences will be fully integrated. Registration is free for all participants.

To register, please scan the QR code below or click on the link: Click here to Register

The conference will focus on the outcomes of the Sunita Project (2022-2025). Sunita is a UK Aid Match Funded project delivered by INF Nepal and EMMS International, a Scottish health development charity.

Led from the Green Pastures Hospital, Palliative Care and Chronic Disease (PCCD) unit (https://www.inf.org/our-work/palliative-care/) the Sunita Project has provided training and support to health workers and Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHV) in rural areas.  The project has also focused on awareness building in communities through schools and health related community groups. During the three year project a model of rural primary palliative care which is guided by the National Strategy for Palliative Care (2017) has been created.

In order to ensure the outcomes of the model development are evidenced based, Sunita Project has included a substantial research programme which has been delivered in partnership with the Global Health Academy, University of Edinburgh.

The Sunita Project will be completed on 31^st March 2025 and emerging outcomes from the project will be presented at the conference. The conference will also include presentations from partner organisations delivering palliative care in rural Nepal and international guests who will present from other contexts in South Asia and Africa.

On 16th and 17th November 2024, INF Nepal celebrated its 72nd INF Day under the theme “Moving Forward Together,” a reflection of the organization’s commitment to partnership, collaboration and shared progress. The celebration extended over two days, beginning with an informal gathering on 16th November 2024 and concluding in a formal event on 17^th November, INF Day itself.

16th November 2024: A Day of Gratitude and Fellowship

The informal program brought together local church leaders, members of the Pokhara Christian community, expatriate friends, General and board members of INF Nepal, INF families, INF staff, and partners, celebrating the partnership with the Christian Community. It was a heart-warming time of thanksgiving, worship, prayer, and fellowship, as the attendees reflected into the Lord’s blessing during the past year and look to him to establish the steps in year ahead. All the attendees joined together in heartfelt thanksgiving service, expressing gratitude for INF’s remarkable journey and the countless lives touched by its mission. The worship session served as a moment of reflection and renewal, honoring the faith and vision of the pioneers who laid the foundation for INF’s impactful work.

A significant highlight of the day was a moment of reflection on INF’s remarkable journey from its humble beginnings. The program honored the legacy of the organization’s pioneers—faithful medical missionaries and the Nepali members of the Nepal Evangelistic Band (NEB), now known as the International Nepal Fellowship (INF). Attendees were reminded of the extraordinary faith and dedication of these early trailblazers, whose vision and relentless efforts laid the foundation for the organization’s work today. Adding to the occasion, the evening marked a significant moment with the official launch of INF Nepal’s newly designed website, a step forward in enhancing the organization’s online presence and outreach.

The program, chaired by George John, a distinguished figure in the field of education in Pokhara, was a time of rejoicing and gratitude. Greetings and heartfelt messages flowed freely as participants celebrated the legacy of the pioneers and expressed deep appreciation for the steadfastness of the INF family over the decades. This meaningful reflection added depth to the thanksgiving, uniting the participants in their shared faith and sacrifices of those who came before. The event on the 16th also featured a meaningful sermon delivered by Dr Deependra Kumar Gautam, INF Nepal Board Advisor who reflected on the life, vision, and extraordinary faith of INF’s early pioneers. His message served as a reminder of the deep-rooted legacy of commitment and service that continues to guide INF’s mission today.

The 16th November program was also graced by a special guest, Jutta Weber, a German-born nurse and now a Nepali citizen, who was among the pioneer members of INF’s foundational work in Nepal. She worked alongside Eileen Lodge at Green Pastures Hospital, significantly contributing to its mission.

Jutta headed the leprosy survey team formed by the hospital to control and prevent leprosy in the western half of Nepal. During the survey, Jutta felt a vision birthed in her life, giving her a new direction for her work in Nepal. This vision inspired her to create a haven for leprosy patients who, after receiving treatment from the hospital, had nowhere to go. She initially started this home with five girls living with her in Pokhara. The home later became known as Jutta’s community in Khaireni, symbolizing her extraordinary faith and dedication to serving those in need.

Jutta’s presence at the event was a profound reminder of the enduring legacy of INF’s pioneers and their selfless work that continues to inspire generations.

As the evening unfolded, a special segment of the program was dedicated to showing appreciation and acknowledging the contributions of key leaders who have played a significant role in INF’s journey. Certificates of Commendation were presented to: Michael Thomas, Outgoing Chair of the INF/UK Board of Trustees, John Reynolds, Chief Executive Officer of INF/UK, and Ram Chandra Timothy, Outgoing Chairperson of INF Nepal, for their many years of faithful and effective leadership and for their steadfast dedication to advancing INF’s vision and mission.

This segment of the program was a heartfelt tribute to these individuals for their outstanding leadership and unwavering support, which have significantly contributed to shaping and strengthening INF’s work in Nepal and beyond.

The program concluded with a Vote of Thanks from INF Nepal Board Chairperson, Mr. Madhu Kumar Thapa, and collective prayer and a fellowship dinner.

17th November 2024: The Formal Celebration of 72nd INF Day   

The formal celebration took place across INF Nepal’s working areas, with a special event hosted at the MPLC, Green Pasture Complex, Pokhara. The program on 17th November was celebrated with INF’s government stakeholders, INF family, General and board members of INF Nepal, funding partners, staff members, and expatriate friends. This event was a heartfelt gathering that reflected INF’s deep-rooted partnerships and the collective commitment to its mission of serving Nepal. The presence of these valued stakeholders underscored the shared vision and collaboration that have been instrumental in INF’s journey over the years. The day was marked by meaningful reflections, heartfelt stories, and a celebration of the milestones achieved through the shared efforts of all the INF stakeholders. It highlighted the collective dedication to bringing the vision of “Life in all Its Fullness”.

The day began with a Welcome Speech by Dhana Lama, Treasurer of the INF Nepal Board, followed by the official Program Inauguration chaired by Madhu Kumar Thapa, Chairperson of INF Nepal. The Chief Guest, Dr. Binod Bindu Sharma, Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Gandaki Province, addressed the audience, commending INF Nepal’s contributions to health and community development works in Nepal.

• INF’s Journey and Vision:
  Krishna Adhikari, Executive Director of INF Nepal, shared insights into the organization’s journey—past achievements, present initiatives, and future aspirations.
• Personal Testimonies:
  Beneficiaries from the Hospital and Health Services and Community Health and Development sectors shared moving accounts of their transformative experiences, showcasing INF Nepal’s impact at the grassroots level.
• Drama on Palliative Care:
  A powerful drama titled “Ray of Hope” was performed by INF’s palliative care team, shedding light on the importance of compassionate care for patients in need. The performance emphasized the theme of “Walking the Extra Mile” and highlighted the growing need for palliative care services in Nepal.
• Cultural Performances:
  INF staff members performed a nationalistic song, and the nursing team presented a cultural dance, adding a celebratory touch to the occasion.
• Acknowledgment and Gratitude:
  Local leaders, including Toran Baniya (Ward Chairperson, Ward No. 15), Sahara Pradhan (Ward Chairperson, Ward No. 1), Phil Lindsay (Chairperson, INF International), Bimala Bhandari (Press Registrar, Gandaki Province), Ram Prasad Subedi (President, NGO Federation of Nepal),and Khim Bahadur Khadka (Director General, Health Directorate, Gandaki Province)  delivered messages of best wishes. Their speeches highlighted the importance of partnership and collaboration, expressing gratitude for past efforts and emphasizing the need for continued cooperation in the future. Ram Chandra Timothy, former Chairperson of INF Nepal Board, shared his heartfelt wishes for the organization.
• Recognizing Contributions:
  Retired staff were honoured and were formally acknowledged in a special appreciation ceremony; these individuals who have been an integral part of INF’s journey. Each honoree was acknowledged for their remarkable contribution and longstanding service to others.

1. Om Kar Poudel, Senior Finance Manager, 34 years of Service
2. Late Mr. Prithi Bahadur Shahi, Support Staff, 19 years of Service
3. Dhan Prasad Sarki, Prosthetic and Orthotic In Charge, 34 years of Service
4. Ruth Pariyar, Counsellor, 38 years of Service

• Sports Week Prize Distribution:
  Winners of the Sports Week were celebrated, with prizes distributed by the Chairperson and Executive Director of INF Nepal, adding an element of fun and recognition to the event.

The program concluded with Vote of Thanks from Mr. Madhu Kumar Thapa, Chairperson of the INF Nepal Board. The day ended on a reflective note, filled with gratitude, joy, and a shared commitment to move forward together.

#INFDay2024 #INFNepal #MovingForwardTogether #HospitalHealthServices #CommunityHealthandDevelopment #PalliativeCare #HealthAndWellbeing #INF72Day #Pokhara

The AGM’s open session commenced with a warm welcome address from Dhana Lama, Treasurer of the INF Nepal Board. The inaugural ceremony was graced together by chief guest Pastor Kalu Bahadur Tamang, Acting Chairperson of the Pokhara Christian Community, and RC Timothy, INF Nepal’s Board Chairperson, who inaugurated the meeting by lighting a candle in the traditional Nepali style. The meeting also warmly welcomed two new general members, Prakash Gharti and Suman Bayalkoti, who were introduced and led in a brief ceremony of commitment by RC Timothy.

The program also featured key presentations, including Madhu Thapa, board secretary, presenting the Executive Committee’s Annual Report. Krishna Adhikari, Executive Director, presented a comprehensive look at INF Nepal’s impact over the past year and its vision for the coming year. Dr Arun Kumar Budha, medical services director, then shared an overview of the Hospital and Health Services report and future direction. Dhaka Ram BM, Managing Director of Shining Nepal Multi-Purpose Company (SNMC), provided updates on SNMC’s report and plans.

Dhana Lama presented the Audit Report, Finance Report and Budget plan to uphold financial transparency, followed by messages of encouragement and support shared by esteemed guests and general members Durga Gurung and Hari Ram Ghimire, with special greetings from chief guest Pastor Kalu Bahadur Tamang. The AGM concluded with a vote of thanks extended by Board Treasurer Dhana Lama. The open session concluded with closing remarks from RC Timothy and a prayer by Rajendra Kumar Adhikari, INF Nepal Board Vice-Chairperson.

The second part of the meeting, attended exclusively by members, saw the formal approval of the Programme and Financial Report for FY 2080-81 and the Plan and Budget for 2081-82. The 32nd AGM minutes were approved, and 3 Board vacant positions were filled with complete consensus. The newly nominated members were Dr. Indra Bahadur Napit, Dr. Shiva Ram Srimal and Madhu Kumar Thapa. The 123rd Board meeting was held after the AGM, under the chairship of Vice chairperson Mr. Rajendra Kumar Adhikari, who confirmed the office bearer position on the Board. Mr. Madhu Kumar Thapa was confirmed as Chairperson, and Mr Madhav Neupane was confirmed as Secretary. Dr. Shiv Ram Shrimal and Dr. Indra Bahadur Napit were confirmed as Board Members. Pastor KP Tripathy, the election commissioner, facilitated the nomination process.

This year’s AGM not only celebrated the organisation’s achievements and outlined plans for the future but also marked a significant leadership transition. INF Nepal extends heartfelt gratitude to RC Timothy for his decade of service and dedication as Chairperson from 2014 to 2024, which has been instrumental in advancing the vision and mission of INF Nepal. His commitment and leadership have contributed significantly to the growth and development of INF Nepal, helping us extend our reach and impact in the communities we serve.

A warm welcome also goes to Madhu Kumar Thapa, elected as the new Chairperson. His appointment signifies an exciting phase of continued progress and commitment to INF Nepal’s mission and values, bringing and living out the vision of “Life in All Its Fullness.”

INF Nepal looks forward to this new chapter of growth, continuing its mission to empower communities with health and community development initiatives across Nepal.

The handover ceremony was officiated by Ghanshyam Bhandari, Minister for Social Development of Karnali Province, alongside Ram Chandra Timothy, Chairman of INF Nepal. The event was also an opportunity to extend special thanks to Dr. Shirley Heywood for her outstanding dedication and contributions to this mission, as well as to the many healthcare workers who have played a role in the centre’s success. Dr. Heywood’s commitment has been instrumental in building and sustaining a service that provides dignity and hope for women in need.

INF Nepal acknowledges the invaluable support of our funding partners, whose contributions have been essential in establishing and maintaining the fistula treatment services over the years. Your support has left a lasting impact, providing accessible healthcare and a better quality of life for affected women.

As INF Nepal hands over operations to the Province Hospital, the organisation remains deeply committed to improving healthcare in the Karnali region, supporting initiatives that align with our mission to bring sustainable and inclusive healthcare to all. We look forward to seeing the Province Hospital continue this vital work, empowered by the foundation laid through our partnership.

Thank you for your ongoing support in helping make this vision a reality!

On the night of 11 July 2024, a devastating landslide struck Puranchaur in Pokhara-19, tragically claiming seven lives and causing significant property damage. The landslide, triggered by heavy rainfall, affected the areas of Tallakot Thati and Puraunchaur Danda, covering homes with large volumes of mud.

Local authorities, Nepal Police, and Nepal Red Cross volunteers promptly conducted search and rescue operations. Despite their swift response, seven individuals lost their lives—six in one household and one in a neighbouring house. Additionally, one person sustained injuries but has since been discharged from the hospital. On that night a total of 11 people were killed due to landslides in various locations in Pokhara.

INF Nepal, in collaboration with Asal Chhimekee Nepal, responded quickly to support the affected families in Puranchaur. On 12 July we distributed 36 tarpaulins, P-foam and 18 blankets to provide basic shelter and protection from the rainfall. These supplies were distributed directly to the doorsteps of the most affected families, ensuring they received immediate relief. The affected families are currently staying with relatives due to the fear of further landslides.

The local community remains in shock, with several households evacuating their homes to seek refuge in safer locations. INF Nepal is closely monitoring the situation, with ongoing efforts to provide necessary support and address any additional needs.

The community has expressed gratitude for the immediate support received, highlighting the positive impact of having basic shelter and warmth during this difficult time. Moving forward, INF Nepal will continue to coordinate with local authorities to monitor the situation, gather accurate data on the total number of affected households, and prepare to provide further assistance as needed.

The camps were organised at the Udaypur Health Post of Ward No. 5 and Shisawa Health Post of Ward No. 9, which saw 440 individuals (212 male and 228 female). Among them, eight individuals were suspected of leprosy cases, needing immediate initiation of Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT), while seven underwent biopsies for further diagnosis.

Various skin conditions were addressed during the camp, highlighting the diverse healthcare needs within the community, including Multibacillary leprosy, type-1 reaction, tinea, eczema, dryness, planta, allergy, scabies, and vitiligo.

The camps were led by a medical team from Green Pastures Hospital, including a dermatologist and lab technologist, supported by a community outreach team and coordinated by the local INF team of Kapilvastu Branch Office.

The primary objective of leprosy screening medical camp is to proactively detect and diagnose individuals suffering from leprosy within a community or population. Identify individuals with early signs and symptoms of leprosy, allowing for prompt treatment initiation and prevention of further transmission and prevention from grade two disability.

Mayor Aftab Alam of Maharajgunj Municipality thanked the INF team, acknowledging their dedication to addressing neglected issues within Kapilvastu.

We are also thankful to the local officials, including Mayor Abdul Kalam, Ward Chairperson of Ward No. 9 Pharid Ahamud Muhammad, Leprosy Focal Person of Maharajgunj municipality Radheshyam Kalwar, Health Unit In-charge Iswari Prasad Neupane, and Chief of the Health Office in Kapilbastu Narayan Prasad Chaudhary for all their support and collaboration. Their positive assessment affirmed the programme’s effectiveness in addressing crucial healthcare needs within the community.