FNCCI president highlights need for entrepreneurship to build self-reliant economy

KATHMANDU: Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) President Chandra Prasad Dhakal has underlined the importance of entrepreneurship in achieving a self-reliant economy.

Speaking at the launch of 'Saundarya-Kranti,' the autobiography of FNCCI central member and beautician Kamala Shrestha, on Tuesday, Dhakal stressed the need to respect women’s labour to build a society grounded in equality and social justice. He highlighted that entrepreneurship fosters self-respect, self-reliance, and national development, commending Shrestha’s exemplary contributions in promoting entrepreneurship.

Dhakal noted societal biases against beauty-related professions, often considered exclusive to affluent groups. He praised Shrestha for redefining beauty art as a health-focused profession and integrating it into the educational curriculum. The FNCCI President acknowledged her persistence and determination, crediting her efforts in skill transfer and job creation as both challenging and significant achievements.

Bhawani Rana, former FNCCI President, lauded Shrestha’s role in advancing women’s entrepreneurship and empowerment. FNCCI Vice Presidents Hem Raj Dhakal and Jyotsna Shrestha, along with former Vice President Bhaskar Raj Karnikar, described the book as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Rita Tiwari, Principal of Padmakanya Vidyashram Secondary School, shared that the institution now offers beauty arts as a subject in collaboration with Shrestha. Speaking at the event, Shrestha expressed hope that her book would guide those aspiring to start businesses and become self-employed. She characterised her autobiography as a story of entrepreneurship rather than a personal memoir.

Kamal Dhakal, Chair of Ghost Writing Nepal, revealed that the book, authored by the Chair of FNCCI’s Women Entrepreneurship Development Committee, is divided into six sections with 65 articles covering various topics.