Mahabir Pun, who has made immense contributions to the fields of science, technological development, and research in Nepal, is now forced to sell books at Ghantaghar, Birgunj. This is not a small commercial venture but a step taken to raise financial resources for the operation and management of the agricultural tool factory. It is deeply disheartening that a man with a mission to serve the nation is compelled to reach such a state, even after selling over 130,000 books and raising more than nine crores. This scenario raises serious questions about the governance and attitude of our state.
Why is a patriot like Mahabir Pun forced to sell books to raise financial resources? The answer lies in the indifference and degradation of the government. While the syndicate of publishers and sellers monopolizes the book market, the government’s inability to act is shameful. Worse still, there is a looming possibility that one day this syndicate could prohibit Pun from selling books altogether. Even in such a situation, the government remains a silent spectator. This indifference is not only an insult to Mahabir Pun but also to all the individuals dedicated to research and development in this country.
Why is the state abandoning its responsibility? The agricultural tool factory that Pun is striving for is a crucial initiative to make the country self-reliant. Once this factory is operational, it will reduce the import of necessary agricultural tools, paving a significant path toward self-sufficiency. But the government’s focus is elsewhere. What is the budget’s priority? To feed and benefit their own political workers? One must recognize that discouraging honest efforts by patriots for the nation and pushing them into financial crises is a sign of governmental failure.
Mahabir Pun has also significantly contributed to innovation and research through the National Innovation Center. Instead of supporting such efforts, which are vital for the country’s future, the government remains indifferent. Such neglect not only weakens Pun’s moral strength but also deals a blow to the nation’s overall developmental process.
It’s not just the syndication of the market but also the government’s negligence that disheartens people like Mahabir Pun. Rather than prioritizing progressive plans for the country, the government’s self-serving and partisan attitude is dangerous for the nation’s future. Allocating a budget for the agricultural tool factory is not a difficult task. But the government’s refusal to support this initiative is equivalent to rejecting the vision of a self-reliant Nepal.
It is the government’s foremost duty to honor and support individuals like Pun, who wish to make significant contributions to the country. However, forcing them to sell books in public squares and streets is a testament to the government’s failure. The government must take urgent and serious steps to rectify this situation before it’s too late. Otherwise, it’s not just the inspiration of patriots like Mahabir Pun that will fade, but the entire country will suffer a great loss.
