Mahabir Pun, a renowned scientist and social entrepreneur, is currently on a nationwide tour in Nepal, promoting his autobiography while simultaneously raising funds for his ambitious projects.
As he travels across the country, Pun is engaging with communities, sharing his life experiences, and addressing the pressing issues of innovation and development in Nepal.
Overwhelming public support
The tour, which began in Manahari, Makwanpur, has seen Pun cover an impressive 10,840 kilometres in 200 days. Along the way, he has sold nearly 125,000 copies of his book, amassing close to Rs 100 million. His book, priced at Rs 750, has been met with overwhelming public support, as Nepalis from all walks of life eagerly contribute to his cause. Recently, Pun sold 400 copies in just two and a half hours in Hetauda.
Pun’s journey is not just about selling books; it is a campaign to address the chronic underfunding of innovation in Nepal. After the government failed to provide the necessary funds for the operation of the National Innovation Center, Pun decided to raise the money himself. His autobiography, which details his life’s work and vision, has become a powerful tool in this effort.
The funds raised through book sales are earmarked for the improvement and operation of the Birgunj Agricultural Tools Factory, a key project under Pun’s leadership. The factory, which had been closed for years, is being revived to produce essential agricultural tools, reducing Nepal’s dependence on imports. Despite the government’s initial promise to cover the factory’s operational costs, the funds were not provided, prompting Pun to take matters into his own hands.
Transformative impact in remote villages
Born on January 22, 1955, in Nagi village, Myagdi, Mahabir Pun has dedicated his life to uplifting rural communities in Nepal. After receiving his early education locally and completing his secondary education in Chitwan, financial constraints prevented him from pursuing higher studies in Nepal. However, at the age of 33, he secured a partial scholarship to study in the United States, where he honed his skills and knowledge.
Upon returning to Nepal, Pun initiated numerous community development projects, including improving local schools, supporting sustainable agriculture, and introducing wireless internet technology to rural areas. His work has had a transformative impact, especially in remote villages where he pioneered telemedicine services, bringing much-needed healthcare to underserved populations.
Pun’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. His tour has drawn significant support from young people across Nepal, who have been actively participating in his campaign. They have taken to social media to share their interactions with Pun, spreading his message and encouraging others to contribute.
Despite the challenges, Pun remains committed to his mission. He plans to continue his nationwide tour, spreading awareness and raising funds for his projects. His autobiography, which he initially wrote to address an urgent financial need, has now become a symbol of his relentless pursuit of innovation and development in Nepal.
As Pun travels from town to town, his message is clear: the future of Nepal lies in the hands of those who dare to innovate and take bold steps towards change. His journey is not just about selling a book; it is about inspiring a nation to dream bigger and work harder for a better tomorrow.
