Eban Rai is a prominent figure in the political landscape of Nepal, having served as the Mayor of Halesi Tuwachung Municipality in Khotang. Known for his dedication to community service and development, Rai’s tenure as mayor was marked by significant contributions to the region’s infrastructure and public services.
Early Life and Background
Eban Rai was born on 2040/5/19 B.S. in Mangalatar Village Development Committee Ward No. 3, Khotang District, now known as Halesi Tuwachung Municipality Ward No. 6. Raised in a family deeply involved in social and political activities, Rai was significantly influenced by his parents, Krishna Kumari Rai and Durga Bahadur Rai. His father, Durga Bahadur Rai, was a notable figure in community service and politics, holding various key positions such as Deputy Chief, Panchayat Chief, and Village Development Committee Chairperson. Eban’s upbringing was typical of rural life, assisting with household chores and balancing his education amidst the natural surroundings of his village.
Education and Influences
Eban Rai attended Shri Pipal Danda Dewisthan Primary School (now a secondary school) for his early education and later Shri Laxmi Secondary School in Khoksheli Badhare for his higher studies. Apart from his academic pursuits, he was actively involved in sports and extracurricular activities. The frequent discussions on societal issues at home, influenced by his father’s involvement in politics, sparked Rai’s interest in social change and political engagement from a young age.
Political Rise
Rai’s journey into politics was inspired by his father’s active participation in community service and the political sphere. Despite the challenges posed by the Maoist insurgency and the remote location of his village, Rai’s passion for social change never diminished. Initially, he pursued a career in teaching but later became actively involved in the Nepali Congress Party after the Maoists joined the peace process. He held various positions within the party, including Secretary of the Ward Committee, Member of the District Committee, Chief of the Organizational Department, and Regional Chairperson. Throughout his political career, Rai remained committed to social services, development projects, and strengthening party organization.
Contributions as Mayor
Eban Rai’s political journey culminated in his election as the Mayor of Halesi Tuwachung Municipality in 2074 B.S. His tenure as mayor was marked by significant contributions to the municipality’s infrastructure and public services, despite facing numerous challenges such as limited resources and the lack of legal frameworks. Rai spearheaded several key initiatives, including extending road access to all settlements, electrification, formulating educational policies, and creating sustainable employment opportunities through local resource development. He also focused on the identification and development of religious, cultural, historical, and tourist sites within the municipality, leading to the implementation of a comprehensive Halesi Master Plan aimed at attracting thousands of tourists.
One of his notable achievements was the rescue and rehabilitation of approximately 1,500 municipality residents stranded due to the COVID-19 lockdown. Additionally, he provided relief and assistance during natural disasters such as droughts and landslides and worked on the construction of essential laws and regulations for the municipality.
Continuing Service and Legacy
After completing his mayoral term, Rai continues to be active in politics and community service. He is currently serving as the Vice President of the Nepali Congress in Khotang District, where he remains involved in party organization, development projects, and community outreach. He balances his time between family, business, agriculture, and his ongoing commitment to social and political causes.
Eban Rai’s legacy as a mayor is characterized by his unwavering commitment to the development and welfare of his community. His journey from a curious child in a remote village to a respected political leader serves as an inspiration for aspiring politicians and leaders. Rai advocates for the active involvement of youth in politics, emphasizing the importance of their contribution to the country’s governance and development.