Collective spirit transforms Singhapur village into a model of unity and development

Kanchanpur: Upon entering Singhapur village in Krishnapur Municipality-6 of Kanchanpur, visitors are immediately struck by its clean, well-maintained roads and the round houses built at the crossroads, adding to the village’s charm.

Predominantly inhabited by the Tharu community, Singhapur has become a symbol of collective unity, cultural preservation, and self-reliant development. The villagers have embraced cooperation and community-driven development as a way of life. A separate building has been constructed to host assemblies, discussions, and meetings. During times of disaster or social work, everyone—from youth to elders—comes together to contribute. This strong sense of unity has earned Singhapur the reputation of being the “Village of Unity.”

The village is equally active in preserving its cultural heritage. Local youth are leading efforts to safeguard traditional Tharu dances, songs, costumes, and customs. The ‘Singapur Youth Club’ brings together young people, while the ‘Singapur Village Society’ ensures the participation of elders. Together, these organizations have strengthened social cohesion and cultural pride.

Currently, 72 youth are affiliated with the club, and the village society has 69 members. Both have played a crucial role in promoting social responsibility and self-reliance. According to society member Bhalmansa Thakuram Chaudhary, villagers no longer need to rent tents or utensils from outside for weddings, rituals, or feasts.

“With our society, everything—tents, utensils, and musical instruments—is available from our own resources,” said Chaudhary. “This has reduced expenses and increased cooperation.” The society collects and sells paddy and wheat according to the season, while those without grain contribute cash. The society now has a savings fund of Rs. 1.5 million, from which members can borrow at a one percent interest rate during emergencies.

“We have made arrangements so that if someone suddenly falls ill or meets with an accident, they do not need to approach banks or cooperatives,” said senior society member Jograj Chaudhary. “Up to Rs. 5,000 is provided as free assistance, while loans beyond that carry minimal interest.” So far, 11 members have received support from the fund.

The youth have also established a separate savings fund, contributing Rs. 50 each during monthly meetings. The youth fund has similarly accumulated around Rs. 1.5 million. According to club president Baburam Chaudhary, a blood donation program is organized every six months with active youth participation.

The club is also involved in promoting cleanliness, raising awareness on drug abuse, human trafficking, and online fraud, and supporting cultural preservation in partnership with the village society. Monthly meetings serve as a platform for discussing social reform, awareness programs, sports, and leadership development.

The club and society jointly lead sports promotion activities by distributing equipment, jerseys, and organizing annual competitions and cultural events. Local resident Nathuram Chaudhary said that the two organizations jointly purchased land worth Rs. 700,000 and built a concrete assembly hall at a cost of about Rs. 2 million. This building now serves as the hub of all collective activities in the village.

Additionally, a guest house has been constructed in collaboration with the municipality to promote tourism in Singhapur’s community forest, further reflecting the village’s growing spirit of unity, self-reliance, and progress.