Maiwakhola Rural Municipality Declared Limbu Language as an Official Working Language
Maiwakhola Rural Municipality of Ilam has officially introduced the Limbu language as the working language in government offices. Based on the decision of Koshi Province to implement Limbu and Maithili as official working languages, the municipality has formally prepared to adopt Limbu in administrative functions.
According to Rural Municipality Chairperson Hemnath Rai, most residents of the municipality speak the Limbu language, making its use in official functions highly practical.
Linguistic Composition of the Municipality
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The majority of the population in the rural municipality belongs to the Rai community (33.6%).
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Other groups include Magar, Tamang, Sunuwar (Mukhia), Gurung, Yakkha, Bhujel, Kami, Damai, Bahun, Chhetri, and others.
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Limbu is the most widely spoken local language, followed by Nepali.
The Chairperson emphasized that linguistic diversity has been respected while adopting Limbu as an official language.
To implement the Limbu language in official work, the rural municipality is preparing to appoint a linguistic assistant who will help translate and interpret between Limbu and Nepali.
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Recruitment will be conducted through open competition for the position.
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Written examinations will also be held for applicants.
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The assistant will support local administration by translating documents and aiding communication.
The Chief Administrative Officer Dilaresh Rai confirmed that the assistant will be responsible for translation, interpretation, and assisting in communication between Limbu and Nepali languages.
Chairperson Hemnath Rai explained that adopting Limbu as the working language is essential for:
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Promoting inclusivity in governance
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Ensuring effective communication with Limbu-speaking citizens
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Preserving and strengthening the cultural heritage of the community
The municipality has also formed eco-clubs in schools to promote environmental and cultural awareness, with additional emphasis on protecting the linguistic identity of Limbu-speaking communities.
Maiwakhola is historically significant for the Kirat religion and culture. It is also linked with several national figures and heritage sites:
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The birthplace of Kirat religious leader Atmananda Lingden in Chukchinamba (Aathrai)
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The spiritual site of Falgunanda Lingden
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Religious tourism destinations such as Birat Jyoti Maiwakhola
These cultural sites highlight Maiwakhola’s importance as both a religious and linguistic center.
According to the 2021 National Census, Maiwakhola has a population of 16,610 across 13 wards. The rural municipality formally announced the adoption of the Limbu language as its official working language during a program held at the Ward No. 5 office in 2025.
Ilam