Twenty-five youths of Dhamithada had returned home around three months ago to help their families in paddy plantation. After the plantation, all of them left the village together to work in India."Our village has become quiet once again. Only a few of the youths remain," said Dil Bahadur Thami, a local.
The problem affects not only Dhamithada village. A large number of hill settlements in far-west are bereft of youths as most of them go to India as soon as the cultivation season gets over.
The effect of a huge outflow of Nepali youths heading for India is also seen on the transportation services.
The number of passenger buses traveling toward Tarai region from the hills has been increasing drastically. "Although we have increased the number of buses heading toward Tarai, we have not been able to accommodate all the passengers," said Prem Rawal, ticket counter staff of Shaileshori Yatayat Company stationed at Dipayal.
For many youths, India has been easily accessible employment destination. Lack of employment in the home country has left thousands of youths across the country with no choice, but to sell their labor in India. The youths return home only during major festivals and for agricultural works.
"There is not point in staying idle in the village," said Shanta Bahadur Thapa of Dhamithada. "Dashain festival is two months away and we can make some money if we utilize the time working in India," he added.
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