LALITPUR, Aug 6: Vice-President Nanda Bahadur Pun has pointed out the need to move ahead by consolidating internal unity of the nation.

Inaugurating the 29th foundation day of Kirant Rai Yayokhya, an organization working to promote and protect Kiranti people and culture, here today, Vice President Pun said that the time at present is for us all Nepalis to become united in the interest of the country. "The constitution achieved through a long struggle must be protected", he said.

He also said that accepting one another identity to maintain national solidarity was the need of the day. Nepal is known across the world as a country rich in natural beauty as well as with diverse ethnicities, languages and culture.

Also speaking at the program, Vice President of National Foundation for the Advancement of Indigenous Nationalities Chandra Bahadur Gurung emphasized on the need to increase the indigenous people's access to education and employment, while also preserving their language, religion and culture.

Various personalities including Inspector General of Armed Police Force Durja Kumar Rai, Dr Janak Rai, Kailash Rai, Dobhan Rai and Netramani Duni Rai were felicitated at the program.

Also, Nepal Television journalist Gajurdhan Rai and Gorkhapatra's Tilak Rai were honored with a cash prize of Rs. 25,000 and Rs. 8,000 respectively. RSS