Federal Structure

Nepal's Federal Structure

The 2015 Constitution established Nepal as a federal democratic republic with three tiers of government:

1. Federal Government (केन्द्रीय सरकार)

The central government handles national-level matters including defense, foreign affairs, monetary policy, and inter-provincial issues. It consists of:

• President — Head of State
• Prime Minister — Head of Government
• Federal Parliament — Bicameral legislature (House of Representatives + National Assembly)

2. Provincial Government (प्रदेश सरकार)

Nepal has 7 provinces, each with its own government:

• Koshi Pradesh (Province 1)
• Madhesh Pradesh (Province 2)
• Bagmati Pradesh (Province 3)
• Gandaki Pradesh (Province 4)
• Lumbini Pradesh (Province 5)
• Karnali Pradesh (Province 6)
• Sudurpashchim Pradesh (Province 7)

Each province has a Chief Minister, a Provincial Assembly, and a Governor (appointed by the federal government).

3. Local Government (स्थानीय सरकार)

Nepal has 753 local units:

• 6 Metropolitan Cities (महानगरपालिका)
• 11 Sub-Metropolitan Cities (उपमहानगरपालिका)
• 276 Municipalities (नगरपालिका)
• 460 Rural Municipalities (गाउँपालिका)

Local governments have the power to levy taxes, manage local infrastructure, and deliver basic services directly to citizens.

Why Federalism Matters

Federalism brings government closer to the people. Local governments can respond more quickly to community needs, and citizens have more opportunities to participate in governance.