Three prime ministers, 10 premierships. Why is Sudurpaschim still Nepal’s poorest province?

Sudurpaschim’s abundant resources and prominent national leaders have done little to improve livelihoods, as chronic political instability and poor execution continue to undermine development.

Sudurpaschim has produced some of Nepal’s most influential political leaders. The roster includes prime ministers who shaped national politics for decades. Ironically, however, the province now ranks as the country’s poorest. The province’s human development indicators remain weak, incomes are low and persistent political disputes keep preventing meaningful progress.