Preserve the ways of Rautes

I read the news entitled "WHO to aid Rautes" published on March 28, 2000. It is good to know that WHO has decided to provide aid for the upliftment of the nomadic Raute tribe of western Nepal.

On the other hand I am greatly concerned that Rautes have agreed to live in one place and that WHO is providing them with tents and food. This means that the unique life of the only nomadic people who live on hunting and gathering things, in Nepal, will come to an end. The precious traditional knowledge of the Rautes may be lost. This event will also mark the end of their traditional lifestyle, although they have till now defended themselves from the influence of the so called "civilized modern society."

I suggest that the WHO should make sure that the knowledge and skill of the Rautes is not lost. Please do not try to ‘uplift’ or ‘civilize’ them to the western lifestyle. But just make their life more comfortable while it is still possible to practice their traditional ways.

I want to honour the Rautes who had so far practised their own traditional lifestyle and defended themselves from all forms of outer interference such as globalisation and modernization.

Enosh Kumar Rokaya
Pulchowk, Lalitpur