There are at least three sets of very important principles behind Thailand's Royal Project. The first basic principle is that of an integrated approach, not only in terms of integrating the various sectors, but also with regard to spatial and institutional factors, as well as environmental conservation. The second important principle behind the Royal Project is what might be called a people-oriented approach. The key element of these projects has always been the central importance given to the people whom the projects are intended to help. These are developed only after extensive consultations with the local population, thus ensuring their ownership and participation in implementing the projects. They would also seek to ensure that basic human needs were met as a precondition for further development. The third fundamental principle underlying the Royal Project is its area-specific nature. The projects are notable for the fine degrees of differentiation in their specific provisions not only according to the physical but also socio-cultural environment. Importance of Royal Project in Nepal: The involvement of the King in the day to day affairs of the country is limited being a Constitutional Monarch whereas, there is an ample space within the parameters of the constitution where the King can occupy himself pro-actively in all aspects of developmental, social, cultural, religious and community welfare works accordingly to Constructive Monarchy. It is an added advantage that King Gyanendra has established a proven track record of a successful champion of participatory development. His Majesty's Government of Nepal (HMG/N) is pursuing Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) since 2003. Consequently, the Royal Project- in consonance and coordination with the PRS can contribute achieving (i) sustainable and broad-based economic growth with an emphasis on the rural economy; (ii) accelerating human development through improved delivery of basic social services and economic infrastructure; (iii) ensuring social and economic inclusion of the poor, marginalized groups and less developed regions; and (iv) vigorously pursuing good governance to achieve better development results, and ensure social and economic justice. In addition, the need of proposed Royal project in Nepal is due to the following reasons: ? This will set in motion a process of continuous contacts and interactions of the King (and the Crown Prince) with the people particularly poor and marginalized populace. ? King's august involvement and guidance will open up opportunities to pilot innovative and promising approaches in the field of development and poverty reduction. ? Patronage of the King in Royal Project will allow the application of the highest standards of transparency and accountability, which would serve as a model for wider replication in HMGN's development programmes. ? Familiarize with the problems, which the grass-root people are facing, and create a positive impact on national life. ? Help improve productivity of public resources through leadership and transparency, and control rampant corruption, and misuse and misappropriation of scarce resources. ? Increase focus and concern towards development works, and broadens people's participation in development activities. With partnership with the civil society will help inclusion of economically and socially disadvantaged groups in the mainstream of socio-economic process. ? Will ensure service delivery and development efforts at rural areas especially in conflict-affected areas. To continue implementing the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) of HMG/N in the conflict-affected areas, there is a need to diversify the modalities of public service delivery. In this aspect, with people's broader participation and ownership the Royally initiated projects by their virtue of being apolitical in nature, can contribute bringing development and reforms at those areas where the need is acute. ? Facilitate de-politicization of development institutions and works. Institution of Royal Project: As a first step towards the institution of Royal Project in Nepal, it would be appropriate to make public by the government in its annual policy and programmes taking a lead. In the absence of a functioning parliament at present, with the consent and approval of the government a Royal Ordinance/Charter can institute the Royal Project for the first time. The system of operation of the Royal Project will be as follows: ? Under the Royal Patronage Raj Parishad (or Royal Council) the constitutional body- shall govern, coordinate and monitor the overall works of the proposed Royal Project, and in coordination with the Prime Minister's Office can seek funding from donor and aid agencies as per its requirement. It will oversee the execution of works through its proposed Implementing Agency. According to Part 6, Clause 34 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal the functions, duties and powers of the Raj Parishad are wide ranging and varied, and the scope of it's participation in development activities are understandable not only that it has the obligation to submit recommendations on matters referred to it by His Majesty; and to carry out the functions relating to the Royal Family as specified by His Majesty, it has also the authority to make necessary rules to regulate its business.