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A beautiful fountain of cascading water. Large white rocks lie scattered in the water, resembling serpents racing. Lush green forests surround the area. The ‘Naagchhaga’ waterfall enchants anyone who lays eyes on it. Located at the boundary between Ram Prasad Rai Rural Municipality-6 and 2, Bhojpur, this waterfall holds great historical and religious significance.

Situated about 12.6 km south of the district headquarters, this waterfall has immense potential for religious tourism. Every year, hundreds of religious pilgrims and domestic tourists from within and outside the district visit to enjoy the waterfall. However, due to a lack of systematic conservation, promotion, and development, the waterfall is slowly fading away.

The lack of proper infrastructure for tourists and pilgrims to eat, stay, and visit the waterfall has contributed to its lack of popularity. Local resident Uttam Rai believes that by enhancing the waterfall’s beauty and constructing proper infrastructure, thousands of tourists could be attracted. He complains that the waterfall’s reputation is being tarnished due to the government’s lack of interest in promoting and protecting the site. He adds that the waterfall’s existence is at risk because of the insufficient resources needed for its development.

A beautiful scene, resembling a serpent slithering on the rocks of the waterfall, can be seen. Local priest Jaiprasad Niraula highlights that the waterfall is not only visually captivating but also holds significant religious and historical importance. Every year, a large number of devotees gather to celebrate festivals and perform pujas, including on Nag Panchami, Maha Shivaratri, Ram Navami, and Balachartudashi. 

Ramprasad Rai Rural Municipality, along with the then District Development Committee of Bhojpur, has constructed a paved road and some physical structures to facilitate internal tourist traffic up to the waterfall. Local Mahesh Gelal believes that with proper protection and enhancement, the waterfall could become a religious pilgrimage site, attracting external tourism and contributing to the economic development of the rural municipality.

The rural municipality has expressed its readiness to prepare a development plan, including a Detailed Project Report (DPR), to enhance the waterfall. Tham Bahadur Rai, the chairperson of the rural municipality, emphasized that since the waterfall is a historical site of significance to the entire district, the rural municipality is determined to protect and promote it. He described the Naagchhaga waterfall as a jewel for all of Bhojpur, connecting religious pilgrimage, external tourism, and economic development. Rai stated, “We have started budgeting for its enhancement as part of the new plan for this financial year.”

The rural municipality has announced plans to investigate further aspects of the waterfall’s development. Birendra Rai, the Vice-cahir of the rural municipality, said that as a place of religious faith for the locals, the goal is to develop Naagchhaga into a religious tourist destination. He added that the rural municipality is working on constructing the necessary infrastructure, and development will proceed according to the DPR.

Chairperson Rai also noted that the municipality is focusing on the development of other tourist sites, including the Behereshwar Temple, Papmakham Bhanjyang, Chulachuli Cave, and others. He emphasized that the municipality is working in a planned manner to develop and expand local resources. “Naagchhaga is a gift from nature,” said Chairperson Rai. “This waterfall is the property of our village, and we are committed to its protection. It has not been adequately publicized, but we plan to highlight its significance, establish it as a religious tourism destination, and connect the rural municipality to the economic sector.”

The United Nations has declared Dec 21 as the World Meditation Day, aiming to raise awareness about the benefits of meditation for mental and physical health. Rooted in ancient traditions, meditation has evolved into a universal tool for enhancing personal well-being, offering individuals a way to achieve emotional calmness, mental clarity, and physical relaxation.

Meditation, which involves focusing attention through techniques such as mindfulness and concentrated thought, has been shown to reduce stress, improve focus, alleviate anxiety and depression, and improve sleep quality. It also contributes to better physical health, including lowering blood pressure and managing pain.

As meditation becomes more accessible through digital platforms and apps, its practice is now embraced worldwide. People of all ages and backgrounds are turning to meditation to foster well-being and emotional balance.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the mental health benefits of meditation, particularly mindfulness, as an essential tool for stress management and overall well-being. WHO stresses that even short daily meditation sessions can help improve focus and reduce anxiety, contributing to healthier lives.

Meditation also plays a significant role in promoting global peace. The United Nations has recognized the importance of meditation in fostering harmony, with the Meditation Room at the UN headquarters in New York symbolizing the power of silence and introspection in achieving global unity.

World Meditation Day underscores meditation’s alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3, “Good Health and Well-Being.” By encouraging meditation, the UN aims to promote healthier lives and mental well-being worldwide, creating a more resilient and inclusive society for all.

Newly appointed Chief Information Commissioner Suresh Prasad Acharya took the oath of office and secrecy on Wednesday.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli administered the oath of office and secrecy to Acharya at a ceremony held at the Prime Minister's residence this morning.

Likewise, Chief Commissioner Acharya administered the oath of office and secrecy to newly appointed Commissioners Gagan Bista and Durga Bhandari in the presence of the Prime Minister.

In his brief remarks on the occasion, Prime Minister Oli stressed the need for the effective role of the Commission for the implementation and utilization of the Right to Information as a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution.

The tendency of asking information from unrelated persons in a way to confuse the government's work should not be encouraged, PM Oli said, underscoring that anarchy should not be encouraged by using the right to information.

Minister for Communications and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung and Secretary at the Ministry Radhika Aryal were also present in the program.

A meeting of the Council of Ministers held on November 21 had appointed Acharya as the Chief Commissioner and Bista and Bhandari as Commissioners of the NIC.

The price of gold has increased by Rs 2, 000 per tola in the domestic market on Wednesday.

According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the precious yellow metal is being traded at Rs 154, 200 per tola today. It was traded at Rs 152, 200 per tola on Tuesday.

Similarly, the silver is being traded at Rs 1,925 per tola today.

The Kathmandu Valley has witnessed continuous fall of temperature. Meteorologists said the trend will continue in the coming days. However, the weather here is fair.

Meteorologist Rogen Lamichhane said the minimum temperature was recorded at four degree Celsius this morning and now it is five degree Celsius.

The maximum temperature will hover between 17 and 19 degrees Celsius today. According to the regular weather bulletin of the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, the weather is partly cloudy in the hilly areas of Koshi Province and fair in the rest of the country.

Similarly, fog has occurred in many places of Tarai and Valley and in some other places of the country.

According to the Meteorological Forecasting Division, the weather will be partly cloudy in the Koshi Province and fair in the rest of the country while it will be partly cloudy in Koshi, Madhesh and Bagmati Provinces tonight.

The Department has urged all concerned to remain cautious of foggy weather in the Tarai and Valley and in some other places this morning.

Karnali Yaks defeated Pokhara Avengers by seven wickets in today's second match under Nepal Premier League (NPL) T20 cricket tournament.

Batting first after winning the toss in the match held at TU International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, Pokhara scored 103 runs losing all the wickets in 16.3 overs.

Dinesh Kharel scored the highest 26 runs for Pokhara while Andries Gauss scored 25, Ramon Reffer 20, captain Kushal Bhurtel and Bipin Khatri scored 10 each.

For the bowling side, William Bosisto took six wickets for Karnali. Similarly, captain Sompal Kami, Bipin Sharma and Yunish Thakuri took one wicket each.

In reply, Karnali surpassed the Pokhara total in 15 overs, at the loss of three wickets.

Gulsan Jha scored an unbeaten 49 for Karnali. Similarly, Chadwick Walton (42) was another notable contributor to Karnali's win.

For Pokhara, Bipin Khatri, Sagar Dhakal and Kushal Bhurtel took one wicket each.

This is Karnali's third win in five matches so far while Pokhara have suffered their third loss in four matches.

Debbie Simpson is Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Plan International. Her career has been marked by her passions for diversity, change and growth. Winner of Consulting Magazine’s Lifetime Achievement Award for 2018 Women Leaders in Consulting, Simpson has been recognised for her role in Boston Consulting Group (BCG)’s continued excellence. She brings experience on for-profit and not-for-profit Boards, where she has assumed leadership roles on audit and finance committees as well as supporting compensation, strategy and development efforts. Simpson received her bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering from Duke University and her master’s degree in business from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Sloan School of Management.

Here are excerpts from an interview with her:

Plan International Nepal aims to directly impact 700,000 girls and indirectly reach 1.5m individuals during their strategic period. What key tangible outcomes do you envision?

We aim to ensure these individuals have a fair chance at life, equal opportunities, proper rights, and more. Beyond that, we hope to nurture leaders who can make a broader impact on their communities. Our goal is to create an exponential effect, reaching not only the 700,000 individuals directly but also the 1.5m indirectly.

To date, what kind of effects or impacts have you observed in these communities and among the girls?

We’ve been fortunate to meet many members of our Youth Advisory Council in Nepal, each with their own dreams. They’ve gained confidence and clarity about their aspirations while embracing the role of changemakers. Some have engaged with government ministries, while others have taken on leadership roles in their communities. There are so many ways they’re growing, learning, and contributing to making Nepal a more supportive and progressive place.

One of the most remarkable and inspiring programs I had the opportunity to witness in Nepal is the Champions of Change initiative. The members of this program are truly making a difference at the grassroots level by actively working to prevent child, early, and forced marriages. They go door-to-door, engaging with parents, other youths, and community members to campaign against child marriage. Their unwavering determination and willpower reflect their deep commitment to challenging and dismantling harmful traditional stereotypes in their communities. It’s truly impressive to see such dedication driving meaningful change.

Plan International Nepal focuses on youth development and girls’ leadership. How do you see these areas shaping the future of communities in Nepal?

My generation, and a couple of generations before, have left the world in a challenging position. We owe it to the next generation to equip them to take charge, make an impact, and ensure their voices are heard. After all, it’s their planet and their community. To me, youth is everything.

I am confident the world is in good hands after meeting Sikha, a passionate climate activist. Her courage and determination are truly inspiring. She has boldly challenged Plan International's leadership team to collaborate with youth on climate adaptation efforts and to advocate for Loss and Damage initiatives. Sikha’s leadership embodies the power of young people to drive meaningful change and hold us accountable for creating a sustainable future.

The concept of being locally led and globally connected is a positive framework. What excites you most about your impact during your visit to Nepal?

What’s impactful about being globally connected is the ability to share ideas and best practices across locations. For instance, if something works well in Bangladesh, we can adapt and implement it in Nepal, and vice versa. This week, we’re here for a meeting, and one of the exciting things I’ve seen in Nepal is the Champions of Change program. It’s a global initiative, but here, it focuses on adolescent girls, helping them understand themselves, their potential, and how to engage with their communities. It also involves their families—fathers, mothers, and brothers—ensuring a supportive environment. Champions of Change is a perfect example of successful cross-border initiatives.

How is Plan International committed to empowering youth in Nepal and building their capacity through future projects?

Each year, we add around 250–300 girls to our networks. These girls not only receive our support but also learn from one another, forming communities to share and grow their ideas. Over time, this community will grow to thousands—perhaps ten or twelve thousand—and they will become the foundation for the next generation of leaders.

As the CEO of Plan International, what are your key priorities, and how do they align with Plan International Nepal’s goals?

We’re fortunate that our girls' standing strong strategy has been embraced locally. Nepal’s local strategy builds on global priorities while addressing the country’s specific needs. Currently, we’re focusing on responding to humanitarian crises, especially given the increasing risks of climate-related disasters like floods and earthquakes. We’re also prioritizing support for girls in crisis and strengthening our capacity to act quickly in emergencies.

Ensuring accountability for girls’ development is critical. What strategies can strengthen accountability mechanisms in Nepal?

Collaborating with the government is crucial, as they have a responsibility to drive change and provide services. We engage at local, district, and federal levels to influence education and other key areas effectively. Partnering with local organizations also allows us to involve more people in creating solutions, amplifying our impact.

As a global leader, what advice would you give to young women in Nepal aspiring to leadership roles in their communities?

One of the biggest challenges women face is underestimating their own capabilities. Building confidence is essential—believe in yourself, take risks, and understand that you don’t need to be perfect to succeed. Step up, take action, and learn along the way. Confidence and willingness to stretch yourself are key to making an impact.

Plan International’s goals in Nepal seem ambitious. What are the key obstacles you face?

The challenges in Nepal are similar to those in other regions. Progress is often disrupted by disasters, which can set us back significantly. It’s disheartening at times, but we must persist. Developing adaptive leaders is essential—they can guide communities through crises. Funding is another challenge, as resources are often diverted during emergencies. Despite these setbacks, we remain committed to adapting and overcoming.

You recently visited Janakpur. Can you share your experience there?

Janakpur hosts a large, multi-year program focused on marginalized communities, aiming to ensure equality in education and access. Although the program is still in its early stages, we’ve already seen encouraging partnerships among ministers, local governments, and schools. Meeting the youth club at a local school was particularly inspiring. Comprising four girls and four boys, the club gives students a platform to provide feedback to teachers—something quite novel in a traditionally hierarchical setting. Watching their confidence grow and teachers being receptive was remarkable.

How was your experience meeting political leaders and officials there?

Language barriers sometimes hinder the flow of conversations, but the passion for change was evident at all levels. Everyone seemed aligned on the goal; the challenge lies in figuring out how to achieve it. One pressing issue was the shortage of teachers—5,600 students with only 120 teachers is far from ideal. Collaborative discussions about solutions were promising.

The Girls’ Leadership Index report has been released. How do you think such reports contribute?

Indexes and measurements help governments and organizations gauge progress against key metrics. They highlight areas of success and call attention to where improvement is needed. These are vital for bringing about constructive change. 

Nepal has been incredibly welcoming, and it’s inspiring to see the impactful work being done here. Ending early marriage is one of our key goals globally, and we’re working hard in Nepal to raise awareness and implement interventions to address this harmful practice.

Tim Tomlinson is a Professor of Writing at New York University’s Global Liberal Studies Program. He is a co-founder of New York Writers Workshop, and co-author of its popular text, The Portable MFA in Creative Writing. He is the author of the chapbook, Yolanda: An Oral History in Verse; the poetry collection, Requiem for the Tree Fort I Set on Fire; the collection of short fiction, This Is Not Happening to You; and, most recently, the hybrid collection of poetry and prose, Listening to Fish: Meditations from the Wet World. Tomlinson led New York Writers Workshop Kathmandu in May and June where 35 writers from five continents participated. Ken Subedi conversed with Tomlinson about the Kathmandu workshop, his experience in Nepal, his books and his works.

Was this your first time in Nepal? When did you learn about Nepal for the first time?

This is my first time in Nepal. Nepal has been in the background of my consciousness for decades. As a young kid, I knew that people were coming here. Hippies were coming here in the 60s and early 70s. You know well that Cat Stevens’ song “Katmandu” was also based in those times. These things made me wonder about Nepal. I also heard stories about the notorious serial killer, The Serpent.

You are the organizer of New York Writers Workshop Kathmandu and inaugurated Himalayan Literature Festival. Can you please share your experience of the workshop and festival?

The first day of the festival was densely packed. Many moving parts. And I was a bit frantic, putting out brush fires, but things settled a bit on the second day. We’ve been getting lots of positive feedback. I sat in on a couple of panels. The writers we brought here are brilliant and super talented. Hearing from them and knowing that audiences are absorbing all these experiences has been enormously gratifying.

How did you start New York Writers Workshop?

It has been around 24 years now. We started in 2000. We actually taught our first workshop in New York City. A bunch of my friends and colleagues got together and formed our organization. We’d been working for other organizations that did not really respect the life of the writer. We believed we could do better in different ways. We understand the nature of being a writer.

Do you agree that corporations don’t value poetic license?

Absolutely. They value the bottom line. We’re expendable items. I mean any organization you work for, as soon as they’re short of money, fire the writers. No more copies, no more paper clips, you know whatever. Universities exploit the instructors as much as they can. New York City is a smorgasbord of different ethnicities and nationalities. We make no distinction about who comes to our workshops. We offer things to everybody in the population of New York City, which is almost like saying everybody in the whole world. Eventually, we expanded. We went global.

Maybe you started with different places in the USA.  Then you started to move towards other countries.

I married a Filipina and I started travelling quite a bit in Asia. So, I first worked in The Philippines. And the name New York Writers Workshop, it’s kind of a passport to the world. “New York City” resonates all over the world. Within about three years I had been going back and forth between The Philippines, in the universities, in the writing organizations. And then we started the larger conferences, of which this is the largest, the most ambitious one.

You edited a book called The Portable MFA in Creative Writing in collaboration with New York Writers Workshop. You also contributed the “Introduction” and the chapter on fiction. Can you please share some insights about, like how you came up with that book? And why do you think the need to write such a book when there are so many MFAs going on like this? 

That was in 2006. We’d been a teaching organization for six years. And we’d all encountered what we call “recovering MFA’s,” very promising writers who, for one reason or another, couldn’t move from  one sentence to the next. Their MFA programs jammed them up. In my introduction, I say – I want to teach that kind of workshop that I never had. So my approach, our approach, is “how-to,” not “don’t do.” 

It can be an MFA supporting book. So, basically you wrote for MFA graduates when they can’t work on the practical side, and they have only theoretical knowledge.  So, who were your target audience when you started to write? 

Yeah, the target audience was anyone who wanted to write. I had been teaching workshops for probably ten years. So many of my students were saying—when will you get particular exercises in the book? So I brought together some of our instructors where six of us contributed. In my section I included many of the exercises I did in my class.

Do you think that Nepal is worth writing about? 

Absolutely. We’re experiencing dense concentration of a new culture. We’re planting the experience like a seed that, we expect, will grow when we get back to home.

Can you share about your latest book Listening to Fish?

It grew out of my decade’s long experience as a scuba diver. I began scuba diving in the 1970s when the reefs appeared inexhaustible. The places where I dove first, with their dazzling arrays of biodiversity, are now at a tipping point, or past the tipping point. It’s a tragedy, a highly dangerous tragedy.

Maybe it is due to the refineries?

Oh, yes.  There is always some level of natural stress, environmental stress. But the human hand has made natural stress unnaturally stressful to the point that it’s catastrophic. Can the health of the reefs ever be restored? This is an existential question.     

So, your title: Listening to Fish. Is it listening to the grievances or the hardships, sufferings of the fish?

Precisely. If we start to listen to what they can tell us, they will tell us their stresses. They speak in a universal language. Their eyes implore. They seem to say, we’ve welcomed you here, now help us.

And dolphins are also beaching, right?

Coral is bleaching, dolphins are beaching, the sea is going mad.

So you have organized such workshops in many parts of the world. How does it help the literary community? How does it contribute to the craft of a writer? 

There’s an enormous amount of cross-pollination and collaboration. The conferences we did in Greece and Italy led to translations, publications, and community. What we appreciate here is the ubiquity of spirituality. It’s woven into the fabric of everyday life. It’s tangible. I expect some of that sense will filter into the work we all do back home.

And even we will also be indoctrinated with some of the familiar Western tradition and American values also. 

I hesitate to use the word “indoctrinated.” I prefer being exposed to, because we’re here as much to listen and learn and share, as well as teach. Last night, Ravi Shankar read his poem Kathmandu.  He concludes by saying—there must be not power, but compassion. I think travel can induce that. It reveals how much you don’t know.

I know you like different genres at a time. You don’t fix yourself to one category. But what fascinates you the most? Which is more near to your heart?

I would like to write short stories that a reader remembers. Now and then, it gives me the biggest glow. Fiction is the most important, nearest to my heart.