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Minister of External Affairs of India S Jaishankar is arriving in Nepal tomorrow for a two-day visit at the invitation of Minister for Foreign Affairs Narayan Prakash Saud.

According to Amrit Bahadur Rai, Spokesperson at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar is arriving in Nepal to participate in the seventh meeting of the Nepal-India Joint Commission.

Nepal-India Joint Commission was established in 1987. Both countries will review the overall state of bilateral relations and various areas of mutual cooperation at the ministerial level during the meeting.

During his visit, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar will pay courtesy calls on President Ram Chandra Paudel and Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Saud will also host a dinner in honor of the visiting dignitary and members of his delegation.

Nepal is India's primary partner under its 'Neighborhood First' Policy.

The impending meeting is going to take place in consideration of the tradition of high-level exchange of meetings between the two close and friendly neighbors.

The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) gained 27.90 points to close at 2,058.00 points on Wednesday.

Similarly, the sensitive index surged by 3.76 points to close at 384. 29 points.

A total of 10,500,498-unit shares of 306 companies were traded for Rs 4. 04 billion.

Meanwhile, Dibyashwori Hydropower Ltd, NRN Infrastructure and Development Limited, Peoples Hydropower Company Limited, Bhagawati Hydropower Development Company Limited and Sonapur Minerals and Oil Limited were the top gainers today, with their price surging by 10. 00 percent.

Similarly, Laxmi Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Ltd was the top loser as its price fell by 5.10 percent.

At the end of the day, total market capitalization stood at Rs 3. 19 trillion.

Urban population has increased by about five percent because of migration in the last decade in Nepal, a report from the National Statistics Office states. 

Released on Tuesday, the report titled the ‘Degree of Urbanization in Nepal’ has revealed that the urban population increased to 27.07 in 2021 from 22.31 in 2011, peri-urban population increased to 39.75 percent from 39.19 percent whereas rural population decreased from 38.5 to 33.19 percent. 

“While the rural population still constitutes one-third of the national population, the trend of migration from rural to peri-urban and urban areas offers an insight into pressure on the urban areas to accommodate an increasing population and for the rural areas to retain their existing population,” said Hem Raj Regmi, spokesperson for the office.

Nepal has 753 local units or municipalities—293 urban municipalities (metropolitan and sub-metropolitan areas) and 460 rural municipalities.

The report offers interesting glimpses of population distribution in the mountains, the hills and the southern plains (the Tarai). 

The mountain region is sparsely populated with a majority (88 percent) residing in areas of rural characteristics and the remaining 12 percent residing in areas of urban characteristics marked by high population density, per the report.

The report, offering a breakdown of the total population in the hills, states that 55 percent are living in settlements of rural characteristics, 36 percent in urban characteristics (skewed due to high population density in Pokhara and Kathmandu) whereas only nine percent are living in peri-urban areas. 

Peri-urban areas are mainly in the inner Tarai and the Tarai. In inner Tarai, 43 percent of the population resides in peri-urban areas, 30 percent in urban areas and 27 percent in rural areas. In the Tarai region, 69 percent of the population lives in peri-urban areas, 22 percent in urban areas and only nine percent in areas having rural characteristics.

The report points at a rapid urbanization with agglomeration of population in peri-urban and urban areas. 

The comparative analysis between 2011 and 2021 shows an increase in urban population from 62.93 percent to 66.02. Between hierarchies of urban administrative units, urban municipalities have seen a significant increase in population (2.58 percent), followed by sub-metropolitan cities (0.82 percent). While the population has increased in metropolitan cities and rural municipalities, their share in the total population has fallen by 0.3 percent and 3.09 percent, respectively.

Based on the degree of urbanization methodology endorsed by the United National Statistical Commission to standardize the definition of urban and rural areas globally, the report has analyzed 2011 and 2021 census data to derive inferences by classifying settlements at the ward level into urban, peri-urban and rural areas.

The ecological region classification shows that rural population is concentrated in the Hill (66 percent) and Mountain regions, peri-urban population in the Tarai region (85 percent) whereas urban population is concentrated in the Hill region (53 percent)—skewed due to high population density in Pokhara and Kathmandu valley—followed by the Tarai region (39 percent)

In rural municipalities, 58 percent of the population is in the rural cluster, whereas 36.1 percent is mostly in peri-urban areas (664 wards), states the report. In urban municipalities, only 28.4 percent of population is in urban areas (591 wards), while a majority (46 percent) is in peri-urban areas (1,285 wards) and 25.4 percent is still in the rural cluster (within 1,244 wards).

In sub-metropolitan cities, 39 percent of the population lives in peri-urban areas and 53 percent in areas categorized as ‘urban’. In metropolitan cities, 17 percent is in peri-urban areas, 2.3 percent in areas of rural characteristics and a whopping 80.7 percent in urban areas.

Though they are home to only 33 percent of the national population, rural municipalities have a higher number of wards (3,685) compared to urban and peri-urban areas.

At the provincial level, the distribution of urban population (66.8 percent) is relatively skewed with the highest in Madhes Province (19.9 percent), followed by Bagmati Province (14.6 percent) and the Karnali Province (1.2 percent) The data show imbalance in distribution of urban population with highest concentration in the Tarai in Madhes and Lumbini.

Based on provincial distribution of districts in relation to the degree of urbanization, 93.51 percent of Bagmati Province’s population resides in urban areas. Districts without urban population include Sankhuwasabha and Terathum of Koshi Province, Manang and Mustang of Gandaki Province, Rukum East of Lumbini Province and Dolpa and Humla of Karnali Province.

Per the report, the number of urban municipalities increased from 58 in 2013/2014 to 293 in 2017/2018, with a corresponding increase in urban municipal population to 66 percent from 17 percent.

Unveiling the report, Chief Secretary Baikuntha Aryal stressed the need for relevant offices of three-tier governments to make policies and programs based on data and evidence.

Infographics 

Population in Ecological Regions in 2011 and 2021 (in percent)

Source: National Statistics Office

The Third International Investment Summit, initially scheduled for April 21-22, has been rescheduled to take place on April 28 and 29.

Sushil Bhatta, the Chief Executive Officer of the Investment Board and member secretary of the Investment Summit Steering Committee, said that the date for the Summit has been rescheduled. The revised schedule is set to be endorsed during the second meeting of the Steering Committee at the Finance Ministry today.

The Steering Committee, led by Finance Minister Prakash Sharan Mahat, is responsible for approving the schedule and format of the Summit, identifying areas for policy reforms to enhance the investment atmosphere, and overseeing all aspects of the Summit. Its members include ministers from various sectors such as foreign affairs, energy, water resources and irrigation; physical infrastructure and transport; culture, tourism and civil aviation; industry; agriculture; urban development; federal affairs; and general administration.

It also includes the vice-chair of the National Planning Commission, chief secretary, governor of Nepal Rastra Bank, secretary at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, the finance secretary, industry secretary, and representatives from the private sector.

The first meeting of the Steering Committee, held on November 26, directed the government to facilitate discussions with potential investors, identify likely investors, call for project proposals, and secure their endorsements.

In preparation for the Summit, the Implementation Committee and the Technical Committee have been formed to undertake legal and structural reforms and to inform investors about the event.

The Implementation Committee, coordinated by the chief secretary, recently issued a circular through the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration to province and local levels, seeking details of viable projects to be presented as showcase projects during the Summit.

A meeting of the Judicial Service Commission today decided to recommend Devendra Dhakal as the chief registrar of the Supreme Court (SC).

The meeting chaired by Chief Justice Bishwambhar Prasad Shrestha recommended Dhakal who presently serves as the secretary of Judicial Council for the appointment to the post of SC chief registrar.

Similarly, Bimal Paudel has been recommended for the appointment as the SC registrar.

The posts are lying vacant since Lal Bahadur Kunwar who was the SC chief registrar and Nirmala Paudel who was the registrar were appointed as the High Court judges.

Rajin Maharjan, a filmmaker based in Kathmandu, has been in the spotlight since 2010 when he started working as a visual editor and animator. Transitioning seamlessly into creative writing and ad film direction, he has become a sought-after creative director in Nepal, particularly for social development organizations.

 Maharjan is dedicated to the promotion of Nepal Bhasa, adding a culturally resonant layer to his creative portfolio. Through captivating advertisement songs and other innovative approaches, he contributes to the preservation and promotion of Nepal Bhasa, showcasing its richness and relevance in contemporary storytelling. In a conversation with Evana Manandhar from ApEx, Maharjan spoke about his creative journey and cinematic expertise and his wish to shape the landscape of Nepali filmmaking through interesting collaborations.

 What are the challenges faced by Nepali cinema that limit its global exposure?

 Nepali cinema faces several challenges that limit its exposure and appeal beyond its borders. One significant obstacle is the industry’s limited visibility on the global stage, hindering its capacity to reach a broader international audience. Production quality, encompassing aspects like cinematography and special effects, poses another challenge.

Despite language differences, successful Hindi and South Indian films have demonstrated that compelling storytelling and high production values can transcend linguistic boundaries. The Nepali film industry has to actively address language concerns through measures such as subtitling or dubbing. The industry’s limited participation in major international film festivals and difficulties in securing international distribution hinder its market access.

Nepali cinema could benefit from international collaborations, improved film education, strategic marketing, diversification of themes, and continued government support. Active participation in international film festivals can also enhance visibility and facilitate distribution deals. The industry needs to adapt and implement these strategies to enhance its global presence.

Do you have some advice for aspiring filmmakers in Nepal?

Begin by investing in a comprehensive education in filmmaking, mastering the various aspects such as directing, scriptwriting, cinematography, and editing. Networking is equally important, as establishing connections within the industry through events, festivals, and workshops can lead to collaboration and mentorship.

Start with smaller projects to gain practical experience. Use digital platforms like YouTube and Vimeo to showcase your work globally. Stay attuned to industry trends and technologies, incorporating them into your craft. Actively seek collaborations, value feedback, and be open to constructive criticism. Attend film festivals, both locally and internationally, to gain exposure and recognition. Craft stories that are authentic to Nepali culture yet possess universal themes. Understand the business aspects of filmmaking, including funding and distribution, and consider seeking mentorship from experienced professionals. Persistence, resilience, and a willingness to learn from failures are essential qualities on the path to success. Embrace technology to your advantage, taking advantage of affordable equipment and editing software. Most importantly, maintain a passion for storytelling and a commitment to continuous improvement, as success in the film industry often stems from a combination of talent, hard work, and strategic planning.

How do you stay connected with your audience and receive feedback for your work?

Staying connected with the audience and receiving feedback is important to improve my skills. Feedback channels include community forums, where discussions provide insights into audience reactions, and dedicated feedback platforms that allow for more structured input. Informal channels such as comments on social media or conversations with friends contribute to understanding how my work resonates with viewers.

I recognize that feedback is inherently diverse, reflecting individual perspectives and preferences. Comments may encompass a wide range of opinions, including those with liberal viewpoints. This diversity of feedback is invaluable in gauging audience reactions, identifying strengths and weaknesses in my storytelling, and refining my artistic approach.

Engaging with audiences on social media platforms allows for direct interaction, fostering a sense of connection and providing a platform for fans to express their thoughts. Whether positive or constructive criticism, this feedback helps me understand the impact of my work and guides decisions for future projects.

How do you see the future of Nepal Bhasa in the context of your work and the broader cultural landscape?

The language’s future is intrinsically tied to audience engagement and support, as sustained interest and appreciation for content in Nepal Bhasa can encourage its continued use in creative works. Educational initiatives, including its inclusion in curricula, and government and institutional support for linguistic diversity are vital factors that can shape the language’s trajectory. The digital era offers opportunities for Nepal Bhasa to reach a global audience through subtitled or dubbed content on digital platforms, fostering a broader understanding and appreciation. Collaboration, adaptability in storytelling, and a commitment to cultural preservation are key elements that can collectively contribute to ensuring a vibrant future for Nepal Bhasa.

What challenges do you face in promoting Nepal Bhasa, and how do you address them creatively?

One significant challenge lies in the potential limited audience reach, as the language is specific to the Newar community. To address this, I explore innovative storytelling techniques and themes that resonate universally, ensuring that the cultural richness conveyed through Nepal Bhasa becomes an accessible and engaging experience for a broader audience. Another challenge is the need for subtitles or dubbing to make the content inclusive. Collaborating with skilled translators and voice actors who can maintain linguistic nuances and cultural authenticity is important. Limited financial resources is another hurdle in the production of films or projects in Nepal Bhasa. I would seek creative financing solutions, such as crowdfunding campaigns or partnerships with cultural organizations that share a commitment to preserving linguistic diversity. 

The price of gold has dropped by Rs 200 per tola in the domestic market on Wednesday.

According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the yellow metal is being traded at Rs 120, 800 per tola today. It was traded at Rs 121, 000 per tola on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, tejabi gold is being traded at Rs 120, 200 per tola. It was traded at Rs 120, 400 per tola.

Similarly, the silver is being traded at Rs 1,455 per tola today.

A police constable died after being hit by a motorbike in Makwanpur on Wednesday.

The deceased has been identified as Binod AD (25) of Dadeldhura, currently stationed at the Bagmati Province Police Battalion, Hetauda.

The two-wheeler (Na 43 Pa 222) heading towards Nawalpur from Hetauda hit Binod at around 6:30 today.

Following the incident, he was taken to the Hetauda Hospital but doctors pronounced him dead at 7:30 am, District Police Office, Makwanpur spokesperson Laxmi Bhandari said.

Motorbike rider Laxman Lama (41) of Huprachaur, Hetauda Sub-Metropolitan City-4 was injured in the incident, police said.

He is undergoing treatment at the Chitwan Medical College for treatment.