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Nepal is grappling with a severe environmental and public health crisis linked to growing plastic pollution and poor waste management practices. The problem has come into sharper focus in recent weeks as air quality deteriorated dramatically across the country.

According to the Air Quality Index (AQI) data from April 2025, Kathmandu’s AQI crossed 250—classified as very unhealthy. A visible haze over the valley, largely attributed to vehicle pollution, wildfire, dust and open burning of waste, especially plastics, in urban and semi-urban areas impacted the public. Many social media users reported eye burning problems and difficulties in breathing. 

“With limited landfill space and ineffective plastic waste collection, many local governments resort to open dumping or burning of plastic, releasing toxic pollutants into the atmosphere,” says Ujjwal Upadhyay, an environmental expert.

This burning is not just an environmental hazard—it’s a public health emergency. Scientific research now confirms that microplastics are being inhaled, absorbed into the bloodstream, and accumulating in human organs—including the brain.

A startling investigative article by NBC News on Sept 2024, citing a study published in JAMA Network, reported that researchers in Brazil had discovered microplastics in the olfactory bulbs of deceased human subjects. The olfactory bulb, located just above the nasal cavity, is directly connected to the brain. Scientists suspect that airborne microplastics are entering the body through the nose and accumulating in this region, raising alarm about potential neurological effects.

A separate study conducted at Cukurova University in Turkey found that microplastics could constitute up to 0.5 percent of the human brain’s total weight. These revelations underline the urgency of addressing airborne microplastic pollution.

According to the World Bank’s 2020 estimates, Nepal generates around 60,000 metric tons of plastic waste annually, of which approximately 20,000 metric tons end up in rivers. With many landfill sites located near waterways, heavy rainfall or improper dumping leads to significant plastic leakage into rivers, eventually flowing into the Ganges in India and further into the Bay of Bengal, polluting marine ecosystems.

Plastic, once hailed as a “wonder material” for its durability and low cost, is now proving to be an environmental curse. “It is non-degradable, breaks into microplastics over time, and is now found in drinking water, food, air, and even in salt,” says Upadhyay, who is also a team lead at Project CAP (Collaborative Approach for Preventing Plastic Leakages in Rivers). “A study by Dungel and Maharjan, published in Heliyon, found 80 to 1,040 microplastic particles per kilogram of salt sold in Nepal.”

“Completely banning plastic may be impractical, but immediate steps can be taken to phase out single-use plastics and strengthen plastic waste management,” he says. “Recycling, public awareness campaigns and behavioral change are key to reducing plastic pollution. Waste management systems must be modernized with support for circular economy models, turning plastic waste into reusable raw materials.”

According to Upadhyay, sanitation workers—often the backbone of waste collection—must be supported with proper safety gear, training and fair compensation. “Scaling up recycling infrastructure and connecting informal waste pickers to plastic recovery supply chains can contribute to both environmental protection and economic upliftment.”

“There is a high chance of rainfall on Wednesday, which might clear the pollution, and everyone will forget about it,” says Upadhyay. “But that should not be the case—every stakeholder must treat this as an emergency and take action.”

Bhairab Risal, a pioneer of environmental journalism in Nepal and one of the country’s most respected media figures, passed away on Sunday, at the age of 97.

Risal, who was suffering from heart- and lung-related ailments, died while undergoing treatment at the Baneshwar-based Frontline Hospital. At his own request, his body was donated to Patan Hospital for medical research. In death, as in life, he remains committed to the public good.

Born on 12 Aug 1928, in Bhaktapur, Risal began his education at Ranipokhari Sanskrit Pathshala in Kathmandu and later graduated from Nandi Ratri Pathsala, affiliated with Banaras Sanskrit University, India. Raised in a devout Hindu family, he initially trained to become a priest like his father. “My father wanted me to follow in his footsteps,” Risal recalled in an ApEx Pioneers column published two years ago in The Annapurna Express. “But I had to find work to take care of my family.”

That search for livelihood brought him into journalism in 1956, when he joined Halkhabar, a daily newspaper, as a reporter. Armed with a bicycle and an eye for the stories of ordinary people, he reported on issues across the Kathmandu Valley and beyond. His journalism career, which began out of necessity, soon turned into a lifelong pursuit of truth.

After a brief stint in the government census in 1959, Risal joined Rastriya Samachar Samiti (RSS) in 1963 and served for over two decades. Although working under government restrictions was often frustrating, it deepened his commitment to independent journalism. In the 1980s, he began noticing Kathmandu’s worsening pollution and, along with like-minded journalists, formed a group to report on environmental issues. This would later evolve into the Nepal Forum of Environmental Journalists (NEFEJ), established in 1986. NEFEJ’s landmark achievement came in 1997 with the founding of Radio Sagarmatha—South Asia’s first independent community radio station.

Risal was also deeply involved in civic activism, including the Save Bagmati campaign. Even into his 90s, he remained active—hosting radio programs by telephone and writing columns for newspapers when his health allowed.

The following reflections, given during his lifetime as part of ApEx Pioneers column, provide a glimpse of the admiration he inspired in those around him. Ninu Chapagain, a longtime colleague, once remarked, “Despite his age, I still consider him a youth. He is more dedicated to journalism than many young journalists I know. Brought up in a Hindu family, he has made his way from a priest to a full-timer communist to a pioneering environmental journalist. He has always walked on the progressive path.”

Tejeshwar Babu Gongah, his friend, likened him to the sky: “In Nepali, ‘Bhairab’ means sky. And our Bhairab Risal is also like the sky, covering a wide swath of knowledge. I respect him for his contribution to Nepali journalism. His activeness even at this age keeps me inspired, as I am only five years younger than him.”

And Kosmos Biswokarma described him as “an exemplary figure in Nepali journalism.” He added, “Even in his 90s, he was active as a freelance journalist. His contribution to environmental journalism is immeasurable. He started environmental journalism in Nepal. He has seen and experienced a lot. A meeting with him is always filled with interesting tales.”

From walking the narrow lanes of Kathmandu with a reporter’s notebook to founding an entire movement for environmental awareness through the media, Risal leaves behind a legacy of truth-seeking, public service, and fearless integrity.

He is survived by his wife, Sushila Risal, and children Gokul Risal, Bhaswot Risal, Sushma Risal, and Susham Risal.

As Donald Trump took over the presidency of the US, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funding across the world was scrapped. This also impacted Nepal, affecting collaborations with all three tiers of government and various international and national non-governmental organizations (I/NGOs). The halted projects spanned across critical sectors, including fiscal federalism, biodiversity conservation, education, agriculture, health, economic development, human rights, environmental sustainability, and disaster resilience. With the funding cuts, concerns have been raised about the long-term impact on Nepal’s development trajectory, particularly for marginalized communities and sectors heavily reliant on foreign aid.

The total amount of scrapped or significantly affected USAID funds in Nepal amounted to over $319m. Among the affected projects, the USAID Biodiversity (Jal Jangal) initiative, which had a budget of $19m, was one of the most prominent. However, according to Shiva Kumar Wagle, spokesperson for the Ministry of Forests and Environment (MoFE), only this particular project under the ministry was impacted, and the overall impact on the ministry was minimal. Additionally, a $20m allocation for fiscal federalism was also scrapped, affecting governance and decentralization efforts.

Several other key projects lost funding, including the $24.79m KAWAS project aimed at water security and sanitation governance, the $18.91m Trade and Competitiveness initiative, and the $35m Adolescent Reproductive Health (ARH) program led by CARE Nepal. The USAID Clean Air program, designed to reduce pollution in Kathmandu Valley with a $13m budget, also faced funding cuts. Similarly, the USAID Inclusive Livelihoods project, which sought to empower persons with disabilities, lost its $1m allocation, along with the USAID Agricultural Inputs program, which was set to receive $24.56m.

Nepal’s private banking sector in the past years has collaborated with international organizations to finance climate resilience projects in the country. Several banks have secured funding and accreditation to support renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and climate adaptation initiatives. But where are they allocating the funds and what type of project is those funds benefiting? Or really these banks are funding the right project or are they investing these climate-related funds to other non-climate projects?

In June 2023, Laxmi Sunrise Bank collaborated with Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) to implement the Tarai Agribusiness and Enterprise Challenge Fund (TAECF) under the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA)-GGGI Climate Smart Agriculture project. This initiative aims to support micro and small enterprises in the agriculture sector by providing grants and facilitating access to finance. The Bank has to play a crucial role in offering loans to grantees approved by GGGI, strengthening the agricultural value chain in Madhes Province.

Despite efforts to obtain comments and updates on the project, Chief Information Officer (CIO) of Laxmi Sunrise Bank, did not respond to inquiries via email or phone. Even after reporting it to the Chief Grievances Officer, there was no further update.

In March 2024, Nepal Investment Mega Bank Limited (NIMB) became the first private-sector commercial bank in Nepal to receive accreditation from the Green Climate Fund (GCF). This accreditation enables NIMB to manage climate projects ranging from $50m to $250m, facilitating investments in renewable energy, solid waste management, and climate adaptation projects through public-private partnerships.

Khushbu Thapa Magar, the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Project Manager at NIMB, provided an in-depth response regarding the bank’s role in climate finance. Her response outlined the bank’s structured approach to climate finance, which includes two key stages: ‘Concept Note Preparation’ and ‘Full Funding Proposal Development’. Initially, the bank identifies and develops investment-ready projects aligned with Nepal’s climate priorities and GCF criteria. Once approved, a detailed funding proposal is created, including feasibility studies, financial structuring, environmental and social assessments, and a Gender Action Plan.

“NIMB’s project pipeline focuses on various sectors crucial to Nepal’s climate goals, including renewable energy, e-mobility, waste-to-energy solutions, sustainable agriculture, urban resilience, and climate adaptation efforts,” says Magar. “The bank prioritizes projects with high paradigm shift potential, ensuring that they can be scaled and replicated nationwide.”

Magar further highlighted NIMB’s investment strategy, which includes concessional funding, public-private partnerships, and structured financial mechanisms to de-risk climate projects. “Additionally, NIMB follows strict environmental and social safeguards, promotes gender equality and social inclusion (GESI), and aligns its projects with Nepal’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and Long-Term Strategies (LTS).”

In Oct 2023, Global IME Bank Limited (GIBL) secured a $25m loan from Global Climate Partnership Fund (GCPF) to promote climate-positive lending in Nepal. This funding is specifically allocated for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, with a strong emphasis on electric mobility.

In Feb 2024, International Finance Corporation (IFC) invested $56m in GIBL to enhance access to finance for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly women-owned businesses and those in rural areas. A portion of this funding is dedicated to climate mitigation efforts, including clean transportation, climate-smart agriculture, and solar energy projects.

In June 2024, the OPEC Fund for International Development provided a $25m loan to GIBL to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) while enhancing climate resilience in Nepal. This funding seeks to bridge financing gaps for MSMEs and expand the bank’s climate finance portfolio.

Despite attempts to obtain a statement, the CIO of GIBL did not respond to requests via email or phone. Even after reporting it to the Chief Grievances Officer, there was no update.

In May 2023, IFC invested $55m in Siddhartha Bank Limited (SBL) to increase access to finance for small businesses and foster climate finance in Nepal. The investment is expected to support clean transportation, climate-smart agriculture, and solar projects. However, no response was received from the CIO of SBL, despite multiple inquiries. The Chief Grievance Handling Officer was also not available.

These kinds of partnerships reflect Nepal’s growing engagement in climate finance and the private sector’s increasing role in sustainable development. With these collaborations, Nepal’s banking sector is positioning itself as a key player in financing the country’s transition toward a greener economy. However, challenges remain in ensuring the effective implementation of these funds and fostering greater transparency in climate-related investments.

The government has dismissed Kulman Ghising, the managing director of Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), just months before the completion of his second term. Ghising, widely recognized for ending household load shedding in the country during his eight-year term, was relieved of his duties following a Cabinet decision.
On Monday, the Cabinet decided to remove Ghising from his position, appointing former NEA Executive Director Hitendra Dev Shakya as the new managing director. Ghising’s tenure was set to end on 9 Aug 2025.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, referring to the dismissal of Ghising, mentioned that some individuals were blowing things out of proportion. He mentioned that some groups had already started protesting, seeking an issue to criticize. “This is just a small issue. They are turning molehills into mountains. They want to turn this small issue into a big one, making a snake out of a rope.”

Oli retorted in his characteristic style, “How much electricity was generated in the first four years? Did the electricity come immediately after the appointment of this person?” He then warned against spreading misinformation about hard work done over the years, calling it magic or miracles.

The government had been in a prolonged dispute with Ghising, particularly over the dedicated and trunk line electricity supply issue. On Feb 24, the Cabinet sought an explanation from him, questioning why he should not be removed from his position. This was primarily based on four major issues, which included alleged violations of a performance agreement signed on 19 Jan 2022, between Ghising and the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation.

One of the key reasons cited for his dismissal was his failure to submit the performance evaluation report for the fiscal year 2023-24 within the stipulated deadline. 

Another major reason cited was Ghising’s alleged unauthorized negotiation with India on electricity import pricing. He reportedly attended the Power Exchange Committee (PEC) meeting without prior approval from the government and signed agreements that led to an increase in electricity import rates. The Cabinet stated that Ghising attended the PEC meetings on Feb 12, and 11 March 2024, without obtaining necessary authorization, thereby violating Nepal’s Treaty Act and related regulations.

The government also accused Ghising of defying multiple directives. Notably, he failed to implement a 10 Nov 2024, Cabinet decision regarding the collection of outstanding dues from industries using dedicated and trunk line electricity. Despite being ordered to resolve the issue within 15 days, he allegedly failed to act on time. Furthermore, he challenged a directive from the Energy Ministry’s technical committee on Dec 19, registering a “note of dissent” in the Nepal Electricity Authority’s board decision.

Ghising’s removal has sparked widespread debate. He had previously clashed with Prime Minister KP Oli’s administration, particularly over the cutting of power supply lines to industries in July 2024, a decision that drew criticism from the business sector. Upon forming a new government, Prime Minister Oli instructed the resumption of power supply to the industries, which Ghising initially resisted before complying on July 23 following written instructions from the Electricity Regulatory Commission.

His dismissal has led to mixed reactions from political circles, business leaders and the general public. 

Chairperson of the CPN (Maoist Center), Pushpa Kamal Dahal, has expressed strong opposition to the government’s decision calling it unjust. Taking to Facebook, he said, “I hope this news turns out to be false. If true, this decision is completely wrong and objectionable. I strongly condemn this action taken under the arrogance of a so-called two-thirds majority.” He further claimed that the government had been unfairly targeting Ghising for a long time by repeatedly demanding clarifications. “When the people were suffering from extreme load-shedding, my government appointed Kulman Ghising as the Executive Director of NEA. Through his expertise and our leadership, we successfully built a brighter Nepal. However, he has been continuously harassed under the pretext of collecting dues, with the ultimate goal of removing him,” Dahal stated.  

Janardan Sharma, the deputy general Secretary of the Maoist Center, also condemned the dismissal of Ghising. He wrote on social media that those who remove people who do good work might feel victorious, but such people will always end up defeated in the long run. He also praised Ghising’s role in ensuring uninterrupted power supply despite the load-shedding and expressed concern over the current government’s actions.

Leaders of the ruling Nepali Congress, General Secretaries Gagan Thapa and Bishwo Prakash Sharma, also opposed the decision to dismiss Ghising. They expressed their dissatisfaction, stating that the government’s decision was unjustified. Thapa remarked, “While ministers stray from the right path, it is the Prime Minister’s duty to correct them. Unfortunately, that did not happen. The decision is wrong. The government is heading in the wrong direction, and the right destination cannot be reached this way.” Sharma also criticized the decision, saying, “Even if disciplinary action was necessary, it could have been taken later. The government should not have removed Ghising in a way that undermines good initiatives. This decision is completely inappropriate, and I openly oppose it.”

He further mentioned that internal and public warnings were given to the government to let Ghising complete his term. Thapa stated that while citizens’ dissatisfaction was growing, the government added fuel to the fire. “At a time when public dissatisfaction is rising, a section is trying to exploit this frustration for its vested interests. We work day and night to address these concerns, yet the government itself is fueling the fire of discontent,” he added.

Rajendra Lingden, chair of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), called it a regressive step. “The government’s extreme political interference in the NEA could once again push the energy sector into crisis,” he warned, calling on the public to protest against the decision.  

Rabi Lamichhane, president of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), symbolically opposed the government’s decision by posting a video on social media. In the video, he turned off an electric light and lit a candle. Without directly commenting, he captioned the post: “The people will have the final say on who stays and who goes!”

At the Exhibition Road in Kathmandu, protesting students burned an effigy of Energy Minister Deepak Khadka. The student organization affiliated with the CPN (Unified Socialist) led the demonstration, shouting slogans in favor of Ghising and against the government. During a protest speech, Unified Socialist leader Sudesh Parajuli accused the government of siding with corrupt individuals. “This government does not like light; it prefers darkness and black money,” he declared, urging nationwide protests against the decision.  

Protests against Ghising’s removal escalated into clashes between demonstrators and police in Kathmandu’s Maitighar Mandala. Supporters marched from Maitighar to New Baneshwor, breaking into restricted areas, leading to police intervention. There were protests at the main entrance of Singhadurbar too.

The decision has drawn widespread criticism from celebrities as well. Actor Hari Bansha Acharya wrote on Facebook, “Kulman is the light of Nepal. He should not have been removed to bring darkness.” Actor Kedar Ghimire commented, “Nepotism prevails!” while director and actor Nischal Basnet remarked, “They found a way to remove Kulman. Perhaps the downfall of the corrupt is now inevitable.”

The matter also entered the Public Accounts Committee of the lower house where most of the MPs objected to the government’s decision. Ram Krishna Yadav, an MP from the Nepali Congress, stated that Ghising should not have been removed and suggested that the Prime Minister should be sent a letter requesting a reconsideration. Aman Lal Modi, an MP from the Maoist Centre, reacted by saying that the government’s decision had taken Nepal back into darkness. He accused the government of working for middlemen by removing Ghising.

Manish Jha, an MP from the RSP, suggested that the government’s stance on the arrears for dedicated and trunk lines should be clarified, and the committee should discuss it. Hari Dhakal, another MP from the RSP, called the government’s action against Ghising a cowardly act.

The matter also plunged into the Gandaki Province Assembly where the MPs stirred up in for and against the government decision.

Meanwhile, Ramu Shrestha, the head of the Bharatpur Distribution Center of NEA, has been assaulted by the members of the National Youth Federation, affiliated with the CPN-UML. An offensive message against Prime Minister Oli was displayed on the digital board of the Distribution Center after Ghising’s removal.

In a press release, the center said a group of 35-40 people entered the center at 10 am on Tuesday and assaulted the office head, while also vandalizing the office space.  “The digital information board in the office was hacked, and an offensive and illegal message targeting the honorable Prime Minister displayed. Updating such disrespectful information about the Prime Minister, who holds a prestigious position in the country, is against the state’s constitution and prevailing laws. The Nepal Electricity Authority Bharatpur Distribution Center strongly condemns this unlawful act,” the release stated.

The center has called for an investigation into the incident and demanded that those responsible be brought under the purview of law and appropriate action be taken.

Meanwhile, the government has stated that the protests happening on the streets and social media in support of Ghising are being viewed as normal. In a press conference held on Tuesday, Minister for Communication, Information, and Technology, and government spokesperson Prithvi Subba Gurung said that everyone has the right to disagree with the government’s decisions, and the government does not take such expressions negatively. “The right to express disagreement with the decisions made by the government is there for everyone. They can make statements, and we have not taken it in a negative way,” said Minister Gurung.

The degradation of public commons—ponds, forests, and water sources—has left many communities vulnerable to climate change. The focus must shift to solutions, reforms, and community-driven initiatives that can rebuild resilience and ensure equitable access to resources.

Juddha Bahadur Gurung, member at National Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission (NNRFC), quips, “Public commons are for all, but not cared for by all.” Solid waste is directly dumped into rivers and ponds, while polluted air from industries is released into the atmosphere. “Such actions significantly degrade public commons, yet no one seems concerned about their care,” says Gurung.

Public commons, which are also natural resource ecosystems, provide four essential services: provisioning, regulating, supporting, and cultural services. However, many people have yet to fully realize the value of these services. 

Nepal’s existing environmental and climate policies acknowledge the importance of public commons but fail to effectively integrate them into climate adaptation strategies. The Local Government Operation Act 2017 assigns responsibility for resource management to municipalities, but its implementation remains weak due to insufficient technical expertise and funding constraints. Similarly, the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) 2021 recognizes climate risks but lacks concrete provisions for restoring commons as a resilience strategy.

To address this issue, experts ApEx talked to recommend several key measures. First, they propose establishing a dedicated restoration program to regenerate ponds, communal water bodies, and degraded forests. They also emphasize the need for climate-responsive urban planning to ensure that infrastructure projects do not encroach upon natural water systems and commons, preventing further degradation. Strengthening legal protections for commons is crucial to preventing the privatization of public resources and ensuring their equitable governance.

Despite policy gaps, several grassroots initiatives offer replicable models for sustainable resource management. In many local areas, communities have successfully revived traditional water harvesting systems, such as ‘dhunge dharas’ (stone spouts), reducing reliance on the often unreliable municipal water supply. The community forest program has also proven to be an effective climate buffer, empowering local groups to manage forest resources, prevent degradation, and support livelihoods. Expanding this model to include wetlands and water sources could further strengthen local adaptation efforts. Additionally, in the Tarai region, farmer cooperatives are reviving small-scale irrigation ponds, demonstrating how decentralized initiatives can mitigate water scarcity and enhance agricultural productivity.

Integrating technology can significantly enhance public commons management by enabling data-driven decision-making and efficient resource allocation. Satellite monitoring and GIS mapping can help identify lost or degraded commons, allowing for targeted restoration efforts. Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered climate forecasting can provide early warnings to communities that rely on commons for agriculture and livelihoods, helping them prepare for climate-induced disruptions. As AI continues to develop rapidly, there should be discussions on how it can assist with public commons management. If other countries have successfully applied AI, we should learn from their experiences. Additionally, promoting water conservation infrastructure, such as decentralized rainwater harvesting, recharge wells, and nature-based solutions, can ensure sustainable water management and resilience against water scarcity.

Avishek Shrestha, Program Director at Digo Bikas Institute, says, “Public commons have always been shared resources for communities. In Kathmandu, Durbar Squares serve as public commons, providing spaces for gatherings in what was once an isolated city. However, their importance is increasingly undermined.” 

For lasting impact, local communities must play an active role in decision-making regarding public commons management. Participatory budgeting allows municipal funds to be allocated for commons restoration based on community needs, ensuring that resources are directed where they are most needed. Citizen monitoring committees can help maintain accountability in resource governance, preventing the misuse of funds and ensuring transparent management. Public awareness campaigns are also crucial for educating communities about their rights to access and restore commons, fostering a sense of ownership and collective responsibility.

Public commons are not just environmental assets; they are lifelines for marginalized communities facing the harshest climate impacts. Strengthening policies, fostering community-led initiatives, and leveraging technology are crucial steps toward climate resilience. Without urgent action, the erosion of commons will continue to deepen social and economic disparities, leaving vulnerable populations increasingly exposed to climate crises.

The path forward requires a collective effort—policymakers must prioritize public commons restoration, local governments must implement inclusive strategies, and communities must actively engage in safeguarding their shared resources. Only through such an integrated approach can Nepal build a climate-resilient future for all.

Indira Kumari Shreesh, Chairperson, Indigenous Women Legal Awareness Group (INWOLAG) says: “Through my observations and research, I have found that, under the guise of various developments, our public commons—vital for climate resilience—are being destroyed, and all levels of government are equally complicit in this.” 

We have traveled across the nation, visiting rural areas and meeting indigenous communities to raise awareness about this destruction, she says,  however, we are not against development; rather, we advocate for sustainable development. “It should not only preserve the fabric of human communities but also protect biodiversity and natural ecosystems.”

Suwapong Sirisorn, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Nepal, is a distinguished diplomat with a career in foreign affairs spanning over three decades. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science (International Affairs) from Thammasat University, Thailand, and a Master of Arts in Policy Sciences from Saitama University, Japan. Since joining the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1989, he has held key diplomatic positions across Asia and Europe, including Consul-General in Frankfurt and Minister at the Royal Thai Embassy in Berlin. In recognition of his exemplary service, he has been honored with prestigious national decorations, including the Knight Grand Cross (First Class) of the Most Exalted Order of the White Elephant. Pratik Ghimire of ApEx spoke with him about Nepal-Thai relations. Excerpts:

How do you see the current state of Nepal-Thailand relations?

Thailand and Nepal established diplomatic relations in 1959 or 66 years ago. The relationship between our two countries has always been excellent, based on mutual trust, respect, and understanding. We also share deep Buddhist ties and Nepal as the birthplace of Lord Buddha, is a sacred destination for Thai pilgrims. We have close cooperation in various fields.

I would like to highlight some examples which demonstrate that our two countries have worked together to overcome difficult situations. After the earthquake in 2015, Thai people donated money and volunteered to help reconstruct houses and basic infrastructures, and delivered food and medical assistance to Nepali people. With donations from Thai people, the Royal Thai Government can conduct various projects throughout Nepal. Furthermore, during the Covid-19 outbreak, Thailand provided medical equipment and supplies to Nepal on various occasions including the Royal Assents bestowed by His Majesty the King, the Royal Thai Government, and people of Thailand’s contribution. This shows the warm and cordial ties between our two countries at all levels.

Could you please shed light on the key areas of bilateral cooperation?

We are enhancing cooperation with Nepal in various aspects including, economic, tourism, religion, culture, and education. Thailand has continuously supported human resources development and Nepal’s Sustainable Development Goals by providing scholarships for higher education, sharing knowledge, and best practices. Thailand also partners with other countries and international organizations to offer training courses relevant to the current global landscape. At the same time, our two countries have always worked closely together and supported each other in many international and regional fora including the United Nations and BIMSTEC.

In terms of cultural cooperation, the Royal Thailand Embassy has organized several activities to strengthen the cultural ties between the two countries including Thai Festival in Nepal, Thai Food Festival, and Thai Film Festival in Nepal. For economic cooperation, we also encourage businessmen and industrialists from both Nepal and Thailand to seize this transformative opportunity to enhance trade and investment by focusing on key sectors such as tourism, IT, agriculture, and clean energy.

Tell us about the Thai cooperation in Lumbini.

The Royal Thai Government constructed the Royal  Thai Monastery in Lumbini in 1995. The Thai Monastery in Lumbini, not only plays a significant role in spreading Lord Buddha’s teaching but also conducts social support for Nepali communities in Lumbini. Since 2011 the Royal Thai Monastery in Lumbini and the Royal Thai have been organizing free cataract surgical workshops called Brightness to the Nepal’s Eye Project to improve the quality of life of vulnerable and deprived people in Lumbini and nearby areas who are suffering from cataract and eye-related problems. The medical team from Thailand led by a specialist from Ramathibodi Hospital, joined hands with Tilganga Institute in eye surgery and treatments.  Moreover, the Royal Thai Monastery integrated with Thai and Nepali hospitals also organized free Knee Replacement Operation project, Urolithiasis (bladder-stone) Treatment Project, and weekly dental treatments in Lumbini.

What is the current status of Thail investment in Nepal and what are the potentials?

At present, Thai investment in Nepal remains modest, but there is considerable potential for growth. According to official records up to fiscal year 2022/23, the Government of Nepal approved 13 projects involving Thai investors, with a total value of around $7.76m. However, the actual investment realized so far is about $900,000, which accounts for only 12 percent of the approved amount. This indicates that while interest exists, many projects have yet to fully materialize.

Despite these relatively small figures, we see significant opportunities ahead. First, Nepal has a young and dynamic population—around half of its 30m citizens are under the age of 30—offering a promising labor force capable of driving economic growth. Moreover, Nepal is on track to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status by 2026, a milestone that reflects its progress in economic and social development. As the country adapts to this new status, we expect an increasingly conducive environment for international trade and foreign direct investment.

Looking ahead, there are several key sectors in Nepal that hold particular interest for Thai businesses. Tourism is a natural fit given Thailand’s strong expertise in hospitality and services, and Nepal’s remarkable cultural and natural attractions. Hydropower is another promising field, given Nepal’s abundant water resources and the potential for sustainable energy development. Additionally, infrastructure, healthcare, and agriculture offer possibilities for collaboration, technology transfer, and investment.

We at the Royal Thai Embassy are working to raise awareness among Thai entrepreneurs about the opportunities in these sectors. Part of that effort involves providing market information, organizing business forums, and fostering connections between Thai and Nepali companies. Last year on 16th of September we organized the Focus Group Discussion on “Embrace Nepal’s Post-LDC Era for Thai Economic Opportunities” which gathered key stakeholders from Thailand and Nepal to discuss economic opportunities of Nepal which may arise from the LDC graduation. We believe that building strong partnerships on the ground is crucial. For instance, joint ventures or knowledge-sharing initiatives can help Thai investors navigate local regulations, distribution networks, and cultural nuances more effectively. At the same time, we encourage the Nepali government and private sector to continue facilitating a favorable business environment. This includes enhancing transparency, streamlining regulatory processes, and improving infrastructure—steps that will make Nepal even more attractive for Thai investors and businesspeople.

What about interaction at the top political level?

We exchanged several heads of government and high-ranking government officials’ visits including the visits of the President of Nepal and the Minister of Defense of Nepal to Thailand in 2017, the Prime Minister of Thailand visited Nepal for the BIMSTEC Summit in 2018. We are looking forward to increasing high-level visits with the Nepal side to strengthen cooperation between our two countries.

What are the future areas in which Thailand wants to engage with Nepal?

I believe that there is lots of potential to expand our cooperation and work as cooperative partners in this area of interest. I would like to highlight the area of “Tourism” since Nepal is rich in cultural heritage and has such a unique landscape and the country. We can share experiences of the development of our tourism sectors especially in hospitality training, logistic management, and safety measures for tourists. Furthermore, Thailand and Nepal can work together to promote the Buddhist circuit to draw the attention of international tourists to the historical Buddhist sites in Thailand and Nepal. The Royal Thai Embassy is willing to coordinate with the Nepali side to enhance tourism cooperation between the two countries.

Chairperson of the CPN (Maoist Center), Pushpa Kamal Dahal, has urged royalists to seek their place within the democratic system. The crowd participating in the royalist rally are also Nepalis, he said: if we ignore their demand for a better country, the monarchy and other reactionary elements will try to raise their heads.

“My request to the royalists is—find your place within democracy,” said Dahal while addressing Parliament on Tuesday. He emphasized that democracy belongs equally to both himself and former King Gyanendra Shah, a sentiment enshrined in the constitution. However, he warned that if unconstitutional and undemocratic paths were chosen, the revolutionary forces would once again demonstrate their strength.  

“We must remember the glorious sacrifices of different periods in history with wisdom and gratitude because the achievements gained through those sacrifices are now under threat from reactionary forces,” he said.  

Dahal reiterated that attempts were being made to overturn the people’s hard-earned achievements and that the current situation required simultaneous resistance against both the government’s wrongdoings and regressive forces. “There is now a need to fight on two fronts—against the government’s misdeeds and against reactionary elements,” he said.  

He further stated that allowing the former king to reside in Nepal was a testament to the country’s fundamental and liberal republicanism. “The history of monarchy worldwide is written in blood. But Nepal became an exception. Our liberal approach ensured that the former king was not exiled and was given a safe place to stay. That is how Nepal’s republican history was written,” he said.  

However, he cautioned that perceiving this leniency as a weakness would be a grave mistake. “If anyone thinks that this was a compulsion of the revolution, they are completely mistaken. If our liberalism is seen as a weakness, history may once again unfold with great severity,” he warned.  

Dahal reminded everyone that the republic was not only a result of the Maoists’ armed struggle but also the outcome of sacrifices from marginalized communities, ethnic groups, regions and genders.   “Let everyone remember this: if anyone believes that the sovereign people will once again become subjects, there can be no bigger illusion than that,” he asserted. He added that the presence of royalists in a democratic parliament itself was proof that democracy and monarchy were incomparable.  

However, Dahal blamed the government for the growing royalist activities. “The threats to democracy are not just external. More than external forces, misgovernance by those in power poses a greater challenge from within,” he said. He argued that the declining credibility of the government had emboldened conservative and monarchist forces. 

Dahal, the leader of the main opposition party, also criticized the ruling party for disregarding democratic values, pointing to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s absence during his speech. “When the leader of the main opposition party stands at the rostrum, the prime minister’s continued absence—is it arrogance, lack of etiquette or frustration? You should answer that yourselves,” he remarked.

Previously too, Prime Minister Oli was absent while Dahal addressed the parliament. It is a general trend of the Prime Minister being present while the leader of the main opposition party addresses the parliament and vice-versa. Prime Minister Oli meanwhile was addressing the Koshi Province Assembly on Tuesday.

After Dahal’s speech, Nepali Congress General Secretary Gagan Thapa expressed disagreement with some of Dahal’s remarks about the government. However, he echoed Dahal’s concerns about the need for the government to regain public trust.  

“During the drafting of the constitution, when I spoke about the need for change, I was accused of treason. Many here faced the same accusations. But this democratic republican system allows us to question and even challenge the system itself,” he said.

Thapa stressed that those who support the constitution must find common ground, whether in the government or in the opposition. “We need to maintain at least a minimal level of consensus—to protect the constitution, safeguard constitutional bodies and ensure proper governance,” he said.  

He also urged political leaders to engage in civil and informed debates rather than spreading hatred.   “We can criticize and question, but let’s not spread hate. If we allow hatred to consume us, it will take us all down. Let’s compete, but through civilized and informed discussions, both inside and outside Parliament,” he said.  

Thapa further urged the government to respond to the opposition’s concerns without arrogance. “If the government listens to the grievances of citizens and addresses them without arrogance, those who stand for change will unite through dialogue and good governance,” he added. 

He also stressed the need to address public dissatisfaction. “The people who stood by political parties during the democratic movement are now disillusioned. The government must listen to their concerns and address them before it’s too late,” he warned.