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Nepal government condemned the barbaric terrorist attack on innocent tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

"We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families and express our sincere wishes for the swift and full recovery of those injured" reads a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

"Nepal stands in steadfast solidarity with the Government and people of India in this time of sorrow," the Ministry said.

"In line with our firm and principled position, Nepal condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and believes that such heinous acts of terrorism cannot and should not be justified on any ground," according to the statement.

Global leaders have condemned the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam region that killed at least 26 people, including Indian and foreign tourist.Militants affiliated with the Resistance Front (TRF) opened fire on a group of non-Muslim tourists in Anantnag district's Baisaran meadow.

The attack targeted non-Muslim tourists, with reports indicating that the attackers chose victims based on their religious identity. Among the dead were Indian citizens from several states, as well as foreign tourists from Nepal and the United Arab Emirates. The incident is regarded as the deadliest civilian attack in the region since the removal of Jammu and Kashmir's special status in 2019. Authorities claim multiple injuries and widespread fear in the area.

The attack drew widespread condemnation from global leaders:

• United States: President Donald Trump expressed that the US stands firmly with India against terrorism. Vice President JD Vance, who was visiting India at the time, described the attack as a “devastating terrorist attack” and extended condolences to the victims’ families.

• Russia: President Vladimir Putin labeled the attack a “brutal crime” with no justification and offered condolences to the families of the victims.

• Italy: Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with the Indian people and government.

• France: Ambassador Thierry Mathou condemned the attack and expressed support for India in its fight against terrorism.

• Germany: Chancellor Scholz denounced the attack, offered condolences, and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

• Israel: Foreign Minister Sa’ar mourned the victims and affirmed Israel’s solidarity with India against terrorism.

• Ukraine: The Ukrainian Embassy voiced concern and reiterated support for regional peace and security.

• Denmark: Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen described the news from Pahalgam as terrible and extended condolences to the victims’ families .

• United Nations: Secretary-General António Guterres strongly condemned the attack, emphasizing that attacks against civilians are unacceptable under any circumstances.

• European Union: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the attack as vile and extended condolences, affirming that Europe stands with India.

• Other Nations: Leaders from countries including Israel, Germany, Sri Lanka, and Ukraine also condemned the attack and expressed support for India.

The international community's unanimous condemnation demonstrates a united front against terrorism and a shared commitment to assisting India during this difficult period.

In  response to the attack, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ended his visit to Saudi Arabia and returned to New Delhi. Home Minister Amit Shah visited Srinagar to examine the situation and coordinate the security reaction. Security personnel initiated a manhunt to catch the criminals, and a hotline was set up to help impacted travelers.

India has said that its decision to withdraw the transshipment facility extended to Bangladesh would not affect Bangladesh’s exports to Nepal and Bhutan. In a weekly press conference, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson at the  Ministry of External Affairs said decisions would not affect  regional integration and trade.

We do have that in mind that regional trade needs to be promoted, he said, so that how I would look at India-Bangladesh ties.  Last week, India revoked the transshipment facility it granted to Bangladesh, meaning Bangladesh can no longer export goods to third countries through Indian ports and airports.

Pervasive presence of plastics in our environment has raised significant concerns globally, and Nepal is no exception. From the deepest ocean trenches to the highest mountains, microplastics and other plastic pollutants have infiltrated ecosystems and, alarmingly, the human body. Plastics, derived from petrochemicals and synthetic materials, are ubiquitous in modern life due to their durability, lightweight nature, and versatility, which have led to widespread use in packaging, textiles, construction, and healthcare. However, plastics present a substantial downside: they do not biodegrade easily. Instead, they break down into smaller particles known as microplastics—particles less than 5mm in size—that have been found in various food items, beverages, and even the air we breathe.

The pathways through which plastics enter the human body are diverse, starting with food sources. In Nepal, the consumption of freshwater fish from the country’s rivers and lakes is a significant avenue for microplastic contamination. Research conducted by the Nepalese Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) revealed concerning levels of microplastics in common fish species, such as Rohu and Catla, which form staple protein sources for many Nepalis. Marine organisms, mistaking microplastics for food, ingest these particles, leading to bioaccumulation up the food chain. When humans consume these fish, they inadvertently increase their microplastic intake, raising potential health concerns.

In agriculture, the practice of using plastic mulch has become commonplace among Nepalese farmers due to its benefits in weed control and moisture retention. However, this practice contributes to plastic pollution in the soil. As plastics decompose, they disrupt the availability of micronutrients essential for plant health, resulting in potential residues on produce grown in contaminated soil that may eventually enter human diets. Furthermore, the rise of packaged food products in urban areas like Kathmandu and Pokhara has increased exposure to microplastics. Many food items are sold in plastic packaging that can leach harmful chemicals into the contents, particularly under high temperatures during storage and transportation. The National Institute of Health and Population (NIHP) recently indicated concerns about certain packaged snacks containing microplastics, contributing to the overall apprehension about their health impacts.

Environmental exposure is another critical pathway. Air pollution in urban centers is a growing health concern, and airborne microplastics have been detected in air samples across Nepal. High levels of construction, vehicle emissions, and industrial activity suggest that individuals may be inhaling microplastic particles. Dr. Anuja Tamang, a pulmonary specialist in Kathmandu, noted that these inhaled particles could lead to respiratory issues and other chronic health conditions. Additionally, water sources in Nepal are increasingly threatened by plastic pollution. Rivers and lakes, often used as dumping grounds for plastic waste, pose a risk of microplastic contamination in drinking water supplies. A recent survey conducted by the Department of Water Supply and Sewerage detected microplastics in drinking water sources across several districts, raising serious concerns about the health implications for consumers.

Daily habits also contribute to plastic ingestion. Personal care products often contain micro plastics, known as "microbeads," found in soaps, scrubs, and toothpaste. Many consumers in Nepal remain unaware that their everyday skincare routines could lead to plastic exposure. Dr. Sabin Sharma, a dermatologist in Kathmandu, encourages consumers to seek out products free from micro plastics, advocating for natural alternatives that pose fewer risks to human health and the environment. Household items made from synthetic materials, such as cleaning supplies and furniture, can also release micro plastics. With regular use, these products can shed tiny plastic fibers into the air, presenting another route of inadvertent exposure over time.

The health implications tied to microplastic ingestion are still under investigation, but research is beginning to uncover potential risks. Studies suggest that microplastics may provoke inflammation, disrupt endocrine functions, and even contribute to various diseases, including cancer, metabolic syndrome, and reproductive issues. In Nepal, where healthcare resources may be limited, the growing burden of plastic-related health problems poses additional strains on the healthcare system. Dr. Pramila Shrestha, a public health expert, emphasizes the urgency of raising awareness regarding these health risks while advocating for more comprehensive studies to understand and mitigate the impact of microplastics on the population.

In conclusion, while the benefits of plastics in modern society are undeniable, the growing challenge of plastic pollution—particularly as it relates to human health—demands urgent attention, especially in resource-limited settings like Nepal. Comprehensive measures, including improved waste management practices, public education campaigns, and regulation of plastic use, are critical to mitigating the impact of plastic contamination in food, air, and water. As the data continues to emerge, it is essential for stakeholders, including policymakers, health professionals, and the general public, to collaborate in adopting sustainable practices that safeguard both human and environmental health.

The Newar community, indigenous to the Kathmandu Valley, is known for their rich culture, artistic heritage, and deep-rooted traditions. Among the many aspects of Newari or Newa culture, jewelry holds a special place. Newari jewelry is more than mere ornamentation; it reflects history, craftsmanship, spirituality, and social identity.

Adorned by Newari women during festivals, ceremonies, and daily life, these intricate pieces of jewelry carry symbolic meanings that connect them to their ancestors and gods. Crafted in gold, silver, and precious stones, each piece tells a story of tradition, skill, and devotion. Beyond jewelry, Newari culture is an amalgamation of ancient customs, unique festivals, traditional attire, and architectural marvels that have stood the test of time.

This article delves into the beauty of Newari jewelry and explores the essence of Newari culture, providing insight into the traditions that define this remarkable community.

Legacy of Newari jewelry

Newari jewelry has a history dating back centuries, influenced by Hindu and Buddhist traditions. These ornaments are often handcrafted by skilled artisans, using age-old techniques passed down through generations. Newari jewelry is diverse, with different pieces worn for separate occasions. Some of the most popular types of jewelry include:

• Kantha

Kantha is a thick gold necklace, often designed with intricate patterns. It is worn by married Newari women, symbolizing prosperity, and social status.

• Tayo

Tayo is one of the most iconic pieces of Newari jewelry. This large, crescent-shaped pendant, often made of gold, features intricate designs, and is associated with wealth and good fortune. It is commonly worn by Newari women during festivals and weddings.

• Makashi

Makashi, or gold headpieces, are worn by Newari brides and young girls during special ceremonies. These ornate head ornaments enhance beauty while also signifying purity and cultural pride.

• Pata

Pata is a type of wide, gold choker necklace often worn during significant occasions. It is crafted with fine detailing, showcasing the craftsmanship of Newari artisans.

• Naugedi

Naugedi consists of multiple gold beads strung together into a necklace. It is a commonly worn ornament by Newari women, symbolizing elegance, and prosperity.

• Har

Har is a long necklace made of gold and beads, often worn with traditional attire. This piece adds to the graceful and royal appearance of Newari women.

• Bulaki

Bulaki is a small gold ornament worn on the nose. It is especially significant for elderly Newari women and carries religious importance.

• Tilhari

Tilhari is a traditional necklace worn by married women. It consists of a long string of red beads with gold cylindrical pendants, representing marital status and longevity.

Symbolism and spiritual significance

Newari jewelry is not just about adornment; each piece has a cultural and spiritual significance. Many ornaments are inspired by Hindu and Buddhist beliefs, incorporating motifs of deities, lotus flowers, and other sacred symbols. For example, Tayo represents good fortune and is believed to bring protection and blessings from the gods. Similarly, gold jewelry is often considered auspicious and plays a vital role in marriage ceremonies and religious rituals.

Artisans behind the craft

The creation of Newari jewelry is a meticulous process conducted by skilled artisans, primarily from the Shakya and Sunar castes. These craftsmen use traditional hand tools and techniques to mold gold and silver into exquisite designs. Many families have been in the jewelry-making profession for generations, preserving the craftsmanship and knowledge of this art.

Despite modern influences, the demand for handmade Newari jewelry remains high, both within Nepal and internationally. Newari jewelers continue to practice their craft, blending tradition with contemporary aesthetics to appeal to a wider audience.

Essence of Newari culture

Newari culture is one of the most vibrant and well-preserved cultures in Nepal. It encompasses unique traditions, cuisine, festivals, language, and architecture, making it a significant part of Nepal’s heritage.

• Language and literature

The Newars have their own language, Nepal Bhasa (Newar language), which has a rich literary history. It has been used in inscriptions, religious texts, and folk tales for centuries. Newari manuscripts, written in scripts such as Ranjana and Prachalit, highlight the intellectual depth of this community.

• Traditional attire

Newari clothing reflects the beauty and grace of their culture. Women traditionally wear a Haku Patasi, a black sari with a red border, accompanied by a shawl. During special occasions, they adorn themselves with elaborate jewelry. Men wear Daura Suruwal along with a traditional Newari cap, known as Topy.

Bridal attire in Newari culture is particularly elaborate, featuring luxurious fabrics, gold jewelry, and intricate headpieces. The combination of attire and ornaments creates a majestic look for Newari brides.

Newari culture is a living testament to Nepal’s rich heritage, blending spirituality, tradition, and artistic excellence. From vibrant festivals and intricate architecture to exquisite jewelry and flavorful cuisine, every aspect of Newari life reflects a deep-rooted connection to history and community. Despite modernization, the Newar people continue to preserve their unique customs, ensuring that their cultural identity remains strong for future generations. As one of the most significant cultural groups in Nepal, the Newars not only contribute to the nation’s historical legacy but also serve as a symbol of resilience, creativity, and devotion.

Kalpana Aryal, a 40-year-old homemaker lady, talks about how switching to electric cooking instead of gas allowed her to lower her LPG bills and how this altered her daily cooking schedule because it is dependable and convenient. Kalpana started using electric cooking three years ago, and she hasn't looked back since.

This means a considerable saving of the LPG bill, which costs around Rs 1,900 per cylinder. “Households can slash their LPG bills if housewives are trained about the usage and accessibility of E-cooking,” Aryal says: It is a smart, affordable, accessible and simple method of cooking.

Electric cooking has the potential to improve the quality of life for people who cook using biomass, both by improving health by eradicating harmful emissions and by removing the need to collect fuelwood, thus freeing up time for other activities. Per some estimates, 63.6 percent of Nepali households, primarily those in rural regions, still primarily utilize biomass for cooking, accounting for 69 percent of the country’s primary energy usage. 

Conventional biomass cookstoves emit a lot of smoke and are inefficient. These burners expose women and children to dangerous toxins in kitchens with inadequate ventilation. Women also frequently have to walk great distances to gather firewood, and cleaning a kitchen covered in smoke residue is a tedious task.

Notably, 33.1 percent of Nepali homes use bottled liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which is also being used more and more frequently as their primary cooking fuel. In less than five percent of Nepali homes, cooking is done with electricity. Susil Shrestha, an electric appliances seller based in Mahaboudhha, says electrical cooking devices are in high demand as they are effective in terms of cost and time both. The government’s positive impetus on the use of these devices is also fueling the demand, per Shrestha. 

The right to live in a hygienic and safe environment is guaranteed to residents of Nepal under the Constitution and by 2030, all Nepali households are expected to have clean cooking. Electricity and LPG are currently the government’s two most promising technological solutions when it comes to renewable energy. The government wants to encourage electric cooking because of Nepal’s enormous solar and hydropower potential. 

This is due to the fact that LPG not only adds to carbon dioxide emissions but also depletes Nepal’s meager foreign exchange reserves and increases its reliance on fuel imports, leading to energy instability. The Nepal Electricity Authority makes investments in distribution system reinforcement in order to achieve this aim. 

Biraj Gautam, CEO of PEEDA, adds the widespread of electric cooking awareness in urban areas than in rural. He adds “There is no denying the financial advantages of switching to electric stoves: Less reliance on imported LPG gas will accumulate valuable foreign exchange reserves, which can subsequently be directed toward more fruitful industries that support the advancement of the country. Beyond the financial benefits, Nepal’s goals for sustainable development are ideally aligned with the use of electric stoves. Since electricity is a greener and cleaner energy source, it is essential for lowering carbon emissions and lessening the negative effects of climate change.”

The Department of Customs’ (DoC) records offer factual proof of Nepal’s transition to electric stoves, a move that has numerous potential advantages for the country. Nepal imported an astounding 204,393 electric stove units in the fiscal year 2022-23 alone, spending a total of Rs 425.47m. This astounding number not only demonstrates the increasing interest from consumers, but it also represents a move toward more economical and ecologically responsible cooking methods. It is impossible to overlook the notable surge in the quantity of electric stoves acquired, which represents a whopping 30 percent increase over the previous fiscal. A significant trend toward the usage of electric stoves in homes is indicated by an growth rate. Indicating a wide range of consumer preferences, 130,745 induction stoves and 73,648 infrared stoves made up the total number of imported units. This paradigm shift has far-reaching and profound repercussions.

Former NEA MD and Pulchowk Engineering College professor Mukesh Kafle emphasizes “the need for an in-depth assessment of Nepal’s energy infrastructure in light of the surge in imports of electric stoves. A regular and consistent supply of electricity would be necessary to keep up the momentum and promote the widespread use of electric stoves. Without which, cooking online would only become a hassle.” He adds that if every person in a nation wants to switch to electric cooking, there won’t be enough electricity. He also offers his insightful commentary on the government’s repeated delays in finishing various hydropower storage projects, which prevents us from using the hydropower that sustains our nation.

Due to the limited electricity supply and simple access to rural places, cooking with electrical appliances is still problematic in Nepal. Only five amps of current can be used in a majority of Nepal’s older dwellings. While electricity is easy to use in new homes, there are other issues like intermittent load-shedding, only half-light systems, problems when cooking materials malfunction in electrical appliances, the inability to get it in Nepal, and concerns about the quality, availability and taste of food.

As a result, Nepal Electricity Authority and associated parties must take note of it. To ensure a prosperous future for their population, governments must constantly adjust to new paradigms in a world marked by rapid technical innovation and environmental conscience. Nepal, a nation blessed with stunning scenery and a rich cultural legacy, is welcoming change in one crucial area: The energy sector.

In opposition to what Mukesh Kafle claimed, the current MD of the NEA, MR. Kulman Ghising, argues that there is a production difference in power during the wet and dry seasons. He describes the “trade mechanism that involves purchasing electricity from them during the dry season and exporting it during the dry season.” Several reservoir projects and storage projects, such as the 140 MW Tanahu water project, are in the works to fill these gaps.

Electricity must be readily available, dependable and reasonably priced in order for electric cooking to become widely used in Nepal, as was previously said. Although Nepal possesses enormous hydropower potential, run-of-the-river (RoR) plants are the only way to fully utilize this potential. There are very few strategically viable seasonal storage projects, and developing them comes with a significant social, environmental and financial cost. Thus, in order to supplement RoR and storage hydropower plants with solar PV plants that can generate energy throughout the day, when solar resources are accessible, and during the dry season, the government must develop an electricity generation policy. 

In Nepal, the vertically integrated NEA’s monopoly is another impediment to innovation in the power sector. Rent-seeking,political patronage and labor unions’ powerful influence have all contributed to the institutional lock-in that has come from this. In light of this, decomposing the resulting monolithic distribution company into seven provincial distribution companies and quickly unbundling NEA into distinct generation, transmission and distribution companies could encourage additional advancements in the field of electricity distribution.

In order to fix the price of power based on supply and demand, the government will need to create a differential energy tariff system. Since there would be less demand for electricity when it is in excess, the price of electricity would be cheaper. To encourage electric cooking in particular, a pricing structure of this kind for residential consumers may be developed. In addition, a big public education effort regarding the financial and ecological advantages of using electricity for cooking will need to be launched by the government. Using electric cooking will be encouraged in part by this. We need to acknowledge the various initiatives in this respect that the government and its agencies have become involved in, with cooperation from the business and non-governmental sectors.

Without a doubt, Nepal’s growing interest in electric stoves represents a constructive and revolutionary change that is consistent with the objectives of the worldwide sustainability movement. To take advantage of this momentum, the government needs to make sure that everyone in the country has access to reliable and effective electricity. By doing this, Nepal may significantly lower the amount of LPG gas it imports, protecting its foreign exchange reserves, promoting environmental preservation, and promoting economic growth. 

The increasing use of electric stoves should be viewed as a sign of development, leading Nepal toward a more prosperous, independent and ecologically conscious future. In order to encourage the use of electric cooking over LPG cooking, the government must put a great deal of effort into developing and implementing sensible policies. Government, non-government and private sectors must work together closely and coordinate their efforts to create a smoke-free environment and enable all Nepali households to use clean, renewable electricity produced locally for cooking. This will go a long way toward helping Nepal achieve its goal of becoming a net zero-carbon nation by 2050.

The government should be commended for the positive progress and provide strategic assistance for the recent increase in the import of electric stoves and cooking devices. The advancement of electric stoves should be seen as a sign of progress that moves Nepal toward a future that is not only brighter, but also more self-sufficient and environment-friendly. Now is the time to act as Nepal moves toward sustainability and prosperity for all.

This story has been produced under the program, #CommunicatingClimate is an initiative under the Climate Champion Action Network (CACN)

“Yatra Naryastu Pujyate Tatra Ramante Devata,” goes one of the lines of Bhagwad Geeta, which translates to wherever women are honored and respected, every god we worship is happy. From the time immemorial women have been defined as homemakers; they say home is where a mother is. 

While most families in Nepal are strongly patriarchal, the role of women cannot be overlooked when it comes to keeping families together. But women actually are capable of doing a lot more besides home and family fronts. Women have just started claiming their place. As they begin to assert their status, they don’t have it easy. They want equal rights and opportunities.  Article 18 of Part 3 of the Constitution of Nepal mentions the ‘Right to Equality’ under Fundamental Rights and Duties. This ‘right,’ however, is limited to paper. Nepali girls and women still experience severe socioeconomic inequality in spite of the efforts made by the Government of Nepal, non-governmental organizations and civil society organizations. 

Yes, the gender stereotypic school of thought has changed over time and womens are taking the lead on major areas, but there is still some residual discrimination hindering women’s growth. But their perseverance for equal rights and opportunities has not dwindled. Nepal is experiencing a significant rise in women led businesses, challenging old stereotypes and breaking new ground.  Women contribute fresh perspectives, creative ideas and unconventional thinking to the workplace, which can inspire firms to think creatively and make better judgements. The financial advantages are another factor that makes women in business essential. 

A Google and Bain company study predicts that by 2030, women entrepreneurs could create 150-170m jobs driven by better education, increased digital technological use and supportive programmes that empower their physical and mental well being. But still when it comes to investment in women, be it in education or business, a large part of Nepali society still looks askance. The gap in investment towards women empowerment and development has contributed to gender inequality and disparity. Nepal is all set to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2026, a process that will create new opportunities for economic growth and integration with the global economy. But the graduation also creates new challenges in terms of where the genders of the nation stands. Nepal needs to step up its efforts to elevate the status of its women. Improved quality of lives in women of Kathmandu isn’t what women empowerment is all about; the overall status of women around the country needs to be improved. 

A survey conducted by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in 2023 found that 85 percent of women were unpaid workers, whereas 40 percent of them were inactive in economic sectors. Nepal still stands second among South Asiain countries in child marriage and has high prevalence of violence and trade on women. The vulnerability is still there while we raise awareness about feminism and women empowerment. Even with many notable improvements and changes, challenges still persist for Nepali women to assert their rights and gain equal treatment in society and in the worlds of career and business.  

Women struggle to obtain business capital and frequently experience discrimination. The gender gap in financial literacy is a noteworthy issue, with women typically having less understanding than men about managing their finances. Nonetheless, success stories in a variety of fields demonstrate the tenacity of Nepali women and point to a movement in the direction of empowerment. With so many chances and challenges ahead of them, Nepali women entrepreneurs must embrace financial literacy, make use of technology, connect with supportive networks, and participate in government initiatives. By remaining knowledgeable, flexible and strong, female entrepreneurs can grow their companies and make a substantial economic contribution to Nepal. There is plenty of promise for the future and women leaders can achieve incredible success and inspire future generations. 

An International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff team, led by Tidiane Kinda, conducted a staff visit to Nepal during Feb 5-12 to discuss recent macroeconomic developments and the implementation of the Fund-supported program .

At the conclusion of the visit, Kinda said Nepal’s external position continues to strengthen on the back of buoyant remittances, increasing tourism activity, subdued imports, and inflation is decreasing.

Weak domestic demand, large outward migration, and low credit growth despite monetary relaxation continue to weigh on near-term economic growth. Enhancing domestic revenue mobilization and accelerating the execution of capital expenditure will provide needed support to growth while securing fiscal sustainability, he says. 

According to him, increased vigilance on banks’ asset quality and stepped-up supervisory efforts are important to preserve financial stability in view of growing non-performing loans. “The medium-term economic outlook remains favorable, as strategic investments in infrastructure, especially in the energy sector, are expected to support potential growth.

The statement issued by Kinda says: The upcoming Investment Summit presents an opportunity to showcase Nepal’s economic potential. Timely reforms to durably improve the investment climate will help take full advantage of the Summit and pave the way to stronger growth in the future.

“The authorities’ ongoing efforts in meeting key commitments under the Fund-supported program, with the support of IMF’s technical assistance, are welcome. Performance under the program will be formally assessed in the context of the fourth review of the Extended Credit Facility, which is expected to take place in the middle of the year.”

The IMF team held meetings with the Minister of Finance Prakash Sharan Mahat, the Nepal Rastra Bank Governor, Maha Prasad Adhikari, the National Planning Commission Vice-chair Min Bahadur Shrestha, and other senior government and central bank officials. The IMF team also met with representatives from the private sector and development partners.