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A few months ago, a shocking incident unfolded in Balkot. A seemingly ordinary family was devastated when Milan Acharya murdered his father and brother in their sleep. He later admitted to the killings, attributing his action to stress and depression. Acharya claimed he did it to “free them,” revealing a deeply troubled state of mind.

Some months later, Lila Raj Giri murdered his seven-year-old daughter and five-year-old nephew in Bharatpur. He attacked the two children with a sickle before turning the weapon on himself. Giri was found in a critical condition and rushed to the hospital. A former soldier, authorities suspect Giri committed the murder due to a mental health crisis.

Similar tragedies continue to emerge across the country. In one recent case, a woman named Durbi from Morang district died after her husband, Babudhan Satar, attacked her in a domestic dispute. A neighbor who tried to intervene was also injured.
Not long after, Rajendra Rai murdered his wife Manisha and her four family members at Dhodlekhani village of Bhojpur. The incident followed months of conflict between Rai and his in-laws, who didn’t approve of marriage between him and their daughter. 

The above- mentioned cases are not random or isolated. In recent months, Nepal has witnessed a disturbing rise in violent crimes committed within families. These chilling cases reveal more than just crime; they point toward a larger, more complex social and psychological crisis.

As Lawrence R Samuel notes in The Psychology of Murder: “The taking of another person’s life was often the outcome of a strong emotion linked to a particular event and a close relationship.” Mental health struggles, unresolved conflicts, societal pressure, caste discrimination, and a lack of support systems may all be contributing factors. Yet the big question remains: Why are people committing these acts—and why do they seem unafraid of the legal consequences?

Is it a failure of the legal system? Or are we neglecting the mental health crisis quietly growing inside homes? The normalization—or even the increasing frequency—of such domestic tragedies demands more than just punishment.

Looking in the traditional Nepali society, it places a strong emphasis on family honor, obedience to elders, rigid gender roles, and social hierarchy. While these norms have historically maintained social cohesion, they often suppress individual emotions and discourage open conversations about mental health. The stigma around seeking help—especially for men or those facing emotional distress—can lead to bottled-up anger, isolation, and unresolved conflict within families. In cases where individuals challenge these norms (such as through love marriages or defying parental authority), tensions can escalate, sometimes with tragic consequences.

Psychiatrist Dr Rika Rijal explains, “In psychiatry, extreme domestic violence within families often emerges from severe depression with psychotic features, psychotic illnesses, unresolved trauma, or overwhelming stress. Individuals in such states may not perceive reality accurately. They might experience overwhelming guilt, or distorted beliefs that drive them toward harming loved ones.” Emotional isolation, personality issues, or long-standing family tensions can further compound the risk.

According to Dr Rijal, depression is not always quiet sadness— it can appear as anger, agitation, and irritability. “In some cases, unresolved trauma or feelings of helplessness may become so unbearable that the person externalizes their inner turmoil in destructive ways.” 

Within homes, this can tragically manifest as violence against family members—those closest and most vulnerable.

In the case of Acharya, the statement to “free” his family reflects a possible altruistic delusion, says Dr Rijal. “In such a state, the person falsely believes they are protecting loved ones. Sometimes, individuals extend their suicidal ideation outward, thinking that death is a form of relief not just for themselves but also for their family.” 

Such a thought process does not arise from cruelty but from a profoundly disordered perception of reality. Psychiatrists suggest that families and communities may also help and examine them carefully. There are different warning signs that includes withdrawal and social isolation, expressions of hopelessness or being a burden, sudden aggression, irritability, or erratic behaviour, talking about “ending suffering” or showing preoccupation with death, noticeable decline in daily functioning, such as neglecting hygiene, school, or work, use of substance etc. Recognizing these signs early can provide families and communities with a chance to intervene before crises escalate.

Nepal does have mental health resources, though they remain limited and underutilized. While psychiatric services at any hospital and NGOs like Transcultural Psychosocial Organization (TPO), KOSHISH, and CMC Nepal offer community-based psychosocial support, they are not widely accessible to those in need.

Dr Rijal says, stigma around mental illness, lack of mental health literacy, and geographical barriers prevent many at-risk individuals from accessing these services. She stresses strengthening community awareness and creating accessible mental health support could prevent such tragedies in the future.

According to Nepal Police, property and financial disputes, such as the division of family property or disagreements over land ownership, often spark deep-rooted tensions within households. These conflicts can escalate into family feuds, leading to strained relationships between spouses and even incidents of domestic violence. Officials say that in many cases, individuals involved may suffer from mental health issues like depression or more severe conditions such as psychosis, which further complicate the situation. 

Additionally, societal pressures—especially the emphasis on family honor—can intensify these challenges, with love affairs or inter-caste marriages often viewed as a threat to social respect. The situation is frequently worsened by the use of drugs and alcohol, which can fuel aggressive behavior and impair judgment, making peaceful resolution even more difficult. Lack of education and awareness also lead to these incidents and violence against women and dowry are some of the reasons behind these.

For many people with disabilities, the everyday reality is filled with obstacles that remain invisible to most. Inaccessible roads, unreliable public transport, and poorly implemented laws create barriers that restrict opportunities, independence, and dignity. 

Take the story of Pustika Prajapati. She lost her vision after completing grade 12 due to corneal problems. “When I step outside, I walk carefully,” she explains. Her vision started deteriorating in grade 8, but she learned to adapt. “The roads have potholes and living in Bhaktapur is even hard because of the brick roads and gallis, but I have been managing till now,” she says.

Transportation and negotiating with city traffic, however, is another story. Zebra crossings are particularly dangerous because there is no voice system to assist. “Once, I asked a man to give me a reserved seat on the bus. He refused, and the conductor didn’t help either,” she recalls.

For Nar Bahadur Bista, a member of the Dwarf Association of Nepal, daily life comes with physical challenges that most people take for granted. Public transport, stairs, and even simple furniture like chairs or toilets are not designed for someone of his stature. “Getting on and off buses is difficult. Stairs, public toilets, chairs, and even kitchens are not made for people like me,” he says.

Hospital visits are also a challenge for Bista, as beds, counters, and chairs are not accessible.

These are not isolated cases. Across Nepal, inaccessible roads, vehicles, buildings, and services create an invisible prison for people with disabilities. These stories reveal the hidden cost of inaccessibility—lost education, lost jobs, and opportunities. 

Sugam Bhattarai, general secretary of the National Federation of the Disabled Nepal (NFDN) and a person living with macular degeneration—a condition that causes blurred or no vision in the central visual field—points out how poor infrastructure creates daily struggles. “Nepal’s roads are very bad,” he says. “They are too narrow for wheelchairs or four-wheeler scooters, and people are scared to use them on the main roads. Public infrastructure must be equipped with the latest accessibility features so that people with disabilities can move independently and with dignity.”

According to the Nepal Census 2021, 2.2 percent of Nepal’s population live with some form of disability. Among them, 2.5 percent are men and 2.0 percent are women. The prevalence of various types of disabilities is as follows: physical disabilities (36.75 percent), low vision (16.88 percent), blindness (5.37 percent), deafness (7.85 percent), hard of hearing (7.87 percent), combined deaf and blind (1.56 percent), speech impairment (6.36 percent), psycho-social disabilities (4.2 percent), intellectual disabilities (1.73 percent), hemophilia (0.75 percent), autism (0.75 percent), multiple disabilities (8.78 percent), and cases not specified (1.07 percent).

Globally, the World Health Organization estimates that excluding people with disabilities from education and employment can cost countries 3–7 percent of their GDP. In India, billions are lost annually because talented workers are sidelined. For Nepal, the cost of exclusion is staggering.

Binita Regmi, chairperson of National Association of the Physical Disabled (NAPD), says that a lot has changed within months as people have been aware, many people have been coordinating well.

For visually impaired persons like Prajapati, college presents another battlefield. “I study in a normal classroom, but the noise and disturbances make it hard to focus,” she says. “My friends say that I ask too many questions. I also need a writer for exams, but it’s hard to find one, and extra time isn’t provided.” 

She emphasizes the need for tactile pavements–designed with raised lines, domes, or other textured patterns to convey safety information to people who are blind, have low vision, or experience other visual impairments or guiding tiles, sound systems at crossings, and accessible educational materials—resources that are rarely available. 

“Laws exist, but they are not implemented. We have rights, but they are not enforced,” she says.

Nepal has legal frameworks intended to protect and empower persons with disabilities. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2017 mandates accessible public buildings, transport, and services. Building codes require ramps, accessible toilets, and inclusive designs.

Section 15 guarantees access to education, housing, workplaces, transportation, and electronic services for people with disabilities. It also states that disabled individuals have the right to move freely with the assistance of aides or devices of their choosing.

Section 12 of the 2020 Regulations on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities mandates a 50 percent discount on public transport fares and reserved seats for people with disabilities. The National Policy on Persons with Disabilities, 2023, further emphasizes that transportation must be accessible and disabled-friendly.

But implementation remains weak. An audit of government buildings in Kathmandu revealed steep ramps too narrow for wheelchairs, lifts without Braille buttons, and toilets lacking sufficient turning space.

Bista says dwarfism is simply grouped under disability without special consideration. “Rules and regulations are made without consulting us, so facilities fail to meet our needs,” he adds. 

Bista advocates for inclusive planning, where persons with dwarfism and other disabilities are consulted to create fair and functional solutions.

His case highlights that accessibility is not only a matter of physical infrastructure but also of thoughtful policy-making that considers the diversity of disability experiences. Without inclusive planning, even minor design decisions—like the height of a counter or step of a bus—can become insurmountable barriers.

Government and transport officials acknowledge the gaps. Bhupendra Aryal, CEO of Sajha Yatayat, says the company has 111 buses in operation and 65 of them are disability-friendly. He admits some buses still need to be replaced or reformed. “As a new CEO, I have received many complaints highlighting these issues. We have two types of buses—A and B grade—where disabled passengers can travel more freely, but they need to become more accessible and relevant. We are actively working to address these concerns,” he says.

Similarly, Saligram Poudel from the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport (MoPIT) says the ministry has been working with the concerned agencies to make public transport more disability-friendly. “A specific fleet of buses with proper facilities will be introduced soon to address these needs,” he says. Kamala Ghimire, under secretary at the Ministry of Women, Children and Senior Citizens (MoWCSC), acknowledges that accessibility remains a major challenge in Nepal due to poor infrastructure. She notes while about 2.2 percent of the population is living with disabilities, many of them are not visibly disabled, yet still face significant difficulties—particularly when using public buses. She stresses that traffic authorities, bus staff, and coordinators must ensure proper management of seats and respect the rights and regulations that guarantee accessibility for persons with disabilities.

Dharma Raj Bhandari, general secretary of Nepal Transport Workers’ Association, says they are actively trying to address the concerns of passengers with disabilities.  

“The Vehicle and Transport Management Act is in the process of being amended, and I believe that with proper planning and consultation with people with disabilities, we can create meaningful improvements,” he says.

Meanwhile, experts suggest a multi-pronged approach to improve accessibility. This includes strict enforcement of accessibility codes for all new buildings and public transport, as well as incentives for businesses that invest in inclusive infrastructure. They say low-cost smart solutions, such as portable ramps, voice-assisted apps, tactile paving, and audio announcements, can also make a significant difference.
Alongside these measures, community awareness campaigns are essential to reduce stigma and promote accessibility as a shared social responsibility.

Rame Dhakal from NAPD stresses the importance of awareness. “People need to be educated about the words they use. Many still use inappropriate or insensitive terms when referring to persons with disabilities,” he says. “The real change starts with an attitude change.”  

For modern travelers, airport lounges and restaurants serve distinct but complementary roles, offering comfort and convenience to passengers. Lounges, typically reserved for premium-class passengers or loyalty members, provide a tranquil space with amenities like plush seating, complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, and often showers or business facilities. Restaurants, on the other hand, cater to all travelers and offer a wide variety of dining experiences—from fast food to gourmet meals. 

At Tribhuvan International Airport, travelers don’t have to choose between the two. Yatra Lounge and Restro offers both sides, combining the comforts of a lounge with the culinary variety of a restaurant. 

Located near the International Departure gate, Yatra Lounge and Restro has become a welcoming space for all kinds of travelers. With over 10 years of experience in airport hospitality, the owner understood exactly what tourists and travelers need before a long flight: a peaceful environment, good food, and practical amenities. 

The lounge was created with traveler feedback in mind and designed to meet the specific needs of every guest. Today, it’s a calm, clean, and beautifully designed spot where guests can relax, enjoy a meal, and freshen up. The ambience is serene, far removed from the typical crowded and chaotic airport environment. 

Previously, the area lacked basic facilities. There was no proper water service, restrooms were inadequate, and there was always a crowd. Now, guests can enjoy clean restrooms, take a refreshing shower, and unwind before their flight. For those suffering from jet lag or looking to recharge, Yatra Lounge and Restro offers the perfect place to rest and reset. 

The establishment officially opened on July 15, and while it’s already serving travelers, the official grand opening is still on the way. The delay has been due to various factors, including raw material shortages, labor challenges, and necessary documentation procedures required by the airport authorities. Despite these setbacks, the team has stayed committed to delivering a high-quality experience. 

The menu at Yatra Lounge and Restro is thoughtfully curated. The chef has placed special emphasis on Thakali cuisine, aiming to offer travelers a taste of home before departure or after arrival. This homely touch has resonated well with guests and adds to the comforting atmosphere. 

Beyond local flavors, the menu also features a diverse range of international cuisines, including Italian, Thai, and Chinese dishes. As the team continues to evolve, they are currently in discussions about introducing a signature dish that will represent the brand’s unique identity. A new menu is also in the works, with updates expected soon. 

The ambience at Yatra Lounge and Restro is designed with care and attention to detail. Greenery, soft background music, and comfortable seating create a relaxing space for travelers. There’s a thoughtful mix of open areas and private spaces, with chairs featuring traditional Dhaka fabric, adding a cultural touch to the modern setting. The lounge also includes a kids’ room, catering to families and ensuring children have a comfortable place to unwind while waiting for their flight. 

Understanding airport dynamics is key to smooth operations. Yatra Lounge and Restro is equipped with real-time flight display monitors, helping the staff stay updated on departure and arrival schedules. This foresight allows the team to prepare for peak travel hours, particularly during flight delays or weather disruptions, which are common during the rainy season. 

The management receives pre-information about potential delays, enabling them to proactively manage resources and staffing. As the management emphasizes, teamwork is essential—no one can handle such a dynamic environment alone. A coordinated effort ensures that guests receive seamless service, no matter how busy it gets. 

At Yatra Lounge and Restro, the journey doesn’t stop at just offering comfort—it’s about constantly improving. The lounge actively collects feedback through physical forms and a live online feedback system, ensuring real-time input from guests. Most feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, yet the management acknowledges that hospitality is an ever-evolving field, and there’s always room for improvement. Their openness to suggestions reflects their genuine commitment to guest satisfaction. 

Currently, Yatra Lounge and Restro offers both pre-booking and walk-in access, with the majority being walk-in customers. Looking ahead, the lounge is planning to introduce a membership or pass system, especially aimed at international travelers. Options like Privilege Pass and Priority Pass are under consideration to provide frequent flyers with added convenience and exclusive benefits. 

Although the lounge is open to everyone, the primary target includes frequent travelers who seek peace, comfort, and a quiet space to wait, relax, or refresh. As a pre-security lounge, it’s accessible before check-in, making it an excellent choice for not just travelers, but also airport staff and visitors. 

Unlike most airport lounges that are located post-security, Yatra Lounge and Restro is situated before the boarding pass check, near the International Departure gate, allowing anyone to access it, be it travelers, family members, or airport staff. With around 10,000 employees working at Tribhuvan International Airport, the lounge also provides a welcoming space for staff to dine, rest, or meet visiting relatives. For officers and personnel who can’t bring guests inside the secured zones, this lounge offers a convenient and comfortable meeting point. 

Operating 24 hours a day, the lounge runs on a well-coordinated day and night shift system, ensuring continuous service for travelers at any hour. This has also created employment for nearly 40 staff members, each trained specifically according to their role. Training is provided based on institutional standards, ensuring quality service in all aspects—from food service and customer care to hygiene and operations. 

Yatra Lounge and Restro goes beyond just offering food and a place to sit. It’s a fully equipped pre-flight retreat designed to meet the diverse needs of modern travelers. The lounge offers a range of affordable packages and combo deals that include access to exclusive facilities such as: private sleeping rooms for rest and recovery, recliner chairs for a quick nap or relaxation, massage chairs to relieve travel stress and dedicated workspaces with Wi-Fi for business travelers. 

These services can be availed individually or as part of value-added combo packages, giving guests the flexibility to choose what best suits their time, needs, and travel schedule. Whether you’re on a layover, dealing with a flight delay, or simply arriving early, Yatra Lounge and Restro offers an environment that blends comfort with practicality. 

With a vision to serve a wider range of passengers, it is also planning to extend its services to domestic travelers by providing the travel system for them. As the domestic terminal is located at a distance, this initiative aims to offer a convenient resting and dining point for domestic flyers who may arrive early or have layovers in the international section. 

In addition, the lounge is preparing to enhance the experience for first-time international visitors to Nepal by offering essential travel information through a dedicated help desk service. This will include guidance on local transportation, cultural norms, emergency contacts, and key destinations, making it easier for newcomers to navigate their journey. 

This informative feature will also be bundled into upcoming combo packages. Perfectly positioned near the international departure area and open to all, Yatra Lounge and Restro is the ideal escape before your journey—a place to enjoy a peaceful meal, get some work done, or simply unwind in comfort.

Nearly a decade after the introduction of the National Health Insurance Act, the National Health Insurance Program is facing severe operational and financial challenges, prompting the government to announce sweeping reforms aimed at ensuring its sustainability and effectiveness.

Enacted in 2017, the National Health Insurance Act was led by then Health Minister Gagan Thapa with the goal of making healthcare more accessible, affordable and equitable.

Under the scheme, a family of five was entitled to receive up to Rs 50,000 in medical services annually after paying a yearly premium of Rs 2,500. The programme was initially launched in 36 districts.

However, the insurance program is now at a critical stage. Poor management, inadequate infrastructure and a shortage of skilled human resources have significantly hampered service delivery.

Technical inefficiencies and a lack of proper resource allocation have also contributed to the growing crisis within the Health Insurance Board (HIB).
According to White Paper published by the HIB a few months ago, the board has an estimated Rs 24bn in unpaid claims, including Rs 17.5bn in dues from 2023-24. It also revealed that as of February, around 9m insurance claims had yet to be reviewed—highlighting the severe shortage of qualified staff and ineffective claim processing systems.

Moreover, the removal of the first service point, the designated government health institution where insured individuals first seek treatment, from many hospitals has drawn criticism. Several hospitals and local representatives have urged the government to reinstate this service, citing disruptions in care access and dissatisfaction among the insured public. Recently, HIB has notified that the service can be availed through 391 health offices throughout Nepal.

Government hospitals previously reported that over 90 percent of patients are receiving treatment through the insurance scheme, indicating heavy reliance on subsidized care. In contrast, paying outpatient department (OPD) numbers remain low, raising concerns about the program’s financial sustainability.

Health and Population Minister Pradip Paudel has announced plans to expand the program’s coverage. Speaking to Annapurna Post, sister publication of ApEx, he said the government has increased insurance coverage from
Rs 100,000 to Rs 200,000, with a long-term goal of reaching Rs 500,000. He also committed to enhancing benefits for the poor citizens, promising treatment coverage up to Rs 900,000 under the scheme.

While acknowledging the program’s funding gap, Paudel noted that the government has increased its allocation from Rs 7.5bn to Rs 10bn this fiscal year. “We are aware this is still not enough, but we are committed to improving the system,” he said.

In the budget speech for the fiscal year 2025–26, Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel announced a comprehensive restructuring of the national health insurance scheme. Key reforms will focus on enforcing the Health Insurance Act more rigorously, improving institutional discipline, reducing financial leakages, and enhancing service delivery.

Minister Pradip Paudel emphasized the need to create a system where all citizens are covered by health insurance, with contributions collected from salaried individuals. He suggested that 70 percent of healthcare costs could be funded through these contributions, with the state covering the remaining 30 percent.
He stated that effective resource management in the health sector begins with health insurance.

Despite the implementation of several measures, he proposed that a fixed percentage of the state’s income could be allocated specifically for health insurance. If that allocation proves insufficient, additional methods—such as an annual health insurance lottery—could be introduced to generate funds.

He acknowledged that the state’s resources alone are not adequate. However, he asserted that there are numerous ways to raise funds if there is the political will to do so.

Raghuraj Kaphle, Executive Director of the Health Insurance Board, stated that there is a lack of commitment to making the Board effective, warning that the health insurance system is at risk of collapsing if resources are not balanced. He explained that funding for health insurance comes from both the government and insured individuals, with Rs. 3.5bn currently being collected from the insured.

Kaphle emphasized the need to enhance the Board’s institutional capacity. He attributed the collapse of the health insurance system to a shortage of skilled human resources, inadequate technology, and financial instability. Kafle pointed out that while over 50 percent of people receive free healthcare services, only 46 percent actually pay insurance premiums. “Most of those who use the services  are chronically ill or patients with serious health conditions,” he added.

The government also plans to integrate multiple public health initiatives into the insurance program to streamline resources and improve efficiency. Benefit caps for insured families are set to gradually increase to ensure broader coverage and better health outcomes.

As the National Health Insurance Program approaches its 10-year mark, it stands at a crossroads. While its original vision remains relevant—ensuring accessible healthcare for all—serious systemic reforms and investments are urgently needed. Without these, the program risks becoming unsustainable, failing the millions of citizens who rely on it for essential medical care.

In the Kathmandu Valley, the delivery of water jars has become a symbol of everyday life. Whether in the narrow lanes of urban cities or the quiet villages on the outskirts, large blue or clear plastic jars sit on porches, kitchen counters and shop fronts. For the rich, poor and the middle class alike, jar water is not just a convenience—it’s a lifeline. Trusted as a safer alternative to tap water, these jars are seen as symbols of hygiene and modern living. 

A recent investigation from the Lalitpur public health office has cast a disturbing shadow on the daily routine of jar water consumption. Out of 28 samples of jar water tested in the district, 11 tested positive for fecal coliform bacteria. The bacteria was also found in all water samples collected from Mahankal rural municipality-3 in Lalitpur district. Among them, five tap water samples tested positive for potentially deadly microbes.

According to a report published in Rastriya Samachar Samiti (RSS), the Baglung provincial public health office has detected coliform bacteria in 125 out of 341 water sources tested across all 10 municipalities of the district. Dilli Acharya, a lab technician, told RSS that they found 42 out of 106 drinking water sources in Jaymini municipality contaminated. Also, 40 out of 91 sources in Galkot municipality of the district tested positive for coliform bacteria.

Acharya added that last year, coliform was found in 103 sources, which has now increased to 125. “We will expand the scope of testing in all municipalities, as coliform has been found in many sources,” he told RSS.

Dr Kiran Tiwari, medical superintendent at Dhaulagiri provincial hospital, warned that drinking water contaminated with coliform can lead to serious health issues such as diarrhea, cholera, typhoid, jaundice, Hepatitis B, urinary tract infections and blood infections. 

So, what is a workable solution to this problem? Water from affected sources should be boiled before drinking, said Dr Tiwari.

Harihar Sharma, deputy mayor of Jaymini municipality—which reported the highest contamination—told RSS that the municipality is “actively working” on cleaning and conserving the water sources. Fecal coliform is a type of bacteria that usually lives in the intestines of warm-blooded animals, including humans. These bacteria can come out through animal or human waste (feces) and sometimes end up in water. They are used as an indicator—meaning if these bacteria are found in water, it’s a sign that the water might be contaminated with feces, and possibly other harmful germs. Most of the time, these bacteria are not very dangerous, but their presence means that there could be other, more harmful bacteria, viruses or parasites in the water.

These samples were collected from water jars sourced from Gotikhel and Pandhere rivers, located in Godawari municipality and Mahankal rural municipality. “This contamination may be due to the rainy season and drainage system too,” according to Shree Bhadra Sharma, a lab technician at Public Health Lalitpur. “Bacterial contamination resulting from mixing rainwater with river water might have caused this. However, retests after 2-3 days found the contamination gone. The issue was temporarily settled.”

But the fact that contamination was found at all—especially in water meant for direct consumption—has raised a question across the valley. The discovery comes at a precarious time. Every monsoon, cases of cholera and diarrhea spike across the country, straining already overburdened public health systems.

According to the Ministry of Health and Population, 1,316 cholera cases were reported in fiscal year 2022-23 , the number slightly decreased to 1,016 in 2023-24 and surged to 2,373 in 2024-25. As for diarrhea, 227,485 cases were recorded in 2023-24 and 199,169 cases in 2024-25.
Not all cases can be directly linked to jar water, but the presence of fecal coliform in widely distributed drinking water raises red flags.

So, how do water jars end up in our homes? The Department of Food Technology and Quality Control (DFTQC) is responsible for regulating and licensing water jar companies. In theory, companies must pass water quality tests and undergo site inspections before they can operate.

“We only approve the company license after a lab test of the water sample,” said Jyotsna Shrestha, senior food research officer at the DFTQC. “The site is inspected, and approval is given only after ensuring proper sanitation and source safety.”

But Shrestha admits to a key gap in the system. “We only test water quality after it reaches the market, not before packaging after giving the license.” That’s where the problem lies.

In short, companies might pass the initial test but face little routine monitoring afterward. This means water could be clean during licensing but contaminated by the time it reaches your home. Worse, many jar plants—especially smaller, unregistered ones—reportedly refill jars directly from natural sources like rivers or underground wells, often without sufficient filtration or disinfection.

The jars themselves are part of the problem. Made from polycarbonate plastic, these containers are meant to be reused multiple times—but only if they’re properly sterilized after each use. In practice, many facilities skip or rush the sterilization process. Some even reuse visibly discolored or damaged jars.

“The jar should be transparent,” said Shrestha. “That helps detect cleanliness and usage better than just counting how many times it’s reused.” But without standard labeling or usage tracking, there’s no way for consumers to know if the jar they’re drinking from has been safely sanitized—or simply refilled and resealed.

While municipalities have begun awareness campaigns, the response remains reactive rather than preventive. Testing is conducted every six months, once before the rainy season and another during the rainy season, said Sharma and “only when people raise concerns about the water.”

Tibrata Sharma from the Bhaktapur Health Office echoed similar concerns. “In Bhaktapur, we found fecal coliform in one of two companies tested. It could be due to the rainy season—or human behavior.”

Until these issues are addressed—through stricter regulation, more frequent testing and greater consumer awareness—the safety of jar water remains uncertain. Health experts now urge the public to boil jar water or use in-home filters, especially during the rainy season. It’s a precaution that could prevent illness—or even save lives. In a nation already overwhelmed by waterborne diseases, every drop should be clean.

Ila Sharma

Born: 24 Oct 1966

Death: 12 July 2025

Ila Sharma, lawyer, journalist, and former Election Commissioner of Nepal, passed away on 12 July, at the age of 59, following a sudden heart attack. She leaves behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to democracy, journalism, and women empowerment.

Born in 1966, Sharma’s professional journey began in journalism, where she made a lasting mark as a contributor and editor of The Rising Nepal. 

In 2013, she was appointed as the commissioner at the Election Commission of Nepal, where she served until 2019. Her tenure was historic—overseeing Nepal’s first federal parliamentary elections under the new constitution in 2017 and its first provincial elections in two decades, ushering the country into a new era of federal governance following years of political upheaval.

Sharma was known for her fierce integrity, her advocacy for democratic values, and her tireless efforts toward women’s representation in governance.

President Ram Chandra Paudel and Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba expressed their grief at Sharma’s sudden passing. Minister Deuba described her as “a true friend who was actively involved in Nepali journalism and the empowerment of women.”

Sharma’s daughter Shaivya Poudyal said, “The passing of my mother is a profound loss to Nepal and to all who believe in ethical public service and planetary justice. Beyond her professional achievements, she was deeply committed to justice in its broadest form. A tireless advocate for the rights of animals and the environment, she believed that compassion must extend to all beings. Her home was a refuge for stray animals, and her life reflected a deep reverence for coexistence.”

Sharma will be remembered not only for her leadership, intellect, and service—but for her unwavering belief that a just society is one that protects the voiceless, both human and non-human.

Bhojraj Pokharel, former Chief Election Commissioner, remembered Sharma as a well spoken person, intelligent, forward and optimistic.

Sharma’s friend Shyam Goenka said, “The sad demise of Ila Sharma has left a void that may never be possible to fill. Her contribution for Nepal has been so mammoth that it is difficult to comprehend one human being accomplishing it all in one lifetime as a democratic leader, administrator, advocate, human rights activist,  journalist and above all, as a rare humanist.”

While her professional credentials have been so immense, her human side was just unparalleled in public life, he added. “She restlessly worked with a huge sense of compassion for social justice, poverty alleviation, equity, and inclusion.”

Sharma’s impact on Nepal’s democratic journey, and her efforts toward equality and representation, will not be forgotten. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the nation she served with grace and courage. She is survived by her husband, SY Quraishi, former Chief Election Commissioner of India, and their two daughters.

Balaram Gharti Magar

Birth: 1937

Death: 2025

Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) senior leader and former minister Balaram Bal Bahadur Gharti Magar passed away on 11 July 2025, while undergoing treatment at B&B Hospital, Lalitpur. He was 88 years old.

Born in Mizing, Rolpa, Gharti Magar was one of Nepal’s foremost political figures—a minister 11 times, serving the nation with distinction across both the Panchayat and multi-party eras. He is remembered as a man of simplicity, integrity, and vision, who rose from the remote hills of Rolpa to the highest echelons of national leadership. He has seven daughters. 

He began his political journey in 1961 as a ward member in the newly formed village Panchayat system. By 1962, at just 24 years old, he became a National Panchayat Member, marking the beginning of a public career spanning over three decades. His roles included key portfolios such as Defense, Health, Home, Land Reforms, Industry, and Science and Technology—in both Panchayat governments and democratically elected cabinets, including those of Tulsi Giri, Surya Bahadur Thapa, and Sher Bahadur Deuba.

A loyal advocate for clean politics, Gharti Magar earned the reputation of being a principled and incorruptible leader. His tenure was marked by people-centered development, and his deep affection for his home district was evident in his relentless efforts to develop Rolpa’s infrastructure, education, health, and transportation systems. He was instrumental in initiating road connectivity and air services, significantly transforming the region.

Originally active in Nepali Congress, he later joined the Panchayat system and was a key figure in the ‘Gaun Farka National Campaign’. After the political transition of 1989, he became a senior leader in the Rastriya Prajatantra Party, continuing to contribute to national politics with unwavering dedication.

The RPP, in an official statement by Spokesperson and Chief Whip Gyanendra Bahadur Shahi, mourned his loss, calling him “a guardian, a true public servant, and an inspiring personality” who lived a simple life with high ideals. His death is not just a loss to Nepali politics, but to the entire nation.

Mohan Shrestha, Central Committee Member of the RPP, expressed his heartfelt condolences on the passing of Ghartimagar. He said, “Ghartimagar-ji was a remarkable person—full of wisdom—even though he had limited formal education. His knowledge and character made him truly great.”

Shrestha added that Ghartimagar was a strong believer in unity within the party. “He always urged us not to abandon the main branch of the RPP, especially during times when the party faced divisions. He not only preached unity but lived by it, joining the party from the very beginning and remaining a loyal member until his last days,” Shrestha recalled.

Gharti Magar was more than a politician—he was a visionary, a mentor, and a humble son of the soil, who always remained deeply connected to the joys and struggles of his people. He regularly returned to his village, providing help, guidance, and inspiration to generations.

Heavy rains in the evenings and intense heat in the daytime are exacerbating the risk of dengue, malaria and other vector-borne diseases across the country.

With more rainfall predicted this monsoon compared to preceding seasons, health authorities are urging the public to take preventive measures to avoid potential outbreaks.

Data from the World Health Organization show that dengue—an illness transmitted through the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito infected with dengue virus (DENV)—afflicts 100m-400m people around the world every year.

According to government statistics, Nepal saw one of its worst dengue outbreaks in history, with 52,557 confirmed cases and 60 deaths, in 2022. While the numbers dropped in 2024, the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD) reported 34,385 cases and 13 deaths, affecting 76 districts across the country. 

Aware of a serious threat to public health arising from the vector-borne disease, the government has already implemented a regular surveillance and monitoring system through an early warning and reporting mechanism.

At the same time, it has strengthened integrated vector management strategies for mosquito surveillance with the objective of controlling vectors that transmit diseases like malaria, dengue and zika. These strategies combine various control methods, including biological, chemical, environmental and public health education, to optimize resource use and achieve sustainable vector control.

The EDCD has projected that more than 60,000 people could contract dengue across the country this year, and prepared an action plan to mitigate possible outbreaks.

The EDCD’s estimate is based on past trends, climatic conditions and the early onset of cases this year. The division is currently coordinating with local governments and health institutions to strengthen surveillance, awareness campaigns and vector control measures.

Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and take preventive measures, such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites and using protective clothing as well as repellents.

Minister for Health and Population Pradip Paudel has recommended halting construction works for four months—from July to October—to control dengue and save lives. 

Minister Paudel also emphasized the importance of a cleanliness campaign to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds and asked all to join it. He stated that raising awareness is key to preventing the spread of dengue. “It is essential to inform the public and work together,” he said. Minister Paudel urged everyone to keep their surroundings free of dengue larvae to protect themselves and others. He also asked citizens to take part in regular sanitation efforts every Friday, from July to October.

Dr Anup Subedee, an infectious disease specialist, emphasized the importance of raising awareness to prevent the spread of dengue. “While awareness programs are going on, the government, local authorities and communities must work together to make them effective,” he said: In particular, the government must remain vigilant, as we expect a rise in dengue cases this season.

Dr Subedee warned that the current period is a transitional phase, with changing weather and noticeable climate shifts. “The peak season for the spread of dengue has not arrived yet. When it arrives, we fear that more people will suffer—possibly for a prolonged period because of the climatic shift,” he added.

Using bed nets, applying mosquito repellent creams for short-term protection, keeping the surroundings clean and removing stagnant water are some of the effective ways to reduce the risk of dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases.

Dr Subedee noted that dengue can come with a variety of symptoms. “Not all cases require hospital visits. For minor symptoms like headaches and body aches, people don’t need to visit hospitals. They can take care of their health at home by taking paracetamol and staying well-hydrated with fluids such as pulses, soup, juice and other liquids,” he said.

Dr Subedee added, “Some cases require medical attention. If someone experiences persistent fever and severe body pain for more than 3-4 days, they should visit a hospital as soon as possible and consult a doctor. In more serious cases, dengue can affect internal organs such as the lungs and pancreas.”

Though rare, severe dengue can lead to serious complications such as acute pancreatitis and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), affecting the pancreas and lungs. These conditions may result from direct viral damage, immune responses or plasma leakage. Symptoms like abdominal pain and fever can delay diagnosis, and even if fever subsides, dengue should still be suspected in patients showing other symptoms associated with the disease. In severe cases, especially dengue hemorrhagic fever, organ damage and respiratory failure may occur, emphasizing the need for early recognition and medical attention.

Dengue rapid test kits available at government health institutions can help with timely diagnosis that is so crucial in saving lives. Furthermore, the EDCD has approved and published a comprehensive dengue prevention and control action plan on the occasion of World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day 2025.

With the rise of dengue patients in the hospital, labs and most hospitals take this as an opportunity to take benefit from the citizens. Addressing the issue, Minister Paudel stated, “We will try to make dengue testing free and if that’s not possible, we will set a fixed rate. He warned against fleecing the poor and suffering people in the name of testing.

Minister Paudel admitted that the government needs to do more on the dengue control front, adding that it is preparing to collaborate with the media for disseminating relevant information among the public.