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A short video warning young people about online scams flashes across TikTok. Another Facebook post explains traffic rules through humor and animation. Of late, Nepal Police has moved beyond traditional press briefings and public notices, turning to social media to spread awareness on cybercrime, road safety, drug abuse, and public security. 

As thousands of Nepalis engage with these posts daily, the growing digital presence of police raises a key question: are social media campaigns effective when it comes to matters of public awareness and policing?

Social media has given Nepal Police a direct channel to engage with the public, gathering feedback and suggestions in real time. The approach carries several advantages, such as broader public awareness, stronger youth engagement, and faster information dissemination. Where they once relied on press releases and written notices, they now produce short-form videos, reels, and AI-assisted content. This active presence projects a more approachable image and encourages citizens to interact, report incidents, or seek help online.

“Our primary objective is to raise public awareness on issues such as cybercrime, road safety, drug abuse, online fraud, disaster response, and overall public security,” said DIG Abi Narayan Kafle, Nepal Police spokesperson.

Among the platforms, Facebook draws the highest engagement owing to its broad user base in Nepal, while TikTok, Instagram, and X are proving increasingly effective at reaching younger audiences. As of May 24, Nepal Police's Instagram page has 162,000 followers, Facebook 2.2m, TikTok 187,000, and X 899,900. For now, however, the reach remains concentrated in urban areas, leaving rural communities comparatively underserved.

Arya Gautam, 18, a student, said Nepal Police has learned to “humanize the badge” by speaking the language of the internet. “It's not about going viral, but about bridging the gap between authorities and the public—and that is a very important approach to public safety,” she said. 

Raj Dhungana, 33, a journalist, agreed the strategy has been effective in raising awareness, particularly in urban areas. “It has become an effective tool for educating citizens and strengthening the relationship between the public and the police,” he said.

Others echoed the sentiment. Ishuvi Singh Bishwokarma, 23, appreciated the police's adaptation to the digital age, noting that social media is the fastest way to connect with people and spread awareness. Sunil Rai, 28, said the use of memes has made public safety content both engaging and shareable. Rohan Maharjan, 28, pointed to AI-generated videos as particularly effective. “People are more willing to watch and share these videos, helping the message reach a much wider audience,” he said.

According to Kafle, contents such as cybercrime prevention tips, traffic safety reels, animated explainers, and public service announcements tend to receive strong responses and wide sharing. He added that youth engagement remains central to the strategy. “Since young people are highly active on digital platforms, we aim to deliver awareness messages in creative, relatable, and accessible ways,” he said.

Kafle also acknowledged the obstacles: misinformation, limited digital literacy among certain groups, resource constraints, and rapidly evolving platform trends. Public feedback, he noted, has significantly shaped the police's communication approach.

Looking ahead, Nepal Police plans to expand digital campaigns to rural communities through multilingual and regionally targeted content. A dedicated content creation team at headquarters manages official platforms, with social media units also established at provincial and district levels. “Digital policing and online public communication will continue to play an increasingly important role in strengthening public trust, promoting awareness, and improving coordination between law enforcement and citizens,” Kafle said.

In a country where social media increasingly shapes public conversation, Nepal Police's digital shift reflects a broader transformation in how public institutions communicate. By embracing humor, short-form video, and interactive content, the police are working to build a more approachable relationship with the public, especially younger generations. 

While challenges remain, the growing engagement across platforms suggests that these campaigns are certainly making an impact.

Mausami Gurung used to receive a regular health checkup every three months. If she felt unwell, a volunteer would take her to the hospital. Now she is on her own. 

Gurung, 30, is a transgender sex worker originally from Illam, a district in eastern Nepal, and is among thousands of people whose access to healthcare has eroded following the suspension of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) last year. “It was very easy back then,” Gurung told Annapurna Express. “We used to get regular checkups every three months. If we didn’t feel well, volunteers would take us to the hospital.”

The USAID froze funding to a wide range of programs on 26 Jan 2025, disrupting HIV prevention and community health services across Nepal, particularly those serving sex workers and LGBTQ+ communities. Outreach workers have been pulled back, preventive supplies have become harder to access, and community-based support systems have weakened, raising concerns among experts over the potential of rising infection rates.

Organizations such as the Blue Diamond Society, which had long provided Gurung and others with free HIV testing, condoms, lubricants, counseling, and preventive medicines, including pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), have been forced to scale back. For many sex workers and LGBTQ+ individuals who face stigma and discrimination in hospitals, such community services were often their only accessible option.

Gurung recalls how outreach workers helped bridge the gap between them and formal healthcare systems. “When we used to go alone, it was very difficult. The process was long, and people looked at us differently. It made us feel uncomfortable,” Gurung said. “Before, outreach workers used to regularly follow up with us. When we went for HIV testing, they would track our reports and explain whether our condition was improving.”

USAID has operated in Nepal since 1951, playing a central role in supporting the country’s public health infrastructure through partnerships with government agencies and community-based organizations.

According to the Ministry of Health and Population and the National Center for AIDS and STD Control (NCASC), HIV cases declined by about 76 percent between 2010 and 2024. In 2024, an estimated 614 people were newly infected, compared to 2,557 cases in 2010.

The decline was even more striking among children: new infections among those aged 0–14 fell by about 86 percent, dropping from around 260 cases in 2010 to an estimated 37 in 2024.

Outreach campaigns, peer education, and community networks improved awareness, encouraged safer sexual practices, and increased testing among high-risk groups. 

“It’s not an overhaul. It’s destruction,” Former USAID Global Health Director, Atul Gawande in February last year told CBS News, warning that disruptions to global HIV programs—serving tens of millions of people worldwide—are leaving many without access to life-saving medication and reversing years of progress in controlling the epidemic.

Experts warn that reduced testing and limited access to preventive services could lead to undetected infections and increased transmission rates. At the same time, stigma and criminalization continue to push sex workers and sexual minorities away from public health institutions, further compounding barriers to care.

In Dec 2024, the WHO warned that the global HIV response is at a critical turning point as funding declines threaten decades of progress. The agency said HIV services are being disrupted—particularly in fragile settings—and community-led programs that serve marginalized groups are being deprioritized. WHO cautioned that without urgent action, new infections and deaths could rise again, putting health systems under pressure and jeopardizing the goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. While HIV is now a manageable chronic condition with treatment, WHO stressed that this progress depends on sustained investment. 

However, domestic funding remains insufficient, and the response continues to rely heavily on shrinking external support. Lok Raj Pandey, information officer at the National Center for AIDS and STD Control, said that condoms are available, but they might not be distributed for free. Pandey added, “There is a shortage of lubricants and PrEP. The government needs to allocate a budget for this, but at the moment, it is unable to do so due to limited resources and other priorities. With a current budget, it won’t be possible to bring these supplies.”

“Funding cuts have disrupted programs across nearly 20 districts, where community-based support once played a crucial role,” said Pinky Gurung, Advisor at the Blue Diamond Society. “Earlier, we used to actively reach out to people in the community, but now we are unable to do much.”

“We even tried continuing services through online platforms, but that has also stopped because it was not effective in meeting people’s needs,” Pinky said. “In the past, our staff would conduct follow-ups every six months—checking on health, nutrition, and providing counseling support. Now, all of those services have been halted.”

Government officials offered a different assessment.

“There are no specific problems as described,”  Pandey said. “Testing and treatment services have not been hampered. But counseling and outreach—where volunteers used to visit communities—have been affected.”

“Evaluating the impact of two decades of USAID interventions and projecting the effects of defunding on mortality up to 2030: a retrospective impact evaluation and forecasting analysis,” a research published in The Lancet warns that major reductions in USAID funding and the agency’s dismantling could lead to more than 14 million additional deaths worldwide by 2030, highlighting the potentially devastating impact on global health and humanitarian systems.

Another transgender sex worker, who requested anonymity and uses the pronoun Ze, offers a slightly different perspective. The 28-year-old from Humla has been engaged in sex work for nearly nine years and is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Education.

“Condoms are still available when we need them, but we don’t have access to lubricants,” Ze said. While her experience suggests that some services continue, access is far from consistent. Ze added, “Even when condoms are available in the market, the prices we face are often higher than for others.”

Yet activists and community workers warn that the loss of outreach and counseling is far from minor.

“These were not optional services—they were the backbone of prevention,” said Sunil Babu Pant, a human rights advocate and former member of parliament. Pant said the funding cuts have hit already marginalized groups the hardest, including sex workers, transgender people, and men who have sex with men.

“Due to the shortage, street-based sex workers cannot buy protection even if they want to because they earn very little,” Pant said.

The consequences are already visible on the ground. Babu Dumi Rai, a 23-year-old non-binary activist who previously worked at HIV Prevention and Human Fundamental Rights under USAID-supported programs, said the changes have been drastic. “The program was supposed to run until 2030, but it ended five years early,” Rai said.

In fiscal year (FY) 2024, around $212m in aid was obligated for Nepal, with a further $16.3m reported for FY 2025, according to USAFacts.

Nepal again secured a US$ 51.27m grant from the Global Fund to fight HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria, with a strong focus on migrant and other vulnerable populations in Feb 2025. The funding cycle (GC7), implemented through the Ministry of Health and Population in partnership with UNDP, was supposed to run from Feb 2025 to July 2027.

A portion of the grant was aimed at supporting Nepal’s goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, including reducing HIV infections, preventing AIDS-related deaths, and addressing inequalities affecting high-risk groups such as migrant workers, people who use drugs, and their partners. The program is aligned with Nepal’s National HIV Strategic Plan (2021–2026), which prioritizes improved access to treatment, prevention, and service delivery for vulnerable communities.

The funding cuts have had economic consequences as well. Rai estimates that around 700 people—many of them transgender individuals—lost their jobs linked to HIV prevention and other sexually transmitted diseases and have been forced back into sex work.

Experts warn that these combined factors—reduced access to prevention tools, lack of counseling, and increased economic vulnerability—could reverse years of progress. “If this is not addressed in time, Nepal could go back to a situation where HIV cases rise again,” Pant said. Pant also questioned the country’s dependence on foreign aid. “The government has relied heavily on external funding,” Pant said. “Now the question is—what happens when that support disappears? Nepal needs to build its own sustainable system.”

The size of the sex worker population in Nepal varies widely. A report by Global AIDS Monitoring published in 2020 placed the number significantly lower, estimating between 43,829 and 54,207 female sex workers in the country.

Simran Sherchan, 39, a transgender sex worker activist working with the Federation of Sexual and Gender Minorities Nepal, said that access to essential services has declined significantly. “Services have been reduced, and people are no longer able to access them properly”. According to Sherchan, sex workers are now struggling to obtain basic prevention tools. 

Yet amid uncertainty, one message remains consistent across all voices: access to health is not just about services being available, but about whether they are reachable, affordable, and free from stigma. As Nepal stands at this turning point, the future of HIV prevention among its most vulnerable communities may depend not only on funding but on whether those communities remain visible in policy, practice, and public attention. 

According to the report from the 2025 National Center for AIDS and STD Control, Kathmandu, HIV cases declined from 5,545 in 2002 to 614 cases by 2024. In 2010, the number of deaths stood at 2,348, but by 2024, this had dropped to 569.

In the fiscal year 2024/25, a total of 169,991 females were tested for HIV, of whom 814 were found to be positive. Among males, 255,706 individuals were tested, of whom 1,397 tested positive. Meanwhile, 2,943 transgender individuals were tested, with 61 confirmed positive cases.

In the same year, a total of 12,794 sex workers were tested for HIV, with a positivity rate of 1.3 percent.

Among key populations, higher positivity rates were recorded. For men who have sex with men and transgender individuals, 6,366 people were tested, with 3.2 percent found to be HIV positive. Similarly, among clients of sex workers, 10,688 individuals were tested, with a higher positivity rate of 4.1 percent.

Now, Gurung hopes that funding and support programs similar to USAID will return or revive the same project, saying the program provided jobs, opportunities, and proper care. Gurung said, “The community now lacks opportunities and wishes for services that genuinely support and benefit them.”

Recent demolitions of informal settlements across the Kathmandu Valley have left hundreds of families in uncertainty, raising serious questions about the government’s preparedness to handle the aftermath of such large-scale actions.

Led by Kathmandu Metropolitan City in coordination with national security forces, the operation cleared settlements in Manohara, Shantinagar, Thapathali, and Jadibuti. According to official data, 773 families were evicted from the Manohara area in Bhaktapur, 638 families from Shantinagar along the Bagmati River (476 on one side and 162 on the other), 143 families from Thapathali, and 114 families from the Milan Chok area in Jadibuti.

Residents from Manohara opposed the demolition, leading to clashes on April 25 when a police team and media personnel came under attack. Twenty-two security personnel were injured in the incident.

On April 26, authorities escalated the operation, deploying around 2,000 personnel from the Armed Police Force, Nepal Police, and Metropolitan Police, who then entered the settlement and began demolitions.

The settlements flooded every rainy season, and many have acknowledged that this risk has now been removed. But the question remains: was the aftermath of this decision adequately considered?

While the move has been framed as necessary for environmental restoration and city planning, the situation on the ground tells a more complex story. Many residents left homes where they had lived for years, often with little time to prepare. Scenes of families salvaging belongings in the rain, children clutching school materials, and elderly residents struggling in unfamiliar surroundings highlighted the immediate human cost.

Temporary shelters have been arranged in ashrams, training centers, and hotels, but concerns remain about their adequacy. For many, relocation has also meant the loss of livelihoods, as proximity to the city center has provided access to informal work.

The metropolis has arranged free food, shelter, and basic medical services for those who registered. Officials state that mental health support teams, including psychotherapists, have been deployed to address trauma—particularly among children and the elderly.

While the government’s effort to clear unplanned settlements has been acknowledged, critics say the execution lacked comprehensive planning. Housing alone, they argue, does not address the broader needs of displaced families. The apartment complexes built in Nagarjuna during former Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai’s tenure were intended as solutions, but fall short of ensuring livelihoods, healthcare access, education, and social stability.

The impact has extended beyond housing. Education has been disrupted for many students, including those preparing for examinations, while teachers face uncertainty about their jobs after schools within the settlements were demolished.

Saraswati Basic School in Manohara, located in Madhyapur Thimi Municipality-1, was demolished on Monday morning, leaving around 280 students without a learning space. The school, which provided education up to grade 8, served both local residents and children from squatter families, who made up roughly half the student population. The futures of its 15 teachers and one office assistant now remain uncertain.

Vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children, and the elderly, are among those struggling most in temporary arrangements. Beyond human displacement, concerns have also been raised about animals. In a statement shared on social media, Animal Nepal highlighted that forced evictions leave behind “invisible victims,” including pets and strays that are often injured, displaced, or abandoned during demolitions. Groups such as Sneha Care and Community Animal Treatment have been actively involved in feeding, rescuing, and providing medical care to affected animals, addressing a largely overlooked consequence of the eviction drive.

Ranju Darshana, a House of Representatives member from Kathmandu, said that genuine squatters were left in confusion and fear due to short notice and unclear information during the Thapathali settlement removal. She apologized for the panic caused, stressing that affected residents should be given proper options and not treated as a political vote bank.

At the Radhaswami Satsang site in Sundarighat alone, around 161 individuals were being housed as of Wednesday. Authorities say health workers are available around the clock, with special attention given to vulnerable groups.

“The services here are very good. The team has been taking care of us very well,” said an elderly woman at the shelter. “They have provided mosquito nets and are trying to make us feel at home, although the pain of leaving our place still remains.” “We have been providing mental health support services to the displaced families,” said a member of the Council Department of Psychology at Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur. “They appeared more severely affected on the first day but are gradually beginning to adjust. Our team is conducting a needs assessment, with particular focus on pregnant women, children, and elderly individuals.” As of Wednesday, the team had already worked with 43 families.

“The Nepal Electricity Authority is working to restore lighting in the area, and tents were provided from Tuesday,” said a municipal worker. “Food distribution has also improved. On the first day, people were given packed meals, but now we have shifted to a buffet system where they can serve themselves and take as much as they need. We are also trying to meet specific needs—infants are provided lito, elderly people receive appropriate food, and pregnant women are given suitable nutrition.”

A police officer at the Satsang site said, “We have been instructed that journalists will not be allowed to enter on Thursday, as per directions from the Prime Minister’s Office, and our focus is currently on maintaining security.” He noted that the number of families is likely to increase in the coming days, and that arrangements are being made to shift pregnant women and elderly individuals to hotels where they can receive better services.

The demolitions have also exposed deeper structural issues. While authorities acknowledge the presence of  “fake squatters” occupying valuable land, many genuine landless families remain without clear alternatives. Critics argue that while the removal of settlements may have been inevitable, the lack of clear communication, phased planning, and sustainable rehabilitation measures has led to confusion, fear, and resentment among affected communities.

In Hotel Smarika, Mitranagar, 35 individuals from Thapathali and Shantinagar are currently staying. Naramaya Pariyar, 71, had been living in Shantinagar since 2058 BS with her family. She was unaware that her settlement would be demolished that day and was not informed in time. She remains hopeful that the government will make arrangements for them soon. Her granddaughter is staying at a friend’s house and continuing her studies, while her son has been unable to go to work since the relocation.

“The officers who brought us here have assured us that we will be relocated as soon as possible, and that arrangements are being made for our settlement,” she said. According to her, the hotel staff have been treating them well, regularly checking on their needs and allowing them to share their concerns.

Hotel Smarika’s owner, Tarak Sharma Pantha, said he was grateful to host them, noting that officials visit regularly for monitoring and have provided documents for daily movement and registration. He expressed dissatisfaction, however, with the use of the term “vulnerable” in the registration papers.

Pantha said he was informed about their transfer only a day in advance. While he acknowledged that the relocation was eventually expected, he stressed that the government should have ensured proper pre-planning, including arrangements for settlement, food, and consideration of the difficulties residents might face.

Nir Kumar Puri, 53, had been living in the Thapathali settlement for nine years with his family. His wife is currently staying at her parental home, his daughter is married, and his son is staying at a friend's house. He said he has no belongings with him except the clothes he is wearing, and that they were informed about the situation only a day before, leaving them wholly unprepared.

He said he wishes to be provided with proper settlement for his family and noted that, being physically able, he can continue working and earning on his own. But the loss of his home has left him deeply shaken.

“Because of this, we are facing mental problems. My roommate, a young boy, is also suffering. He does not speak much or leave the room often. The police have been supporting us throughout this phase. One person fell sick on Tuesday and was immediately taken to the hospital and brought back by them.”

He added that the situation is especially serious given that elderly people, persons with disabilities, infants, and pregnant women are among those affected, and expressed hope that until a permanent location is arranged, they will be cared for with attention and dignity.

The Kathmandu Valley’s situation is not without international parallel. Dharavi—one of Mumbai’s largest informal settlements, home to nearly a million people—illustrates both the importance and complexity of such communities. While slums often face poor housing, sanitation, and flooding risks, they also support strong local economies and tightly knit communities. Residents of Dharavi run significant informal industries in recycling, tailoring, and pottery. Yet redevelopment plans have raised concerns about displacement and inadequate consultation—reflecting a global tension in which efforts to “improve” slums can threaten the very communities they are meant to help.

Similarly, in Delhi, the demolition of Madrasi Camp—home to around 370 Tamil migrant families who had lived there for decades—was carried out following a court order declaring it an encroachment. Residents were left homeless with limited notice and inadequate rehabilitation. Across Delhi, thousands of slum dwellings have been removed in recent years, often relocating the urban poor far from their workplaces and excluding many through strict eligibility criteria.

In Nepal, the actions taken under Prime Minister Balen Shah reflect attempts to address unmanaged settlements and urban risks. While such steps are often seen as bold and necessary, they equally underscore the importance of careful planning, proper consultation, and humane resettlement to ensure that development does not come at the cost of the communities it claims to serve.

Rising prices are becoming a daily reality for consumers across Nepal, with the cost of transport, fuel, and essential goods climbing steadily over the past six months. Wherever you go, people are talking about the rising cost of goods and services. The issue has become so pressing that it is now discussed everywhere.

A few days ago, I used inDrive after about a month. It usually costs Rs 130–140 to travel from my office to home, but this time I paid Rs 210. When I spoke to the rider, he said, “Because of the high petrol cost, we have to raise prices to maintain our earnings.” 

Public transport fares within the Kathmandu Valley have also risen significantly in recent days. Fares increased by 25.96 percent, effective from April 11. The Department of Transport Management has applied this change not only to urban transport but also to long-distance passenger and service-oriented vehicles. Long-distance bus fares have increased by 16.71 percent.

Similarly, service vehicle charges have gone up, with goods carriers rising by 15.75 percent on Tarai routes and 21.68 percent on hilly roads, reflecting the broader impact of rising fuel costs. The situation is tied not only to domestic factors but also to the tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. Concerns over disruptions in oil supply, especially through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, have driven up fuel prices, affecting import-dependent countries like Nepal.

People across Nepal have also struggled to access LPG gas, with many shifting to induction cooking due to shortages. The government has even implemented weekend holidays as a temporary measure to cope with fuel shortages and rising prices. These responses reflect a broader pattern of short-term adjustments rather than long-term solutions. Markets are becoming increasingly expensive, and many people can no longer afford basic goods at previous prices. Inflation is now visible across nearly every sector.

The Asian Development Bank warned last month that prolonged disruptions in energy markets could raise inflation in developing Asia and the Pacific by 3.2 percent and reduce economic growth in the region by 1.3 percent by 2026–2027.

“I travel daily from Kirtipur to Ratnapark for my graphic design internship, using my own vehicle,” said 25-year-old Rojesh Maharjan. “Earlier, petrol used to cost around Rs 100–150, but now it has reached around Rs 200.” “As an intern, I don’t earn much, and I spend around Rs 250 per day on fuel. It’s not enough. I often skip lunch to manage expenses,” he added. “Because of rising costs, I’ve started considering public transport when money is tight.”

“If prices continue to rise, salaries should increase accordingly. Only then can people cope,” Maharjan said.

Fuel prices have surged sharply between mid-March and mid-April, making the market increasingly unaffordable. Petrol, which cost Rs 157 per litre just a month ago, has risen by Rs 62 to Rs 219. Diesel and kerosene prices have also climbed significantly, from Rs 142 to Rs 237 per litre.

The impact is visible across sectors. LPG has increased by Rs 100, reaching Rs 2,010 per cylinder. Domestic aviation fuel prices have more than doubled, rising from Rs 127 to Rs 262 per litre, while international aviation fuel has jumped from $966 to $1,716 per kilolitre.

“Inflation is being driven by multiple factors, including ongoing conflict in the Middle East and supply chain disruptions,” said an official from the Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection. “We seized around 6,300 LPG cylinders from dealers last month and redistributed them. Since then, such cases have declined,” the official added. “If we receive complaints of hoarding or black marketing, we will take action.”

Many people are aware of the broader causes. Rukesh Shah, 34, from Rautahat and now living in Bhaktapur, works collecting scrap materials.

“This situation has been created by tensions between Israel, the US, and Iran,” he said. “If India faces difficulties in securing goods, Nepal is in even greater trouble.” “Our income has remained the same, and as daily wage workers, we are sometimes paid even less. This directly affects our daily lives,” he said, urging the government to act.

Parbati Sah, a shopkeeper, said she understands the reasons behind rising prices. “Dealers tell us costs have increased, and they cannot sell at a loss,” she said. “In most items, prices have risen by around 23 to 30 percent.” She added that the situation has strained customer trust. “Customers often don’t believe us when we say prices have gone up. Sometimes we are forced to sell at lower prices and bear the loss.”

Her husband, who helps run the stall, said rising costs have forced them to adjust prices. “Earlier, we sold samosas for Rs 20; now they are Rs 25. Other items have also increased,” he said. “This has affected our small business.” He added that inflation is affecting more than just goods. “Room and shop rents have also increased, making it even harder to manage.”

A customer at the shop offered a different perspective: “Inflation is happening because of corruption and political rivalries among leaders,” he said, adding that this is how the situation appears from a consumer’s point of view. The cost of essential goods has also risen. Sunflower oil has increased by Rs 40 to Rs 295, while mustard oil has gone up to Rs 375 from Rs 325.

According to the Department of Commerce, the price of General Sona Mansuli rice in the Kathmandu Valley has increased by Rs 36, reaching Rs 95 per kg from Rs 59. Steamed Jeera rice has risen to Rs 102 per kg, while basmati rice now costs Rs 185 per kg. Other staples have also become more expensive. Maize flour now costs Rs 127 per kg, while wheat flour has risen to Rs 60 per kg.

Even water prices have increased in some areas. The Federation of Nepal Water Industries recently stated that shortages of raw materials—such as plastic bottles, caps, and packaging materials—have driven up production costs.

“The prices of raw materials used in the water industry have increased by around 40 percent,” the federation said. “This is not profit-driven but a result of rising production and transportation costs.” As a result, bottled mineral water in parts of Kathmandu now costs Rs 25–30, up from Rs 20.

As prices continue to rise across fuel, transport, and essential goods, the burden is falling most heavily on ordinary consumers. From commuters and daily wage workers to small business owners, many are being forced to cut expenses and adjust their lifestyles just to cope.

While global factors such as geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions play a role, public concern is growing over the lack of immediate relief and long-term solutions. Inflation is no longer just an economic indicator—it has become a lived reality shaping everyday decisions and survival.

Federation of Nepal Water Industries stated that raw material prices, including plastic bottles, caps, jars, and wrapping rolls, have risen by around 40 percent. “This is not a profit-oriented decision, but a forced situation,” the federation said. In several parts of Kathmandu, mineral water now sells for Rs 25–30, up from Rs 20.

As prices continue to climb, the burden falls hardest on ordinary people. Commuters, daily wage workers, small business owners are all forced to cut back and adjust just to get by. Global factors like geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions are significant contributors, but the public's growing frustration is with the absence of immediate relief and credible long-term solutions. Inflation is no longer just an economic indicator. It has become a lived reality, shaping everyday decisions and survival across Nepal.

Sudan Gurung, Nepal's youngest Home Minister, was appointed on March 27 and has quickly emerged as one of the most talked-about figures in the country. He is also the founder of the organization Hami Nepal. His appointment to the Home Ministry came as a surprise to many observers.

Since taking office, he has worked efficiently toward his stated goals and made decisions that have captured public attention. On his very first day after taking the oath, he ordered the arrest of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, a move that is rare in political history anywhere in the world.

The arrests were made over their alleged role in the deaths of dozens of people during the GenZ protests that toppled the government in September last year. The move has been widely praised by those who view it as a strong stance on accountability.

Gurung also personally visited Nepal Police Headquarters, where he directed officers to adopt a policy of zero tolerance against corruption and irregularities, stating that no one involved would be spared. Following this, several arrests were made in connection with money laundering cases. He has since been seen visiting police offices, meeting victims, and closely monitoring law enforcement operations. He has also reinforced a no-VIP-treatment policy on the road system.

His work has drawn comparisons to Anil Kapoor’s character in the Bollywood film Nayak. However, his positive attitude and unconventional approach have sparked debate. On social media, he faced criticism over older photos from when he was a DJ. More recently, his frequent unusual posts—sometimes consisting of numbers only, possibly representing arrest figures—have added to the conversation.

According to Hemanta Malla Thakuri, former Deputy Inspector General of Nepal Police, “Maturity is essential for someone holding a position like this. While the actions he has been taking may appear proactive, many of these tasks are actually the responsibility of the police, not the minister. Traffic management, for example, is not a minister's role—it requires trained traffic police personnel. When a minister steps into such operational duties, it does not necessarily send a positive message to the public.”

Abhinash Nagaju,26, from Bhaktapur said, “Based on his recent actions, I would say he's doing a good job. But at the same time, I feel a bit unsure. While his work appears positive, it sometimes feels like it might be staged, done more for show than substance.” He added that Gurung's social media posts are a good idea, as long as the information shared is not sensitive or related to national security. “It helps people like us understand what's actually going on,” he said. “I think he's trying to win public trust for now, and perhaps he’ll gradually evolve and raise his level as he goes.”

Sushila Hada from Suryabinayak said Gurung has been doing well, but the real challenge is whether he can sustain it. “He is still in a learning phase, and it seems like he is learning and working at the same time.” On his social media presence, she noted that while updates are not always consistent, he must now be more cautious than ever as a public figure. “His platforms can become a source of truth not just for the Nepali public, but also for international media and observers.” She added that there is no fixed rulebook for how a Home Minister should conduct himself, so he should follow his own moral compass while staying within proper boundaries and not being overly influenced by others.

A woman who did not wish to be named offered a similar perspective: “He doesn’t need to rush or try to do everything at once. He should take a moment to breathe. It feels like he’s acting out of excitement right now, which is understandable. But if he continues at this pace, there may come a point where, if he slows down or fails to deliver something significant, he could end up facing criticism or controversy.”

Spokesperson at the Armed Police Force of Nepal, Bishnu Prasad Bhatta, expressed optimism: “We have a lot of hope in our new Home Minister. He is very action-oriented, and we truly appreciate his efforts. He has past experience working with national organizations and has been helpful in the past.” Bhatta added that while Gurung demonstrates strong teamwork, working without coordination could hamper his effectiveness. “He has been actively involved in conducting training and programs with the team, and has urged us to be prepared for future challenges and rescue operations. Overall, he is expected to address our problems and find effective solutions.”

Divya Shrestha, 21, described Gurung as a confident and outspoken political figure who makes a visible effort to stay connected with the public. “On social media, his bold and engaging presence helps him connect with supporters, though his tone can occasionally feel overly informal for someone in such a senior role. He shows clear promise, but a more measured, disciplined, and professional approach will be important as he grows into the responsibilities of the position.”

Shiva Tamang, 25, from Swayambhu echoed similar thoughts: “His actions reflect practical, ground-level engagement, though questions sometimes arise around consistency and long-term vision. His communication is bold and direct, but can occasionally come across as emotional or confrontational. For a role as significant as Home Minister, a higher degree of professionalism, discipline, and balanced communication is essential. He has clear potential, but a more refined and consistent approach will be crucial as he settles into this responsibility.”

Ayush Basnet from Nala offered a measured take: “Gurung is a capable politician, though he appears to lack experience at this stage. His actions come across as very straightforward, sometimes in ways we haven’t been accustomed to seeing. It also feels like he may be signaling intentions ahead of bigger moves. For now, his style of working is gradually making me more appreciative of his approach.”

Amid his recent activities, Gurung was also linked to a controversy over land he leased near Phewa Lake in Pokhara for an adventure tourism project worth Rs 15–20m. The work was halted after authorities identified the site within a restricted 65-metre buffer zone, with conflicting claims emerging between Gurung and the landowner.

He held a meeting with Swiss Ambassador Danielle Meuwly, requesting Switzerland’s cooperation in investigating whether illicit funds from Nepal have been deposited in Swiss banks. He also conducted an on-site inspection of flood-prone areas along the Roshi River in Kavrepalanchok, assessing risks to settlements and infrastructure and directing authorities to strengthen preparedness and coordination ahead of the monsoon season.

Gurung's first two weeks in office have been marked by bold decisions, high visibility, and an unconventional style that has quickly set him apart. While many praise his energy, accountability-driven actions, and direct engagement with the public, others raise concerns about consistency, experience, and the need for a more measured approach.

As he navigates the responsibilities of one of the country’s most critical ministries, Gurung stands at a defining moment, where sustaining momentum, refining his leadership style, and balancing action with strategy will determine whether his early promise translates into lasting impact.

Veteran Indian playback singer Asha Bhosle has passed away at the age of 92 following cardiac and respiratory complications. 

She was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in critical condition on Saturday and was in the ICU before her death.

Her son Anand Bhosle confirmed the news on Sunday, with last rites scheduled for the following day, Hindustan Times wrote.

One of the most iconic voices in Indian music, Asha’s career spanned decades, making her one of the most prolific singers in Hindi cinema. She was often compared to Lata Mangeshkar and carved her own legacy with versatility across genres.

A seven-time Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer winner, she also received two National Film Awards for songs like “Dil Cheez Kya Hai” from Umrao Jaan and “Mera Kuch Saamaan” from Ijaazat.

Born in 1933, she began singing at a young age and rose to prominence in the 1950s, remaining a dominant figure in the music industry for decades in India. Her contributions to Indian music have left an enduring legacy.

CPN-UML Secretary Mahesh Basnet has criticized the arrest of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, calling it an act of political revenge and prejudice.

In a social media post, Basnet criticized the current government led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah, particularly the appointment of Home Minister Sudan Gurung, describing it as controversial and inexperienced.

Calling for action, Basnet urged party members and supporters to participate in demonstrations to safeguard democratic values and oppose what he described as “revenge politics.” He added that further details of the protest program would be announced following a party secretariat meeting scheduled for the morning.

Once a voice of protest through music, Balendra Shah aka ‘Balen’ is now at the center of Nepal’s political future—carrying both the hopes of a generation and the weight of rising expectations.

Shah has built an identity as an engineer, rapper, mayor and now the most preferred prime minister. Over the years, his music has resonated with the people, blending artistic expression with a clear sense of social direction. 

Through his songs, Shah questioned those in power, provoked thought, and sparked public conversation. His engineering background, meanwhile, translated into tangible work, helping rebuild earthquake-resilient homes and contributing to urban infrastructure projects. His political journey has since reinforced a simple but powerful argument: willingness to act is what politics most desperately needs. 

Most of his songs map social and political grievances onto a larger call for change, which resonates deeply among his followers. Farbin Napit, 21 says he has been a fan of Shah since grade seven. 

“Personally, I believe he was influenced by politics even before he became mayor, and I think he will do great—if not the best—for our country’s development and for raising Nepal’s profile on the world stage.”
Shah’s discography tells its own history. Sadak Balak, released 13 years ago, follows a homeless teenage boy without access to education—a portrait of Nepal’s street children struggling for survival.

Prahari—also released 13 years ago, is about the controversial moment when police cut people’s hair on the pretext of preventing crime, an action that triggered student protests in 2070 BS.

Other notable tracks include Aam Nepali Buwa, Tathya, Nepal Haseko, Balidan, Savage, Sabailai Hataar Cha, and Local Thito. A common thread runs through all of them: political awareness and a deep connection to social issues. At a 2014 rap battle with Little Grizl, Shah declared, “History is meant to be changed. Balen has not come yet!”  In hindsight, it reads less like a boast and more like a prophecy.

Those who have followed Shah reflect that sense of inevitability. Aayushi Shakya, 22 says she admires him because he is the first well-educated, well-known person to approach politics in this way.

“I started following him from his song Nepal Haseko. It was quite touching as a growing youth. I see him as a literate, self-confident person who truly believes he can change the nation. I also believe he will perform better than previous leaders.”

Samira Kiju, 20, says Shah is different from traditional politicians, which is refreshing. “I started following him more seriously around the 2022 Kathmandu mayoral election. Before that, I knew him mainly as a rapper, but his entry into politics made me pay closer attention.” She notes that Shah’s foray into politics never felt unconventional.

“He talked about social issues, corruption, and frustrations of youth through his music. So his political journey didn’t feel sudden. He always had political awareness—his journey into office made it official.”

Rajiv Maharjan, 20, has followed Shah since his mayoral campaign in Kathmandu. “As a person, I find him visionary, bold, and action-oriented. His rap showed social awareness; his political journey feels like a natural extension of that voice.” Rajiv is cautiously optimistic about Shah’s prime ministerial journey. “He has strong potential, but long-term results will matter most.” 

Krishal Maharjan, 19, echoes that admiration. Like others, he discovered Shah through music and thinks his political instincts were present long before he ran for mayor. 

A relative who knows Shah closely offered a more personal portrait. “He has a sharp memory and remembers people for a long time. He is very data-driven and tends to analyze things with a positive perspective.” The relative also pushed back against one common perception:“Some people think he is hard to approach, but he is actually open to those who reach out. He has clear plans and executes them smoothly. He speaks less, but when he does, his words are impactful.”

Political scientist Chandra Dev Bhatta says that public expectations from Shah are exceptionally high. “People are hopeful that Balen Shah will do his best for the nation. There is a strong sense of trust and optimism surrounding him.” He highlighted Shah’s working style as a defining characteristic. “Unlike many traditional political figures who tended to talk more and work less, Balen believes in working more and speaking less.”

On the question of political experience, Bhatta says while Shah may not have decades of political exposure, he has already proven himself as the mayor of Kathmandu. “He may not have long-term experience, but he has already proven himself through his work. “As an independent mayoral candidate, he not only won the election but also performed effectively.” 

Bhatta adds experience alone has never been a guarantee of a competent leader. “Willingness and intent matter as much as experience. Previous leaders may have had 50–60 years of experience, but that alone did not produce results. Shah’s commitment to change and his focus on action could be more impactful than rhetoric.”

Bhatta is also aware of the challenges that lie ahead for Shah after he has been sworn-in as the prime minister. Meeting high public expectations, ensuring good governance, managing fractious political landscape, and navigating complex geopolitical relationships will test whether Shah can prove his mettle at the national stage.