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Our last day's adventure at the Jungle Island Resort (read previous story), Bandarjola, Chitwan National Park, was a sightseeing tour of the Magar crocodiles and the inimitable Gharials. That meant almost a two-hour ride in a narrow dugout canoe in the Narayani River. It sounded great to my family but me. It was a no-go for me flat out because I was too scared of water—virtually to a fixation.

I had reasons for my fear of water, and the story behind it goes like this: Once, in the lake city of Pokhara, I went fishing in a narrow two-person dugout with a local guy in Lake Phewa. Everything was going fine, and we managed a few catches, too.

But the weather turned sour without any warning, and we were caught unawares by a massive thunderstorm. Barely had we made half the distance to the banks across the lake when the narrow dugout started filling with heavy rainwater almost to the level of the hull.

Panic-stricken, I frantically bailed the water out with a small bucket we carried while my local guide furiously worked the paddles. Suddenly, I realized that I didn't know how to swim!

After what appeared like a half-hour, the dreadful ordeal ended, though. The rain fell back, and we made it to the safety of the banks. Phew! "That was a close call," I mumbled to myself. From that day onwards, I never considered doing a boat ride again and steered clear of even a swimming pool in the bargain.  

I walked my excited kids and wife to the riverboat yard and waved them goodbye as the canoe slid into the water. I had two hours to kill before they would be back. I spotted a shack with a few chairs and benches close by. It turned out to be a tea shop.  

The tea made from buffalo milk had that typical Terai hallmark—thick and cloyingly sweet. I could not resist and went for a second cup. As I was about to sip my tea, my eyes fell upon a distant elephant hulking down in my direction. At a closer look, the mounted figure looked very familiar. Wait a minute! He was none other than Kumal and the elephant, every inch, Laxmikali.  

I greeted him with a wave and asked him to join me for tea. He was all smiles to see me and broke into a chuckle when I told him sheepishly my excuse for not joining my family for the canoe ride.

As our chat followed, I suddenly observed a scar running on his face from the left side of the lip and cheek to almost the side of his temple. I missed the scar the previous day when we were on the mind-boggling elephant ride. I could not help asking him about it. And my jaws dropped when Kumal recited the story that took place several years ago.  

"The incident took place while I was doing a routine safari ride for two foreign guests," Kumal said. "I had with me the same elephant, Laxmikali." Kumal pointed his finger at the nearby Laxmikali, tugging at a patch of sod with his trunk.

"Shortly, we ran into a sloth bear right on our track," he continued. The bear stood guard for her cub perched on a Jamun tree (java plum) branch some 15 feet above the ground. Jamuns are a favorite of bears. Kumal's long experience in the park's forest told him a lone bear, except for a brief display of aggression, did not pose a genuine threat to humans.

But a mama bear in her cub's company could turn into quite another story—the most unpredictable. She can turn nasty and is as often as not likely to attack, even if the least provoked.

Instinct made Laxmikali stop in her tracks, but she did not take alarm. Such encounters were not uncommon during safari rides. Kumal thought it better to give the bear a wide berth, though. The last thing he wished for was a face-off.

It was too late! Without warning, the mother bear swung around towards Laxmikali and charged at a run with a blood-curdling growl, baring her fangs.

From 15 yards, the mother bear closed in on a bound and kept coming! She stopped at a few paces, stood on her toes, and snarled. Laxmikali froze, so did Kumal. 

The moment of truth had arrived, thought Kumal. The silence behind the howdah also spoke about the guests' plight. As Kumal's concern was their safety, the only course left for him was to make a slow retreat. But as he nudged Laxmikali with his toes to step back, the bear struck, taking a nasty bite of her trunk. Everything happened in the blink of an eye.

Before Kumal knew it, mayhem struck, and Laxmikali went berserk. She retaliated with an ear-splitting trumpeting that shook the ground, the sound tearing for miles into the dense forest. Still, in a befuddled state, Kumal watched in dismay as Laxmikali bounded for the tree instead of turning up on the bear. She lashed her trunks onto the branch to pull the terrified cub down. The guests watched from the howdah, stunned.

The drama seemed unrelenting as the desperate club clutched a tree branch for dear life. Stupefied by Laxmikali's unexpected onslaught, the bear wavered and backed off but resumed her vicious lunges again. Thank heaven. So far, no harm had come to the guests, mused Kumal, sweat running down his forehead, almost blinding his eyes.

However, he realized the situation was getting out of hand. He tried his best, but no coaxing or sharp clouting worked to curb Laxmikali's fury.

Frothing at the mouth, she flailed her trunk wildly to knock the bear cub down. Meanwhile, the mother bear's challenging huffing, woofing, and lunges appeared feeble. She likely thought better of it against the animal ten times her size.

Suddenly, there was a loud crack. Before Kumal could gather his wits, a stout branch came crashing down, hitting him in the chest. Another hit the side of his face, almost knocking him off Laxmikali's back. He blacked out, a searing pain gripping his chest.

The traumatic state must have lasted a few seconds before Kumal recovered. He instinctively felt for his face to find a bruised lip and a deep gash on the side of his face. His fingers came back sticky with his warm blood.

Alarmed, he turned back. His eyes fell on one of the howdah supports, broken in two. Horrified, he looked at the guests. His guests, though almighty shaken, remained safe. He took a sigh of relief.

With blood streaming down his face, he tried to size up the predicament. Laxmikali's hulking flanks still twitched with intense rage, and she seemed prepared for another attack. The drama took a sharp turn, though—the cub hurtled down to the ground and scampered to its mother. Two meters from Kumal, the mother bear held her ground and continued the face-off. The little cub cowered, huddling behind her.

Providentially, two safari elephants converged on the scene for Kumal's rescue at that very moment. Guided by the shouts and commotion, they had decided to dash to the spot. Upon seeing two more elephants as backup, the bear thought it wise to slink away with her cub, ending the gory drama. "I had to have seven stitches to my face. It took over a month for me to recover," said Kumal.

As Kumal wrapped up his story, I could still feel the hairs on my arms stand on end. After an exchange of pleasantries, Kumal left for his quarters with Laxmikali striding along proudly. The duo soon disappeared into the vernal woods as I ordered a third cup of tea.  

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Federalism, as a governance model, has emerged as a cornerstone of modern political discourse. It offers promises of inclusivity, decentralization, and equitable development. However, its  implementation is often fraught with complexities, as exemplified by Nepal’s transition to a federal  democratic republic. In examining the socio-political dynamics of federalism within Nepal’s context, it becomes evident that the journey towards federalism is fraught with challenges, yet it also  presents opportunities for transformative change. 

Nepal’s transition to federalism in 2008 marked a significant departure from its centralized past.  There was a commitment to address historical grievances and foster inclusive governance. The  adoption of the Constitution of Nepal 2015 laid the groundwork for a federal structure. It aims to  distribute power and resources more equitably among diverse regions. The federal system changed the governing system, empowering local communities and ensuring their representation  in decision-making processes.  

The federal structure comprises three tiers of government: federal, provincial, and local. At the  central level, key responsibilities such as national security and foreign affairs are managed. While provinces and local bodies handle matters of regional and local significance. This  distribution of powers and responsibilities was intended to foster greater autonomy and  accountability at the grassroots level. However, the road to effective federalism has been filled  with hurdles, revealing deeper socio-political issues that demand attention and resolution. 

One of the primary challenges facing Nepal’s federal experiment is the struggle to establish powerful legal and institutional frameworks at the provincial and local levels. Despite the noble intentions behind decentralization, Nepal encountered several challenges in its implementation. One significant hurdle was the limited administrative capacity and resources at the local level.  Many municipalities lack the infrastructure, human capital, and financial resources needed to  effectively deliver services and govern their jurisdictions. This led to disparities in service delivery and hindered the realization of decentralization’s potential benefits. 

Despite constitutional mandates, the decentralization of power has been met with resistance and  bureaucratic inertia, hindering the effective delivery of public services and impeding developmental initiatives. Many local governments lack the institutional capacity, technical  expertise, and financial resources to fulfill their mandated responsibilities effectively. Delays in  devolving authority over key sectors such as education and law enforcement have led to friction  between federal and provincial authorities, increasing governance gaps.  

In addition to administrative challenges, political interference at the local level has threatened the  autonomy and effectiveness of local governments. Favoritism politics, nepotism, and corruption  undermined the principles of decentralization and eroded public trust in governance institutions. 

Moreover, Nepal’s federal journey has been marred by intergovernmental conflicts over resource  allocation and revenue sharing. The tug-of-war between federal and state governments reflects  broader tensions regarding the distribution of power and fiscal autonomy. In the absence of clear 

guidelines and mechanisms for cooperation, these conflicts have stymied progress and undermined  the potential benefits of federalism. For instance, disputes over the distribution of natural  resources, such as water and minerals, have escalated into protracted legal battles, further  polarizing stakeholders and impeding economic development. 

Beyond institutional challenges, Nepal’s federal experiment has also laid bare deep-seated social  divisions and identity-based grievances. Ethnic-based demands for greater autonomy and  representation have underscored the complexities of managing diversity within a federal framework. The proliferation of identity politics and ethnic tensions has raised concerns about the  potential for fragmentation and conflict, highlighting the delicate balance between autonomy and  national cohesion. For instance, the demand for provinces based on ethnic lines has fueled debates over territorial boundaries and resource allocation, posing existential challenges to Nepal’s nation building project. 

However, amidst these challenges, Nepal’s federal journey also offers insights into the  transformative potential of decentralized governance. The devolution of power to local  governments has empowered communities to participate in decision-making processes and shape  their own development agendas. Grassroots initiatives aimed at promoting social inclusion and  gender equality have flourished, showcasing the capacity of federalism to foster bottom-up  innovation and participatory governance. For example, initiatives such as community forestry  programs and women’s cooperatives have demonstrated the effectiveness of local ownership in sustainable resource management and crisis management as seen during the covid pandemic. 

As Nepal continues to navigate its federal journey, several key considerations emerge for  policymakers and practitioners worldwide. Firstly, ensuring effective coordination and collaboration between different tiers of government is essential for the success of federalism. This requires a clear distinction of roles and responsibilities, as well as mechanisms for resolving  disputes and promoting dialogue. Secondly, investing in local capacity-building and resource mobilization is crucial for empowering decentralized institutions and enhancing service delivery at the grassroots level. Thirdly, addressing underlying socio-economic disparities and identity based grievances is essential for promoting social cohesion and preventing conflicts within a federal framework. Finally, fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement is vital for building trust in decentralized governance institutions and ensuring their  legitimacy and effectiveness. By embracing these principles and lessons learned from Nepal's  federal transition, countries can navigate their own decentralization journeys more effectively and  realize the transformative potential of federalism.

Aastha Pokhrel

BA LLB 

Kathmandu School of Law 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the Swiss army knife of modern technology, with a slew of groundbreaking characteristics that are transforming our lives. Consider it a brain that learns and develops via a technique known as machine learning. This implies that AI may become wiser over time as it processes data, allowing it to excel in tasks such as identifying faces in photographs and comprehending what you’re saying. Then there’s its ability to tackle tough problems: AI can analyze complicated circumstances, see patterns, and devise solutions in the same way that your brain can solve a puzzle. This magic may be seen in self-driving cars weaving in and out of traffic, or in medical instruments identifying illnesses based on patient data. But wait—there’s more!

AI’s strength is its capacity to solve mundane tasks, enabling us to perform more important things. Picture this: 4,444 robots in factories performing the same duty repeatedly without breaking a sweat, or nice chatbots answering client queries without stopping. It’s like having an assistant that works nonstop. The extent of AI is comparable to a cosmos waiting to be discovered. In healthcare, it’s like having a competent medical assistant who can help identify ailments, discover new treatments, and customize the best therapy for each individual. Finance is also being aided by AI, which crunches statistics to locate the greatest investments and uncover shady deals.

AI’s strength is its ability to solve routine jobs, freeing us to do more important things. Consider this: 4,444 robots in factories completing the same task endlessly without breaking a sweat, or lovely chatbots answering client concerns nonstop. It’s like having a 24/7 helper. The scope of AI is analogous to a universe waiting to be explored. In healthcare, it’s similar to having a qualified medical assistant who can help detect illnesses, uncover new medicines, and tailor the best therapy for each individual. Finance is also being boosted by AI, which crunches data to find the best investments and reveal dubious agreements.

The great promise of AI creates substantial hurdles in a variety of industries. The main issue is job loss. As AI takes over tasks, there is concern about widespread unemployment as repetitive activities disappear. Another big issue is prejudice in AI algorithms. The data utilized to educate AI may be skewed, resulting in discriminatory employment or loan approval processes, aggravating social inequalities. The mystery of AI decision-making is also a hurdle. Many AI systems behave like ‘black boxes’, making it impossible to comprehend how they make judgments. This makes it harder to remedy any underlying biases or inaccuracies. Security issues are also a major concern. Hackers target AI systems, posing a risk of data breaches or even influencing essential processes, endangering both privacy and security. Ethical problems are also raised, particularly when autonomous weaponry and AI make critical judgments. It is critical to identify who is in charge and who is accountable. To overcome these difficulties, we need to properly create and control artificial intelligence. Balancing innovation and ethical issues is critical for AI to function for our benefit while causing no damage.

Nepal’s road towards artificial intelligence has only just begun. As the rest of the world adopts self-driving vehicles and modern medical equipment, Nepal is making the initial moves. Universities are taking the lead in addressing Nepal’s linguistic variety by doing research in areas such as natural language processing. This might indicate that AI helpers can speak and comprehend local languages, so overcoming the communication gap. Meanwhile, firms are launching AI-powered customer service chatbots and agricultural data analysis. These programs aim to increase efficiency and decision-making in a range of fields. However, Nepal has hurdles such as limited resources, infrastructure, and a rapidly changing technical scene, which might stymie growth. Despite these challenges, Nepal’s initial step into AI promises a future of creativity and growth. It appears that we are witnessing the beginning sparks that will ignite incredible possibilities for the country.

In short, Nepal’s AI adventure has only just begun, yet the seeds of development are already firmly established. Universities are driving research in fields such as natural language processing (NLP), while entrepreneurs are studying artificial intelligence for customer service and agriculture. These initiatives claim to boost efficiency and encourage innovation in a variety of industries. However, there are several hurdles, including limited resources and a technology ecosystem that is still establishing its feet. Responsible development and ethical issues are key to Nepal's AI path. This emerging industry has the potential to transform Nepal's future, but success requires addressing these challenges and ensuring that AI serves the general good. It's like raising a seedling tree: given the correct care and attention, it has the potential to develop and develop into something absolutely spectacular.

Alan Adhikari

Xavier International College, Kalopul

Nepal’s political scenario lies in a complex game of power transition that seems more evident of a sensational drama than of governance in the coalition. Parties have appeared to be the players, repeatedly messing up relationships as a move in a high-stakes game and shuffling alliances in a merry-go-round. Each time parties shift their alliances, they end up in a situation where no one trusts the other completely, much like a Prisoner’s Dilemma. 

The Prisoner’s Dilemma, a concept rooted in game theory, mirrors this situation—it’s like a puzzle where individuals must choose between cooperation and self-interest. Cooperation yields modest gains for both, but betrayal can lead to significant benefits for one at the expense of the other. It highlights the tension between individual rationality and collective well-being, as both players can benefit most if they cooperate, but they risk being exploited if the other player defects.

As we delve deeper into Nepal’s political landscape, the parallels between the Prisoner’s Dilemma and the recurring struggle among major parties become increasingly apparent. At the crux of this political puzzle are three major parties—each struggling for governance. Yet, with every round of government formation, it is hard to overcome trust between each other and two dominant parties opt for short-term alliances that eventually collapse due to deep mistrust. This can be said as a puzzle of cooperation versus self-interest. 

This leaves one party consistently excluded from government, always seeking to dissolve the arrangement, similar to a player in a game who keeps trying to undermine the rules to gain an advantage. Meanwhile, the other two parties face a tough task: they try hard to keep their government running smoothly, even though the mistrust between them is growingly persistent. It's like they're caught in a big tangle of suspicion, reminiscent of multiple instances of the Prisoner's Dilemma or even nested iterations of the dilemma within the broader political landscape. Imagine it as if there are many small puzzles, all connected to the big puzzle of politics. Each decision they make affects the others, and it’s a constant struggle to find the best way forward i.e., political stability.

The constant pursuit of short-term gains by political parties worsens this cycle of instability. Each party is so focused on the present that they overlook the lasting damage to the nation's economic foundation. It's like being caught in a never-ending loop which reflects the idea of the Prisoner's Dilemma played out in an infinite game setting. In this scenario, where there's no clear end, the individuals keep repeating the same self-interested moves, perpetuating a cycle of mistrust and conflict. This kind of game is also referred to as tit-for-tat strategies, meaning if you cooperate, you will be met with cooperation, but if you defect, you will also face defection. Nepal’s political playbook has just been an echo back of each other's defections for an infinite period that has led to Nash equilibrium no player can do better by unilaterally changing their strategy. Until one of the three parties breaks this cycle, the entwined web of political instability is likely to persist. 

The consequences of games have badly resulted in an economic drop. The situation is challenging for businesses, investors and the nation overall. The lack of economic opportunities at home is strongly forcing youths to explore abroad and the number of people leaving the country is exponentially increasing. There have been no observable signs of improvement in inflation and trade deficits over a decade timeframe. And it is everyday people who are suffering the most—the farmers, entrepreneurs, and corporate workers trying to support their families. They’re caught in the middle of political games, unable to pursue their dreams as the country’s economy flounders.

So, what's the way forward? It begins with a fundamental shift in mindset—a recognition of cooperation and trust. The parties embracing a common minimum agenda with a shared vision for Nepal’s future is the need of the time. Political parties must rise above the fray of short-term gains and embrace a vision that prioritizes the long-term prosperity of the nation. Moreover, reviewing the election system could mitigate the chances of mistrust among the parties and could pull out of the defective equilibrium. This is the key for Nepal to break free from the cycle of its recurring Prisoner's Dilemma and pave the way for a brighter future—where stability, prosperity, and trust will be the priorities.

The author is a chemical engineer and student of energy systems in Germany, also passionate about renewable energy adaptation and politics in Nepal