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The world is unwell, with eight billion people suffering from some form of threat—be it security, economic, geopolitical, technological, climatic or resurgence of pestilence. The world that embraced Donald Trump in the midst of the Russia-Ukraine war and Israel-Palestine conflict has no appetite for an Israel-Iran war that has modern civilization on the brink.

Israel’s assertion—that “the US is behind the coordinated attacks on Iran”—could escalate tensions in the Mideast. China, Russia and several Arab nations condemning the attacks on Iran may be an indication of a widening distrust between the US and the Mideast. This may drag the US and China into a regional conflict, turning it into a global war. 

“Nothing is solid, permanent and immutable”, the Buddha said. Picking a leaf from his teachings, world leaders should walk toward knowledge, intelligence, sensibility and rationality from ignorance. They must be more compassionate for global peace and stability.

GMOs have been transforming global agriculture for decades, delivering bigger harvests, drought-resistant crops, and reduced pesticide use. While countries like the U.S., Brazil, and China charge ahead with gene-editing tech, Nepal remains hesitant—weighing the risks of unknown consequences against the urgent threats of climate change and food insecurity.

The Global GMO Impact

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are crops engineered for resilience—think drought-proof rice, pest-resistant maize, and vitamin-packed Golden Rice, designed to combat malnutrition in the Philippines. The US dominates with GMO corn and soy, while India’s Bt cotton revolutionized its textile industry.

But the debate rages on. Cornell University researchers highlight GMOs’ potential to boost small-scale farming and cut chemical use. Harvard scientists, meanwhile, urge caution, demanding stricter safety checks and skepticism toward corporate control. At its core, this isn’t just a scientific issue; it’s about food sovereignty, seed ownership, and who bears the cost if things go wrong.

The ethics and environmental dilemma

Critics aren’t just fearmongering. Valid concerns persist: Could GM crops disrupt ecosystems? Will corporations monopolize seeds? Are there long-term health risks?

Yet, most experts agree: With proper oversight, GMOs could reduce pesticide reliance, improve nutrition, and fortify crops against climate extremes. The real question isn’t whether GMOs are inherently good or bad—it’s how to harness them responsibly.

Nepal’s stalled experiment

Nepali farmers face relentless challenges—erratic weather, pests, and depleted soils. While GMOs remain confined to labs, interest is growing. Gene-editing could help adapt local varieties to harsher conditions.

Dr Ramita Shrestha (Nepal Agricultural Research Council) advocates for homegrown solutions: "”We need crops tailored to Nepal’s terrain—but also transparent policies and public dialogue, not backroom decisions.”

The problem? Nepal’s restrictive seed laws stifle research. While biodiversity protection is crucial, overregulation leaves farmers stranded with outdated tools.

Finding the middle ground

Nepal doesn’t need to embrace GMOs blindly—or reject them outright. The solution lies in: rigorous, localized testing; smart, adaptable regulations; and farmer and public engagement.

A balanced policy could safeguard seed rights, spur innovation, and ensure transparency. Done right, GMOs wouldn’t mean importing "frankenfood"—but empowering Nepali agriculture to thrive on its own terms.

The bottom line

GMOs aren’t hypothetical; they’re already shaping global food systems. As experts debate, Nepal faces a choice: Stay on the sidelines or actively shape its agricultural future. With careful strategy, GMOs could be a tool for resilience—but only if Nepal asserts control over the process. 

Prakash Khadka

KMC, Bhaghbazar

Black Ivory Coffee is a rare and luxurious coffee produced in Thailand using a unique process. Arabica beans are consumed by elephants, passing through their digestive system, where fermentation occurs. The beans are then collected from the elephants’ dung, cleaned, and roasted. This process imparts a distinctive, smooth, and rich flavor with notes of chocolate, malt, and a hint of grassiness. Only a small amount is produced annually, making it one of the most expensive coffees in the world. For example, black ivory coffee is often found in high-end hotels and resorts. Black Ivory Coffee offers health benefits similar to those of other high-quality coffees, including a rich antioxidant content, improved mental alertness, enhanced digestion, and potential mood enhancement. Regular consumption may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and type 2 diabetes. Moderation is key to avoiding potential side effects.

The process begins with high-quality Arabica beans grown in the hills of northern Thailand, typically at an altitude of around 1,500 meters. These beans are handpicked and then fed to elephants, which are cared for by the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation. The elephants consume the coffee cherries, which undergo a transformation in their digestive system. Inside the elephants’ stomachs, the beans are subjected to a natural fermentation process. The digestive enzymes break down the protein in the coffee beans, which is a key factor in reducing their bitterness.

This fermentation process also imparts a unique flavor profile to the beans. After 12 to 72 hours, the beans are excreted by the elephants. They are then collected, cleaned thoroughly, and sun-dried. The result of this process is a coffee with a distinct taste. Black Ivory Coffee is often described as having a rich, smooth flavor with notes of chocolate, malt, and a hint of spice. The fermentation process also gives it a slight earthiness and a unique aroma that is unlike any other coffee.

In Nepal, the integration of black ivory coffee production leverages the country’s diverse ecosystems, traditional farming practices, and fostering. Farmers often use agroforestry systems, intercropping coffee with shade trees, which enhances carbon sequestration and preserves habitats for native flora and fauna. Additionally, the emphasis on organic farming techniques reduces the reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, mitigating soil and water pollution. The coffee industry in Nepal also benefits from the economic upliftment of local communities, as high market prices for black ivory coffee incentivize sustainable farming and conservation efforts.

Moreover, the symbiotic relationship between farmers and elephants fosters wildlife conservation, as communities gain an economic stake in protecting these animals. Finally, the production of Black Ivory Coffee in Nepal represents a bright model of ecological fitness, blending sustainable agricultural practices with economic and environmental benefits, though continuous monitoring and adaptive management are essential to address emerging challenges and ensure long-term sustainability.

The possibility of producing black ivory coffee in Nepal holds significant promise due to the country’s favorable agricultural conditions and existing expertise in coffee cultivation. Nepal’s diverse climate and fertile soil are conducive to growing high-quality coffee beans, which are essential for producing premium coffee. The mountainous terrain, combined with traditional farming practices, allows for organic and sustainable coffee farming.

Additionally, Nepal has a rich tradition of elephant conservation, particularly in regions like Chitwan, making it feasible to integrate elephants into the coffee production process. The synergy between coffee cultivation and elephant conservation can create a unique and ethically appealing product, similar to the model used in Thailand.

Black Ivory Coffee, known for its unique production process and premium pricing, could play a transformative role in the national development of Nepal by driving economic growth and promoting sustainable tourism. Given Nepal’s rich biodiversity and existing agricultural practices, the introduction of black ivory coffee could significantly boost the local economy. The high value of this coffee would provide substantial income for farmers, helping to alleviate poverty in rural areas.

Additionally, the involvement of elephants in the coffee production process aligns well with Nepal’s focus on wildlife conservation and eco-friendly agricultural methods. This synergy between agriculture and conservation can foster sustainable development, ensuring that economic gains do not come at the expense of the environment. The premium nature of black ivory coffee would also position Nepal as a producer of luxury goods, diversifying its agricultural exports and reducing dependency on traditional crops like rice and tea.

Moreover, the unique narrative of black ivory coffee production is likely to attract tourists, enhancing Nepal’s tourism sector. Agro-tourism, where visitors engage with the coffee production process and learn about elephant conservation, can provide an immersive experience that blends luxury with ethical considerations. This can lead to increased tourist footfall, generate revenue for local communities and create employment opportunities. The integration of tourism with agriculture and conservation efforts can lead to holistic rural development, improving infrastructure and services in these areas.

Furthermore, the global recognition of black ivory coffee can elevate Nepal’s brand on the international stage, showcasing its capacity for innovation and high-quality production. This can attract more foreign investment and open up new markets for other Nepali products, contributing to a more resilient and diversified economy. In essence, black ivory coffee can serve as a catalyst for economic, social, and environmental progress in Nepal.

The story of Prince Mahasattva is one of the most profound narratives in the Jataka tales, which recount the past lives of the Buddha. In this moving account, the young prince encounters a starving tigress and her cubs on the brink of death. Overcome by deep compassion, he selflessly offers his own body to save them, embodying unconditional love and the ultimate act of sacrifice to relieve suffering.

For centuries, Bhadawan Danda in Panauti has been a sacred site where Buddhist folklore, local legends, and ancient rituals—such as worship, meditation, and festivals—have honored the birthplace of Na:Ma Buddha, the selfless prince who gave his life for the tigress and her cubs. Around 6,000 years ago, this region was part of the ancient city of Panchal Nagari, ruled by King Maharath, a descendant of Dirgharat. His majestic palace stood at Bhagawan Danda in Toukhal, northwest of present-day Panauti in Kavre district. King Maharath and Queen Satyavati had three sons: Mahadev, Mahapranava, and Mahasattva.

Over time, earthquakes, epidemics, and climate changes reduced the once-glorious Panchal Palace to ruins. By the 12th century, during the reign of King Anand Dev of the Malla dynasty, the settlement had shifted near Triveni and became known as Pala:ti (later Panauti). The abandoned ruins gradually transformed into fertile farmland, while the palace site remained a place of reverence. As debris accumulated, a sacred mound formed, later called Bhagawan Danda.

Devotees visiting the holy burial site of Na:Ma Buddha on Hiranya Gandhaman Mountain also pay homage at Bhagawan Danda, offering ghee lamps and incense during festivals and ancestral anniversaries. During the Malla period, the Na:Ma Buddha festival was institutionalized, with the establishment of Na:Ma Buddha Dho:Chhen (Goddess House) at Nhu Baha in Panauti. The tradition of lighting lamps at Bhagawan Danda, marking the birthplace of Prince Mahasattva, also began in this era.

For decades, pilgrims from across Nepal and beyond gathered here to offer lamps. However, due to declining local engagement, lack of promotion, and the disruptions of armed conflict, these sacred practices waned. As spiritual connections faded, Panauti Municipality encroached on the land, constructing an office building. Within its grounds, a small stupa was later erected—either in memory of Prince Mahasattva or as a tribute to Buddhahood.

Na:Ma Buddha remains a site of immense spiritual significance, akin to Mecca for Muslims or Jerusalem for Christians. Locals frequent it for personal rituals, while Buddhists worldwide journey here to honor their ancestors. Historically, pilgrims from Tibet, China, Mongolia, Taiwan, and India have visited, drawn by the site’s sacred legacy—a tradition that continues to grow as awareness spreads.

Reviving the cherished practice of lighting lamps at Bhagawan Danda not only honors Prince Mahasattva’s sacrifice but also perpetuates the spirit of Avayadan (selfless giving). By reshaping Panauti Municipality’s architecture with imagery of Panchal Durbar, we can rekindle local pride and share the profound legacy of Na:Ma Buddha. In doing so, we uphold the values of peace and harmony, inspiring future generations and fostering global unity.