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India has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with neighboring countries through a consultative, non-reciprocal, and results-oriented approach. Pabitra Margherita, Minister of State for External Affairs, emphasized in a statement to the Lok Sabha that India’s neighborhood policy is guided by the core principles of Samman (respect), Samvad (dialogue), Shanti (peace), and Samriddhi (prosperity). These principles shape India’s engagements, ensuring that partnerships are built on mutual trust and shared progress.

India’s development assistance and capacity-building initiatives are tailored to the specific needs and aspirations of neighboring nations, supporting their long-term economic growth. The minister highlighted that India’s contributions range from large-scale infrastructure projects to community-driven development, including financial, technical, and humanitarian aid. This multifaceted approach underscores India’s role as a reliable partner in fostering regional stability and prosperity.

In Nepal, India’s cooperation focuses on enhancing connectivity, economic collaboration, and energy and digital infrastructure, alongside cultural exchanges. A key component of this partnership is the High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP), which have delivered critical infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, and water and sanitation facilities. While the initiative faced some challenges last year, it has since moved forward smoothly. Originally launched in 2003 as a modest program, HICDP was expanded and rebranded in 2024 to maximize its developmental impact.

With the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) remaining inactive, India has prioritized the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) as a more dynamic platform for regional collaboration. Margherita described BIMSTEC as a strategic convergence of India’s Neighbourhood First policy, Act East policy, and the SAGAR vision, which emphasizes security and sustainable growth in the Indo-Pacific. Through BIMSTEC, India is deepening cooperation in areas such as trade, security, connectivity, and digital innovation, while also promoting partnerships in health, education, and people-to-people ties. 

The upcoming BIMSTEC Summit, scheduled for April 3-4 in Thailand, is expected to produce a vision statement outlining future regional cooperation. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has already left for Thailand to attend the summit, while Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also set to participate.

Margherita reiterated that India’s Neighborhood First policy is widely appreciated by partner countries, ensuring the continuity of assistance programs even amid political changes. She stressed that India’s relationships with its neighbors stand independently of their ties with other nations, reflecting the depth and resilience of these bilateral connections.

On national security, the minister affirmed that India remains vigilant, closely monitoring regional developments to safeguard its interests. He expressed confidence in the enduring strength of India’s partnerships and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to advancing mutual benefits while protecting its strategic priorities in the region.

In the archives of Nepal’s cultural narrative, the Everest juggernaut has long eclipsed other regions—none more so than the Heart of Solukhumbu- Salleri, once the thriving heart of Sherpa culture reduced to a transit station or a parking station for the jeeps coming down from Lukla or Namche carrying stranded trekkers from Khumbu. Today, the Saga Dawa Running Festival organized by Thekchhen Pema Chholing Monastery, is scripting a quiet but profound counterpoint: a reclamation of Buddhist heritage through the rhythmic cadence of runners’ feet on ancient trails.  

This is no ordinary marathon. It is, if you will, a moving meditation—one that traverses the sacred geography of Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and forgotten heritage spots. The festival, timed to Saga Dawa (the holiest month in the Buddhist calendar, marking Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana), transforms athletic endeavor into spiritual homage. Runners become pilgrims, retracing steps once taken by Sherpa traders and monks, their breath mingling with mountain winds that have carried prayers for centuries. The racing routes aren’t merely scenic; they’re internationally accredited by the International Trail Running Association (ITRA) and UTMB, adding credibility and granting participants, especially Nepal’s trailblazing local runners, a coveted spot in the global performance index. 

But the festival’s genius lies in its vision of interconnectedness. Alongside the races, a Himalayan food tour offers flavors preserved through generations, while an ‘ethnic fashion show’ showcases colorful fashion woven with stories of resilience. Highland dance workshop and ethnic music performances—raw, authentic, and beautiful—are not mere entertainment but acts of cultural preservation.  

The jewel in the crown? The Buddha Purnima celebrations,  which is one of the most important festivals will bring the entire community for a peace procession in the town and ceremony in the monasteries which the visitors can witness.On the same day, inauguration of Himalayan Art Symposium 2025 supported by the Rubin Museum of Himalayan Arts, New York, honors the regional Himalayan artists and elevates their artistry onto a global stage.Nepal's greatest cultural custodians have often been the last to recognize their own inheritance. Through immersive presentations and dialogues, the event hopes to awaken the locals to what has too long been taken for granted: the sublime mastery of our mountain artists;  providing an antidote to the cultural amnesia. Master artists and young prodigies alike gather, their brushstrokes echoing the festival’s ethos: that heritage is not static, but living and breathing.  

In reimagining Salleri and the surrounding villages as a nexus of outdoor recreational sport and Spirituality, the festival achieves something extraordinary: it proves that development need not come at the cost of identity. Here, every stride is a step toward remembering—and in remembering, we attain a spiritual honor which every Nepali needs in these dire times and can offer to the troubled world today.

Shopping for clothes in Kathmandu can sometimes be an ordeal. With cheaply made and sourced Chinese products dominating the market, the options are endless but you can never be sure that the product you buy is of good quality. Colors fade, fabrics shrink and look misshapen, buttons pop off on second wear, and you’ll have to soon replace it with another. Though we have recommended some sustainable brand wears in the past, we know it might not always be a feasible solution especially given the fact that these pieces though well crafted and of high quality can be slightly on the expensive side. So, this week, we bring to you some businesses that offer good quality clothes at reasonable prices.

Ruby’s Collection

If you want good quality cord sets, kurtis, kurta sets, saris, etc. at a price you won’t regret, look no further than Ruby’s Collection. From party wear to everyday outfits, you will be spoilt for choice. Sourced from different parts of India like Banaras and Jaipur, the products at Ruby’s Collection are gorgeous and offer great value for money. You can browse through their collection on their Instagram and Facebook page or even visit their outlet located in Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur.

Nesca Nepal

Head to Nesca Nepal in Baneshwor, Kathmandu, or order from their Instagram page if you want daily wear clothes that are unique and fun. They even have a range of accessories and bags at affordable prices that you can pair with your outfits to create looks that match your mood. Most of the products are sourced from India so that vibe can be a little ethnic with floral motifs, paisleys, and tribal prints dominating the products available here. But you can rest assured that you won’t be paying a paisa extra than what they are worth.

Junkiri

We think the clothes Junkiri sells are beautiful. You will want to buy them all. They are well-designed pieces that are different from what you get at regular stores in Nepal. There is a wide range of tops and kurtis that are perfect for office or party wear. Junkiri’s summer collection is even better than their winter edition so now is just the right time to head to their outlet located in Manbhawan, Lalitpur, to get your wardrobe ready for the hot months ahead. Some of the items might feel slightly pricey but given the quality and the make, it will be worth the investment.

Yantra Fashion

This could very well be your one stop solution for party dresses, pants, tops, t-shirts, skirts, and everything else that you want to include in your closet. They have a good variety of clothes and they almost always have sizes available so you won’t have to be disappointed. What’s more, they have separate accounts for children’s clothes, men’s clothes, and accessories as well. What you see on the posts or photos is exactly what you will be receiving so you don’t have to worry about not liking something once you get it. You won’t have to spend a lot on these items as everything is moderately priced and feels light on the pocket.

Nikita Nepal is a visionary young female Entrepreneur who transformed a deep-rooted passion for orthodox tea into a thriving business empire. Born and raised amidst the rolling hills and lush tea garden, Nepal developed an early fascination for the intricate art of tea cultivation and preparation. From the verdant tea plantation of Fikkal (Ilam), Nepal developed a deep appreciation for the intricate nuances of orthodox tea production.

Born and raised in a small village, Nepal’s journey is a testament to resilience, ambition, and entrepreneurial spirit. Her pursuit of education took her from her hometown to Kathmandu, where she completed her higher studies, and later to Pokhara University for a BBA. Determined to expand her horizons, she further earned an MBA from Shinawatra University in Thailand. From a young age, she displayed a keen business sense—starting with small ventures like selling newspapers and gas cylinders. However, it was after graduation that she identified a significant gap in Nepal’s tea industry. Inspired by her vision to bring premium, authentic flavors to the market, she founded Aroma Tea, a brand that embodies quality, sustainability, and the rich heritage of Nepali orthodox tea. Her journey from a small-scale entrepreneur to an industry innovator showcases the power of dedication, foresight, and the courage to chase one’s dreams.

Nepal’s entrepreneurial journey is a story of vision, determination, and strategic growth. After completing her MBA, she set out to transform her business ideas into reality. In 2018, she founded Aroma Girls Hostel, providing safe and comfortable accommodation for students and working women. A year later, driven by her passion for business, she ventured into trading under the name Nepal Aroma Traders, expanding her footprint in the market. Recognizing the need for quality packaging solutions, she further established the Aroma Packaging Industry, reinforcing her commitment to innovation and excellence. Through Aroma Group, Nepal has built a dynamic enterprise that spans multiple sectors, reflecting her entrepreneurial acumen and unwavering dedication to creating impactful businesses.

Under Aroma Tea, Nepal has curated a diverse range of premium tea products that capture the essence of Nepal’s rich tea heritage. Specializing in orthodox leaf tea, the brand offers exquisite varieties such as Golden Tea/Needle, White Tea/Needle, Green Tea, and Black Tea, each crafted with precision and care. Expanding into convenience and flavor, Aroma Tea also features a collection of 22 naturally infused tea bag variants, including Chamomile, Jasmine, Cardamom, Tulsi, Mint, Lemongrass, Cinnamon, and more—available in both green and black tea options. To cater to the lovers of bold and aromatic blends, the brand also presents its signature Premium CTC Masala Tea, a perfect fusion of strong flavors and traditional spices. With this extensive range, Aroma Tea continues to redefine Nepal’s tea industry, offering a perfect brew for every tea enthusiast.

Nepal’s expertise in the tea industry is backed by extensive training and hands-on experience in tea processing, marketing, and branding. In December 2024, she completed a 25-day Training Course on Tea Processing Technology and Tea Industry Promotion at Zhangzhou College of Science and Technology, China. This intensive program provided in-depth knowledge on tea art, tea marketing, tea plantation, tea manufacturing, and branding, strengthening her ability to innovate in the sector. Additionally, in January 2023, she underwent specialized training in Tea Tasting and Blending in India, further refining her skills in crafting high-quality blends. With a strong foundation in both technical and business aspects of tea, Nepal continues to drive Aroma Tea toward excellence, combining tradition with modern innovation.

Through Aroma Group, Nepal has successfully built a diverse business portfolio, with Aroma Tea at its heart—offering premium orthodox teas, natural tea bag infusions, and rich CTC masala blends. Her extensive training in Nepal, India, and China has equipped her with deep expertise in tea processing, branding, and marketing, allowing her to elevate Nepalis tea on a global scale. With a vision for excellence and sustainability, Nepal continues to redefine the industry, proving that dedication and foresight can turn a simple idea into a thriving legacy.