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The Global Shapers Kathmandu Hub, in collaboration with GIZ’s Green Resilient Agricultural Productive Ecosystems (GRAPE) Project, has successfully conducted Climate Resilient Agriculture Workshops for young farmers from Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces. The workshops provided participants, aged 18 to 25, with critical insights into climate change, its effects on agriculture, and practical strategies for mitigation and adaptation tailored to their local environments.

As climate change increasingly threatens food security and agricultural systems, the initiative aims to drive positive change through dialogue and climate action. The workshop is part of a broader four-part series, culminating in a talk event titled “Adapting Agriculture to Changing Climates.”

Govinda Sharma, the lead trainer from the HASERA Permaculture Learning Center, highlighted the hands-on malt-making process as a key learning experience. Many participants, who had previously relied on traditional farming practices, found the workshop transformative. Learning to convert basic cereal grains into malt not only introduced them to new skills but also revealed income-generating opportunities for their communities.

Sharma also emphasized other practical skills taught during the workshop, such as biochar production, advanced composting techniques, and pest control—each tailored to the specific agricultural needs of the participants. The immediate impact of the workshop is already visible: one participant from Karnali has started producing malt from local grains and is eager to pursue quality checks, marking an early success in what promises to be a wave of innovation across the region.

One of the organizers of these workshops expressed optimism about the future of youth engagement in agriculture, saying, “Hearing these young farmers share their stories made me realize the resilience it takes to grow food in such challenging conditions and the vital role they play in feeding our communities.”

The Global Shapers Kathmandu Hub is now looking forward to the upcoming talk series, which will further explore adaptive strategies for agriculture in the face of climate change and empower the next generation of farmers in Nepal.

Yellow-breasted bunting (Emberiza aureola), locally known as “Bagale bagedi” belongs to the family “Emberizidae”. It is one of the winter visitors which arrives in Nepal or stopover here and fly to more south in flocks during end of November to early April. This species is a native to the northern hemisphere, traveling from Russia, Mongolia, China and Siberia to avoid harsh cold. Normally, they reside in the southern part of the northern hemisphere for six months.

This species breeds in the forests of Siberia and northeast Asia during the months of summer, then migrate to south Asia during winter seasons where they can forage and roost. Additionally, return to the northern part to breed again and continue this cycle. This bird species inhabits bogs, meadows, mountain tundra, forest steppe, broadleaf forests, open conifer forests, and abandoned fields close to villages during the breeding seasons. They inhabit lowlands to an altitude of 2,000 meters. This species is classified as critically endangered on both global and national levels.  

This bird species forage insects and feed to their chicks during breeding season and in the non-breeding season they feed on seeds and grains. This insectivore and granivore diet are crucial for egg production, healthy development of their chicks while maintaining necessary nutrients to sustain their energy during the migration period. Hence, the YBB population depends on the accessibility of the grains and insects. 

According to BirdLife International, the species’ population is estimated to have declined by 84.3-94.7 percent between 1980 and 2013. Change in agricultural practices and degradation of natural habitats significantly impacts their survival during breeding and migrating seasons. The use of pesticides and insecticides considerably reduces the number of insects which is an important factor of nutrients during breeding season. Scarcity in the number of insects reduces the production of eggs and the health of chicks. Transformation of wetlands, grassland and agricultural lands to other forms, reduces the seed-bearing plant species. Lack of proper nutritious seeds while migrating decreases the chance of survival in harsh cold. Unfortunately, these are not the only factors for the YBB population to decrease. For decades YBB are hunted mostly during migration for foodstuff. Beside this species, 25 other bird species are trapped and sold as bagedi meat which is a matter of concern. It is consumed as gourmet food in China and some parts of southeast Asia, low land of Nepal and also found in local hotels of Kathmandu. There is a belief that they have medicinal properties, warm up bodies in winter and have aphrodisiac properties. It is assumed that a professional trapper can trap 100 to 130 birds in a day and has a transaction of Rs 7,488,000-8,424,000.

Organizing awareness campaigns, and community participation in bird monitoring, and conservation activities should be called on a regular basis. Promoting perma-agriculture, urban forestry, and other activities that benefit the bird should be promoted. This helps in maintaining its population. Implementing strong regulations to protect from hunting for consumption, restrictions on the sale of its meat and imposing penalty for poaching helps in its conservation. As this is a migratory bird, mapping the migratory routes’ wintering and stopover locations might be the major points in conservation by making a clear and sound environment in its migrating route, locally and internationally. 

Conclusion

The YBB helps in controlling the population of insects and scattering of seeds. Not only that, it also serves the purpose of food for the predator in the wide range of land in the migration route. As a migratory bird it transfers nutrients and energy between different ecosystems. Its conservation promotes ecotourism by attracting bird watchers and helps local communities by economic empowerment. In contrast, if this species is conserved and can increase the population, it can somewhat increase the economic status of trap hunters in livelihood. YBB is one of the good indicator species of the grassland, wetland and agriculture ecosystem. Its decline in populations in past decades indicates something negative has changed in this natural environment.

In today’s hyper-connected society, where we are inundated with a constant stream of information and opinions, silence can feel like an outdated concept. From social media updates to workplace chatter, the expectation to engage, share and respond instantly is ever-present. Yet, amidst this noise, there lies an often-overlooked strength: the power of remaining silent. Silence, far from being passive, is an active and intentional force, as I recently reflected during a workshop where an insightful keynote speaker spoke about its transformative potential.

Silence is not just about withholding words; it is about creating space for reflection, understanding and thoughtful response. It is a tool seldom used, but it holds immense potential, both in daily conversations and in moments of high tension. In a heated argument, for example, the person who pauses to listen rather than rushes to speak can turn the whole dynamic. That moment of silence provides clarity, allowing for solutions that may have otherwise been missed in the heat of the moment.

Ancient mythology, rich in lessons of human behavior and decision-making, repeatedly highlights the value of silence as an instrument of wisdom and strength. Take, for instance, the Mahabharata, where Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava, is known for his calm and collected personality. In moments of conflict, he often remains silent, not out of indecision, but as a way to deeply reflect and weigh his words carefully. His silence, far from being submissive, was a mark of self-control, allowing him to bring clarity and resolution in times of chaos—a practice we could all benefit from in our fast-paced world.

Greek mythology also teaches us about the strategic power of silence. In the tale of Odysseus and the Sirens, Odysseus orders his men to plug their ears with beeswax to avoid the deadly call of the Sirens. Their survival depended on this silence, a disciplined refusal to respond to the seduction of noise. In many ways, this story mirrors our modern lives, where distractions and temptations constantly call for our attention. Sometimes, silence can be our greatest defense, allowing us to stay focused and true to our course.

Beyond mythological tales, silence is invaluable in today’s professional world. Leaders who practice restraint and listen, rather than dominate every conversation, often exude quiet confidence. Their silence signals control—not over others, but over themselves. By listening, they gain insight into various perspectives, which ultimately leads to better decision-making. Silence, in this sense, becomes a tool for leadership, allowing for more thoughtful and inclusive outcomes.

Moreover, silence can be an act of resistance. In a world that demands constant opinions, choosing not to speak is a bold statement of independence. It shows that we do not need to rush to respond, that we are capable of processing and reflecting in our own time. Silence can be a form of empowerment, offering us the space to deepen our understanding before we act.

This wisdom is mirrored in the Bhagavad Gita, where Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to find detachment and inner calm. This form of mental silence allows for clarity in action—a lesson that reminds us of the power of controlling our thoughts before responding to the world.

On a personal level, silence offers restoration. We often underestimate the mental and emotional benefits of solitude and quiet reflection. In moments of silence, we recharge, realign and sometimes gain insights that were drowned out by the noise. Silence can restore our creativity, our focus and our connection to ourselves.

Of course, there are times when silence is not the answer. There are moments when speaking out is necessary, and silence can imply complicity or indifference. The key lies in discernment—knowing when to use your voice and when to withhold it. But when used wisely, silence can turn the tide of a conversation, a decision or even an entire movement.

In today’s loud and fast-paced world, silence is an undervalued strength. As the stories of Yudhishthira, Odysseus and Arjuna teach us, silence is not about the absence of sound, but the presence of thought. It requires discipline, self-control and patience. As we navigate the overwhelming noise of modern life, perhaps it is time to rediscover the power of silence—a power that speaks volumes without saying a word.

On Monday, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their respective visits to New York for the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

“The India-Nepal friendship is very robust, and we look forward to adding even more momentum to our ties. Our talks focused on issues such as energy, technology, and trade,” Modi said while sharing pictures with Oli on his X account.

Prime Minister Oli also met with the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, at Kuwait’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations. Both leaders discussed matters of mutual interest and explored ways to further strengthen ties between Nepal and Kuwait.

On Sunday, PM Oli delivered a compelling address at the “Summit of the Future” session at the UN headquarters in New York. Representing the Group of Least Developed Countries (LDCs), he highlighted the pressing global challenges facing LDCs, with a focus on poverty, industrialization, and climate justice.

In his speech, PM Oli emphasized the urgent need for industrialization and increased production to combat poverty, a shared challenge for LDCs. He noted that while these countries contribute minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, they bear the brunt of climate change’s devastating impacts. He called on developed nations to increase their investment in climate financing, underscoring the need for global solidarity.

“Millions of children in LDCs go hungry every day, deprived of their basic rights to food and education,” PM Oli said, stressing that poverty is a significant barrier to a sustainable future for the world’s most vulnerable. He urged for concerted international efforts toward poverty alleviation and highlighted the moral imperative for wealthier nations to address growing inequality.

PM Oli also expressed concern over unmet commitments to Official Development Assistance (ODA), delayed international support, and rising debt distress in LDCs. He raised the issue of the digital divide, which continues to widen the gap between rich and poor countries, and criticized the global financial and trading systems for being fundamentally unfair to LDCs.

Despite these challenges, PM Oli spoke optimistically about the future, welcoming the adoption of the “Pact for the Future” as a blueprint for a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world. He called for a renewed commitment to multilateralism and stronger global governance structures that include LDCs in decision-making processes.

The Prime Minister concluded by urging global leaders to invest in productive capacities, sustainable development, and rural upliftment, advocating for meaningful partnerships to ensure equitable progress for all nations.

In addition to his discussions with Prime Minister Modi, Prime Minister Oli held a meeting with UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Sunday. During their conversation, Guterres expressed gratitude for Nepal’s vital contributions to UN peacekeeping operations. Nepal has long been recognized as a steadfast contributor of troops and police to UN missions, reflecting the country’s commitment to maintaining international peace and security.

The two leaders discussed several critical issues, including Nepal’s leadership role as Chair of the Global Coordination Bureau for Least Developed Countries (LDCs). Guterres highlighted the necessity of addressing climate change, particularly concerning mountain regions, which are especially vulnerable to environmental changes. The conversation also emphasized the importance of advancing Nepal’s transitional justice process, an issue of significant national importance.

In a post on X, Prime Minister Oli described the meeting as productive, focusing on essential topics such as transitional justice and climate justice. He expressed optimism about strengthening partnerships for a better future, highlighting Nepal’s commitment to social justice and sustainable development.

According to the Permanent Mission of Nepal to the UN, the discussions covered various aspects of Nepal-UN cooperation. Guterres commended Nepal for its unwavering dedication to the principles outlined in the UN Charter. He reiterated that addressing climate change is a top priority for the UN, particularly the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and assist vulnerable mountain countries like Nepal. The Secretary-General emphasized that adequate climate finance is essential for developing countries, including LDCs, to effectively engage in both mitigation and adaptation efforts.

Prime Minister Oli informed Guterres about the recent enactment of Nepal’s transitional justice law, which adopts a victim-centric approach and aligns with guidance from the Supreme Court and international norms. He assured the Secretary-General of the government’s commitment to implementing this law smoothly to resolve transitional justice issues once and for all.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister highlighted the devastating impacts of climate change on Nepal, specifically mentioning the permafrost issues in Thame, Solukhumbu, that have arisen due to global warming. He stressed the urgency of addressing these challenges and indicated that Nepal would be convening the Sagarmatha Sambad—a dialogue platform focused on the mountain ecosystem—inviting Guterres to participate.

Oli also articulated Nepal’s ambition to graduate from the LDC category by 2026 and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. He urged Guterres to advocate for enhanced development assistance from the international community to support this goal.

During their meeting, Prime Minister Oli reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to maintaining international peace and security, as the country is the largest Troops and Police Contributing Country (TPCC) to UN peace missions. He appealed to Guterres for the appointment of high-level positions for Nepal both at the UN headquarters and in the field.

Guterres expressed deep concern over the accelerated melting of glaciers and the resultant damage, assuring Prime Minister Oli of his commitment to enhancing resources within the Loss and Damage Fund to support affected countries.

Prime Minister Oli was accompanied by several high-ranking officials, including Minister for Foreign Affairs Arzu Rana Deuba, Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister Bishnu Prasad Rimal, Foreign Secretary Sewa Lamsal, Permanent Representative of Nepal to the United Nations Lok Bahadur Thapa, and Joint-Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai.

In addition to his meetings, Prime Minister Oli addressed the “Parliamentary Forum on Financing the Future: Aligning Finance with the Promise of the Paris Agreement” as the keynote speaker. In his address, he stressed the critical importance of phasing out fossil fuels to prevent catastrophic climatic disasters that are becoming more frequent and severe. He urged for increased investment in green and renewable energy technologies, advocating for a just transition to renewable energy and better access to climate funds for vulnerable countries.

Meanwhile, the United Nations High Representative for Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States, Undersecretary-General Rabab Fatima, also paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Oli. During their discussion, they exchanged views on the Nepal-UN partnership, the ongoing efforts to help Nepal graduate from the LDC category, and preparations for the upcoming Third International Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3).

Prime Minister Oli arrived in New York on Friday on a 10-day visit, marking his first foreign engagement since his reappointment as Prime Minister on July 15.