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Politics, the bedrock of our society, is a testament to humanity's profound achievements. Through political parties, we find a platform to unite our collective efforts, reconcile differing ideas and opinions, and forge a common ground that embraces us all. Politics and political parties grant us the precious gift of self-determination, bestowing upon us inalienable human rights and fundamental freedoms.

They are the cornerstones of our sovereignty and independence, the driving force behind human flourishing, and the architects of a better life for all. Through these, we shape our dreams of justice, fairness, and equal opportunity. The yearning for prosperity unites every human society. In the annals of history, thriving nations owe their success to visionary politics, courageous leaders, and the indomitable spirit of their people. The world teems with shining examples of political parties and leaders who ventured into the unknown, making sacrifices and taking unimaginable risks to propel their nations towards progress and affluence. Political parties worldwide should take pride in these endeavors.

Our societies evolve, adapt, and thrive. With eight billion souls spread across seven continents and nearly 200 countries, we are all working tirelessly to advance our human civilization. Our struggles for independence, freedom, and equality have led to diverse governance and democratic practices across Asia, the Pacific, Europe, the Americas, and Africa. Our political systems have cultivated unique approaches to promote the common good and propel progress in various facets of human life.

Scientific and technological advancements fuel economic growth, while increased agricultural productivity and food security, healthcare, and education foster individual growth. Modern infrastructure and communication technology underpin our way of life, and literature, art, music, and sports continue to flourish. Our contemporary political principles of tolerance and equality enable religion, culture, values, and traditions to guide our collective existence.

In our ever-changing world, we are guided by two contrasting forces: the innovators and the preservers. Innovators strive for radical change, disrupting existing societies in pursuit of transformation. Preservers, on the other hand, advocate for the status quo, valuing stability over change. The interplay of these forces can lead to discord and destruction, impeding human progress. History teaches us that these forces must work in harmony and rational balance to advance our societies. Political parties and their leaders should heed this historical lesson. 

When politics and political parties succumb to narrow-mindedness, humanity bears the brunt of suffering. Our achievements, efforts, ideas, and faith should not blind us to the worth of others. Intolerance breeds injustice, conflict, and hardship for all. Politics and political parties should avoid these pitfalls, focusing on creating a world that upholds the common good above all.

Resilient politics, political parties, and political systems invigorate a nation. They give rise to effective constitutions, stable institutions, the rule of law, service delivery, and human empowerment. A state that ensures human rights and fundamental freedoms, justice, equality, and protection earns the trust and faith of its citizens. A prosperous state provides political stability, economic growth, internal harmony, and external security.

Political parties, born of the people’s desire to escape autocracy and embrace self-rule, should place the nation and its people above the government. Let us emphasize the need for political parties to contribute to building an effective, vibrant nation that safeguards long-term national interests rather than focusing solely on wielding executive power.

Political parties should continually ask: Are the state’s opportunities, rights, and resources accessible to all? Is the fruit of human progress equitably distributed? Is citizen participation in the political process guaranteed? Is anyone subjected to deprivation, discrimination, inequality, or injustice? Can everyone engage in fair, transparent, and rules-based entrepreneurial activities? Injustice and mistreatment by governments not only delegitimize political systems but also breed instability and conflict, both domestically and internationally.

Political parties play a vital role in promoting coexistence, tolerance, harmony, and cooperation to ensure equality, justice, and respect for all. Religion, faith, culture, tradition, ideas, and values form the bedrock of our identities, dignity, and sovereign rights. They can also unite our nations in acceptance and coexistence. Political parties have a pivotal role in weaving these elements into the fabric of harmonious societies.

In our interconnected world, marked by rapid scientific and technological progress and economic interdependence, we must be mindful of the opportunities and challenges that lie before us. Climate change, health catastrophes, and conflicts are the paramount challenges of our time. Political parties bear the responsibility of recognizing and addressing these challenges, equipping themselves with the expertise needed to lead our societies to a shared, prosperous future. 

In this context, Asian political parties hold a particularly significant role. Asia, the world’s largest continent and home to the most populous nations, shares a history of millennia-old civilizations with Europe, nurturing some of humanity's most enlightened concepts and ideologies. Across the centuries, Asia has been a wellspring of knowledge, education, and progress. 

From 1 AD to 1820 AD, India and China collectively accounted for over 50 percent of the global economic output. Fast forward to 2023, and once again, the world's economic center is gravitating towards Asia, boasting three of the world's five largest economies. This vast continent is also characterized by its rich ecological diversity, highlighted by the Himalayas in Nepal, a pivotal freshwater source crucial to the planet's well-being.

In our roles as Asian political parties, let us cast our eyes toward a future where Asia takes center stage in global economic affairs. With hearts brimming with determination, let us set our sights on spearheading solutions to our world's most pressing challenges. Let us aspire to be the primary architects of knowledge and artistry across the globe. 

Together, let us shape the very culture and narrative that defines our world. We shall blaze a trail towards shared prosperity, nurturing the limitless potential and creativity of humanity, while cherishing and safeguarding our precious natural heritage. Our collective dream is to leave a world where our children not only survive but flourish. As Asia sets its course to lead humanity towards progress and excellence, let us be the beacons of inspired leadership, both within our societies and beyond. Together, we’ll paint a brighter, more harmonious future for all.

In Nepal, our party, CPN-UML, strives to fulfill our people’s aspirations for prosperity and happiness through Comprehensive Democracy. We aim to build a vibrant, fast-growing economy, foster entrepreneurship, ensure social security, enhance infrastructure, and safeguard our environment.

The principles of sovereign equality, mutual benefit, justice, and fairness guide our foreign policy. We believe in Friendship with All and Enmity with None, and we are eager to collaborate with bilateral, regional, and multilateral partners in areas of shared interest and mutual benefit.

The author is Chairperson of CPN-UML

An increasing number of Nepal’s youth population are flying abroad in search of jobs. 

This migration trend is not just limited to the unskilled and illiterate folk; it extends to the semi-skilled and even the skilled workforce. What's more, the exodus has witnessed skilled professionals from lucrative job markets like banking, insurance, healthcare, IT, and various corporate sectors bidding farewell to their homeland in pursuit of a brighter future. Furthermore, we have seen prominent sports personalities, from football to cricket, taking their talents overseas for the promise of better prospects.

According to the National Population and Housing Census 2021, Nepal boasts a youthful population, with 61.96 percent falling between the ages of 15-59 years. Yet, if the ongoing youth migration trend continues, encompassing the unskilled, semi-skilled, and skilled individuals, Nepal's demographic structure is at risk of a significant and adverse transformation. The consequences are already felt. In rural parts of Nepal, be it in the mountains or the Tarai plains, finding labor for farming has become a daunting task. Simultaneously, white-collar jobs are plagued by a scarcity of suitable candidates, a challenge that becomes even more pronounced as one moves away from the bustling heart of Kathmandu to other corners of the nation.

This somber scenario suggests that a nation blessed with over 80,000 Megawatts of electricity production potential, and adorned with eight of the world's 14 highest peaks, along with sacred sites like Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, and Janakpurdham, the birthplace of Mata Sita, is at risk of failing in the due course of time. 

This critical situation demands concerted and positive efforts from leadership, both within the government and the private sector. Otherwise, Nepal may soon find itself predominantly inhabited by an aging, retired population.

As we ponder this bleak situation, it's vital to understand how a country begins to falter. Just as a person has multiple dimensions, a nation too possesses several bodies, including its physical presence, demographics, culture, economy, innovation, and historical legacy. The process of failure or disintegration is not abrupt; it's a gradual disintegration that takes time. However, alongside disintegration, development and integration also occur as a natural part of evolution.

Despite the challenges, it is imperative that we do not lose hope. In times of despair, the ray of hope must persist, particularly among those in leadership positions who possess awareness, an ethical mindset, and a desire to contribute to the greater good. Just as individuals form families, families make up societies, and societies together constitute a nation. The thought process of individuals and families plays a pivotal role in shaping the nation's trajectory. While complete coherence in thoughts and desires may be elusive, harmony amid diverse thoughts can be harnessed to propel a nation forward. Every individual, from their unique vantage point, holds the potential to contribute positively to strengthen their family, society, and nation.

To work for the greater good, whether in the social, economic, cultural, or innovation sector, three levels are essential: individual, institution, and government. Any endeavor, no matter how modest, can lead to achieving societal goals when approached with scalability, intent, focus, clarity, and unwavering determination. However, effective leadership is vital, and it is worth noting that our society often witnesses transactional leadership in which those in leadership positions rely on bureaucratic authority and legitimate power, or reward and punishment, to influence individual performance.

Instead of this transactional approach, our leaders should embrace a transformational perspective, motivating individuals by articulating a vision for the betterment of society as a whole. Such a transformational approach not only enhances the effectiveness of these efforts but also empowers followers to become leaders themselves. This approach aligns with John Calvin Maxwell's "The Five Levels of Leadership," which highlights leadership that goes beyond authority and hierarchy, inspiring loyalty and personal growth among followers.

Maxwell writes that the first level of leaders is those who are followed by the people because they must follow these leaders owing to their interests. Then comes the next level of leadership where people follow them because they want to follow them. The third level of leadership attracts the loyalty of the followers because these leaders have done something good for the institution or society. The fourth level of leaders are those who have not only contributed to the institution or society but have also empowered followers to become leaders themselves in their respective areas. The topmost i.e., the final level of leaders are those who are followed because of who they are and what they represent.

Nepal yearns for leaders who empower people to become successful leaders themselves, guiding the nation towards the next level of development and prosperity in a sustainable manner. Despite decades of longing for such transformational leaders, we must not lose faith in ourselves and our society, for real leaders can emerge at any given moment.

The author is Chief Executive Office of Muktinath Bikas Bank

The traffic congestion affecting our roads can be minimized to a great extent by paying attention to the key core and ancillary components like parking, road improvement, traffic lights, rules, human resources, dedicated lanes, scheduling and moral responsibility.

Ample parking space for staff as well as visitors must be made a precondition for establishment and operation of organizations and other infrastructure like public/private offices, hospitals and clinics, malls, educational institutions and sports complexes. The parking spaces set aside in the approved design for construction should be used exclusively for parking only. Roads are not meant for parking vehicles and taxis looking for passengers should be allowed to park on taxi stands only. This will ultimately lead to the development of taxi stands and private parking spaces at different locations.      

Improvement in road safety management practices is a continuing process. Traffic signs should be placed in such a way that they are distinctly visible. Pedestrians should have unhindered access to wide sidewalks/footpaths. Furthermore, relevant agencies should install reflectors at blind turns and repaint the road lanes from time to time to minimize traffic rule violations resulting from faded paints. 

 Traffic lights are the most important element for regulating vehicular movement on the road. This system works automatically as set up at the time of installation in terms of timing of the gap rotation and the direction to stop and move with the turning of lights. So, the electric traffic light system, already installed and used at different intersections and other vulnerable points, must be in operation throughout the day and night. As such, other crowded intersections should also have the system of electric traffic lights and signals/signs for a smooth traffic movement. The manual traffic regulatory clearance during the day time should be avoided as much as possible at crossings where traffic lights have already been installed.

For regulating road traffic, several traffic rules and regulations have already been enforced. Road traffic will be quite chaotic if any number of vehicles are allowed to ply without taking the carrying capacity of the road into account. Violators of traffic rules and regulations should be penalized without let or hindrance. The practice of booking in case of violations and imposing penalties, including impounding of licenses/orientation classes, should be continued. Moreover, pedestrians must be given orientation to cross the road by following traffic signs and lights.

 Police officers must be deployed in required numbers at busy intersections for effective enforcement of traffic rules and regulation and for streamlining road traffic with limited infrastructure. In the absence of electric traffic lights and overhead bridges or underpasses, the pedestrian has no option but to cross the road through zebra crossing. In many cases, pedestrians unaware of such rules end up blocking traffic by daring to cross the road haphazardly. 

 Instances of straight-moving vehicles occupying the free left lane have become an everyday affair in Kathmandu. All buses and three-wheelers must stop only at dedicated stops, only for embarkation and disembarkation for a smooth vehicular movement. 

Depending upon the availability of four or more lanes along some roads like Ring Road, one lane can be designated for specified vehicles mentioned above. The dedicated lane would be a faster lane as only one type of vehicle (say car/microbus) carrying more than one occupant can use it. This is a good approach to discourage single-driven cars. Some offices may even be tempted to provide such services to their staff.

Every vehicle owner/driver should primarily understand and realize his/her moral responsibility to abide by traffic rules and regulations. Also, it is always better to educate oneself first rather than asking others to follow. 

 Apart from traffic police and road users, authorities like city councils and municipalities can play a vital role in effective traffic management by declaring crowded marketplaces, historic monuments and cultural heritage sites like Ason, Indra Chowk and Durbar Squares, which draw a large number of visitors, no-vehicle areas. Such a move will also help in the preservation of heritages by curbing pollution.

Entry fees should be collected from vehicles entering crowded areas like New Road to discourage the use of vehicles in such areas. The weekly holiday (Saturday) and other public holidays should be declared pedestrians’ days by prohibiting the entry of vehicles on busy areas like New Road and Durbarmarg. Vehicles with odd and even registration numbers may be allowed to ply on alternate days to curb congestion.

The way forward

Several countries have taken the above-mentioned measures to deal with traffic congestion. They have also developed mass transit systems like bus rapid transit (BRT) and ropeways/cable cars for the same. In the case of ropeways and cars, many cities have built infrastructure like towers and stations along river banks. This means not having to foot exorbitant costs for land pooling. Relevant authorities can replicate this in the Kathmandu Valley, which is home to rivers like Bagmati and Bishnumati, and help preserve the aesthetic, cultural and historic components of the Bagmati civilization.  

The author is a former Executive Director, Nepal Intermodal Transport Development Board. He can be reached at [email protected]

This is part II of a two-part series 

The biggest festival Dashain began with Ghatasthapana today by worshiping the deity Shailaputri in accordance with Vedic rituals and sowing barley seeds for jamara in a jar filled with soil and cow dung for germination.

The auspicious hour for observing Ghatasthapana is 11:29 am today, according to the Nepal Calendar Determination Committee. Deity Shailaputri is one of the nine deities worshiped in Navaratri.

Prayers are also offered to Durga Bhavani, the goddess of power today. Germination of the auspicious "Jamara" is also initiated at Hanumandhoka Dashain Ghar in accordance with Vedic rituals.

With the marking of Ghatasthapana, celebrations and worship take place in the Shaktipeeth across the country including in the Kathmandu Valley.

Likewise, there is also a tradition of sacrificing animals while initiating the germination of the "jamara".