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Global economies are slowing down due to energy prices, supply chain disturbances, high inflation, and tightening monetary policy in major advanced and developing economies. As per the International Monetary Fund’s projection, global economic growth will be limited to 3.2 percent in the current fiscal year 2024 and next fiscal year 2025. Here, global economic growth is stuck at 3.2 percent, but on the other side, 5.9 percent of inflation is chasing economic activity. Amid such stagnant economic growth, the movement of people is one of the most challenging issues for the underdeveloped and developing economies. The migration of young people is a very serious issue for underdeveloped and developing countries to manage and motivate youth productivity and discourage migration. 

The current state of young people’s minds is more focused on future security. Future security in terms of social security, which covers employment, living standards, education, health, entertainment, and social recognition through a decent life and social status. Why is social security so important? A simple answer to this question is that one just wants to be free from fear of losing their current living standard and grow into a better position than a similar group of people. This tendency has been seen across the world. Better social security provision and migration have a direct correlation, which shows that the better the social security system, the higher the inflows of migrated people. Therefore, a very simple conclusion about the significance of social security is that young people are always in search of a better social security system, and they are attracted toward those countries that have a better and more accessible social security system.

It indicates better and more accessible social security because even if the government claims they have better social security in terms of social protection and access to all, people won’t be motivated toward it until and unless they have better access and a favorable living environment. If you look at the current social security package in Nepal, we have about 86 social security packages operating by different entities. But we don’t feel this social protection package is accessible to all. These packages are not designed on the basis of people's needs and are also not connected to productivity from an economic point of view. If you take the example of Chinese social security, it is arguably the greatest social security system in the world with 1.3bn people covered. This is a miracle of a social security system that covers the largest population in the world. The per capita income of China reached $12,720, which was just around $4,500 before Xi Jumping became president. The Chinese strategy of poverty alleviation is now a role model for us to fight poverty. But it is important to note: their governing system and ours are very different in terms of politics as well as bureaucracy. 

The cause of young people's migration is not limited to the availability of social security but also the economic environment. If the economic condition of the country is good, which means there are employment opportunities, an easy-to-do business environment, financial access, priority for entrepreneurship, and a good business and social insurance package, ideally migration trends should decline. But in reality, migration cannot be controlled by improved economic conditions, social security, or political stability. It can, however, balance migration through inflows and outflows of people to the country.

This is the globalization era; we are global citizens and global markets human resources. You can work anywhere in the world if you have the competitive quality of a good human resource. You should not be limited to your motherland, and it is not necessary to be within a country. But the question is, are we giving such an environment to our young people to grow and chase the global market to show that the best talent is born in Nepal? Are we providing an opportunity for the world's best talent to migrate to Nepal and work here for the betterment of his or her life and our national economy?

It is said that Nepal is a virgin land for all. But we did not say which sector is virgin, and the virgin land is for what? This is the most fundamental thing that we need to figure out, and this is really the message to the young people: change the mindset of migrating just for the sake of social security and a better living standard. Our psychological state is very vulnerable and dynamic as well. If we want to motivate our youth inside the country, we must show them the positive hope of a better life and better opportunities in a practical way. Just saying that Nepal is a virgin land for all is not enough to inspire hope. Indeed, we need to show the best possible practical approach and directly touch them.

Government policies and programs should be prioritized toward young people; leaders should not talk negatively in a public forum; and the bureaucratic system should support the local economy and entrepreneurship through better financial access and an easy legal framework. Therefore, we should work collectively for the positive and hopeful mindset of youths to work and stay in Nepal instead of going abroad. At least we should provide an environment that forces them to think twice before flying abroad.

Dr Kuldeep Singh is a distinguished plastic surgeon and senior consultant at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in New Delhi, specializing in aesthetic plastic and reconstructive surgery. With over 25 years of experience, Dr Singh has developed exceptional skills and expertise in the field, establishing a reputation for excellence and professionalism in cosmetic and aesthetic surgical procedures throughout his nearly three-decade-long career.

Can you tell us about your journey into the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery?

I embarked on my medical career after earning my MBBS in 1982, followed by a master’s degree in surgery in 1986. I completed my plastic surgery training at PGI Chandigarh in December 1989. In January 1990, I began working as an Assistant Professor in Plastic Surgery at KMC Manipal, a position I held until November 1995. Subsequently, I relocated to Delhi and joined Apollo Hospital as a resident consultant. I have since been a full-time consultant at Apollo Hospital, where I continue to practice today.

What inspired you to specialize in this area of medicine?

After completing my master’s in surgery, I hadn't initially considered a career in plastic surgery until my move to Delhi. Upon arriving in Delhi, I secured a position as a registrar at Saptajain Hospital, specifically in the plastic surgery department. The department was exceptionally well-run and efficient, which piqued my interest in the field of plastic surgery. Although I joined as a resident, I soon realized that many people there were preparing for entrance exams for the super specialty course in plastic surgery. Motivated by this environment, I decided to apply for the course as well. This decision led to my admission to PGI Chandigarh, where I completed my advanced training in plastic surgery. Following my time at PGI, I landed my first professional role in Manipal, which marked the beginning of my dedicated career in plastic surgery.

What are some of the latest trends and advancements in cosmetic surgery that you find particularly interesting?

Plastic surgery encompasses two main branches: reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. Reconstructive surgery corrects defects, deformities, and injuries to restore normal function and appearance, while cosmetic surgery focuses on enhancing the features of those who are already normal. In our practice, 30 to 40 percent involves cosmetic procedures, with the rest being reconstructive. Cosmetic surgery primarily deals with rejuvenation or restoration, addressing age-related changes such as skin pigmentation, texture, and sagging. Previously, surgical options were mainly available for those over 50, but now non-surgical methods like Botox, fillers, and lasers are accessible for younger patients, helping to minimize aging changes early on. By intervening early, we can prevent more severe issues later in life. The best cosmetic treatments are subtle, aiming to make you look like a healthier, fresher version of yourself without obvious signs of intervention, maintaining a natural and unique appearance.

How do cultural perceptions and societal attitudes toward cosmetic surgery differ between countries, such as India and Nepal ?

Traditionally, in India and Nepal, people lived in joint families and typically began earning in their late twenties or early thirties, often continuing to reside in the family home. Cosmetic surgery was generally frowned upon, seen as vain, and reserved for life-saving situations. This perspective is now evolving as young people gain professional and financial independence earlier, choosing to live separately and make personal decisions, including opting for cosmetic procedures without seeking family permission. Increased purchasing power and cultural shifts towards personal autonomy have led to more young people spending on travel, health, exercise, and cosmetic procedures. This trend mirrors practices in the West, where children often leave home at 16, becoming financially independent and personally funding their education and surgeries. Consequently, cosmetic procedures became more common there sooner. Over the past five to ten years, similar trends have emerged in India and Nepal, with more young people embracing independence, reflecting a broader cultural shift towards self-sufficiency and personal well-being.

How do technological innovations such as 3D printing and robotics play a role in modern plastic and reconstructive surgery?

Technological advancements have significantly impacted both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. In cosmetic work, three primary types of energy, including radio frequency, are now delivered through advanced systems that enable precise and safe treatments for skin tightening, fat reduction, and texture improvement. These systems have evolved to offer highly selective treatment options, with modern machines incorporating sophisticated software that includes preset settings tailored to specific skin types and issues, making non-surgical procedures more effective and safer. In reconstructive surgery, significant progress includes the development of microsurgery, which allows surgeons to join arteries and veins less than one millimeter in size under a microscope, restoring blood flow to amputated limbs and tissues used in cancer reconstruction. Additionally, super microsurgery has emerged as a groundbreaking technique for repairing lymphatic vessels, which are less than 0.5 millimeters in diameter. This is particularly beneficial for conditions like post-breast cancer treatment, where tissue removal can cause swelling due to blocked lymphatic channels. By repairing these channels, the fluid flow is restored, preventing limb swelling. While robotics has not yet significantly influenced plastic surgery, 3D printing is proving to be highly beneficial, allowing for the creation of customized bone and dental implants, especially useful after injuries or cancer surgeries. These advancements collectively enhance the precision, safety, and outcomes of both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.

What advice would you give to young medical professionals who are considering a career in plastic surgery?

For young medical professionals contemplating a career in plastic surgery, my advice would be to embrace the captivating nature of our specialty. Unlike other fields, plastic surgery knows no geographical bounds, encompassing the entire human body. It offers a constant source of stimulation and creativity, demanding innovative thinking and adaptability on a daily basis. Those with an artistic inclination will find plastic surgery particularly rewarding. Before each procedure, envisioning the desired outcome and working towards it requires a blend of surgical skill and creative vision. If you’re drawn to the artistic side of medicine, plastic surgery is a field worth exploring and committing to.

The 2024 Indian general elections have concluded with unexpected results, prompting a re-evaluation of the political landscape. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), secured a majority in parliament, marking Narendra Modi’s third term as Prime Minister. However, the BJP did not achieve a majority on its own, revealing a shift in voter sentiment.

In 2014, the BJP won 282 seats, and in 2019, it increased its tally to 303 seats, both times securing a clear majority on its own. However, in 2024, the BJP’s seat count dropped to 240, falling short of the 272 seats needed for a majority, which necessitated reliance on its allies within the NDA to form the government.

Since 2014, the BJP has dominated Indian politics, winning commanding majorities in the 2014 and 2019 elections under Modi’s leadership. This period saw significant policies and reforms aimed at economic growth, national security and cultural resurgence. However, the 2024 election results reveal a more complex narrative.

Public perception of BJP leadership, especially Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, significantly influenced the 2024 results. Critics have often pointed to their approach toward the opposition, characterized by a lack of tolerance for dissent, suppression and the use of pressure tactics. Many voters expressed dissatisfaction with this attitude, feeling it undermined the democratic fabric of the country. The electorate seemed eager to curb this perceived authoritarian streak, signaling a desire for a more inclusive and accommodative leadership style.

The Muslim community notably voiced its discontent, feeling marginalized and oppressed under BJP’s rule. High-profile projects like the Ram Mandir construction and consecration only deepened these concerns, further alienating this significant voter base. Even in the Ram Mandir area, the BJP didn’t win.

Modi’s government faced criticism for its SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) policy, which some analysts believe neglected regional cooperation and damaged relationships with neighboring countries, contrary to its ‘neighborhood first’ policy. This aspect may have also contributed to the dip in voter support, as citizens recognized the importance of strong regional ties for national stability and growth.

The decrease in voter support for the BJP in 2024 should be a wake-up call for the party. Despite Modi being hailed as one of India’s most impactful leaders since Jawaharlal Nehru, and his commendable performance on the global stage, the electorate’s diminishing enthusiasm suggests a need for introspection. The Indian populace seems to be advocating for a diversification in leadership to prevent the stagnation of Modi’s image and to ensure a dynamic governance model.

The current political landscape reveals a fragile NDA, with allies like Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu failing to inspire confidence due to their history of shifting alliances. This uncertainty paves the way for potential shifts in power, with the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) emerging as a possible alternative. The INDIA alliance, comprising several opposition parties, won 210 seats in the 2024 elections. While still behind the NDA, their growing influence suggests they could be a formidable contender in the near future if power dynamics change. However, the specter of a midterm election also looms large, which could have detrimental effects on India’s economy and its standing on the global stage.

Despite these challenges, ministers like Nirmala Sitharaman and S Jaishankar have demonstrated exceptional competence. Sitharaman’s economic policies have strengthened India’s financial position, while Jaishankar’s diplomatic efforts have bolstered India’s global image. Retaining them in their respective ministries is crucial for maintaining continuity and progress in these areas.

The coming days are fraught with challenges for India. Internal power struggles, developmental hurdles, economic uncertainties, and maintaining global and regional presence will test the resilience of Modi’s government. The electorate’s message is clear: The BJP must adapt, evolve, and embrace a more inclusive and democratic approach to governance. Only then can Modi hope to lead India effectively through the complexities of contemporary geopolitics and domestic affairs.

As India stands at a crossroads, the hope is that Modi and his government will heed these lessons, striving for a more inclusive, democratic and progressive India. The nation's future hinges on their response to this electoral wake-up call.

The author, a member of the Supreme Court Bar, has been practicing corporate law for around three decades

There are 56 airports in the country. Of these, three are international, 10 are regional, and 43 are in the hilly districts. Likewise, Nijgadh International Airport in Bara, and the airports in Arghakhanchi, Achham and Kalikot, are at different stages of construction.

According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), air service has reached 46 out of 77 districts in the country so far. This data shows that the government is actively engaged in constructing airports. However, the state-owned aviation regulator and airport operator seems indifferent towards operating the constructed airports. Airfields in 12 districts have turned into grazing grounds due to a lack of flights. Small aircraft operate flights to some remote STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) airfields in the country. However, even this service is not reliable at present.

Nepal Airlines is providing services to some remote hilly districts. However, the state-owned carrier has only two Twin Otter aircraft for domestic flights. Currently, both planes are grounded due to technical issues.

Hansa Raj Pandey, the spokesperson and deputy director general of CAAN, said that air service was not being effective due to the lack of an integrated transport policy. “Air service falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation. It should now be linked with transportation because foreign tourists are not the only ones who travel by air,” he added.

No flights after 14 years of operation

NAC operated flights to an airfield in Badachaur of Lungri-5, Rolpa regularly for 14 years. However,it stopped flights to the remote airfield in the 1990s. The Badachaur airfield has not seen any flight since that time. Despite this, the political leadership has shown little interest in resuming flights to the airfield.

“We have requested the federal government to resume flights to the airfield. They have been paying lip service only,” Bharat Kumar Thapa, chairperson of Lungri Rural Municipality, said. “We learned from the budget for the fiscal year 2024/25 that the Badachaur airfield will be upgraded. We are yet to receive further details.”

Thapa said that the number of tourists to Swargadwari in Pyuthan, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve in Baglung, and the Jaljala region of Rolpa could increase once flights to Badachaur become regular.

Irregular flights

Sher Bahadur Thapa from Tamghas, Gulmi, booked a flight to Resunga airfield from Kathmandu earlier this week. He was excited as the air service reduces travel time from an entire day to just 40 minutes. However, Thapa could not fly. Although the Twin Otter aircraft of Nepal Airlines took off from Kathmandu airport, it returned after 15 minutes citing a technical problem.

“We were told by the pilot that the flight was being turned back due to low visibility. Only after landing were we told that there was a technical problem,” Thapa said.

NAC has been operating scheduled flights to Resunga airfield since April last year. The airline initially operated two flights a week but soon increased the frequency to four flights a week.

However, the flight has now become uncertain as both Twin Otter aircraft of NAC remain grounded.

NAC Spokesperson Ramesh Poudel said both aircraft are likely to be airborne after repairs this week. “We lose Rs 600,000 per day if these aircraft serving 20 remote airfields are grounded,” Poudel added.

Private airlines also interested

Former Spokesperson of the Airline Operators Association of Nepal (AOAN), Yograj Kandel, said private carriers have also been requesting the government to operate flights to remote airfields. “Tara Air is interested in operating flights to Resunga airfield in Gulmi. The airfare could be about Rs 300 higher compared to NAC,” he said. “Tara Air is positive about operating daily flights.”

NAC currently charges Rs 7,500 for Resunga flights.

Former Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Sudan Kirati said many airfields are turning into grazing grounds for cattle due to a lack of flights. “Public service delivery has been affected due to frequent changes in government and political instability,” Kirati said. “People in remote areas have been deprived of air service due to a lack of aircraft in NAC’s fleet.”

Pandey from CAAN said there is not much demand for flights to some remote airfields due to the construction of roads.