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New rules for helicopter operations introduced by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) have made significant impacts in Karnali Province. There are fears that restriction in helicopter flight operations after noon, ban on movement of cargo using sling, and requirement of obtaining flight permit from CAAN instead of airports will affect transportation of goods to Karnali and rescue operations. Bishna Prasad Sharma of ApEx talked to Karnali Province Chief Minister Raj Kumar Sharma on these new rules and other aspects of the province government. Excerpts:

What are the priorities of the Karnali Province government?

The priorities of the Karnali Province government revolve around the effective implementation of policies and programs, as well as the budget. The provincial government has been actively working towards the implementation of approved policies and programs, reviewing past experiences, and engaging with relevant ministries and agencies for the successful execution of the new budget. The province government has passed the Karnali Training Institute Bill and is working on its implementation. Similarly, the Sport Bill, Civil Servant Bill, Provincial Police Bill, and Dalit Rights Bill have been drafted. The focus also lies on addressing issues related to federalism, including financial, administrative, and legal aspects, in order to overcome challenges and uplift the province from its current multifaceted poverty.

Do you think the people could feel the implementation of federalism in Karnali Province?

While the concept of federalism is enshrined in the constitution, the implementation of true federalism, encompassing financial, administrative, and legal dimensions, is still a work in progress. The Karnali Province, in particular, has faced challenges in fully experiencing the benefits of federalism. Despite the aspirations for a decentralized governance structure, challenges remain, and the province is still grappling with multifaceted poverty and neglect, requiring further efforts to bridge the gap and ensure the effective implementation of federalism.

How does the Karnali Province government plan to address the slow spending of the development budget?

The Karnali Province government is dedicated to accelerating development, job creation, and effective budget utilization. The slow spending of the development budget is attributed to various factors, including the lack of financial, administrative, and legal federalism. The interference of vested interests, such as the medical, land, educational, and contractor mafias, has also contributed to delays. The province recognizes the need for a robust legal system and adequate manpower to address these issues promptly. By improving administrative aspects, enhancing legal frameworks, and ensuring sufficient human resources, the government aims to expedite budget spending and promote timely completion of projects.

How does the Karnali Province government plan to enhance rescue mechanisms and address geographical difficulties?

The Karnali Province government is committed to addressing both preventive measures and effective rescue mechanisms in the face of geographical challenges and accidents. While accidents are a concern, the province emphasizes the importance of liberating its people from poverty and hardship through proactive measures. Initiatives include upgrading lifelines such as the Bheri Corridor, Karnali Highway, and Rapti Highway, as well as implementing immediate rescue operations through aircraft, helicopters, and other means. The government acknowledges the need for reliable air services and discussions have been held to improve air transportation. We also have plans to promote electric vehicles.

The government has imposed a rule prohibiting flights in remote areas after noon. What are your thoughts on this decision and its potential impact?

The government’s decision to restrict flights in remote areas after noon raises significant concerns. Accidents and emergencies can occur at any time. The decision to limit flights based on time without consulting relevant stakeholders, including us, is worrying. It is essential that decisions of this nature are made through collaborative discussions. I intend to address this matter with the relevant authorities and engage in further conversations. Flight schedules should be determined based on weather conditions rather than fixed times, as safety should always take precedence. Up until now, flights were permitted after 12 o'clock, and Karnali has not experienced any significant accidents in this regard. I will work diligently to resolve this issue through earnest discussions with the appropriate authorities.

How might this rule impact the transportation of essential goods, such as food and building materials, in Karnali?

Undoubtedly, this rule will have adverse effects on the transportation of essential goods in Karnali. Not all districts within the province have convenient transportation access. Even in areas with transportation facilities, certain types of construction materials cannot be efficiently transported via road. This is particularly true for remote districts like Humla and Dolpa, where air service is a necessity for transporting various items. It is crucial that air service availability is contingent on weather conditions rather than fixed timings, to ensure that the vital needs of the people are met without disruption.

For the last many years, goods have been transported to Humla using helicopters from Sallisalla to Kharpunath. Restricting takeoffs solely from airports will significantly impede these operations. Transportation options should be accessible and affordable, irrespective of location, and this matter demands careful consideration.

Could such regulations force Karnali’s residents to rely more heavily on Tibet for essential goods?

While it’s true that some residents of certain areas, like parts of Humla and Dolpa, have historically relied on Tibet for daily necessities, Karnali as a whole is not currently dependent on Tibet.

The restriction on helicopters for sling operations has been introduced. What might be the implications of this decision?

The decision to prohibit helicopters from conducting sling operations raises questions about its rationale. If there are safety concerns, it is worth noting that helicopters have previously conducted heavy-load operations without issue. This decision warrants further examination, and I am committed to engaging with the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) to better understand the reasoning behind this rule. The safety of both the crew and passengers must remain a priority, but a well-informed and collaborative approach is essential to ensure that decisions made do not compromise crucial services and operations.

Flight permits, which were previously obtained at airports, now require clearance from CAAN. Could this potentially delay rescue efforts?

The transition from obtaining flight permits at airports to obtaining them from CAAN could indeed introduce delays in rescue efforts. The bureaucracy involved in this process may impede swift action, which is particularly concerning in emergency situations. As we uphold the principles of federalism, it is essential that decision-making authority is also extended to provincial levels. Alternatively, establishing provincial offices within the regulatory body could help facilitate smoother and faster clearance processes.

The government has imposed VAT on air tickets. Could this lead to increased flight costs for travel to Karnali?

The recent imposition of VAT on air tickets raises concerns about potential cost increases for flights to Karnali. It is important to thoroughly examine the reasons behind this decision. While the state's right to levy taxes is acknowledged, it is equally crucial to consider the impact on rural populations. People living in remote areas should not be burdened with excessive financial strain. Any taxation measures should be thoughtfully implemented, taking into account the financial capacities of the population. These concerns will be addressed through discussions with higher authorities, ensuring that the interests of the people are safeguarded.

How is the Karnali Province government working to create jobs and address poverty?

The Karnali Province government recognizes poverty as a significant challenge and is actively working towards its alleviation through various strategies. The province's policy and program emphasize key areas, including education, health, employment, good governance, and infrastructure. Job creation and self-employment are central to these efforts. The province is prioritizing industries related to agriculture and forest production and focusing on commercial agriculture and entrepreneurship. The protection and utilization of indigenous crops and natural resources are also part of the plan. The government aims to create employment and self-employment opportunities for 10,000 people annually, contributing to poverty reduction and economic growth in the region. The implementation of federalism is viewed as crucial in achieving these goals.

Former prime minister and CPN (Unified Socialist) leader Madhav Kumar Nepal cut short his Europe visit to return home after the Supreme Court ordered the authorities to investigate all individuals whose names have been associated in the Lalita Niwas land grab case.

Upon arrival, Nepal told the media that he decided to return to quell the rumor that he fled the country to avoid investigation. He also claimed that he had not taken any bribe when his Cabinet took some decisions concerning the Lalita Niwas property, and that he was willing to help with the investigation. 

The SC order has opened the way for the Central Investigation Bureau of Nepal Police to investigate the alleged roles of Nepal and another former prime minister, Baburam Bhattarai, in the land misappropriation case. Publicly, top leaders including Nepal have expressed their support to the ongoing investigation. But as more and more politicians are coming under the investigation, top leaders of major political parties are reportedly trying to sabotage the probe.

Soon after returning home, Unified Socialist leader Nepal was involved in a series of meetings with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal and Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba. In these meetings, Nepal reportedly expressed objection over the SC ruling to investigate the former prime ministers and high level government officials. 

Nepal, who believes that the ongoing investigation is ‘politically motivated,’ also held a one-on-one meeting with Deuba. Earlier this week, Deuba also held a meeting with Home Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha, who has so far maintained that the ongoing investigation into corruption cases should not and will not be influenced by any political party.

Likewise, former prime minister Bhattarai has also expressed displeasure over the SC order. A few days back, he said that there should be an investigation into the alleged corruption that took place during the management of the Maoist cantonment after the party entered the peace process. Of course, Bhattarai was referring to Prime Minister Dahal, chairman of the ruling CPN (Maoist Center). 

The anti-corruption drive launched by the Dahal-led government has sent shockwaves inside major political parties.  As more and more politicians are being dragged into corruption cases, a silent consensus is building among the parties to retard and eventually drop the investigation.  

NC President Deuba in particular is under immense pressure from his party members to protect them from CIB investigation. Congress senior leader and former home minister, Bal Krishna Khand, is already under police custody for his alleged role in the fake Bhutanese refugee scandal. CPN-UML leader Top Bahadur Rayamajhi is also under arrest in connection to the same case.

More recently, NC lawmaker Sunil Sharma was also arrested in a case of fake academic certificate distribution. Many NC leaders believe that Prime Minister Dahal has been selectively targeting Congress by opening corruption probes. NC President Deuba, in his recent meeting with Dahal, expressed dissatisfaction over the CIB probe into the fake refugee case and suggested transferring some investigating officers.

The main opposition, UML, has also accused the Dahal government of selectively opening old corruption files to its leaders. A few days back, UML Chairman KP Oli said that Prime Minister Dahal was adopting a ‘Pakistani model’ of arresting opposition leaders on trumped-up corruption charges. 

The ongoing probe into corruption scandals is also gradually creating distance among the ruling coalition partners. The Unified Socialist has already expressed dissatisfaction and is seeking intervention to prevent investigation against its chair Nepal. A rift is also developing between the NC and the Maoists. 

Some NC leaders have even suggested that the party leadership should reconsider its participation in the government, if Dahal continues to target Congress leaders. The NC currently holds nine ministries in the coalition government. However, there is a growing belief among NC leaders and members that the party's influence within the government is waning. Some leaders say that the party should consider forming a new government by aligning with the UML.  

Another coalition partner, the Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP), has also expressed discontent with the government following the decision to initiate investigations into the 2007 Gaur massacre. Though Prime Minister Dahal later assured to halt the investigation, the JSP remains unconvinced.

The anti-corruption scandal took a new turn after a recent ruling by the apex court concerning the Lalita Niwas land grab scandal placed the ruling coalition in a precarious position. In its Aug 7 ruling to probe everyone involved in the Lalita Niwas land grab case, the Supreme Court said that initiating action only against those government officials who executed decisions while sparing the ones who made those decisions would be unjust. The court has ordered the law enforcement agency concerned to investigative the case from the top down. Along with former prime ministers Nepal and Bhattarai, the SC ruling has also paved the way for the CIB to investigate four former ministers and a number of former secretaries.

Meanwhile, the ruling Maoist party itself has found itself in a fix, as its leader Krishna Bahadur Mahara has been dragged into the July 20 gold trafficking case. The main opposition, UML, has demanded for a separate high-level committee to investigate the case. Some leaders within the Nepali Congress have also supported the idea of forming an independent probe panel. But Home Minister Shrestha, from the Maoist party, has said that the CIB itself will look into the case.

Prime Minister Dahal is being criticized for reportedly trying to protect Mahara by refusing to form an independent panel to investigate the gold smuggling case.    

Quotes

KP Sharma Oli: “The government has initiated the politics of revenge. Though the arrest of some individuals is a normal thing, the government is adopting the Pakistani model of politics. If someone speaks against the government, they are arrested on some pretext.”

Baburam Bhattarai: “I am ready to cooperate with the government agencies on Lalita Niwas case. We should form a high-level investigation panel and all corruption-related scandals should be investigated in a fair way. But the government should not use the corruption file as a tool to terrorize political opponents.”  

Madhav Kumar Nepal: “There should be a fair and impartial investigation and I am ready to fully cooperate with the government agencies. I am not involved in any bribery so I am not nervous about it.”

When a student passes a certain exam (with or without flying colors), that’s something worth celebrating. That means her/his hard work paid off despite all oddities like a perennial struggle to pay soaring tuition fees, having to juggle between studies and work (in case of plus-two and higher studies) or having to wait perennially for the family to send some money and political disturbances that affect the academic calendar more often than not.

Frankly speaking, a government, especially in countries reeling under the collective impact of poor governance, corruption, the rule by law, ever-rising inflation, political instability, soaring tuition fees and the like has precious little to do with individual success. On the contrary, the government acts as an overpowering force pushing the student from the classroom into dirty, difficult and dangerous job destinations abroad with the intent of feasting on hard-earned remittance. 

When a student fails, our society looks down upon the individual holding the latter solely responsible for the failure. Overnight, the person becomes ‘unsociable’ of sorts in circles of kith and kin.
For our society, this failure is a personal problem or a family problem at most. But the setback gives the society some stuff to gossip about. Perhaps the student spent too much time on social media at the ‘expense’ of studies. It is possible that family members did not ‘keep a tab’ on the individual. Or perhaps the person is not that ‘bright’, after all. 

From individual failure, let’s jump into collective failure. 

The results of this year’s grade 12 exams were not a departure from the past. No Krambhangata took place. Out of 448,837 examinees, 51.91 percent passed whereas the rest could not make it, per the National Examination Board.

To borrow from NEB’s Sarkari Bhasa (governmentese), about a quarter—109,527—out of 448,837 examinees got ‘non-graded’ (NG) in English this year. This means they technically failed the exam with a score below 35 percent. 

For a country used to below-par performance on the part of all three organs of the state, this is nothing unusual, or is it? Unusual or not, let’s ponder over the recent below-par performance. 

Our emphasis on English is extraordinary. The whole nation seems to be learning English with a missionary zeal—at home, in schools, colleges, learning centers, in the company of friends and families and several other public fora. 

Apart from private and boarding schools mushrooming across the country, many community and government-run schools have switched to English as ‘the’ medium of instruction from the nursery level itself. So much so that many of the private schools do not even allow their students to communicate in non-English languages within their precincts. Perhaps the only language not taught in English in the classroom these days is Nepali. 

For an increasing number of Nepalis, English—broken or otherwise—is the preferred medium of communication. A good command of the international language is indeed a plus-point. 

Against this backdrop, Grade 12 results on the English front have come as a rude shock despite our Himalayan emphasis on the language, not to mention the pass rate of roughly 50 percent. Of course, a poor result won’t trigger the Education Minister’s resignation. Such things happen seven seas across, not here.  

But to take it solely as the failure of concerned students and/or their families will be far-fetched. 

It is the collective failure of our education system consisting of the government, teachers, students, parents and the society at large. This failure should be an eye-opener for all stakeholders. 

What elements are lacking in our teaching-learning activities—from the preschool to the university level—that lead to about 50 percent of the examinees failing the exams? How much time are English and other subject teachers spending in the classroom? Which teaching methods are they employing? What are the policy gaps at play and how to bridge them?

The government in general and the Education Ministry in particular should formulate—and, not to forget, implement—policies by discussing the matter with subject experts, curriculum developers, parents and teachers.  

In a world where cultural diversity is increasingly celebrated, Nepali arts and music have emerged as powerful ambassadors of our rich heritage. Over the years, these artistic expressions have played a significant role in promoting Nepali culture internationally, captivating audiences with their unique blend of tradition, innovation, and a deep connection to our roots. Among the various genres, classical Nepali music has stood out as a major contributor enhancing cultural diplomacy, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and leaving an indelible mark on the global stage.

With origins deeply rooted in its own ancient traditions as well as influences from the neighborhood, classical Nepali music has evolved into a distinct art form that reflects the diverse cultural tapestry of our nation. Its melodic richness, intricate rhythms, and soul-stirring compositions have transcended boundaries, resonating with audiences worldwide. Classical Nepali music’s ability to transport listeners to the serene landscapes of Nepal and evoke a profound sense of emotion is what sets it apart. Its compositions, known as ‘ragas’, are meticulously crafted to evoke specific moods and sentiments, ranging from tranquility to exhilaration, from longing to joy. This art form encapsulates the essence of Nepali culture, drawing upon the spirituality, folklore, and history that define our nation’s identity. As a result, classical Nepali music has been instrumental in fostering cultural diplomacy, bridging gaps between nations and bringing people together through the shared language of music.

One remarkable group that has exemplified the power of Nepali music in promoting peace and harmony is Sur Sudha. Founded by the passionate musician Surendra Shrestha, Sur Sudha has dedicated over three decades to spreading the message of peace and promoting Nepal and its people through captivating melodies. Despite his advanced education in Eastern classical music, Surendra was driven to create boundless music that would touch the hearts of people from all walks of life around the globe. His commitment to peace and harmony shines through in Sur Sudha’s music, which effortlessly blends traditional Nepali music with contemporary elements, creating a fusion that resonates universally.

Surendra’s commitment toward the cause of peace is evident in his music, which blends traditional Nepali music with modern elements to create a unique fusion that appeals to audiences worldwide. Sur Sudha’s music is not just entertaining but also has a deeper meaning, inspiring listeners to embrace inner peace and spread positivity in the world. His dedication to the cause of peace has made him a respected figure in the Nepali music industry, and his contribution to the promotion of peace through Sur Sudha’s music is immeasurable. Sur Sudha is not just a musical group; it is a philosophy that embodies the essence of Nepali culture, tradition and spirituality. Formed in 1989 by Surendra, Sur Sudha was not intended to be just a band, but a thought, an idea, and a feeling that music is an essential part of our lives. The band was not formed with an idea of depending solely on any particular musician.

Surendra’s philosophy while forming the band was based on the belief that music should represent the diversity and unity of Nepali culture. Sur Sudha’s music is not just about entertainment, but it is also about promoting peace, unity, and harmony among people from different backgrounds. Sur Sudha’s musical philosophy emphasizes quality and creativity. One of the unique aspects of Sur Sudha’s music is that it represents all genres of Nepali music, from classical to folk to fusion. 

The name Sur Sudha was given by the late Bhairav Nath Rimal, and the group has evolved over the years. Sur Sudha’s contributing members to date include Tara Bir Singh Tuladhar,  Prem Rana Autari, Bijay Baidhya, Stayendra Tuladhar, Rajeev Shrestha and Bharat Shrestha. The band also created history by recording Nepal’s first CD. The band started as a musical group, but its experience has been more like a rollercoaster ride. Over the years, the group has seen several changes in its lineup, but its core philosophy remains the same—to create high-quality music that represents the best of Nepali culture. Today, the band comprises its founder Surendra Shrestha on tabla, Raman Maharjan on flute, and Bikash Sunar on guitar. Saraswati Khatri is the lead singer of the group.

The band’s aim is to present the best of Nepali classical music to the public, including classical, traditional, and Rag-Ragini music. Sur Sudha’s musical repertoire ranges from the plains of the Tarai to the highest mountains in the world, representing all genres of Nepali music. The group’s performances include cultural festivals of Nepal with folk music, as well as fusion and chanting music. The group’s recent foray into spiritual and chanting music includes collaboration with the famous Bollywood actress Manisha Koirala on the "Mahamrityunjaya Mantra". The group is also soon going to release Ganesh Stotram Mantra as part of their musical offerings by including well-reputed international musical talents .Sur Sudha’s music is not just about preserving the past, but it is also about creating new music that reflects the current social and cultural trends. Its members have changed over the years, but the group’s core philosophy remains the same. The group is not about any individual member, but it is about the collective effort of all members. The aim is to produce the best quality music that represents the rich diversity of Nepali culture.

Sur Sudha’s music is also not limited to any particular religion or culture, but it embodies both Buddhism and Hinduism, bringing people from all walks of life together. Sur Sudha is not just a musical group; it is a movement, representing the diversity and unity of Nepali culture. The group has performed in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Japan, Morocco, Tunisia, China and several European nations multiple times. Their performances have been praised for their ability to transport listeners to the serene landscapes of Nepal, evoking images of the country’s snow-capped mountains, lush green forests, and flowing rivers.

Apart from live performances, Sur Sudha has also released several albums that have been well-received by music lovers around the world, including the first ever CD in Nepal. These albums showcase the group’s versatility, with each track featuring a different instrument or style of Nepali classical music. Sur Sudha’s role in cultural diplomacy cannot be understated. In an era where cultural exchanges have become increasingly important, the group has played a key role in promoting cross-cultural understanding and dialogue. By showcasing Nepali classical music, they have been able to break down cultural barriers and build bridges between different communities. Their music has been used in various cultural events, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites inauguration ceremony in Nepal, where they performed for several foreign dignitaries. The group has also been involved in various philanthropic activities, including providing assistance to the victims of the devastating earthquake that struck Nepal in 2015. Through their music, they have been able to raise awareness on the plight of the Nepali people and the need for continued support.

Sur Sudha has been a vital force in promoting Nepali classical music and culture to the world. Through their music, they have been able to break down cultural barriers, promote cross-cultural understanding and dialogue, and raise awareness about social and environmental issues. Their music is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Nepal and serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting cultural diversity. Sur Sudha’s legacy is not just in the music they create but also in the way they create it. They are an inspiration to aspiring musicians and music lovers alike, and their goal is to continue to create music that is timeless and speaks to the heart of Nepali culture for generations to come.

The author is President, Lumbini World Peace Forum and a Cultural Diplomacy Advocate