Third edition of ‘Bhojanlipi Swad’ held

The third edition of ‘Bhojanlipi Swad’, a culinary event featuring traditional Nepali cuisine, was held in Kathmandu. The event, curated by internationally recognized chefs Ghanshyam Kandel and Durga Khadka, showcased 25 dishes prepared using primarily Nepali agricultural products. The menu included items made from mohi, millet, maize, buckwheat, nettle, jackfruit, and mushrooms, along with a variety of meat dishes including fish, duck, goat, and chicken. Dishes made from ingredients like bel sherbet, niuro (wild fern), khuwa, and paan laddoo were among the highlights.

President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Chandra Prasad Dhakal, inaugurated the event by sampling the dishes. Speaking at the event, he emphasized the potential of promoting agri-tourism to strengthen the national economy and highlighted the importance of investment in the hospitality sector to generate employment and income. Rudra Sharma, head of Nepal House, expressed satisfaction in collaborating on the campaign to promote Nepali cuisine and music. The event saw participation from individuals representing various sectors, including agriculture and tourism.

Chef Kandel stated that Nepali cuisine is deeply connected to culture and spirituality. He noted that in today’s world, people seek not just taste but also holistic well-being, adding that Nepali food could serve as a valuable gift to the world due to its health benefits. 

Chef Kandel has recently published a cookbook titled 'Timur'. Another cookbook, 'Bhojanlipi', co-authored with fellow chef Khadka, is set to be released soon. 

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Plastic waste solutions showcased

On the occasion of World Environment Day, Fablab Nepal, Kleanit Upcyclers, and Paramendo Nepal jointly organized an event titled “PLASTIC: From Used to Useful” on June 5, 2025, at Impact Hub Kathmandu. The program, held under the P2G (Plastic to Ghar) Project, focused on innovative approaches to managing plastic waste in Nepal through technology, awareness, and community engagement. Supported by the UK’s FCDO in collaboration with the University of Cambridge, Korea University, and local partners, the project promotes the conversion of plastic waste into practical household items.

The event featured a live demonstration of Nepal’s first cycle-powered plastic shredder, talk sessions on circular economy and behavioral change, and a Circular Bazar showcasing upcycled products by local entrepreneurs.

Nepal to miss WSDC 2025

Debate Network Nepal (DNN) has announced that Nepal will not participate in the World Schools Debating Championship (WSDC) 2025, scheduled to be held from July 22 to August 1 in Panama City. The decision was made due to high travel and participation costs, despite ten years of continuous representation at the international event.

Last year, Team Nepal achieved a historic milestone by reaching the elimination rounds and finishing 15th out of 68 countries at the 36th WSDC held in Belgrade, Serbia. However, DNN cited financial limitations and logistical challenges as reasons for this year’s withdrawal.

While Nepal will not be present at WSDC 2025, the country will participate in the Asian Schools Debating Championship (ASDC) 2025 in Hanoi, Vietnam, from June 15 to 18. Two teams—the Nepal National Team and the Nepal Developmental Squad—will represent the country at the regional event. DNN expressed appreciation to the ASDC 2025 organizing committee for their support in enabling Nepal’s participation.

 

Youth consultation held for upcoming UPR report

A regional youth consultation focusing on the upcoming national report under the United Nations Universal Periodic Review (UPR) mechanism was held in Kathmandu. The event gathered youth representatives from Koshi, Gandaki, and Sudurpaschim provinces. The one-day program was organized by Yuwalaya, with financial support from Plan International Nepal and technical partnership from the Women’s Service Society.

More than 57 youth-related organizations, clubs, and networks collaborated in the consultation, with 29 youth participants representing various districts of the three provinces. The session was facilitated by youth champions Sadikshya Nepal and Sweekriti Dangi, with technical support from Bhawana Bhatta of the Women’s Service Society.