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Slow and steady loses the race because the rabbit is wide awake. Be the rabbit and make a habit—to be on time.

It is not time that is running away but you who are unable to chase it. Time has always stood still; the clocks are just an invention for humans to be reminded that they are fleeting away. It sure is philosophical until you stop questioning ‘why’ and start answering ‘what.’ 

Generally, people who are late blame it on their mental health, saying, “I’ve got ADHD and get distracted very easily,” and picking up mental health symptoms on Google, trying to match them all that was not there. Some genuine, and most trying their best to make it. Infuriating is when some are chronically late for any reason other than the fact that they don't care enough about the people who are waiting for them. Encountering the problem, and excuses follow with “I was going to do this, but that came up.” But of all problems. 

Things take a turn when you are on time, but the lateness around swallows your productivity. Shift blame persists, and the traffic is accused. Everyone is in a hurry but rarely on time. 

A New York Times article suggests that consistent lateness is driven by optimism, such as believing a 25-minute commute will only take 10 minutes. Take that commute and slam it on the Kathmandu roads; you are gifted 15 minutes more. 

If you were a college student studying under the Tribhuvan University (TU) administration, it would be a miracle if your exam results came on time. I too waited and enjoyed the long holidays for them to publish. Being at the end of my second year and getting the first-year results was funny and fascinating. Honestly, everything was sadly expected from the saviours of the education system, only except in 2017, when nine faculties were given the results within three months. The World Bank had given them Rs 50m for timely publication.

Tardiness applies to not just coming on time but also when the work trusted upon is not met on time. It’s like a domino effect where you battle out each and every person’s impending procrastination, which is engraved in the Nepali personality. One would often disappear for a tea break. Astonishingly, when it comes to food, people are usually on time. 

There would be two types of late people: the deadliner, who finds their peak adrenaline rush nearer to the deadline, and the egoist, who’d be smug with the work done in the littlest time possible. I place myself in the former type. 

If there is a monkey on your back, call the punctually-challenged an hour before the planned time. Who knows, for I could be the monkey. Sometimes you don’t feel motivated enough to be there just to see an empty room, so you’d rather fall in with the herd. 

Now imagine in the fairy tales of Kantipur that you were getting a hefty sum of money for coming in early—increased productivity, improved relationships, a better reputation, and maybe refined planning. A method of positive reinforcement. Or maybe negative punishment, to be fired or expelled after three strikes, then trickles in the timeliness. Many students at my college would return home only because they were late to avoid facing detention—props to the creatives for finding a loophole.

There used to be a time when the Kathmandu denizens would hear the current-coughing Ghantaghar bell sounds around the valley, but today you’d just snooze your blaring alarm five minutes more, thinking, “I’ll just follow the Nepali time.”

To be a journalist in Nepal is to take on a role that is both revered and challenging. The profession is often seen as a picture-perfect job—one that demands precision, integrity, and diligence. Journalists are regarded as the eyes and ears of society, trusted to bridge the gap between events and the public. From the layperson to those in positions of power, journalists hold a unique place in society. Yet, while the profession commands respect, it is fraught with complexities that make it one of the most demanding careers in Nepal.

Despite being regarded as a prestigious profession, journalism in Nepal is not always valued as it should be. The job can be exciting and even addictive, but it’s also fraught with scrutiny. In my personal experience as a journalist, I have often found myself being questioned more than I question others. Even when working as a camera person, I’ve felt the weight of critical eyes observing me. The profession’s appeal diminishes when you face relentless questions about why you wrote a certain piece, whether you are targeting someone, or which political party you support. Over time, these inquiries overshadow the essence of journalism, making it a challenging profession to sustain.

Working conditions for journalists in Nepal are often disheartening. Many media houses exploit their employees, compelling them to work long hours for insufficient pay. Some even require journalists to work without pay for extended periods, promising eventual compensation that may never fully materialize. Monthly paychecks, when they do arrive, are frequently delayed, incomplete, or barely enough for survival. While not all media houses operate this way, such exploitation is widespread. These practices lead many early-career journalists to abandon the profession in favor of more stable opportunities.

Journalism in Nepal has evolved significantly, influenced by advancements in technology and shifts in societal expectations. Citizen journalism has taken root, content creation has surged, and online-based journalism has flourished. Digital creators who double as journalists have become part of everyday conversations. While these developments have opened new avenues, they have also introduced challenges.  

Citizen journalism and platforms like YouTube have further complicated the landscape. While these platforms have democratized information sharing, they have also been marred by unethical practices such as spreading fake news, using clickbait, and sharing misinformation. These issues have tarnished the credibility of online journalism and affected the public perception of traditional journalists. Being labeled as a YouTuber has become a point of contention for many professional journalists in Nepal. While some established journalists have embraced YouTube as a way to expand their reach, there is a clear divide between those who transitioned to the platform after years of professional experience and those who started on YouTube without formal training. 

Unfortunately, the prevalence of misinformation makes it difficult for the public to distinguish between credible journalism and sensationalized content. Nepal’s journalism landscape now includes YouTubers presenting themselves as reporters and numerous individuals going live on media platforms. This blending of traditional and modern journalism has created opportunities but also raised concerns about credibility and ethics. YouTube has undoubtedly created new opportunities for journalists, offering a platform to connect with wider audiences. However, it has also introduced challenges, particularly for traditional journalists who have spent years building their credibility. The platform’s larger audience comes with its own issues, such as the lack of regulation and the rapid spread of misinformation. This has led to an internal conflict within the profession, further complicating the already difficult role of journalists in Nepal.

The challenges of journalism in Nepal go beyond external pressures. The profession often forces journalists to confront truths they cannot always share. Hidden stories, suppressed narratives, and untold accounts weigh heavily on journalists. Exposing these truths can be dangerous, especially when they involve powerful individuals or institutions. As a result, many journalists in Nepal carry the burden of these stories, adding to the psychological toll of their work. The internal struggle to balance truth-telling with personal and professional safety is a defining feature of the profession.

Being a journalist in Nepal means navigating a complex relationship with the public. While journalists are often seen as truth-tellers and watchdogs, they also face criticism and skepticism. People frequently question the motives behind certain stories, assuming political affiliations or personal biases. This lack of trust can be disheartening, especially for journalists who enter the field with a genuine passion for uncovering the truth. The evolving media landscape has further blurred the lines between professional journalism and amateur reporting. With the rise of citizen journalism and social media, anyone with a smartphone can report news. While this democratization of information has its benefits, it has also led to an oversaturation of content, much of which lacks credibility. This has made it increasingly difficult for professional journalists to stand out amid the noise.

Despite these challenges, journalism in Nepal remains a dream for many and a necessity for others. The profession offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with the public, shed light on important issues, and document history. At the same time, it can be a source of lifelong trauma, stemming from exploitation by employers, criticism from the public, and the internal conflicts that come with the job. For some, journalism is a calling that fulfills their passion for storytelling and truth-seeking. For others, it is a means to an end, pursued out of necessity rather than choice. 

Ultimately, what it means to be a journalist in Nepal is to navigate a fine line between truth and perception, between what can be reported and what must remain untold. The profession demands resilience, dedication, and a willingness to operate in the gray areas of truth and ethics. Whether viewed as a blessing or a curse, journalism remains an integral part of Nepal’s societal fabric, shaping how we understand and engage with the world around us. It is a profession that offers both unique rewards and unparalleled challenges, reflecting the complexities of the society it seeks to serve.

There is no dearth of restaurants and bars in Kathmandu. But many options can mean you don’t know where to go when it’s time for some rest and relaxation. While some serve great coffee and cocktails, the ambiance can be a bit off-putting, especially in winter when you might want to bask in the sun or get cozy by the fire. Others might not have the mocktails and milkshakes you were looking for while being really high on aesthetics. But there are some places that get it all right. This week, we bring to you five places that are really good places to relax in and grab a drink while taking in your surroundings.

Evoke 

This popular restaurant is located in Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur, right opposite Hotel Vivanta. It’s a quaint little space with both outdoor and indoor seating areas. The food is great but the drinks are even better. Their coffee is just right, neither bitter nor sour. The price is also reasonable. Their garden area, with huge lush green plants, gives you a very cozy and calming vibe. House of Palettes is located in its premises so you also have the option to ‘paint and sip’ if you feel up to it and have some time to kill.

Roadhouse Cafe

Roadhouse is popular for their pizzas and pastas but a lesser known fact is that their mocktails hit the right spot. They seem to have recently revamped their menu and added some pretty cool drinks to the list. The cocktails are a bit on the stronger side so you will be getting value for money. But their range of teas and coffees and other non-alcoholic beverages are what makes us love this place. The good thing is that they have so many outlets, all around Kathmandu and Lalitpur, that you can just pop into one wherever you are.

La Terrasse 

This restaurant, bar, cafe, and bakery in Chundevi, Maharajgunj, was a relatively recent find for us. It’s a great place for hosting small events as well as basking in the sun on the terrace while sipping on some IPA. There is a range of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, with more varieties of beer than available elsewhere. Since it’s located on an inner road, it feels quiet and calm. You can choose to sit by yourself, sip on some coffee or cocktail and read or work without loud noises disturbing you.

Maak Ara

A place for great breakfast and amazing smoothie bowls, Maak Ara serves equally good drinks. The interesting names will have you chuckling and rolling your eyes but you can’t resist ordering a few. They pay attention to presentation, ensuring your drink is a visual treat as well. They don’t do very good matcha drinks but the rest are perfect. The music can be a bit loud on the weekends making conversations slightly difficult but their DJ knows how to mix music so you might not mind it all that much.

Filli Cafe

The winter weather calls for some hot tea, and there is perhaps no better place to have a cup than Filli Cafe. They have outlets in Labim Mall, Pulchowk, Lazimpat, Thamel, and even Boudha. Their milk teas are to die for and they have recently introduced a wide variety of Bubble Teas as well. You can also buy packs of tea to take back home. Their food menu is limited but the momos and sandwiches are delicious. 

The private sector serves as an essential engine of growth, acting as the largest contributor to economic development, a major employment generator, and a critical partner to the government. Recognizing its importance, the government of Nepal accelerated privatization following the restoration of democracy in 1990, privatizing numerous public enterprises. This shift aimed to enhance economic efficiency, foster innovation, and drive competitiveness.

Since then, Nepal’s private sector has played an increasingly prominent role in the national economy. However, the economic liberalization process often neglected the protection and rights of the poor in the name of fostering competition and a free market economy. As a result, a small group of individuals disproportionately benefited at the expense of the majority. Over time, corruption within the business sector has become increasingly visible, undermining the very principles of fair competition and inclusive economic growth.

Cartels and syndicates have become rampant, distorting market dynamics and consumer welfare. A key reason for these issues lies in the absence of robust mechanisms and institutional structures to uphold the ideals of liberalism and privatization. Without efficient and capable regulatory bodies, an open economy fails to deliver benefits to ordinary citizens or contribute meaningfully to national development. Corruption is widely perceived as one of the greatest threats to good governance, the rule of law, democracy, and economic prosperity. Consumers in Nepal remain highly vulnerable, often forced to accept monopolistic practices, cartels, and syndicates due to the inefficacy of regulatory bodies, which exacerbates their plight. Consequently, the private sector is increasingly viewed as a force undermining the potential benefits of a liberal economy rather than enhancing it.

Despite operating under the principle of competition, the private sector has frequently restricted fair and ethical business practices. The current business environment is particularly inhospitable for ethical enterprises, which face a stark choice: either align with exploitative practices or exit the market altogether. Yet, the private sector blames political instability, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and unfavorable government policies for creating an unfriendly business climate.

The informal and underground economies are growing unchecked, further fueling corruption and money laundering. These illicit activities are facilitated by weak internal control systems and poor corporate governance. Common forms of corporate fraud include loan misappropriation, often against inadequate or nonexistent collateral; fund embezzlement by managers, employees, and board members; and misuse of corporate funds. Banking frauds, such as the issuance of fake payment cheques, misuse of credit cards, and theft of PIN numbers, are pervasive.

The transportation sector offers a glaring example of these issues. Fully dominated by private enterprises, the sector continues to suffer from the proliferation of syndicates and cartels, which block new competitors from entering the market. Despite the significant economic potential of this sector, it remains plagued by inefficiency and poor service delivery, raising questions about why the private sector has failed to deliver improved outcomes.

Corporate fraud and insider trading are well-known crimes within Nepal’s business environment, particularly in the banking and financial sectors. Insider trading, preferential loan privileges, and other forms of corporate malfeasance are common, undermining trust in these institutions. The manipulation of financial statements to evade taxes is another widespread practice. Some companies even engage in the unauthorized use of trademarks, counterfeit goods, and the theft of intellectual property to gain a competitive edge. In construction, collusion among bidders leads to delayed and substandard projects, as participants prioritize profit over quality and accountability.

Causes of private sector corruption

A significant cause of private sector corruption is the declining level of integrity in business practices. Entrepreneurs increasingly prioritize short-term gains over long-term sustainability and success. This mindset often stems from individual greed, with employees, board members, and managers misusing company resources for personal benefit. In some cases, these individuals collude with competitors, leaking business plans and other sensitive information.

The informal sector also plays a complex role in perpetuating corruption. Unregulated and unseen, competition within this sector often leads to illegal activities. Meanwhile, business leaders actively lobby for favorable legislation, while politicians’ investments in private enterprises create conflicts of interest that further entrench corruption.

Theoretically, the private sector advocates for competition and a free market economy, but in practice, it frequently supports monopolistic practices, cartels, and syndicates. Such anti-competitive behaviors restrict new entrants, stifling innovation and ultimately harming the economy. Weak internal controls and inadequate monitoring mechanisms within businesses provide fertile ground for corruption, as do the inefficiencies and vulnerabilities of Nepal’s regulatory agencies. Many of these agencies lack the capacity or independence to act effectively, often succumbing to bribery and undue influence from business interests.

Consequences of private sector corruption

The repercussions of corruption in the private sector are far-reaching and severe. One of the most tragic outcomes is the loss of human life, as seen in the high rate of fatal road accidents caused by corruption in the transportation sector. Corruption also undermines shareholder confidence, driving businesses into insolvency and financial ruin.

Tax evasion is another major issue. Companies frequently manipulate financial statements, issue fake VAT bills, and engage in fraudulent accounting practices to avoid paying taxes. These actions deprive the government of vital revenue, hindering its ability to invest in public goods and services. Moreover, the sale of underweight, adulterated, or expired goods further erodes consumer trust, while driving up the cost of living and reducing overall economic efficiency.

Corruption distorts market mechanisms, undermining the values, norms, and standards that should govern business practices. It also deters foreign investment, exacerbating Nepal’s infrastructure challenges and limiting employment opportunities. Left unchecked, these issues can lead to social conflict, economic crises, and the ultimate failure of state institutions.

The manipulation of information by board members and top management further compounds these problems. In Nepal’s share market, unethical practices such as the leakage of sensitive information to colluding parties before institutional decisions have become all too common. If such practices persist, Nepal’s private sector will struggle to compete in the global marketplace.

Strategies for controlling corruption

To address these challenges, the private sector must prioritize accountability, transparency, and ethical practices. Implementing strong internal control systems and adhering to rigorous auditing standards can enhance corporate integrity. Empowering consumers and civil society to demand accountability can also play a crucial role in fostering a culture of compliance.

Promoting fairness and competition is essential. By dismantling cartels and syndicates, businesses can create an environment that encourages innovation and ethical practices. Legal reforms are equally important. Laws must be updated to address emerging challenges, and enforcement mechanisms must be strengthened to deter fraudulent activities. Regular monitoring and supervision, combined with simplified administrative procedures, can help reduce opportunities for corruption.

Transparency is another cornerstone of reform. Businesses that operate transparently earn the trust of consumers, employees, and the government, fostering a more stable and ethical business environment. Introducing anti-corruption norms, values, and standards into corporate culture can further strengthen this trust. Meaningful partnerships among civil society, businesses, government, and the international community are crucial for promoting transparency and combating corruption.

Technological innovation offers a powerful tool for reducing corruption. Online systems for administrative services, such as company registration, tax payments, and reporting, can streamline processes, reduce human error, and eliminate opportunities for collusion. Digital record-keeping ensures accuracy and accountability, while reducing overhead costs and improving service delivery.

Anti-corruption education is vital for building a more ethical business environment. Training programs on consumer rights, corporate responsibility, and the value of competition and innovation can help instill a culture of integrity. Educational institutions should integrate anti-corruption and corporate governance topics into their curricula, preparing future business leaders to uphold ethical standards. Aligning university curricula with industry demands can further support the development of a business-friendly environment.

Conclusion

Corruption represents one of the most significant threats to Nepal’s private sector, undermining its competitiveness, growth, and public trust. To address this issue, the private sector must acknowledge that bribery and unethical practices are obstacles, not enablers, of progress. By embracing corporate compliance, transparency, and ethical practices, businesses can rebuild trust and foster sustainable growth.

A collective effort is required to curb corruption and promote good governance. Businesses, the government, and civil society must work together to create a fair, transparent, and competitive environment that benefits all stakeholders. Only by upholding these principles can Nepal’s private sector fulfill its potential as a driver of economic development and social progress.