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There are so many décor trends that it’s hard to keep up. The problem with trends is also that it comes and goes and you will constantly have to update your home (and spend a fortune doing so). Décor items also don’t come cheap and you run the risk of buying something that will soon become commonplace as the item becomes popular, thanks to relentless marketing by stores and influencers on Tiktok and Instagram. A trick to making your space timeless is by curating one that is uniquely you. It should make you happy and be visually appealing as well. Here are five ways to do just that.

Go local

Hit the local market. Basantapur in Kathmandu and Mangal Bazaar in Lalitpur are great places if you want to pick up some local handicraft. We recommend brass and bronze statues and flower vases. Bronze ones are actually easier to clean than brass ones and there are many interesting ones available, including but not limited to religious idols. These add a touch of regality to your living space and since most items are handcrafted you won’t find two identical pieces, making yours truly unique.

Invest in a good painting

A painting can elevate the look of your space and make it look interesting. It can also be a great conversation starter for when you have guests at home. However, a rule of thumb while buying a painting is to get one that speaks to you. It has to be something you will enjoy looking at as well as match your décor. Don’t buy something on a whim. Think about it, take your time, and then decide. Scour the Boudha area for some great Tibetan and Buddhist paintings that are vibrant and alluring. You can also commission an artist to make one for your space.

Bring nature in

One of the easiest ways to make your space ooze elegance is by bringing in some greenery. A bunch of houseplants is all your need to bring some cheer into your space. Look for low maintenance ones like the Peace Lily or the Snake plant. These are easy to care for and thrive in low light conditions as well. You can also cut some stems of plants and place them strategically in random corners of your home. These will have to be replaced time and again but it will also give you the option to change things up when you feel like it.

Get your hands on an heirloom

An old clock, a black and white enlarged photo of your ancestors, or a turntable—heirlooms are important pieces of your life story. Not only will it connect and remind you of your family, adding a touch of nostalgia to your life, it will also look and feel great in any setting. Ask your grandparents or parents for anything they might have that they are willing to part with. It could be an old stool that you can use as a nightstand or a low bed that you can fashion into a seating arrangement. Look for old photos that you use to create a gallery wall.

Flowers and candles

We underestimate the power of lighting when decorating our homes. While overhead lighting is important and there are a great many types of sconces and chandeliers available to brighten up your space, candles, in long stands and small bowls, add a lot of charm to your home. Place a few on your coffee table or dining area. Light one at night to give your home a cozy feel. Flowers beautifully compliment candles. The good thing is they last longer during winter so you won’t have to replace them frequently. Get a bunch and put them in large vases in places you can see them easily, along with candlesticks and stands, and watch your space come alive.

Nearly two-thirds of Nepal’s population is involved in agriculture. Yet, the agricultural sector is experiencing economic, social and technological factors. Most farmers depend on food imports, outmoded techniques of cultivation, and poor access to innovative technology to enhance yields. In this regard, only an agricultural revolution in and through the country can make Nepal a ‘developed’, ‘reliant’, ‘competitive’, and ‘progressive’ nation in the world.

That is why it is said that humanity needs an agricultural revolution.

Ultimately, the primary area of the economy of Nepal is in agriculture. All the same, the sector has not shown expected productivity and capacity even in its potential. They have poor structures, rely on culturally based practices, and lack technology advancement to support their agricultural sector and instead became reliant on agricultural inputs and outputs, affecting economic growth and social development in Nepal.

Nepal imported agricultural products worth Rs 250bn in 10 months in 2024. Nepal has to import even food items to the tune of billions of rupees every year. These imports can be replaced by a self-sufficient agricultural base that would keep the money within the boundary. Increasing domestic production would of course save foreign exchange hence helping to reinforce the domestic economy.


Many youths travel abroad for employment. With new techniques and technologies, agriculture can be developed to offer new employment situations, which makes farming a stable form of employment, and greatly reduces the number of young Nepali people going abroad for employment.


An agricultural revolution is, therefore, capable of uplifting the standards of living of a rural society, and even pull such a society out of the jaws of poverty. Effective agriculture can bring about economic independence thereby changing the proportion of education, health and other facilities in the villages.


The ability to expand agricultural production into a commercial business can extend the exportation. There is demand for medicinal herbs, Vetiver oil and cardamom among other products locally meaning that they could greatly attract foreign exchange if embraced.


An agricultural revolution would make Nepal self-sufficient, competitive and socially liberal. To this end, there is a need to combine best practice with current technologies and innovations.

This young generation technology now offers a solution to make Nepali agriculture efficient, transparent, and sustainable. Sophisticated technologies such as IoT (Internet of Things), data science, and the use of the blockchain in reshaping production processes can help eliminate those shortcomings and improve effectiveness.

IoT

IoT has the potential to revolutionize agricultural management:

Smart Irrigation: IoT sensors measure the level of moisture within the soils and regulate watering based on its findings hence the efficient use of water and the associated cost.

Data-driven decisions: It provides real time weather and pest information to assist farmers and make right decisions.

Livestock and storage management: Iot makes it simpler to monitor animal health while at the same time boosting storage logistics.

Data science


Data science revolutionizes agriculture into an agricultural production system that will improve the chain flow process.

Predicting yields: By understanding the market demographics and the extent of supply and demand then efficient crop production can be anticipated.

Supply chain optimization: In turn, data science fosters timely, efficient and visibly effective farm to market value addition channels.

Blockchain technology


The application of blockchain system in the agricultural supply chain provides the solution of enhancing transparency and security.

Traceability: B2C consumers can obtain a degree of information about the origin and quality and prices of the agricultural products.

Digital contracts: This way blockchain helps farmers to reach an agreement with intermediaries or buyers without the risk of being fraud and with less chance of arising delays.

Applying these modern technologies in the agricultural sector can be helpful to raise yield, decrease cost, bring better living standards for farmers and enhance the national economy.

Domestic manufacture and international market

The local products of Nepal have a huge market prospect in the international market. With appropriate branding, certification as well as making these goods more e-commerce friendly they could easily become export worthy.

Vetiver system


One of the most effective plants that can be utilised for environmental management is Vetiver grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides) because it is used in management of erosion and water conservation.

Vetiver oil production: Today, with a global price of about $275 per litre, Vetiver oil is an economically attractive crop for farmers. Its cultivation also creates employment and export.

Herbal and medicinal products: Many herbs found locally include Ashwagandha, Tulsi, and cardamom have a ready market in the international markets for Ayurvedic products and are a huge export prospect.

Leveraging digital platforms

E-commerce: Currently, there are opportunities and many platforms like Daraz, hatiya and many more, for a better market opportunity.

Branding and certification: This cuts the credibility and reliability of products in the market by reducing the number of certified products or services.

As this paper has established, Nepal can reach international markets and accrue huge economic efficiency gains provided that it adopts the right strategies.

Sustainable Energy and Innovation recruitment enables the selection of the best talents for such positions through competitive events that test their creativity, innovation and problem solving skills in tackling sustainable energy issues.

Energy and technology are essential assets for improving agriculture and developing it as an environmentally friendly sector.

Renewable energy sources

Solar pumps: Water supply for un-electrified regions through the provision of affordable gadgets of irrigation.

Biogas: Use of livestock waste in the production of energy as well as organic fertilizers..

Wind energy: Powering the rural farming societies.

Innovative farming techniques

Drones: Applied in crop spraying, pest control, and even crop reviewing, thus leads to extended cycles of time and money legalized.

Hydroponics and aeroponics: Techniques that enable farming without soil while focusing on high productivity in limited space, this is particularly good for the expanding metropolitan centers.

Whenever integrating renewable energy systems to various means, the cost is cut, productivity enhanced, and the effects on environment ameliorated.

Policy support and opportunity

Policy support and opportunity are important for the development of a school health program.

Thus, there is a clear need for going through the process of forecasting for policy makers as well as developing effective policy frameworks and arrangements for public and private partnerships that will take agriculture to greater heights.

Government subsidies:
Availability of cheap credit facilities, subsidies for fertilizers and affordable farm implements can help to shift the cost structure of farmers in the right direction as productivity is affected by expenditure incurred.


Education and training:
Organizations from universities, government, and private sectors must be in a position to teach farmers better ways of farming in current world.


Partnerships between public and private entities (PPE):
Successful application of large scale agriculture transformation involves government incentives and private capital investment. For instance, the use of PPP when promoting Vetiver products in the international market will positively impact both the farming fraternity and the economy.

For the Nepalis as well as the entire nation, an agricultural revolution in Nepal is no longer an option but is imminent and inevitable. Integrating the best of both the old and the new world technology, adopting locally available resources, spurring innovation can and indeed make agriculture sustainable, profitable, and competitive anywhere in the world. To provide the foundation for a global sustainable agriculture system, Nepal can help Vetiver and medicinal herbs with IoT and blockchain services.

This vision can only be attained through collective efforts of the policy makers, industrialization of agriculture and the farming community of the country so as to empower suicidal Agricultural sector leading the economic social and technological progress of Nepal.

The potential of Nepal is in fields—enabling them will enable the country.

In observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, ApEx explores the societal misconceptions and challenges faced by people with disabilities. Sadikshya Khadka spoke to some people who shared their personal experiences of overcoming societal prejudices and advocating for inclusion. Their stories highlight the need for systemic reforms, accessible infrastructure, and a collective shift in attitudes to create a society where people with disabilities can live independently and equitably.

Bhoj Raj Shrestha

The way society views people with disabilities is often shaped by pervasive misconceptions. A common belief is that individuals with disabilities are entirely dependent on others for support. This flawed thinking has restricted their ability to live independently and fully participate in society. Unfortunately, hearing such narratives repeatedly can lead people with disabilities to internalize the notion that they are incapable of being independent. 

In reality, most people with disabilities are capable of caring for themselves and living independently. However, the societal perception that they are helpless fosters a negative mindset. Even when individuals possess skills, creativity, and knowledge, these qualities are often overshadowed by their disability, which is unfair.

It’s crucial for governments to implement better policies that guarantee accessibility and equity across all areas. A stronger system is needed—not only to improve physical access but also to challenge societal attitudes. Changing these perceptions requires collective effort from families, communities, society, and the government. 

The constitution of Nepal and international organizations advocating for disability rights must ensure that laws designed to uplift people with disabilities are effectively enforced. Additionally, the allowances currently provided are insufficient to meet basic needs. 

Savitree Shrestha  

One deeply hurtful misconception about people with disabilities is that we are told to be repaying the sins of our previous birth. People don’t understand disability. They aren’t aware of the proper terminology used to address people with disabilities and the way they treat us is often not appropriate. To overcome these challenges, I try to talk about disability so people can become well-aware and adopt appropriate behavior. Ensuring access and support in all areas, such as employment, education, and public spaces, is crucial for the overall development and empowerment of people with disabilities.

Rama Dhakal

Misconceptions about people with disabilities are widespread, often starting within families. Many families foster a negative mindset, pitying us and believing we are incapable of accomplishing anything independently. Some even make deeply hurtful remarks. They say people with disabilities should not have been born. When such attitudes exist within families, they deprive people with disabilities of the support system that should be their foundation.

People with disabilities are often perceived as being completely incapable of contributing to society. As a result, we are excluded from participation in societal activities and groups, such as children’s clubs, mothers’ clubs, or women’s organizations. It leads to isolation.

Education is one of the most critical areas where change is needed. Early childhood development takes place in schools and classrooms, making these environments essential for fostering inclusion. When children with disabilities are included in all school activities from an early age, it promotes equality.

The private sector also has a significant role in promoting inclusion. Encouraging the employment and representation of people with disabilities across all sectors, particularly in decision-making positions, is essential. This is especially important in lawmaking and policy formulation. Representation and inclusion are not just about addressing misconceptions—they are about creating a society that values and respects everyone’s contributions, ensuring equity and opportunities for all.

The PEN Asia/Pacific Region Conference was scheduled to take place in Manila, the capital of the Philippines, from Oct 24 to 29. The primary objective of the conference was to encourage women’s active participation. I received a recommendation from Nepal PEN to attend this significant event. Ready to embark on my journey, I had made arrangements to fly with Singapore Airlines on Oct 23. Prior to the conference, I engaged in discussions with fellow members of PEN Nepal to strategize on key agenda items, including:regional perspectives on language and translation; challenges related to online expression; and the role of young writers and their impact on the future of PEN.

These discussions aimed to ensure our active participation and contribution to the conference’s overarching goals. In addition to addressing the specified agendas, participants engaged in discussions about the advancements achieved by their respective country’s PEN chapters. They also shared insights on their favorite books, providing reasons for their preferences. 

Having traveled from Nepal, I arrived well-prepared for these discussions. Furthermore, I brought along a poem titled ‘Humanity’, written to resonate with contemporary world events, particularly related to literature-a theme contributing to the PEN conference.

After about five hours, the plane landed in Singapore. Subsequently, the journey continued to Manila via Air Singapore, taking about three and a half hours before landing in the capital of the Philippines. It being my first visit to Manila, I anticipated confusion, but fortunately, everything proceeded smoothly. At the exit of the airport, I spotted a female holding a placard with my name written on it. I was very happy to meet her, ending all my confusions and hesitations. Shortly after, a participant from Bangladesh also arrived. 

As we arrived in the evening of Oct 24, the day was relatively uneventful. The following day marked the opening ceremony and the PEN Philippines Congress. Attendees from Philippines, Nepal, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Cambodia, Myanmar, Japan, Australia, and Sri Lanka were present. The opening ceremony featured diverse cultural programs, poetry readings, and discussions on various literary topics. The day before, the organizers had contacted me, requesting that I recite a poem during the program, given my identity as a poet. Although surprised and initially uncertain, I agreed, reassuring them that it would be feasible as I had brought one of my poems with me. 

The following day, multiple activities took place during the Philippines Congress. It was announced in the program that poems from Nepal and Malaysia were scheduled for recitation as part of their participation. My friends advised me to first recite the poem in my native language and then in English. I hesitated, pointing out that they wouldn't understand Nepali, but they insisted that hearing the poem in its original language would convey its spirit more effectively. I also felt the importance of showcasing my language to the world. Consequently, I recited the poem ‘Humanity’ first in Nepali and then in English. 

From Oct 26 to 28, we were engrossed in the workshop for three full days, spanning from 9 am to 10 pm (including free evening). The sessions included discussions on the progress achieved by PEN chapters in different countries and conversations about the favorite books of the participants. Taking into consideration the workshop’s emphasis on women’s participation, I found it relevant to discuss Susheela Karki’s book ‘Justice’ from Nepal. As the former Chief Justice of Nepal, she published her book ‘Justice’ post-retirement. During my presentation, I highlighted the challenging cases she handled during her tenure and her courageous stance, which led to her impeachment by the government for refusing to support an unjust decision. Ultimately, her commitment to justice prevailed. Sharing the success story of this courageous female Chief Justice left everyone present surprised and equally delighted.

Following a comprehensive discussion of everyone’s perspectives on the topic, the focus shifted to the three main themes of the workshop. During the discussion on the “Regional perspective on language and translation,” it became apparent that, with the exceptions of Japan and Australia, many countries faced similar challenges. Even though the national language is one, there are many languages, but there is a scarcity of literature in those languages. Even when written, many people do not understand the language, and there are no opportunities and arrangements for translation. In the case of Nepal, where Nepali is the national language, there are 123 other languages. Most lack a written script, and despite constitutional recognition as national languages, only a limited amount of literature is available in these languages. Moreover, even when literature exists, shortage of translators hinders its dissemination on national and international platforms. Besides, in schools, the lack of educators, writers, and textbooks for many languages obstruct progress, limiting the development of these languages. These challenges restrict writers in various languages from realizing their full potential, contributing to a scarcity of women writers as well. Geographical, ethnic, and cultural factors further limit women from openly expressing their feelings. Despite proficiency in the Nepali language, they struggle to write literature in Nepali as it is not their mother tongue. Furthermore, in the age of AI, accessibility to this technology is not easy for many in Nepal.

Similar challenges were identified in other countries too. Hence it was agreed that the initial step to be taken is promoting writing in one's own language. This approach, reflective of the customs, religion, and culture of respective regions, lays the foundation for addressing the issues at hand. After that, the importance of raising awareness and providing training in the use of AI for translation was discussed. Facilitating access to publishers was also recognized as crucial to ensuring that articles and literature could reach national and international readers. 

Additionally, regarding the challenges in ‘Online Expression’, it was observed that the potential of the writers from many countries, including Nepal, have not been fully utilized. Despite the current availability of advanced online platforms that enable global communication, meetings, and conferences without physical presence, the effective use of online expression has not been practiced, due to which even the talented writers have lagged behind. Hence, representatives from all participating nations unanimously acknowledged the necessity of developing a robust system for Online Expression. The consensus was to focus on raising awareness and providing training to potential writers on the use of online expression technologies.

Concerning Young Writers, it was found that the Philippines has a lot of young writers, but this is not the case in many other countries. In Nepal, the count is even lower compared to other nations, given its diversity in languages, castes, and cultures. Recognizing the need to focus on and enhance the participation of young writers, I conducted a self-analysis and acknowledged that I myself haven’t done as much as I could to encourage them. This realization prompted a commitment to concentrate on works written in various scripts and actively consider translation efforts. In response, I decided to dedicate my efforts to increasing the membership of young writers from diverse castes, languages, and religious cultures. 

There was also a discussion session on gender based violence and sexual harassment to the women and how we could contribute in addressing it in our respective areas. In the end, I found that everyone agreed with what Nepal presented in relation to the Future of PEN. According to which, we decide on the following points: organizing similar workshops/conferences on a regular basis to connect women writers from around the world; prioritizing women writers in such workshops/conferences; ensuring PEN activities are dynamic and diverse, breaking away from stereotypes; and involving new writers in PEN activities, fostering a sense of belonging among all writers.

Focusing on these themes, the Asian Pacific PEN workshop and training in Manila concluded on a positive note. However, echoing the sentiment of Nepali poet Madhav Ghimire, “The story is over, the pain is still there,” I couldn’t ignore that PEN Nepal might not have fully realized its potential. It is disheartening to acknowledge that PEN Nepal has neglected in expanding membership and has been influenced by specific individuals, thus confining the international organization like PEN Nepal within has been limited within the familial circle. Hoping for a positive change, I wish that the situation within PEN Nepal will improve for the better in the future.