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As the Nepal Bar Association gears up for its central working committee election on April 5, the legal fraternity finds itself at a crossroads. The practice of forming ideological panels, such as the BPLA and DLA groups, has been ongoing since the 1990 movement. However, this election cycle has brought an alarming shift—party politics has permeated the selection process like never before.

The DLA group, which typically forms a committee to select candidates, has instead seen nominations dictated by political parties and their top leaders. This direct intervention has left many advocates disillusioned, as it compromises the independence of the Bar. A politically-entangled Bar cannot function freely; it will remain under constant pressure, unable to uphold professional ethics or safeguard the rights of advocates. More worryingly, such a Bar threatens the integrity of the judiciary, given its integral role within the judiciary.

Beyond political interference, another troubling trend looms over Nepal’s legal profession. Increasingly, individuals who have spent their careers in government, academia or other fields secure advocate licenses and quickly ascend to the title of ‘senior lawyer.’ Many of these individuals, having already ensured their financial security elsewhere, lack the commitment to legal ethics and instead drag politics into professional spaces. This dilutes the purity of the profession and weakens the moral fiber of the Bar. Those who have worked their entire lives in different careers, without having any substantial contribution to the legal field, now enter the profession late and demand to be treated as senior advocates without earning the respect and credibility that should come with experience and dedication. 

The legal field is also under persistent assault from political parties, leaders and even members of the judiciary, eroding professionalism. Today, only a few lawyers remain independent; many are aligned with political factions or other interest groups. The profession is plagued by party-affiliated lawyers, judicial middlemen, brokers of smugglers, foreign-backed lawyers and those with entrenched corporate ties. These forces have made it increasingly difficult for fresh, independent advocates to sustain themselves, further compromising the profession’s ethical foundations. The number of truly independent lawyers has diminished, and those who try to work ethically often struggle to establish themselves financially. The legal profession, once a noble pursuit of justice, has now become a field where many enter for power, influence and financial gain rather than for the service of the people and in pursuit of justice. 

Regardless of who wins the upcoming election, all candidates have contested under the influence of political parties. This means the eventual victor will likely follow party directives rather than prioritizing professional integrity. This is a stark contrast to the Nepal Bar Association of 1990, which once wielded the power to influence political transformation, shape legislation and uphold constitutional principles. In various democratic movements, the Bar played a crucial role in safeguarding the rule of law.
However, since the early 2000s, the Bar’s stature has significantly eroded. Though it still holds responsibilities, it has struggled to fulfill them effectively. The Bar Association once had the capacity to influence governance, advocate for necessary legal reforms, and hold the government accountable. But now, it has become just another platform for political maneuvering, with little regard for the professional values that should define the legal community.

To reclaim the lost credibility of the legal profession, advocates must distinguish between true professionals and political middlemen. Holding a law degree or an advocate’s license does not automatically make one a professional. A true advocate builds a career through courtroom debates, rigorous legal research, and dedication to justice. Seniority should not be granted based on the date of acquiring a license but should be earned through experience, respect from the full court, and significant contributions to legal jurisprudence. The legal profession should be led by those who dedicate their lives to it, not by those who see it as an easy way to gain influence after retiring from other careers.

One of the major problems with the current Bar Association is the lack of strict criteria for recognizing seniority. Today, those who have spent most of their lives in other professions—government service, academia, business—can enter the legal field, take an advocate’s license and immediately demand the privileges of seniority. This practice devalues the profession and undermines those who have spent their entire careers advocating in courtrooms, engaging in legal research and upholding the rule of law. 

The judiciary is a pillar of democracy, and if those at its core—lawyers and advocates—are politically influenced, then the entire judicial system is at risk. 

The next leadership of the Nepal Bar Association has an immense responsibility—to restore professionalism, protect constitutional principles and rectify past mistakes. It must ensure that ethical standards are upheld, even holding judges accountable when necessary. The upcoming election is not just about electing new office bearers; it is about setting a precedent for the future of Nepal’s legal profession. It is imperative that the Bar reclaims its independence, ensuring that it remains a pillar of justice rather than a puppet of political influence.
If Nepal’s legal profession is to survive with dignity, its professionals must demand accountability, transparency and independence. The next generation of legal practitioners must work toward rebuilding the credibility of the Bar Association. A law profession tainted by politics, greed and favoritism cannot serve justice. Nepal’s judiciary and legal fraternity must urgently address these issues before it is too late. The Bar Association should not just be an institution for lawyers—it should be a beacon of justice, ethics and integrity in Nepal’s legal landscape.

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

Frogs are amphibian species that have essential ecological characteristics to balance the ecosystem. The species is considered as an indicator species of the ecosystem as even minor changes in the environment can affect them. Increasing anthropogenic influences to the species’ habitat can accelerate the population’s decline and push them toward extinction. The family Amolops genus consists of six different species, including Amolops mahabharatensis (a recent discovery of Nepal), it is also called as Mahabharat Torrent frog of the mountain region. The species consists of genetically and morphologically different features than previously known Amolops species.

The habitat 

In Nepal, the habitat of Amolops mahabharatensis lies in 214-1,800 meters elevation range. As for specific sites, the species’ habitats include Sabha khola and Dobhan o(Sankhuwasabha district), Barahakshetra (Sunsari), Hattibang (Chitwan), Pokhara (Kaski) and Latinath (Darchula). Beyond the borders, the Sikkim region of India is also its habitat. The species are found on subtropical mixed forest riversides where the mature individuals are found on boulders of rapid river zones whereas the tadpoles stick to the rocks of the rivers. 

Status of the species

This species features in the vulnerable category of the IUCN red list, pointing toward population declination across its habitat. The amphibian species are considered very sensitive toward their surroundings. Even minor changes in the environment can pose a serious threat to their survival. The Amolops mahabharatensis is facing tremendous pressure from anthropogenic activities and overexploitation. Throughout the mountainous region of Nepal, Paha hunting is a famous recreational activity with food value and medicinal purpose based on their indigenous knowledge. 

Due to the species' considerable ethnozoological value to the nearby indigenous communities, the latter hunt the species extensively. For several ethnic communities of the mountainous region, the species are primarily a delicacy having medicinal properties.

Threats

Harvesting of mature species before their breeding period is a major cause behind species declination. Overexploitation of natural resources from the forest (wood, grasses, fodder) creates an edge effect on the species. On top of it, the introduction of invasive species—both plants and animals like fish—on the aquatic ecosystem can degrade aquatic health, where those species can alter the ambient temperature and ultraviolet radiation that directly affect sensitive amphibian species like Amolops mahabharatensis. Furthermore, the use of herbicides and insecticides on agricultural land can adversely affect river health.

Conservation action

Educating young generations and local communities about the importance of the species in the ecosystem is an effective way of ensuring species conservation. For example, Environment Protection and Study Center (ENPROSC) is implementing a project named ‘Promoting eco-clubs and field survey to initiate conservation of threatened Mahabharat Torrent Frog in central Nepal’ at Hattibang, Chitwan with support from Stiftung Artenschutz, Germany. The main objective of the project is to educate future generations in amphibian conservation. 

But only those site specific projects seem insufficient to protect overall amphibian species among the whole country. 

Regulation of unsustainable harvest practices is highly necessary to prevent local extinction of the species. For that, the harvesting season can be shifted after its breeding period so that the reproduction of the species can maintain the population and reduce the possibility of population declination. The direct runoff from the agricultural land should be diverted by identifying sensitive species habitats at the river system.

Direct introduction of the invasive species—either plant or aquatic animal species—should be avoided to curb competition for resources in the environment. 

Focus on alternative food resources rather than those threatened species of the aquatic ecosystem. 

The herpetofaunal species like Amolops mahabharatensis are the least prioritized species in terms of conservation, though they are as threatened as common leopards. Apparently, being a non-charismatic species is tantamount to facing extinction. The stakeholders’ biases against conservation activities for the species is also the reason behind a rapid decline of the species across its habitat.

Every year, March 20 is celebrated as the Frog Day worldwide but frog conservation activities seem insufficient. Very few organizations are considering herpetofauna conservation and execution of the prepared plans is often hindered due to the lack of funds.  What’s more, anthropogenic influence is affecting the species’ habitats. To reduce these threats, the local community should be more aware about the status and importance of the species in the environment. Involving future generations in conservation activities and drawing the attention of stakeholders toward this issue are essential to conserve the habitats of herpetofaunal species, not on paper but on the ground.

Time management

As the Secondary Education Examination (SEE) approaches, students often find themselves struggling to balance their study schedules, manage stress, and retain information efficiently. Proper planning, time management, and the right mindset can significantly enhance performance and reduce anxiety. A well-structured approach ensures that SEE students make the most of their study time and remain confident during exams.

One of the most crucial aspects of exam preparation is time management. Creating a structured timetable allows SEE students to systematically cover all subjects, ensuring they achieve at least 80 percent of their study targets. Following a daily schedule, allocating specific time slots for different subjects, and maintaining discipline are key to success. Complex topics should be studied early in the morning when the mind is fresh. Short breaks of five minutes after every 30 minutes of study can improve memory retention and prevent mental fatigue.

Healthy lifestyle for better focus

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is equally important for optimal focus and energy levels. Regular exercise, yoga, and meditation can enhance concentration, while a balanced diet rich in brain-boosting nutrients helps in sustaining energy. Staying hydrated and getting sufficient sleep are also essential to avoid fatigue and enhance cognitive performance.

Memory retention techniques

Memory retention is a significant challenge for many SEE students. To improve recall, it is advisable to maintain a separate diary for important definitions and key points. Sticky notes placed around the study area can help with quick revision. Simplified definitions instead of complex vocabulary make understanding easier. Systematic revision of chapters and practicing free-answer writing can enhance creativity and accuracy, making it easier to retain and recall information.

Understanding concepts instead of rote learning

Understanding concepts rather than rote learning is the key to applying knowledge effectively in the SEE exams. Students should focus on the practical application of what they study rather than just memorization. Solving previous years' question papers and analyzing expected questions can be extremely helpful. Practicing answers for both short and long questions refines the approach and builds confidence in tackling different types of questions.

Avoiding silly mistakes

Many students lose marks due to avoidable errors. Careful reading of questions, double-checking calculations in subjects like Mathematics, and following a structured answering format can help prevent silly mistakes. Time allocation for each question should be planned in advance, ensuring that all sections are covered within the exam duration.

Managing psychological challenges

Handling psychological challenges is another critical aspect of SEE exam preparation. Stress and nervousness can be overwhelming, especially in the final days before exams. Avoiding last-minute discussions with friends, refraining from overloading on new study material, and practicing mindfulness techniques can help in maintaining a calm and focused mind. Positive self-affirmations, light activities, and motivational talks can boost confidence and reduce anxiety.

Dealing with external pressures

External pressures from parents, teachers, and peers can also add to exam stress. It is essential to avoid negative discussions about grades and rankings and stay focused on personal goals. Encouraging uplifting conversations rather than stress-inducing discussions can help foster a positive mindset. Teachers play a dual role—they may exert pressure but also provide guidance. SEE students should seek their support to clarify doubts, refine answering techniques, and follow a systematic preparation approach rather than cramming at the last minute.

Perfectionism and time management

Perfectionism can sometimes hinder performance. Spending too much time perfecting answers can be counterproductive. Instead, students should focus on completing the paper within the given time limit, highlighting key points for better readability, and allocating appropriate time for each question. Brainstorming and generating key points before writing answers can improve clarity and coherence.

Building confidence

Confidence plays a vital role in SEE exam success. Self-doubt can impact performance, so it is crucial to stay away from rumors about exam leaks or unexpected questions. Visualizing a successful exam experience, engaging in prayer, meditation, or motivational reading can reinforce a positive mindset. Avoiding distractions from social media and electronic gadgets is also important. Excessive use of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube can significantly impact concentration and memory retention. Limiting screen time and creating a distraction-free study environment can greatly improve focus.

Creating the right study environment

The right study environment is essential for efficient learning. Studying in noisy areas like parks, TV rooms, or busy roads should be avoided. Changing study spots frequently can also disrupt focus. It is advisable to stick to a comfortable and familiar study space to enhance productivity.

Spend a few minutes scrolling through social media about Nepal, and you might get an impression that the country is in a state of irreversible collapse. Political instability, corruption, the mass migration of young people, bureaucratic deadlock—these dominate the discourse. The prevailing sentiment: Nepal has no future. Everything is a disaster. But is this the ground reality, or are we trapped in a collective mood—a pervasive atmosphere of despair that shapes how we interpret events? 

Martin Heidegger, the German philosopher, argued that moods are not just personal emotions but collective states that shape how people perceive the world. A mood is not simply a fleeting feeling; it determines what appears possible or impossible. When we are in despair, everything looks hopeless. When we are optimistic, the very same circumstances can seem full of opportunity. The danger is that we mistake the mood for reality.

Right now, Nepal seems gripped by a mood of crisis. Every political event is framed as another step toward collapse. Social media amplifies outrage and negativity, reinforcing the belief that nothing works, that all roads lead to failure. 

Even during periods of political stability, opposition forces often work to undermine it. Even when policies are introduced, bureaucratic inertia slows them down. In such an atmosphere, even genuine progress can go unnoticed, overshadowed by a narrative of dysfunction. Consider the issue of youth migration. Thousands of young Nepalis leave the country every year in search of better opportunities. But this fact alone does not mean Nepal is doomed. Migration is not unique to Nepal—many countries, even developed ones, experience waves of emigration at different points in their history. What matters is how a country responds. Will Nepal create conditions that encourage its youth to return with skills, experience and investment? Or will we resign ourselves to the belief that youth migration is irreversible? 

Our answers to these questions are shaped by our collective mood. 

Political instability is an undeniable reality, but does that mean democracy itself has failed? Nepal has seen frequent changes in government, but it has also witnessed major democratic movements, an engaged electorate, and a growing demand for accountability. Corruption remains a problem, but civic activism, investigative journalism and digital transparency tools are also emerging. The bureaucratic system is slow, but Nepal’s private sector—especially entrepreneurs in digital industries—continues to innovate despite these hurdles. And yet, these positive aspects rarely define the national conversation. 

Instead, the dominant mood ensures that we focus only on dysfunction.

The possibility within breakdown

Heidegger also gives us another lens: breakdown. When things no longer function as expected, when the structures we rely on falter, we are forced to confront possibilities we may not have seen before. A system in crisis is also a system in transition. History shows that moments of instability often precede major transformations. 

Many of today’s thriving economies—South Korea, Singapore, even post-war Germany—went through prolonged periods of political and economic crisis before they found their footing. Their progress was not inevitable; it was made possible because they saw their breakdowns as moments of reevaluation rather than permanent decline. 

Nepal is at a similar juncture. The problems are real, but so are the possibilities. The same youth who are leaving for opportunities abroad are also part of a globally-connected, highly-skilled generation. The same political instability that frustrates us is also a sign of democratic contestation—a struggle to define Nepal’s future rather than resigning to a single, unchangeable fate. The same bureaucracy that slows progress also means that any reform, when it happens, has the potential to be institutionalized for the long term.

If we see only the breakdown and not the possibility within it, we risk deepening our national pessimism. And pessimism is not just an attitude; it shapes action. A country that believes it has no future acts accordingly. Talented people leave instead of staying to build. Entrepreneurs hesitate instead of investing. Policymakers, sensing the public’s resignation, prioritize short-term survival over long-term vision. But the opposite is also true. If we start recognizing the possibilities within this moment, we will act differently. We will invest, innovate, and engage. We will challenge the systems that don’t work rather than accepting them as permanent. Change begins not just with policy but with perception.

Choosing to see possibility 

The power of mood is that it determines what we believe is possible. And what we believe is possible determines what we attempt to build. If Nepal continues to see itself as a country on the brink of collapse, it will act like one. But if it sees itself as a country in transition, in the messy but necessary process of change, then it can begin to focus on solutions rather than just problems. This is not an argument for blind optimism. It is not about ignoring Nepal’s challenges or pretending that everything is fine. It is about resisting the easy, self-fulfilling trap of despair. 

Because in the end, national progress is not just about policies and politics, it is also about belief. Nepal’s greatest challenge today is not just political instability or economic hardship; it is the crisis of belief in its own potential. Just as mood shapes how we see the present, it also shapes what we believe about the future—and that belief, in turn, influences the path we take as a nation, from governance to progress and beyond.