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Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi met for 30 minutes on the sidelines of the 79th General Assembly of the United Nations in New York. This meeting from the Nepali side marks the first face-to-face interaction between the two leaders since they resumed their roles as prime ministers in their respective countries. 

For both Prime Ministers, this meeting comes at a pivotal moment. Having taken office for the fourth time, Oli has become one of Nepal's most experienced political figures, though his cumulative time as Prime Minister has only amounted to four-and-a-half years. This current tenure could extend for two more years, depending on the power-sharing agreement between Oli and Nepali Congress leader Sher Bahadur Deuba. If the agreement holds, Deuba will assume leadership in the second half of the government’s term. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been India’s Prime Minister for a decade, serving his third consecutive term. This time, however, he leads a coalition government, which comes with certain constraints, although he remains a strong leader. Modi's leadership has significantly shaped India's foreign policy, and in recent years, his administration has adopted a more cautious, pragmatic approach to regional diplomacy. India's response to developments in neighboring countries like the Maldives, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka reflects this careful balancing act. 

Following the meeting, both leaders took to social media to express their positive impressions. Prime Minister Modi wrote on X (formerly Twitter): "India-Nepal friendship is very strong, and there is a desire to make it stronger in the future. Our discussion was on issues like energy, technology and trade." In response, Prime Minister Oli also posted on X, stating that the meeting was "fruitful" and that various aspects of bilateral relations were discussed. While the meeting was brief and took place on the sidelines of the UNGA, it nonetheless signaled an important shift in tone, where both leaders seemed keen on fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual understanding.

Though sideline meetings like this one often do not involve detailed agenda-driven discussions, they are critical in building rapport between leaders. Exchanging warm greetings and briefly touching on key issues is often a good first step in clearing any lingering misunderstandings or tensions. The recent Oli-Modi meeting appears to have achieved this, creating a more favorable environment for addressing both long-standing and emerging issues between the two countries.

Reports suggest that the two prime ministers agreed to activate various bilateral mechanisms to resolve pending issues between Nepal and India. Currently, there are more than a dozen such mechanisms in place, many of which have been underutilized in recent years. Reinvigorating these mechanisms could provide a platform for addressing long-standing challenges such as border disputes, trade issues and developmental cooperation.

Over the past few years, Nepal’s perception of India has evolved, with India being seen more as an indispensable partner for development. The once-prevalent anti-India sentiment within Nepal has been visibly diminishing, and there is a growing recognition that cooperation with India is crucial for Nepal's economic growth and stability. This shift in public and political sentiment provides a timely opportunity for both countries to move forward on mutual concerns.

One significant aspect of the meeting, highlighted by Nepal's Foreign Minister Rana, was Oli's formal invitation for Prime Minister Modi to visit Nepal. In a departure from the traditional diplomatic practice of Nepali prime ministers visiting India first, this time Modi will visit Nepal before Oli makes a reciprocal visit to India. This move underscores the importance both countries place on revitalizing their relationship. According to Foreign Minister Rana, preparations for Modi's state visit are already underway, signaling that both sides are ready to engage in more substantive talks in the near future.

The spokesperson for Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amrit Rai, further emphasized a positive atmosphere created through the meeting, stating that it has helped strengthen the atmosphere of trust between the two countries. According to a statement from India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Modi took the opportunity to congratulate Nepal for becoming the 101st country to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA). Modi also emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in addressing the shared challenge of climate change.

While the New York meeting was brief, it lays the groundwork for a new normal in Nepal-India relations. Moving forward, the relationship between these two neighbors will largely depend on addressing three key areas: development cooperation, resolving historical disputes, and building trust between their leadership.

Focus on development cooperation: Nepal and India need to orient their bilateral relationship on areas where both countries share common interests, particularly in development cooperation. Nepal, given its economic size and financial limitations, cannot offer direct development assistance to India. However, India's grants, loans and joint ventures are critical to Nepal's infrastructure and energy development. Hydropower projects, in particular, represent a major area of potential collaboration. The goal of generating 10,000 MW of hydropower over the next decade, along with projects like the Janakpur-Ayodhya railway, dry ports and initiatives under the High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP) framework are all areas where India can play a transformative role.

Nepal must ensure that these development partnerships are implemented efficiently, with proper mechanisms in place to honor commitments. However, India must also refrain from using development aid as political leverage for achieving her strategic goals. Both sides must commit to a spirit of cooperation where development serves the broader goal of mutual benefit rather than political maneuvering.

Dispute resolution: There are long-standing issues between Nepal and India, many of which are legacies from the past. Issues such as border disputes and political map disagreements have been sources of tension, but these matters can be resolved only through diplomatic dialogue. Both sides must be willing to let these issues take the necessary time rather than allowing them to escalate into more serious conflicts. Nepal should also work to address India’s legitimate security concerns, while ensuring the protection of its own sovereignty and interests. Both countries should sit together with the evidence to resolve these contentious issues.  

Building trust: Perhaps the most crucial element in Nepal-India relations is the need to build a strong foundation of trust between the political leadership of both countries. Mistrust has often arisen due to the rhetoric from leaders for domestic political purposes. While political leaders may sometimes make statements to satisfy their domestic constituencies, diplomacy requires a more measured and consistent approach. Both countries need each other’s support to flourish, and this can only happen if their leaders trust and respect one another.

In their new terms, Prime Ministers Oli and Modi have taken the first step toward rebuilding this trust. If they can continue along this path, the future of Nepal-India relations will be mutually beneficial.

Views are personal

Green hydrogen has turned out to be one of the primary solutions to global warming and climate change as it helps in the process of decarbonization and attaining carbon neutrality. Since green hydrogen can be produced using renewable energy sources, it is an opportunity to gradually decrease the dependence on fossil fuels, which will improve energy independence and energy security. To summarize, green hydrogen is a promising, clean fuel of the future in a world that is slowly moving toward cleaner energy systems. Thus, with the vision of shifting the energy sector to cleaner and sustainable sources, the idea of hydrogen production in Nepal was initially discussed in an academic research paper completed by Prof Bhakta Bahadur Ale of Tribhuvan University and Prof SO Bade Shrestha of Western Michigan University in 2008. They suggested that hydrogen should be produced through the use of electricity from hydroelectric plants when they are generating power during off-peak hours. During that time, Nepal was struggling with acute energy crises and frequent load-shedding, which, coupled with technological constraints, made it next to impossible to turn the concept into reality. 

When the Covid-19 pandemic started, the industrial sector contracted, leading to a significant drop in energy consumption, but fossil fuel imports remained high. This led to an overproduction of electricity particularly from the hydropower plants in Nepal. This excess electricity led to wastage and an imbalance between supply and demand; hence, it was crucial to look for methods to utilize this electricity in domestic sectors. This scenario was ideal for producing green hydrogen using the surplus electricity through the process of electrolysis. That is when the shift from a fossil fuel-dependent economy to a green economy began to take shape. Recognizing this potential, Kathmandu University decided to channel the excess energy into producing hydrogen by splitting water through electrolysis. With this goal in mind, the Green Hydrogen Lab (GHL) at Kathmandu University was established in 2020 under Prof Bhola Thapa and Biraj Singh Thapa, marking a major step forward in Nepal’s pursuit of renewable energy solutions.

Even though the strategy of generating hydrogen by utilizing the excess electricity from hydropower was discussed in 2008, it was only in 2020 that R&D on hydrogen production was initiated. In particular, the GHL has contributed to developing this vision. GHL started the Nepal Hydrogen Initiative (NHI), a consolidated program for establishing a policy foundation, hydrogen energy value chain, and developing action plans. Some of the ongoing projects at GHL are Nepal’s first hydrogen refueling station and the green urea production plant in Nepal. GHL has a 5-kW electrolyzer that can produce 2 kg of hydrogen per day, which is used to refuel a car with a 6 kg hydrogen capacity, providing a driving range of 600 km. GHL is also involved in different projects: green hydrogen for the production of ammonia, industrial heat, zero-emission transportation, re-electrification and making green steel. MIT Group Foundation and Global NRN Foundation, KU being a knowledge partner, organized the Nepal Green Hydrogen Summit in October 2022 with the main aim of prioritizing the delivery of climate-friendly green hydrogen projects that help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Since 2023, the Global Green Growth Institute’s (GGGI) NP15 Green Hydrogen Value Chain and Green Ammonia Plant project has been exploring the potential of green hydrogen in Nepal's energy mix. Asian Development Bank (ADB) studied the prospects of Hydropower to Hydrogen in Nepal in 2020. The first hydrogen internal combustion engine conversion technology was demonstrated on 16 September 2024 at Pulchowk Engineering College, which embarked on another big step in the development of green hydrogen in Nepal. With the adoption of the Nepal Green Hydrogen Policy-2024, the country has set a more tangible framework for future study, innovation and funding of green hydrogen. This policy lays the groundwork for realizing Nepal’s immense opportunity in green hydrogen generation, mainly based on Nepal’s hydropower potential. 

Nepal’s roadmap for green hydrogen production can be significantly boosted by studying the policies, pilot projects, and commitments of global leaders in the hydrogen economy. Countries like Japan, India, China and the United States are driving the green hydrogen agenda, making substantial investments in technology, infrastructure, and research. These nations provide important lessons for Nepal in terms of policy formulation, industrial applications and the scaling of green hydrogen.

The Indian government approved the National Green Hydrogen Mission in 2023 to develop a green hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 MMT per annum. By 2050, it aims to replace 50m metric tonnes of gray hydrogen with green hydrogen, which could cut 50m tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. India is focusing on reducing the cost of hydrogen production to $1.5 per kg by 2030 through large-scale projects. 

The US National Clean Hydrogen Strategy and Roadmap-2023 align with the administration’s goals, including the aim to develop green hydrogen production capacity of 10 MMT by 2030, 20 MMT by 2040, and 50 MMT by 2050; 100 percent carbon pollution-free electricity by 2035 and net zero GHG emissions by no later than 2050. At the same time, the United States’ Department of Energy (DOE) has launched the “Hydrogen Shot” initiative to reduce the cost of clean hydrogen to $1 per kg within a decade. In March 2022, China’s Medium and Long-Term Strategy referred to as “the National Plan” was released for the development of the hydrogen energy industry after which there has been significant development in the country’s hydrogen space. Among these targets, the deployment of 50,000 fuel cell vehicles and the production of 0.1 to 0.2 MT of renewable hydrogen toward a broader goal of reducing annual CO2 emissions by 1m to 2m tons by 2025 was most important. China is focusing on reducing the cost of hydrogen production to $2.18/kg with advancements in technology and a reduction in electricity prices. Japan, another hydrogen pioneer, is equally ambitious. Japan was an early proponent of making hydrogen for decarbonization, publishing its first hydrogen strategy in 2017, and the substance continues to be a critical part of Japan’s strategy to decarbonize its economy and achieve carbon neutrality. Japan’s hydrogen strategy is central to its goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2050, reducing CO2 emissions across power generation, transportation and industry. Japan aims to bring down the cost of hydrogen to $2.77 per kg by 2030 from the current cost of $9.24 per kg, largely through technological advancements and scaled up production. Japan also plans to produce 1.08 MMT of hydrogen annually by 2040, a target that Nepal can aspire to as it has the potential to develop its green hydrogen capabilities.

Green hydrogen, which is generated from electrolysis, is a huge opportunity for Nepal. The government is formulating directives to generate 28,500 MW of electricity by 2035, while the country’s internal electricity requirement is estimated to be around 7,000 MW. With a surplus power of approximately 20,000 MW, there is an opportunity to produce 400,000 kg of hydrogen (as 1 MWh of electricity generates 20 kg of H2). If this surplus electricity, costing Rs 6.70 per unit, is not utilized for either domestic consumption or export, the financial value would effectively be zero. The country could face an annual loss of Rs 1.173trn, but by using surplus electricity to produce green hydrogen and its derivatives, it can reduce fossil fuel imports, cutting down on import expenses and promoting clean energy use in industries. This excess capacity could be used to produce green hydrogen which will make hydrogen one of the cheapest and competitive fuels in the market. Thus, increasing the scale of economies and with the assistance of technology across the globe, the cost of producing green hydrogen is expected to be below $1 per kilogram by 2050, which will enhance the feasibility of green hydrogen production. For Nepal, this is a chance to completely change the energy paradigm from a fossil-based to a renewable hydrogen economy.

Nepal faces several challenges in developing a green hydrogen economy, including gaps in policy, underdeveloped technology and low market readiness. Domestic demand for hydrogen applications, like Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs), remains limited, while high production costs and a lack of infrastructure complicate commercialization efforts. Additionally, attracting investment is challenging due to the market's early-stage conditions. To overcome these obstacles, Nepal needs to concentrate on the formulation of sound, sustainable energy policies that incorporate green hydrogen in the country’s strategic plan. The government should fund pilot projects to demonstrate the viability of green hydrogen technologies while encouraging Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to invest in scaling up commercial projects. 

In addition, successful pilot projects will also help to attract foreign direct investment (FDI). The government should also encourage private companies to invest in the technology by providing them with subsidies, tax exemptions and reasonable power tariffs for electrolysis. By leveraging its abundant hydropower, Nepal also has the potential to export green hydrogen to neighboring countries like India and China, with supportive export policies and infrastructure development key to realizing this opportunity. Moreover, investment in research and development (R&D) will contribute toward bringing down the costs of producing hydrogen and enable Nepal to remain competitive in the global hydrogen market. The creation of a separate hydrogen authority and simplification of the licensing of hydrogen projects will help stimulate further development and increase the share of commercial-scale projects after successful pilot projects.

Algal blooms, though less widely discussed than other environmental concerns, are rapidly emerging as a serious threat to Nepal’s aquatic ecology, public health and economic sustainability. While pollution debates often center on waste management and air quality, nutrient pollution—which drives algal blooms—demands urgent attention.

Algal blooms are dense clusters of algae—ranging from single-celled to complex multicellular organisms—that form on the surface of lakes, ponds, reservoirs and slow-moving rivers due to excess nutrients, mainly phosphorus and nitrogen. This process, called eutrophication, is often caused by human activities such as untreated wastewater, sewage discharge, agricultural runoff and fertilizer use. The resulting uncontrolled algal blooms have severe ecological, health and socioeconomic consequences.

The science behind

Algal blooms arise due to a range of factors including eutrophication, climate change, the introduction of invasive species and nutrient-rich conditions from aquaculture. Agricultural runoff, particularly from chemical fertilizers and manure, is a key driver of eutrophication, while invasive species can exacerbate bloom frequency. Rising global temperatures and altered weather patterns linked to global warming and climate change create environments conducive to algal proliferation. Aquaculture practices further contribute by introducing high nutrient levels promoting algal growth.

Though algae play fundamental roles in aquatic ecosystems by producing oxygen and forming the base of several food chains, excessive nutrients—mainly nitrogen and phosphorus—cause algal overgrowth and ecological imbalance. This blocks sunlight, reduces oxygen and releases toxins hazardous to aquatic life, disrupting food chains and posing serious public health risks. Cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, are particularly menacing due to their production of cyanotoxins, such as those from the genus Microcystis, which threaten both humans and animals. Climate change exacerbates this risk, as warmer, stagnant waters promote algal growth. Decreased water flow due to drought, water extraction and altered waterways further supports algal blooms by causing thermal stratification.

As algae die and decompose, they release nutrients back into the water, fueling further blooms. Algal toxins, like those from Alexandrium, can accumulate in seafood and cause paralytic shellfish poisoning, while cyanobacterial toxins compromise potable freshwater sources, recreational waters and fisheries. Human exposure occurs through direct contact, ingestion of contaminated fish or inhalation of toxin-laden droplets, leading to serious health concerns.

Challenges for Nepal

Algal blooms are critically impacting several prominent lakes and reservoirs in Nepal, each holding significant ecological, cultural and economic value. These water bodies are increasingly vulnerable due to rising nutrient levels from human activities and environmental changes. 

Located in the Pokhara valley, Phewa lake is a major tourist destination facing algal blooms due to nutrient pollution. A 2020 study by Kathmandu University’s Environmental Science and Engineering Department classified it as eutrophic, with a Trophic State Index (TSI) of 59, indicating high biological productivity. The Center for Research for Environment, Energy & Water reported that during the monsoon, Phewa, Begnas and Rupa lakes were mesotrophic (TSI: 40-50), suggesting moderate nutrient levels. Despite usually clear water, these lakes are at increased risk of anoxia during summer. The nutrient influx from agricultural runoff and waste accelerates eutrophication, threatening biodiversity, aesthetic value and ecotourism.

The Kulekhani reservoir, situated in Makwanpur district and crucial for hydroelectricity generation, is also facing eutrophication. The same 2020 study reported a TSI of 62, indicating its eutrophic status. The reservoir’s deteriorating water quality due to nutrient pollution poses risks to aquatic life, ecotourism and public health.

Maipokhari, a mid-hill wetland in Ilam district significant for its religious value, is experiencing elevated nutrient levels, particularly phosphates and nitrates, leading to algal blooms. The dissolved oxygen levels fall below Nepal’s water quality guidelines, signaling poor conditions for aquatic life. Increased chemical oxygen demand further promotes the growth of algae and aquatic weeds.

The Jagadishpur Tal, an artificial reservoir in Kapilvastu, Lumbini province, built for irrigation and fed by the Vanganga river, is rich in biodiversity but faces algal bloom risks due to its highly productive nature. A 2008 study by Tribhuvan University's Environmental Science Department revealed the reservoir to be hypereutrophic, with excessive macrophyte growth and elevated levels of phosphate (>387 µg/L) and nitrogen (>200 µg/L), injuring its ecological health.

The Beeshazari lake, located in Chitwan National Park's buffer zone, has experienced significant algal blooms. A 2012 study by Niraula et al. found high concentrations of nitrogen (>1324 µg/L) and phosphorus (>218 µg/L), supporting the growth of aquatic macrophytes like Lersia hexandra, Trapa bispinosa and Eichhornia crassipes. These blooms decrease the lake’s aesthetic value, reduce open water surface and lower oxygen levels, threatening biodiversity and ecotourism.

The Ghodaghodi lake, an oxbow lake in Kailali district of far-western region, has phosphorus levels exceeding natural ranges and WHO guidelines, indicating hypertrophic conditions and significant algal blooms. Elevated nutrient levels, mainly from agricultural runoff and human encroachment, threaten the lake’s ecological balance and biodiversity.

A key economic driver in the Tarai region, however, fish ponds are experiencing rising red algal blooms, primarily caused by Euglena sanguinea, as reported by Mandal and team from Agriculture and Forest University in 2016 and 2018. The excessive use of fertilizers by farmers to boost fish production creates eutrophic conditions that promote the growth of harmful phytoplankton, including euglenophytes. These red blooms, common in shallow, nutrient-rich waters, threaten pond ecosystems, fish health, public health and the local economy.

Socioe-conomic impact

Nepal’s lakes and reservoirs are vital for ecological balance, biodiversity, and ecotourism. Algal blooms, driven by nutrient influx from rapid urbanization, agriculture, excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers, deforestation and improper waste disposal, pose severe ecological, health and socioeconomic menaces. Without intervention, eutrophication could irreversibly damage aquatic ecosystems and the livelihoods they support.

Economically, tourism—crucial for the local and national economy—is especially vulnerable. Degraded water quality from blooms diminishes the aesthetic and recreational values, deterring tourists and reducing revenue. Additionally, foul-smelling lakes deter boating and fishing, further impacting ecotourism. The fishing industry suffers as well as algal blooms create ‘dead zones’ with low oxygen, leading to fish kills and reduced fish stocks, which threaten fishermen’s livelihoods. Contaminated fish are unsafe for consumption, decreasing market demand and harming the industry.

Socially, communities that rely on water bodies for drinking, irrigation, aquaculture and fishing face economic and health risks. Cyanobacterial toxins can contaminate drinking water supplies, leading to severe health consequences. Despite the gravity of the issue, community and local government involvement in managing and mitigating algal blooms remains minimal. Raising public awareness and encouraging local participation in water management and conservation is crucial.

The path forward

Global efforts to combat algal blooms offer valuable lessons. In 2022, the US Environmental Protection Agency’s One Water approach highlighted the need for multisectoral collaboration among agriculture, industry and government to manage nutrient pollution. It emphasizes reducing nutrient inputs through sustainable farming, enhanced wastewater treatment and stringent regulation, showcasing the need for multi-stakeholder cooperation in mitigating water pollution.

A promising approach from Japan involves using algicidal bacteria associated with seagrass beds to inhibit toxic Chattonella antiqua—fish-killing algae. Dr Inaba’s research highlights this eco-friendly solution that avoids harsh chemicals and underscores the importance of restoring seagrass beds, serve as natural habitats for these beneficial bacteria and maintain coastal ecosystems.

In the USA, biological control using parasitic organisms, such as Amoebophyra, targets toxic algae species-Alexandrium but requires careful evaluation to avoid long-term ecosystem disruption. 

Bioremediation with algicidal bacteria like Thalassospira has shown promise in lysing harmful algae such as Karenia mikimotoi, Proteobacterium, Pelagibaca abyssi inhibits toxic dinoflagellates like Pyrodinium bahamense, while Pseudomonas fluorescens affects winter-blooming diatoms, Stephanodiscus hantzschi, though results vary. These findings highlight the need for extensive field testing of biological controls to validate the efficacy in natural ecosystems. Introducing invasive species or large-scale bacterial dispersals raises biosafety concerns, as bacteria like Vibrio, Shigella, and Alcaligenes pose risks to health and the environment. Recent nanoparticle research shows potential through photocatalysis, but toxicity concerns necessitate careful evaluation.

To mitigate rising algal blooms, a multipronged strategy is essential, including reducing agricultural runoff, preventing waste dumping, and enforcing regulations to limit nutrient pollution. Effective early detection, monitoring and research are crucial for assessing algal species, bloom development, and specific impacts, allowing for timely management. Increasing community awareness and involvement, along with empowering surrounding communities, youth volunteers and local governments, is vital for effective water management and conserving natural resources, which will enhance ecosystem resilience.

In conclusion, algal blooms pose a significant empirical menace to Nepal’s aquatic ecosystems health and economic future. However, through the effective implementation of preventative measures, regulatory enforcement and bioremediation techniques, we can restore the ecological balance of these lakes and reservoirs. Preserving these much-needed freshwater bodies is crucial not only for environmental sustainability but also for ensuring the country's long-term economic prosperity.

The authors are Nepal-based researchers in the frontiers of biological sciences

In today’s hyper-connected society, where we are inundated with a constant stream of information and opinions, silence can feel like an outdated concept. From social media updates to workplace chatter, the expectation to engage, share and respond instantly is ever-present. Yet, amidst this noise, there lies an often-overlooked strength: the power of remaining silent. Silence, far from being passive, is an active and intentional force, as I recently reflected during a workshop where an insightful keynote speaker spoke about its transformative potential.

Silence is not just about withholding words; it is about creating space for reflection, understanding and thoughtful response. It is a tool seldom used, but it holds immense potential, both in daily conversations and in moments of high tension. In a heated argument, for example, the person who pauses to listen rather than rushes to speak can turn the whole dynamic. That moment of silence provides clarity, allowing for solutions that may have otherwise been missed in the heat of the moment.

Ancient mythology, rich in lessons of human behavior and decision-making, repeatedly highlights the value of silence as an instrument of wisdom and strength. Take, for instance, the Mahabharata, where Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava, is known for his calm and collected personality. In moments of conflict, he often remains silent, not out of indecision, but as a way to deeply reflect and weigh his words carefully. His silence, far from being submissive, was a mark of self-control, allowing him to bring clarity and resolution in times of chaos—a practice we could all benefit from in our fast-paced world.

Greek mythology also teaches us about the strategic power of silence. In the tale of Odysseus and the Sirens, Odysseus orders his men to plug their ears with beeswax to avoid the deadly call of the Sirens. Their survival depended on this silence, a disciplined refusal to respond to the seduction of noise. In many ways, this story mirrors our modern lives, where distractions and temptations constantly call for our attention. Sometimes, silence can be our greatest defense, allowing us to stay focused and true to our course.

Beyond mythological tales, silence is invaluable in today’s professional world. Leaders who practice restraint and listen, rather than dominate every conversation, often exude quiet confidence. Their silence signals control—not over others, but over themselves. By listening, they gain insight into various perspectives, which ultimately leads to better decision-making. Silence, in this sense, becomes a tool for leadership, allowing for more thoughtful and inclusive outcomes.

Moreover, silence can be an act of resistance. In a world that demands constant opinions, choosing not to speak is a bold statement of independence. It shows that we do not need to rush to respond, that we are capable of processing and reflecting in our own time. Silence can be a form of empowerment, offering us the space to deepen our understanding before we act.

This wisdom is mirrored in the Bhagavad Gita, where Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to find detachment and inner calm. This form of mental silence allows for clarity in action—a lesson that reminds us of the power of controlling our thoughts before responding to the world.

On a personal level, silence offers restoration. We often underestimate the mental and emotional benefits of solitude and quiet reflection. In moments of silence, we recharge, realign and sometimes gain insights that were drowned out by the noise. Silence can restore our creativity, our focus and our connection to ourselves.

Of course, there are times when silence is not the answer. There are moments when speaking out is necessary, and silence can imply complicity or indifference. The key lies in discernment—knowing when to use your voice and when to withhold it. But when used wisely, silence can turn the tide of a conversation, a decision or even an entire movement.

In today’s loud and fast-paced world, silence is an undervalued strength. As the stories of Yudhishthira, Odysseus and Arjuna teach us, silence is not about the absence of sound, but the presence of thought. It requires discipline, self-control and patience. As we navigate the overwhelming noise of modern life, perhaps it is time to rediscover the power of silence—a power that speaks volumes without saying a word.