Submit your Article

Despite numerous acts, strategies, and five-year visions, our policies often overlook the lived realities and inherent dignity of our citizens. A national health insurance program may cover basic health services for mothers in rural Tarai, yet many still face malnutrition. A young graduate in Kathmandu may access education, but the lack of meaningful employment undermines their aspiration. A farmer may receive subsidies for seeds, yet without fair market access, their labor and knowledge are undervalued. These fragmented solutions reveal a deeper issue: policies that lack to honor the capabilities and dignity of the people they are meant to serve. And here, the question is raised: Do our policies see people as whole human beings?

This is where Integral Human Development (IHD) offers a different lens. Rooted in the belief that every person possesses inherent dignity, IHD insists that development must address the whole person – body, mind, spirit, dignity, and relationships. It challenges us to design policies that move beyond numbers and sectors. Unlike frameworks that reduce people to economic indicators or mere recipients of aid, IHD views individuals as agents of change embedded in families and communities.

In the context of Nepal, where federalism is still taking root and governance often struggles to balance economic growth with social justice, adopting an IHD framework could make policy more people-centered, integrated, and sustainable.

Human dignity at the center of policy

In Nepal, poverty is frequently measured in income levels or material deficits. Yet dignity is eroded not just by lack of resources but also by exclusion, inequality, and absence of voice. IHD begins with dignity. Policies built on this foundation treat citizens not merely as beneficiaries but as active participants in shaping their own futures.

For example, the 15th Five-Year Plan (2019/20 to 2023/24) envisions a “Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali” and sets ambitious targets across various sectors. However, while the plan emphasizes economic growth, it often overlooks the holistic well-being of individuals. Integrating IHD could ensure that economic policies also promote human dignity and participation. For example, when municipalities engage women’s groups or youth clubs in planning local budgets, they do more than allocate resources; they validate the dignity of participation. When health workers treat patients as partners in care rather than passive recipients, they uphold dignity alongside service delivery. Such shifts in perspective are subtle but transformative: they foster ownership, accountability, and trust between the state and its citizens.

Breaking silos through integrated approaches

Policies in Nepal are often designed in silos: health is separated from education, agriculture from environment, and infrastructure from social protection. Yet, people’s lives are not siloed. A malnourished child cannot perform well in school, and an unemployed youth may face mental health struggles.

IHD calls for integration across sectors. Take maternal health as an example. Beyond free check-ups, safe motherhood depends on nutrition, sanitation, transport, and women’s education. Designing these elements in isolation creates gaps that undermine results. Similarly, climate change policies that prioritize infrastructure without addressing farmers’ livelihoods remain incomplete. An IHD framework would compel policymakers to ask: how do health, education, economy, and environment intersect in people’s daily lives?

Integrated policy-making is admittedly complex, but federalism has opened opportunities for local governments to coordinate across sectors. The question is whether national frameworks will empower them to take such holistic approaches or continue reinforcing silos.

Participation and accompaniment

One of the most powerful aspects of IHD is its emphasis on “accompaniment,” i.e. walking with people rather than delivering services from above. This approach recognizes that development is not simply about providing solutions but about building relationships of trust and solidarity.

Nepal already has successful models that reflect this principle. The role of Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHVs) is a case in point. They do more than disseminate health information; they accompany families, listen to concerns, and build bridges between communities and health systems. Their effectiveness comes not only from technical training but also from trust and presence. Expanding such models across sectors such as agriculture, education, disaster preparedness could make policies far more responsive and grounded in lived experiences. Accompaniment also implies long-term engagement. Too often, donor-driven projects operate on short timelines and exit once targets are met. IHD suggests that policies should commit to being present with communities through both successes and setbacks, ensuring resilience rather than dependency.

A call for action

Skeptics may argue that Integral Human Development (IHD) is too idealistic for a country facing poverty, migration, climate threats, and political instability. However, fragmented, short-term approaches have already proven inadequate. Evidence from community-driven initiatives in Nepal and elsewhere shows that when dignity and participation are prioritized, outcomes improve. Federalism itself is premised on the idea of bringing governance closer to people, an idea that resonates deeply with the IHD vision.

Hugo Flores once said, “It is very simple. If we are drafting a piece of policy or designing a project, and it is good enough to apply it to ourselves or our closest ones, then it is a good project. If not, then it is not good enough.” This principle captures the essence of IHD. Policies must be designed with empathy, care, and dignity. For instance, before opening a clinic, policymakers should ask: “Would I send my own mother here if she were sick?” If the answer is yes, it is a policy grounded in human-centered thinking; if not, it needs rethinking.

As Nepal reimagines its development path amid global and domestic uncertainties, IHD offers a timely and transformative framework. It reminds us that progress cannot be measured only in GDP growth or infrastructure projects, but in how policies nurture the whole person i.e mind, body, spirit, and community. Embracing IHD does not mean discarding economic or technical approaches; it means complementing them with a deeper, dignity-centered vision. It means designing policies that are participatory, integrated, and grounded in human relationships.

If Nepal is to craft policies that truly serve its citizens, it must move beyond fragmented targets and embrace Integral Human Development, a vision that sees every citizen not just as a statistic, but as a whole person with dignity and potential

 (The author is a graduate student of Global Affairs (Governance and Policy) at the University of Notre Dame, USA.)

Jivesh Jha’s ‘Beneath the Sun: Equality for Everyone, The Spirit of Chhath Festival’ presents an in-depth exploration of the magnificent Chhath festival, a vibrant and sacred celebration cherished in Nepal and India.

With a remarkable insight, Jha delves into the festival’s rich rituals, the deep values it upholds, and its multi-faceted significance. The Chhath festival honours the Sun God and his divine consort, Shasti Devi, also known as Chhathi Maiya, who is revered as the consort of Sun God in the Vedic tradition, where Usha, the Sun God’s wife, is identified as Chhathi Maiya.

Jha effectively introduces Chhatha as a unique Vedic festival, celebrated primarily in Nepal’s Tarai-Madhesh and in India’s Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand for centuries. He discusses the festivity, which spans four days and is dedicated to the Sun God and his wife Usha. The devotees observe rigorous fasting and offer prayers to the setting and rising sun. Jha emphasizes that the proximity to water connects devotees with the divine. He believes that the festival is celebrated by the devotees with great zeal and enthusiasm, driven by a strong belief that the benevolent Sun will bless their families with success and prosperity.

Published in October 2024, the book brings together a collection of six chapters that provide a compelling exploration of the Chhath festival, going beyond its religious significance to highlight its social, environmental and cultural dimensions. The book begins with a Foreword where a noted literary figure, Dhirendra Premarshi, discusses about the book’s exceptional explorations in short and argues, “Chhath aims to promote biodiversity and stands as one of Mithila's most significant welfare-oriented festivals, emphasizing scientific values and humanity. Jivesh Jha's current outstanding work explores the multifaceted welfare aspects of the Chhath festival.”

In addition, the book features a brief introduction by Anil Dixit, a professor of Law at Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India, in which he argues that the festival advocates for equity, environmental conservation and fraternity. Prof Dixit also believes that Jha’s book effectively elaborates on the multi-dimensional significance of this grand festival.   

Author Jha argues that Chhath is more than a festival; it is a testament to the rich cultural heritage, religious devotion and social cohesion of its people. He argues that the festival promotes values of discipline, devotion and environmental stewardship, while celebrating a shared cultural heritage that binds communities together.

Jha believes that Chhath continues to hold immense significance, symbolizing reverence for nature and gratitude toward the life-sustaining Sun God, Surya, making it an integral part of Nepal's and India's cultural fabric.

The first chapter introduces Chhath, discussing its celebration, timing, and the deity honored during the festival. The second chapter explores references to Chhath in scriptures. The third chapter details the rituals, offerings, like Thekuwa, Bhuswa and the fruits, and preparations involved, such as setting up the Ghat, cleaning water bodies, observing rigorous fasting for over 36 hours, singing folk songs, and offering prayers to the setting and rising sun while standing in waters.

The fourth chapter examines the values associated with the festival, including its messages on environmental conservation, equality, fraternity, the ultimate goals of rituals and its broader impact on humanity. The fifth chapter focuses on the economic aspects, highlighting how artisans making pottery and bamboo baskets, as well as farmers and vendors, earn significant income by selling their goods and services during Chhath. Jha believes that the use of potteries and baskets made from bamboo in the festival provides an opportunity to protect and promote traditional knowledge.   

Finally, the book concludes with a meaningful summary. Acknowledging the festival's profound cultural significance, the book stands as a testament to the power of rich cultural traditions in fostering social harmony and environmental stewardship. Jha’s book on the Chhath festival is a work of meticulous research, offering a detailed account of the festival and its deep significance in promoting agriculture, an organic lifestyle, environmental conservation and social harmony.

(Nepali is a section officer at the Rajbiraj high court)

Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), General Secretary Xi Jinping has advanced a series of new ideas on the governance of a large political party, offering original insights into addressing the “unique challenges of a major party”. These ideas have become an integral part of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. Among them, the Eight-Point Decision on Improving Party and Government Conduct stands out as a powerful instrument and a clear answer to the fundamental question of what the CPC is and what it is for.

In December 2012, the Political Bureau of the 18th CPC Central Committee adopted the Eight-Point Decision, setting out rules to improve conduct in eight specific areas. The Decision set clear requirements in eight areas: doing better research and analysis and truly understanding actual conditions when doing grassroot-level studies; streamlining meetings and improving the way meetings are conducted; making documents and briefing papers more concise and improving writing styles; standardizing procedures for working visits abroad; improving security guard work and continuing to observe the principle of doing what improves relations with the people; improving new report; having strict rules on the publication of article; and promoting frugality and the strict observance of rules on incorruptibility in government. The aim is to combat the “four undesirable work style”, namely formalism, bureaucratism, hedonism and extravagance, and to launch a new journey in improving the Party’s conduct. Whether and how the Eight-Point Decision would be effectively implemented soon become an important lens through which observers assessed the CPC’s capacity for self-governance and self-reform.

Implementing the spirit of the Eight-Point Decision embodies the CPC’s commitment to self-reform—a hallmark of the Party’s self-governance in the new era. The reason the Eight-Point Decision has been able to address deep-seated problems that had persisted for years—earning the phrase “the Eight-Point Decision Changed China”—lies in the Party’s unwavering people-centered approach, the exemplary role of the central leadership, and the whole Party’s firm execution of the Decision, which has continuously strengthened public trust and support.

First, leading by example: building a solid foundation for good conduct. General Secretary Xi Jinping often stresses that officials at all levels must set an example and “take the lead”. The Eight-Point Decision serves as a political benchmark for all Party members, focusing on the “critical few”—the leadership—to drive broader improvements in conduct across the Party.

The Party’s top leadership has taken the lead. Under the guidance of General Secretary Xi, the Political Bureau has strictly enforced the Decision, formulating detailed implementing measures and overseeing their execution at all levels. Leading officials—from members of the Political Bureau to heads of central departments and local Party secretaries—have fully implemented the Decision in areas such as public receptions, overseas visits, official events, meeting size, news press, and use of official vehicles. Their self-discipline has produced a “leading geese effect”, setting a “red line” that cannot be crossed in Party conduct and governance.

Second, paying attention to details: correcting misconduct in small matters. Problems in work style often stem from habits and details. The implementation of the Eight-Point Decision focuses on tackling the most pressing issues and turning institutional requirements into everyday practices. The Party has addressed problems such as extravagant dining, misuse of public funds, exchange of gifts, luxury office renovations, and abuse of privilege. Even small matters, such as business trip arrangements or meeting hospitality, are strictly regulated, ensuring that minor corrections lead to major improvements.

Shortly after the Decision was introduced, during a field visit to Fuping County, Hebei Province in December 2012, General Secretary Xi had a simple meal of “four dishes and one soup” in a modest local hotel. This vividly illustrated the new norm of simplifying receptions and reducing formalities, improving Party conduct starting from the smallest details.

(Dinner menu for Xi Jinping during his research trip to Fuping County, Hebei Province, December 2012)

Tailored and targeted measures have also been implemented across different regions and sectors, supported by specific checklists and rectification plans. Continuous supervision and refinement at the micro level have reinforced the institutional effectiveness of the Eight-Point Decision, leaving no room for corruption or misconduct to take root.

Third, strengthening conduct: winning the people’s trust through integrity and discipline. Work style is not a peripheral issue, it reflects the Party’s long-term governing capacity. Strengthening conduct aims to make the Party’s image more grounded and closer to the people. By the end of 2024, 1.076 million cases of violations of the Eight-Point Decision had been investigated nationwide, involving 1.523 million officials, among whom 995,000 received Party or administrative disciplinary sanctions. Over time, noticeable improvements have emerged: frugality has become a norm, waste has been curbed, and “three public expenses”(official overseas visits, official vehicles, and official receptions) fell by 68.4 percent in 2023 compared to 2012.

The Eight-Point Decision has targeted issues that the public finds most objectionable—formalism, bureaucracy, and privilege—allowing people to witness tangible changes: government services have become more efficient and responsive. Mechanisms such as “respond to complaints upon receipt” have been established in many localities, ensuring that people’s concerns are promptly addressed and the Party’s people-centered commitment is upheld.

“Leading by example”, “focusing on details”, and “strengthening conduct” are mutually reinforcing dimensions of the Eight-Point Decision. Together, they form the framework of the CPC’s self-improvement in Party building in the new era. Only by maintaining leadership by example, refining institutions through attention to detail, and winning people’s trust through integrity can the CPC continue deepening its conduct reform, remain the strong core of leadership trusted by the people, and stay true to its founding aspiration—to serve the people wholeheartedly—and resolve the unique challenges of a major ruling party.

Author is Chinese Ambassador to Nepal

There have been moments in my life that, when I look back, leave me with only questions—questions that still make me wonder why. I never joined journalism school out of passion; I had always wanted to pursue law. Yet today, when I hold my published book The Attempt in my hands, I see the fruition of my labor. I don’t wait for others to read or review it. I’m simply proud of having written, edited, designed, and published it all by myself. The journey wasn’t easy. I battled insomnia, often waking up in the middle of the night to jot down thoughts that surfaced in my restless mind. The process was intense, demanding immense dedication and devotion. Yet the most fulfilling part was the freedom from judgment, the feeling that I was in control of my own experiences and words, allowing my creativity to flow naturally.

Coming from a middle-class family, I see my writing themes and ideas reflecting my background. I understand what it means to throw yourself into uncertainty, to have nothing and still strive for something better. I consider myself fortunate that I can express myself, share my experiences, and keep learning and unlearning along the way. Perhaps this ignition would never have sparked without my time in journalism school. In the span of four and a half years, I was taught empathy above all and to be the voice of the voiceless. I learned about mass communication, media ethics, human rights sensitivity, media literacy, media laws, reporting, investigative writing, and the nuances of media trials, angles, and sources. The field is vast and pragmatic, and I don’t think anyone without such training can truly translate its depth.

However, when I look at the current state of media practice in Nepal, I see a contrasting picture. Dozens of media outlets are mushrooming and they are spreading false information. The media landscape has turned into a battleground of misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation. Today, anyone can show up and write anything about anyone. Being seen and heard has become easy, but to what purpose and to what extent?

As a literature graduate, I understand deeply what it means to express freely.. The Constitution of Nepal, in Article 17, enshrines the right to freedom. As human beings, our nature resists control, yet we must also recognize that freedom requires responsibility. In journalism, a reporter’s qualification isn’t only about how well they write, but also about their morality and motivation. Unfortunately, I rarely see such reflection in today’s newsrooms. Catchy headlines often outweigh the ABCs of reporting. Partisan news sells more than independent stories. Unregistered online media sometimes gain more public trust than mainstream outlets. It’s important to understand that not every good writer can be a reporter, and not every reporter can be a good writer. My heart burns when I read news written without an understanding of what a true “nose for news” means. Truth is not gossip. No one has the license to write about anyone or anything without consent or purpose.

Creative storytelling and journalistic storytelling are vastly different. Though often used interchangeably, both fields have distinct purposes and disciplines. As a graduate in English Literature and Journalism, I see this distinction more clearly than those who study only one. I say this with conviction, because journalism today has, for many, become an easy route to entrepreneurship, often without the necessary knowledge or practice. The result is that Nepali audiences are not being served, but misled. One of the most dangerous powers of media lies in how it sets narratives, how information is framed to shape illusions and manipulate public perception.