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Don’t you think there is something magical about the bond between humans and dogs, a connection so deep and inexplicable that it deserves its own term—zooeyia? This bond transcends mere companionship, evolving into a complex web of mutual understanding, empathy, and unconditional love. As a dog lover, I’ve experienced firsthand the strength of this connection with my two dogs, Milo and Luna. They don’t just share my home; they share my life, my moods, and even my health. When I am down, they instinctively offer comfort, their presence a silent assurance of support. When I am ill, their empathetic nature reflects my own suffering, creating a unique connection that science struggles to fully explain. This magical bond, zooeyia, is a testament to the unparalleled relationship between humans and dogs, enriching our lives in ways that are both immeasurable and invaluable.

The relationship between humans and dogs has undergone significant transformations over thousands of years, evolving from a simple partnership into a profound emotional connection. Dogs possess an uncanny ability to understand and respond to human emotions in ways that even we, as humans, cannot fully comprehend. This bond is deeply ingrained in our daily lives, as research has consistently shown that the presence of a dog can have a profound impact on human mental health.

Studies have demonstrated that the presence of a dog can significantly reduce stress levels, lower anxiety, and combat feelings of loneliness. For individuals struggling with mental health issues, a dog provides a sense of purpose and routine, acting as a grounding force in a chaotic world. This is particularly evident in the context of therapy dogs, which are specifically trained to provide emotional support and comfort to those in need.

The benefits of the human-dog bond extend beyond mental health, as dogs have also been shown to improve physical health outcomes. For example, studies have found that dog parents tend to have lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and body mass index compared to non-dog owners. Additionally, the social support provided by dogs can help increase social connections and reduce feelings of isolation, which are critical for overall well-being.

The profound bond between humans and dogs transcends mere companionship, revealing a depth of emotional connection that defies explanation. Milo and Luna embody the essence of zooeyia, a phenomenon that has captivated me with its extraordinary manifestations. Their ability to sense my emotions and respond with empathy is nothing short of miraculous, a testament to the unbreakable ties that bind us. 

On days when my spirits are low, Milo and Luna seem to know without a word being spoken. They offer their silent companionship, pressing close to me, their presence a balm to my troubled mind. Their eyes reflect a depth of understanding that transcends words, a silent communication that provides immense comfort and solace. It is as if they possess a deep intuition, a sixth sense that allows them to tap into my emotions and respond with empathy. 

One of the most enigmatic aspects of our bond is the uncanny way Milo and Luna seem to mirror my physical health. There have been times when I have fallen ill, only to find that they too exhibit signs of being unwell. This sympathetic connection is both touching and perplexing, highlighting a level of empathy that challenges our understanding of interspecies relationships. It is as if they are attuned to my very being, sensing the subtlest changes in my physical and emotional state. During stressful times, Milo and Luna go out of their way to pamper me. Whether it’s through gentle nuzzling, playful antics, or simply being there, they instinctively know how to lighten my mood. Their presence is a reminder of the simple joys of life and the power of unconditional love. They remind me that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and always love to be found

Despite the wealth of research on the human-dog bond, there remain elements of this relationship that science has yet to fully unravel. The intuitive healing, the empathetic responses, and the unconditional love dogs offer hint at a deeper, almost mystical connection.

Many dog parents, myself included, have experienced the phenomenon of dogs sensing when we are unwell, both physically and emotionally. This intuitive healing ability remains largely unexplained but is a testament to the depth of the bond we share. Dogs are perhaps the best example of unconditional love. Their loyalty and affection are unwavering, providing a stable source of emotional support. This kind of love is rare and precious, something that many humans strive for but seldom achieve.

Zooeyia, the bond between humans and dogs, is an extraordinary relationship that goes beyond simple companionship. It is a connection filled with empathy, understanding and unconditional love. Dogs like Milo and Luna not only enrich our lives but also play a crucial role in our mental well-being. They understand our moods, share our illnesses and provide comfort during times of stress. While much about this bond remains mysterious, one thing is certain: The love and loyalty of a dog are invaluable treasures that enhance our lives in ways we are only beginning to understand.

In celebrating zooeyia, we acknowledge not just the depth of this unique bond, but also its impact on our emotional and psychological health. Here’s to Milo, Luna, and all the dogs who enrich our lives with their presence and their unwavering love.

The 2024 Indian general elections have concluded with unexpected results, prompting a re-evaluation of the political landscape. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), secured a majority in parliament, marking Narendra Modi’s third term as Prime Minister. However, the BJP did not achieve a majority on its own, revealing a shift in voter sentiment.

In 2014, the BJP won 282 seats, and in 2019, it increased its tally to 303 seats, both times securing a clear majority on its own. However, in 2024, the BJP’s seat count dropped to 240, falling short of the 272 seats needed for a majority, which necessitated reliance on its allies within the NDA to form the government.

Since 2014, the BJP has dominated Indian politics, winning commanding majorities in the 2014 and 2019 elections under Modi’s leadership. This period saw significant policies and reforms aimed at economic growth, national security and cultural resurgence. However, the 2024 election results reveal a more complex narrative.

Public perception of BJP leadership, especially Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, significantly influenced the 2024 results. Critics have often pointed to their approach toward the opposition, characterized by a lack of tolerance for dissent, suppression and the use of pressure tactics. Many voters expressed dissatisfaction with this attitude, feeling it undermined the democratic fabric of the country. The electorate seemed eager to curb this perceived authoritarian streak, signaling a desire for a more inclusive and accommodative leadership style.

The Muslim community notably voiced its discontent, feeling marginalized and oppressed under BJP’s rule. High-profile projects like the Ram Mandir construction and consecration only deepened these concerns, further alienating this significant voter base. Even in the Ram Mandir area, the BJP didn’t win.

Modi’s government faced criticism for its SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) policy, which some analysts believe neglected regional cooperation and damaged relationships with neighboring countries, contrary to its ‘neighborhood first’ policy. This aspect may have also contributed to the dip in voter support, as citizens recognized the importance of strong regional ties for national stability and growth.

The decrease in voter support for the BJP in 2024 should be a wake-up call for the party. Despite Modi being hailed as one of India’s most impactful leaders since Jawaharlal Nehru, and his commendable performance on the global stage, the electorate’s diminishing enthusiasm suggests a need for introspection. The Indian populace seems to be advocating for a diversification in leadership to prevent the stagnation of Modi’s image and to ensure a dynamic governance model.

The current political landscape reveals a fragile NDA, with allies like Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu failing to inspire confidence due to their history of shifting alliances. This uncertainty paves the way for potential shifts in power, with the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) emerging as a possible alternative. The INDIA alliance, comprising several opposition parties, won 210 seats in the 2024 elections. While still behind the NDA, their growing influence suggests they could be a formidable contender in the near future if power dynamics change. However, the specter of a midterm election also looms large, which could have detrimental effects on India’s economy and its standing on the global stage.

Despite these challenges, ministers like Nirmala Sitharaman and S Jaishankar have demonstrated exceptional competence. Sitharaman’s economic policies have strengthened India’s financial position, while Jaishankar’s diplomatic efforts have bolstered India’s global image. Retaining them in their respective ministries is crucial for maintaining continuity and progress in these areas.

The coming days are fraught with challenges for India. Internal power struggles, developmental hurdles, economic uncertainties, and maintaining global and regional presence will test the resilience of Modi’s government. The electorate’s message is clear: The BJP must adapt, evolve, and embrace a more inclusive and democratic approach to governance. Only then can Modi hope to lead India effectively through the complexities of contemporary geopolitics and domestic affairs.

As India stands at a crossroads, the hope is that Modi and his government will heed these lessons, striving for a more inclusive, democratic and progressive India. The nation's future hinges on their response to this electoral wake-up call.

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

Information Technology is rapidly transforming toward a digital era. With huge paces toward broadband internet through wireless and wireline technologies including artificial intelligence (AI), machine-to-machine (M2M) learning, internet of things (IoT), etc, cybersecurity in networks has taken over all discussions across industries, like never before. Cybersecurity has been a widespread priority since the latter half of the ‘90s, when the dot-com boom brought the world online. More than 20 years later, we have witnessed an explosion in the number and severity of cybercrime over the course of just a few years. We’re likely to see security threats become more sophisticated and therefore more expensive over time. Experts predict that the global cost of cybercrime will reach $10.5trn by 2025, substantially up from $3trn in 2015.

Nepal’s context

Cybersecurity attacks in Nepal reached its peak in 2017 when 58 different governmental sites were hacked by a group of hackers. They leaked the customer’s information and citizen’s information creating a threat to the public as well as governmental organizations. Around a year back, Nepal government’s main server again faced cyberattacks causing the shutdown of a large number of government official websites. More than 400 Nepal government websites went down for hours, disrupting services and inconveniencing thousands of passengers at Kathmandu airport, exposing the vulnerability to hacking of the gov.np domain. Hackers appear to have targeted the government’s only central data bank at the Government Integrated Data Center (GIDC) with a ‘Distributed-Denial of Service’ attack, possibly from abroad, and knocked out most government ministry websites, including the database of the Department of Immigration as well as Passports. Likewise, we often come to know about hacking of Facebook, Instagram, bank accounts, etc where hackers have benefited with personal information and money in some cases. Cyber Bureau of Nepal Police is looking after cybersecurity-related crimes and is overburdened by an increased number of cases day by day.

Cybersecurity threats

Human interaction through email by cybercriminals remains the most dangerous hacking technique, largely because it relies on human error rather than technical vulnerabilities. It’s a lot easier to trick a human than it is to breach a security system. A study report by PwC UK revealed that over 75 percent of targeted cyberattacks start with an email. Phishing is one of the top causes of data breaches, followed by the use of stolen credentials and ransomware. Phishing and email impersonation continue to evolve to incorporate new trends, technologies and tactics. Hackers try to decoy individuals with an unbelievable amount of prize, lottery, gifts and influence for leaking the secured data and hack the bank account or ask to deposit cash at the intended bank account and later on, they fly away in no time. For organizations or companies, in some cases, hackers are not motivated by money. They simply want to make a point—social, economic, political, religious, or ethical. They leverage website defacements, ransomware, Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, leaking confidential information, etc. Hackers just need data, no matter what the source may be. It’s not specific to government sites. They keep on looking for vulnerabilities, and they steal data wherever found.

Cybercriminals can get around security systems by hacking less-protected networks belonging to third parties that have privileged access to the hacker’s primary target. One major example of a third-party breach occurred at the beginning of 2021 when hackers leaked personal data from over 214m Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn accounts. The hackers were able to access the data by breaching a third-party contractor that was employed by all three companies and had privileged access to their networks.

Most of us might think the Cloud would become more secure over time, but chances are that this may not happen. As per a recent IBM study report, Cloud Vulnerabilities have increased with a high stake of 150 percent in the last five years. According to Gartner, a renowned management consulting company, Cloud security is currently the fastest-growing cybersecurity market segment due to the rapid increase in use of Cloud-based services.

Large-scale adoption of mobile wallets and touchless payment technology presents a target for cybercriminals. Financial and other prominent data may be under the control of cybercriminals due to mobile device vulnerabilities that have been impaired by the increase in remote work. Regular habits and practices regarding the use of technology, like using unprotected WiFi networks and failing to implement safeguards like a VPN or multi-factor authentication is another threat for cybersecurity.    

Safety measures

The future of cybersecurity is like a journey into the digital world, where there are both challenges and new ideas. As we rely more on technology and everything gets connected, it’s super important to keep our digital stuff safe. Here, we talk about what’s coming up in cybersecurity, like new threats and cool technology, and how we can protect ourselves online. At a time when hackers are getting smarter, knowing about cybersecurity is crucial for everyone, whether you’re a person, a business, or a government.

As an individual, the most important security measures are keeping your own passwords and other information secured, avoid using unprotected hotspots or wifi networks, don’t believe on unexpected gifts and prizes for which you never have approached and use anti-virus or a comprehensive internet security solution to protect your system from attacks.   

For organizations and governments, one of the big things in the future of cybersecurity is using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technology. These smart algorithms can look at lots of data and find patterns or strange things that might mean there’s a cyberthreat. This helps organizations find and stop cyber-attacks fast, so they don’t do too much damage.

Another thing we’ll see more of in the future of cybersecurity is blockchain technology. Blockchain is like a super secure way to store and move information because it’s not controlled by one central authority. This makes it really tough for cyber bad guys to mess with it. That’s why blockchain is getting more popular, especially in industries like finance, healthcare and government, where keeping data safe is super important and any breach can cause a huge problem.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is also going to be a big deal in the future of cybersecurity. IoT means lots of everyday things are connected to the internet, like smart thermostats or security cameras. So, organizations and governments will have to step up their security game to defend against cyberthreats related to IoT.

The author is a telecom expert and former Managing Director of Nepal Telecom

The utilization of underground space has emerged as a crucial aspect of modern urban development, offering innovative solutions to address the challenges of population growth, urbanization, and infrastructure demands. This essay explores the global practices and prospects of underground space utilization, with a specific focus on Nepal's unique context and potential.

Underground space in construction

The utilization of underground space encompasses a wide range of construction methods and techniques, each tailored to specific project requirements and geological conditions. Open excavation, involving cutting the ground deeper than the existing ground level to create basements, trenches, or open pits, is a common method used for various infrastructure installations. Conversely, fully underground techniques entail excavating space within bedrock or soil cover to construct structures like caverns or tunnels. These methods have evolved, with advancements in technology and engineering enabling more efficient and cost-effective construction processes.

The utilization of underground space is multifaceted, encompassing various functions such as transportation, storage, shelter and utilities. Open-cut methods, including open-pit mining and trench systems, are often employed for infrastructure installations such as water and drainage pipes, cable ducts, and utility networks. These methods offer advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness, ease of construction and minimal disruption to surface activities. Whereas tunneling involves creating underground passages through rock and soil formations, serving as vital transportation arteries and facilitating the movement of water, goods and people between different regions.

Pros and cons

Underground space utilization offers myriad benefits, including land conservation, enhanced environmental sustainability, and improved infrastructure resilience. By relocating infrastructure and utilities underground, cities can preserve valuable surface land for parks and green spaces, thereby enhancing the quality of urban life and promoting environmental sustainability. Moreover, underground facilities protect against natural disasters and extreme weather events, ensuring the safety of critical infrastructure and inhabitants. Additionally, underground transportation systems offer cleaner and more efficient alternatives to surface roads, reducing traffic congestion, air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. These advantages contribute to a more sustainable and resilient built environment, supporting long-term urban development and growth.

However, despite its numerous benefits, underground space utilization also presents challenges and drawbacks that must be addressed. One significant challenge is the high initial cost associated with underground construction projects, including excavation, reinforcement and structural support systems. Geological uncertainties and risks, such as ground subsidence and water ingress, can lead to delays, cost overruns and safety hazards. Additionally, public opposition and regulatory hurdles may arise due to concerns about safety, environmental impact and community disruption. Robust maintenance and monitoring programs are required to ensure the long-term reliability and safety of underground facilities, posing logistical and financial challenges for project developers and operators. Despite these challenges, with proper planning and execution, underground space utilization can play a crucial role in shaping sustainable and resilient cities for the future.

Global case studies

Global case studies showcase the diverse applications and success stories of underground space utilization, offering valuable insights and lessons for urban planners and policymakers worldwide. One prominent example is the Gotthard Base Tunnel in Switzerland, the world’s longest railway and deepest traffic tunnel, spanning over 57 kilometers beneath the Swiss Alps. This groundbreaking project revolutionized transportation infrastructure, significantly reducing travel times and enhancing connectivity across Europe. The Laerdal Tunnel in Norway, with its impressive length of 24.5 kilometers, exemplifies the effective use of underground space to overcome geographical barriers and optimize transport routes.

In densely-populated Asian cities like Tokyo and Shanghai, underground space has become a vital component of urban development strategies. Japan’s extensive subway network, comprising approximately 1.6m kilometers of tunnels, underscores the importance of underground transportation in alleviating congestion and promoting sustainable mobility. China's rapid urbanization has spurred the construction of utility tunnels in major cities, providing essential services while minimizing surface disruption and environmental impact.

European cities like Paris and Stockholm have embraced underground space utilization to preserve historical heritage and address modern urban challenges. The Paris Underground Road, an innovative double-deck tunnel system, effectively manages traffic flow while preserving the city's architectural integrity. In Stockholm, the Swedish Royal Library and Le Grand Louvre Museum demonstrate how underground facilities can seamlessly integrate with surface structures, optimizing space utilization and enhancing cultural heritage preservation.

Tunneling situation in Nepal

Transitioning from global case studies to the local context, Nepal’s rich history of tunneling and underground construction highlights the country’s potential for leveraging underground space in various sectors. From ancient irrigation tunnels in Palpa to modern hydropower projects like the Khimti Hydroelectric Power Plant, Nepal has a legacy of harnessing its rugged terrain for infrastructure development. Recent initiatives such as the Nagdhunga-Naubise underground tunnel road and the Melamchi Diversion Scheme underscore Nepal’s commitment to modernizing its transportation and water management systems through underground infrastructure.

By studying these global and local case studies, urban planners and policymakers in Nepal can gain valuable insights into the diverse applications and benefits of underground space utilization. From enhancing transportation networks and preserving cultural heritage to mitigating environmental impact and promoting sustainable development, underground infrastructure offers a versatile and effective solution to the complex challenges facing modern cities.

Nepal is currently witnessing a surge in tunneling projects across various sectors, showcasing a strategic shift toward subterranean solutions to address pressing societal needs. These initiatives encompass a wide spectrum, from the Melamchi Diversion Scheme, designed to enhance water security by channeling 170m liters per day from the Melamchi River to the Kathmandu Valley through a 26-kilometer tunnel network, to the Tarai Madhes Fast Track project, aimed at improving connectivity with a 6.5-kilometer tunnel road section. Additionally, infrastructure initiatives like the Nagdhunga-Naubise underground tunnel road, spanning 2.68 kilometers, promise to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance road connectivity between Kathmandu and the western region of Nepal.

Furthermore, Nepal’s tunneling endeavors extend to the hydropower sector, with projects such as the Khimti-I Hydropower Plant featuring tunnels of significant lengths. Ongoing feasibility studies for road and railway tunnels underscore Nepal's commitment to exploring innovative solutions for connectivity and economic growth. As Nepal continues its infrastructural development journey, the strategic use of tunneling technology holds immense promise for overcoming key challenges and unlocking new avenues for progress, contributing to a more resilient and prosperous future.

Challenges for Nepal

In Nepal, harnessing underground space for infrastructure presents multifaceted challenges, stemming from the country’s diverse geological landscape. The Himalayan region is marked by complex geological conditions, including varied rock types, discontinuities and high groundwater levels, complicating tunneling and excavation efforts. These geological uncertainties lead to discrepancies between anticipated and actual instabilities during construction, highlighting the need for comprehensive geological surveys and risk assessments to inform project planning and mitigate unforeseen challenges. Moreover, Nepal’s susceptibility to tectonic activities and intense monsoon rains further exacerbate geological risks, emphasizing the importance of robust engineering practices and risk management strategies in underground infrastructure development.

Beyond geological complexities, Nepal faces significant non-geological challenges in its pursuit of underground space utilization. Limited technical expertise and specialized equipment hinder the effective execution of tunneling projects, contributing to delays, cost overruns and suboptimal outcomes. The scarcity of skilled professionals and inadequate investment in capacity-building initiatives underscore the urgency of bolstering the country’s engineering workforce and fostering knowledge transfer partnerships with international experts. Additionally, the absence of clear regulatory frameworks and guidelines for underground construction complicates project approval processes and regulatory compliance, creating uncertainty for investors and developers.

Addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach that integrates geological, technical, regulatory and institutional considerations to promote sustainable and resilient underground infrastructure development in Nepal. Strengthening technical capacity through targeted training programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives can enhance the country’s engineering capabilities and foster innovation in tunneling and excavation techniques. Furthermore, establishing clear regulatory frameworks and standards for underground space utilization can provide certainty and clarity for stakeholders while safeguarding environmental and safety concerns. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, private sector entities, academic institutions and international partners are essential for overcoming these challenges and unlocking the full potential of underground space in Nepal's infrastructure landscape.

Conclusion

In summary, Nepal is at a crucial juncture in its development trajectory, poised to leverage the untapped potential of underground space amid a myriad of challenges. Despite a historical focus on tunneling, particularly in hydropower projects, the nation faces complex geological dynamics and regulatory uncertainties that necessitate a strategic approach to subterranean development. By investing in geological surveys, adopting cutting-edge engineering practices and fostering regulatory clarity, Nepal can navigate the complexities of tunneling projects while harnessing the transformative benefits of underground infrastructure.

Moreover, by fostering collaboration, promoting public-private partnerships and prioritizing sustainability, Nepal can position itself as a leader in underground infrastructure development. From alleviating urban congestion and enhancing disaster resilience to preserving cultural heritage and mitigating environmental impact, the potential of subterranean space is vast. With concerted efforts to overcome challenges and capitalize on opportunities, Nepal can chart a path toward a more resilient, sustainable and prosperous future through the strategic utilization of underground infrastructure.