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Located between China and India, Nepal ranks 108th out of 180 countries in the Transparency International’s corruption perceptions index (CPI), a very unenviable position compared to neighbors like Bhutan (26th), the Maldives (93rd) and India (93rd). What offers us a little bit of solace is a relatively better position than other neighbors, namely Sri Lanka (115th), Pakistan (133rd), Bangladesh (149th) and Afghanistan (162nd).

In my reading, a lack of transparency and open-access data policy is mainly to blame for a poor showing vis-a-vis CPI on the part of Nepal, which in 2015 became a federal secular democratic republic, a political order that is supposed to have democracy, transparency, and access to information at its core. 

Access to information is vital for a smooth operation of this political order because it helps not only to improve public service delivery but also increases public trust in government bodies. 

That is why the Constitution of Nepal has upheld the right to information (RTI), with Article 27 of the Charter declaring RTI as a fundamental right of every citizen of Nepal. 

With the aim of guaranteeing RTI, the government introduced the Right to Information Act 2007, set up a National Information Commission (NIC) in 2008, regarded as a very important step in promoting transparency and corruption in Nepal, and introduced some supporting rules in 2009. Section 4 of the Act has provisioned respect for and protection of the citizens’ right to information through classification and updation of information and dissemination of the same to the public, envisioning citizens’ ‘simple and easy’ access to information. Whereas Section 5 has a provision “to keep the information updated for at least 20 years.” 

Per the Act, both government and non-government entities must update information every three months and disclose the information even when the public does not seek it. 

Despite the open open-access data policy, none of the governmental entities (including the ministries), barring a few exceptions, have duly followed the RTI Act and other relevant rules. 

It is common for government officials to cover up corruption and malfeasance by hiding crucial information, including details of public officials' property, revenue losses, tax evasion and reports on suspicious financial transactions. 

Most of the government entities have appointed an information officer each for dissemination of information of public importance. But most of them are not very cooperative when it comes to providing data and dilly-dallying is quite common among them. 

This tendency to deny RTI is mainly due to 1) a culture of secrecy within government bodies, 2) lax implementation of RTI Act and its rules, and 3) no strict punishment for offices and personnel tasked with categorizing data and publishing them. 

It gives rise to some important questions: Are these entities functioning as per relevant rules and regulations? If  the officers have performed their tasks accordingly, then why are they hesitating to share data with the public?  

Does this unwillingness to share data reflect the concerned personnel’s vested interests? 

Whatever the reason behind this, correction measures should be taken and data made available to the people. In the absence of an open-access data policy and data-sharing mechanisms, it is impossible to verify whether the concerned personnel are discharging their duties in accordance with relevant laws or not. 

Following interventions are necessary to ensure the public’s easy access to data in Nepal: 

• Strict implementation of RTI Act 2007 and its Rules 2009 
• Implementation of new concepts in governance such as New Public Services and New Public Governance
• Activities aimed at raising awareness among the public to seek data from both government and non-government entities 
• Promotion of the culture of information dissemination and transparency through disruption of the culture of secrecy 
• Comprehensive research on identifying the impediments to open-access data-sharing systems, ways to remove the hurdles and implement the identified correction measures 

 The author, a veterinary officer at the Department of Livestock Services, is a graduate of the University of Cambridge

One crucial element often overlooked in pursuing educational excellence is the role of textbooks. Textbooks hold the power to shape future generations' minds, yet they may fall short of their potential. The recent findings from Nepal’s first-ever textbook audit have shed light on the shortcomings of our educational materials, making way for much-needed changes in curriculums, textbooks, and teacher development. 

This first-ever audit of Nepal’s diversity, equity and inclusion in textbooks involved nearly 2,000 people in seven provinces over a year of intensive analysis, discussion and review. It analyzed how Nepal’s diverse communities are portrayed in textbooks and provided data-driven, citizen-informed feedback to help inform curriculum revision and future action steps. The audit’s revelations have brought to light a significant reality: Our textbooks do not fully meet their commitment to delivering a comprehensive and inclusive education to all students. With outdated information and biased narratives entrenched within these materials, there’s a need to enhance the essence of learning without compromising, which can positively impact both students and teachers.

Picture this: A teacher in a bustling classroom, equipped with textbooks that hold the keys to knowledge. These textbooks are not just tools for teaching; they're bridges that connect students to the vast world of learning. But what happens when those bridges are riddled with gaps, biases and inaccuracies? It’s like trying to navigate a maze with half the map missing. Without access to updated and inclusive educational materials, teachers may be left grappling with the challenge of reconciling the discrepancies within their curriculum, ultimately hindering their ability to facilitate meaningful learning experiences for students.  

Textbooks are the superhero capes of the education world — every student gets one, regardless of their background or circumstances. In the grand arena of education, textbooks emerge as the silent giants, wielding immense power over the minds of eager learners. Students from all walks of life dive into the same textbooks regardless of their background or circumstances, such as socioeconomic status, gender or geographic location. The quality of their teachers and schools may be vastly different, and there are limits to how well that can be controlled. Yet, textbooks are in the hands of every student.

As depicted by Homraj Acharya, principal investigator of the textbook audit report for Nepal, textbooks strive to embody diversity. Nonetheless, the textbook audit highlights a lack of representation, particularly in names, gender and cultural diversity. Among the three primary grade books for Grades 2, 7, and 10, specifically in Nepali and Social Studies, it was observed that they overlook Dalits, perpetuate stereotypes about women, and marginalize minorities and Madhesis.

One recommendation from the textbook audit report is to diversify names in educational materials to foster cultural inclusivity. Analysis of a Nepali Grade 10 text revealed that while efforts were made to include diverse names, the majority remained Sanskrit-based. About 57 percent consisted solely of first names without additional caste or ethnic indicators, indicating a broad representation. Meanwhile, the remaining 43 percent featured distinct surnames or first names implying a particular group, such as ‘Hariprasad’, which suggests Brahmin, or ‘Dawa’, indicating Sherpa heritage. Despite efforts to foster diversity, the analysis uncovered an imbalance, with more than half of the names bearing caste or ethnic markers aligned with the Brahmin-Chhetri community. Despite representing Janajati names, a significant portion comprised Sherpa names, possibly due to their association with multiculturalism and Buddhism. This highlights the challenge of achieving genuine inclusivity in textbook content without perpetuating imbalances.

Furthermore, textbook audit reports indicate that in textbooks, teachers are portrayed as exemplars of maturity but without encountering challenges related to gender equality. Unfortunately, they are also depicted as using shaming as a solution for ADHD-type behavior, showcasing a lack of teacher awareness and sensitivity. Moreover, gender stereotypes prevail. In textbooks like Nepali Grade 10, gender stereotypes are reinforced through the portrayal of teachers. For instance, in accompanying images, men are depicted engaging in public cleaning campaigns or as teachers, while women are confined to childcare, hygiene, and domestic tasks. Additionally, yoga and fitness instructors are predominantly depicted as male. This perpetuation of traditional gender roles underscores the importance of addressing biases and promoting gender equality in educational materials.

In textbooks such as Nepali Grade 7, students encounter depictions of teachers that raise concerns. For instance, in the chapter titled ‘The Bud of Creativity’ (Nepali 7, p 85), authored by Jhamak Ghimire, a differently-abled writer, there is a troubling lack of introduction about her disability. This oversight perpetuates non-inclusive representation and potentially sensationalizes her condition. This oversight risks presenting a non-inclusive narrative, where students may encounter vivid descriptions of bodily deformity and distressing instances of abuse without understanding the broader context of Ghimire’s resilience and creativity. This highlights the urgent need for a thorough review of Teacher’s Guides to ensure accurate and sensitive representation of individuals with disabilities, fostering a truly inclusive learning environment. Such revisions are crucial to prevent the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes and promote understanding and empathy among students. Teacher’s Guides were mentioned in the textbook audit report to be beyond its scope, which looks at what students see, read and have in hand. 

Thus, policymakers, educators, parents, students, and individuals from all walks of life should consider the textbook audit report for our education system to be inclusive, ensuring students, teachers and the entire nation benefit. Strengthening diversity, equity and inclusion in textbooks enhances the learning experience and promotes a fairer and more harmonious society. Hence, it is essential to unite efforts in implementing the audit’s recommendations and to develop educational materials that cater to the diverse needs of all, irrespective of their backgrounds or situations.

Bimala Tumkhewa has been a prominent figure in Nepali literature and media for nearly two decades, carving out a distinguished presence in both realms.

Her writing style not only challenges patriarchal norms but also voices against injustice and inequality. Raised on tales of distant lands by her father, Khadga Bahadur Limbu, who served in the Gurkha battalion, Tumkhewa’s formative years were shaped by his struggles, influencing her deeply.

After Khadga Bahadur’s passing, Tumkhewa defied societal norms by performing his last rites, traditionally reserved for sons. Far from weakening her resolve, this act seemed to strengthen her, reflected in her increasingly powerful writing, particularly her acclaimed love poems.

Currently serving as the central president of Sancharika Samuha, a forum advocating for women journalists, Tumkhewa leads initiatives to address gender issues in media and promote a fairer society. Under her leadership, the organization has worked tirelessly to empower female journalists, advocating for gender-friendly policies and facilitating opportunities for their professional growth.

Tumkhewa’s bold personality was shaped by her upbringing in Pathari, Morang, where she defied societal expectations to pursue her passions in literature and journalism. Despite being the sole daughter after her brothers’ passing, her parents’ unwavering support fueled her literary endeavors and her stance against inequality.

While many of her peers pursued opportunities abroad, Tumkhewa remained dedicated to her craft, primarily focusing on poetry before branching out into storytelling and memoirs. Motherhood marked a significant shift in her perspective, influencing her creative output and inspiring her upcoming collection of stories.

Believing writers must hold themselves accountable to society, Tumkhewa has consistently used her platform to denounce injustice and immorality, challenging established norms through her writing.

Her journey to Kathmandu in 2001 was marked by the discovery of a city different from her village, yet her love for poetry forged a deep connection with its streets. Despite facing hardships, she immersed herself in the literary scene, contributing to the rich tapestry of Nepali literature.

During the 2006 protests, Tumkhewa actively participated, alongside a diverse array of citizens, in advocating for democracy. Reflecting on the camaraderie of that time, she notes a sense of disconnection among contemporary writers, contrasting with the solidarity witnessed during the protests.

Recognizing the ongoing injustices faced by Nepali women, Tumkhewa emphasizes the need for greater acknowledgment of their contributions, advocating for female representation in key positions, such as the chancellorship of the Nepal Academy, to elevate their status further.

The streets of Kathmandu would be filled with protesters every day during the 2006 protest. Within moments, the streets would be littered with tear gas, water cannons, stones, and brick pieces. Commoners, lawyers, journalists, poets and writers had all taken to the streets. Tumkhewa joined the protests daily. During those days, places like Gurukul, Naya Baneshwor, Putalisadak, Bagbazar, Ratnapark and Khullamanch would be teeming with protesters. Writers from across the country had converged on the streets. 

This was the first time such a massive number of citizens had taken to the streets for democracy after the protests of 1950, 1960 and 1990. “The current environment is not like that time. Back then, there was a deep camaraderie among poets and writers. Now, we may seem close on social media, but our hearts are far apart,” she added.

The list of injustices and violence that Nepali women have had to endure solely for being women is quite long. Although women have risen above the situation of having to commit sati (self-immolation) upon their husband’s death, Nepali society is still not free from such crimes. Women’s contributions at all levels and stages are significant, but their true value and recognition have not been adequately acknowledged. Since Nepali women have assumed all important positions in the country, Tumkhewa feels if the Nepal Academy has a female chancellor, its dignity would be enhanced further.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Narayankaji Shrestha, returned home after concluding a nine-day visit (March 24-31, 2024) to the People’s Republic of China, upon the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. During his stay in China, he engaged in bilateral discussions with his Chinese counterpart and paid a courtesy call on Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Wang Huning. 

His itinerary comprised high-level meetings primarily in Beijing, the capital city of China. However, beyond the diplomatic engagements, DPM Shrestha ventured to three strategically significant locations in China, vital for Nepal's interests. Concluding his engagements in Beijing, he visited Chongqing, Tibet, and Sichuan, situated in the southwestern part of China. These regions, emerging as pivotal trading hubs in southern China, hold considerable potential for bolstering bilateral trade ties with Nepal.

Upon arrival at the international airport, DPM Shrestha convened a press conference alongside senior officials from the ministry. He asserted that the visit had been ‘highly successful’ and had elevated bilateral relations to new heights. It's a common diplomatic practice for ministers returning from foreign trips to portray their visits in such positive terms, often using phrases like ‘newer heights’ to describe the outcomes. In Nepal, it has become a fashion statement.  

Despite the vague language used to describe the achievements of the visit, DPM Shrestha emphasized that the primary focus was on extending trade, fostering economic cooperation, and building trust between the two nations. In light of Shrestha's remarks and the outcomes of his visit, one significant progress emerges: the visit has played a role in restoring understanding and trust between Nepali and Chinese governments. This suggests that the meetings and events during the visit have contributed to strengthening the foundation of bilateral relations.

When KP Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal formed a new coalition led by leftist parties, breaking away from previous alliances under the Nepali Congress, rumors began making rounds that China may have played a significant role in this surprising political maneuver. Nepal’s volatile political landscape often gives rise to such rumors and gossip, and it was widely speculated that the formation of a leftist-led government in Nepal could only have been possible with the initiation and support of China, given its communist ideology. DPM Shrestha might have shared such comments and feedback with Chinese officials. And, he certainly clarified that the new coalition will try to address genuine concerns of neighbors without tilting to any side.   

Whether India sought to maintain the previous government or whether China supported the formation of the new alliance remains a question best left to be answered in due time. But in domestic political developments, Nepali political parties should stop dragging India and China as parties involved in the process. We should keep in mind that India and China have greater roles to play in a fast-changing global context beyond the neighborhood. It is completely an ignorance that New Delhi and Beijing always contemplate about intervening in Nepal’s internal affairs. This thought is just the byproduct of deficiency syndrome of Nepali general psyche.   

When the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) entered into force last August, it was perceived as a significant setback for China, especially since the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), signed four months prior to MCC, had not seen any tangible implementation. This development was seen as a blow to Beijing, indicating that the US had successfully advanced its project in Nepal while China had yet to materialize its plans under the BRI. Chinese leaders viewed MCC as part of the Indo-Pacific strategy, interpreting its entry into Nepal as a strategic move of the US aimed at countering China’s influence. While the signed document denies China’s claim that MCC is part of the IPS, Nepal’s stance should remain impartial vis-a-vis the strategic rivalry between the US and China. As a sovereign nation, Nepal should maintain cordial relations with both of its neighbors. 

This visit should be seen in the backdrop of growing mistrust between Nepal and China during the previous coalition. In that sense, the primary concern from the Nepali side was to openly exchange thoughts on bilateral cooperation and bridge that gap. DPM Shrestha has worked on it. “The visit has been instrumental in strengthening mutual harmony, respect and trust between Nepal and China,” he narrated.  DPM Shrestha is recognized as one of the few Nepali politicians with a deep understanding of foreign policy and international relations. He has demonstrated an ability to conduct diplomacy in a balanced manner that respects the sentiments of Nepal's neighbors. While maintaining relations with China, he must have kept in mind that his policy and action shouldn’t be perceived as unnecessarily loyal to any neighbor.  

During the discussion, he reiterated the importance of connectivity between Nepal and China requesting the opening of the 14 traditional trade routes that have remained closed since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, eliciting a positive response from China. This issue has surfaced in previous meetings as well. As soon as China opens all major routes for trade and transaction, it would be beneficial for China too. Nepal and China also agreed to establish a joint commission at the level of foreign ministers. This is a positive development. According to the report, this commission will play a crucial role in regularly reviewing various aspects of the existing friendly relations between Nepal and China, signifying a commitment to deepening bilateral ties through continuous dialogue and collaboration.

The much-awaited agreement on the implementation plan of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) was not finalized during the visit, though discussions were held to give a final shape to the plan and advance it toward the execution phase. This demonstrates the ongoing commitment of both the parties to work together on BRI and reflects their shared interests in enhancing connectivity and cooperation. Debate has been there about the modality of financing the projects under BRI. The Nepali side has been asking China to provide grants for some major mega projects while in the rest of the projects Nepal would be ready to accept the loans. China should consider the proposal of Nepal. Given that Nepal shares borders with two emerging economies and rising global powers, it is imperative to seize opportunities while avoiding unnecessary challenges.