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As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s crucial to recognize the strength of working women who juggle career aspirations and the desire for a family. This journey often involves complex decisions and challenges, including fertility issues. However, finding a balance between career and family aspirations doesn’t have to be an either-or situation.  In this article, I have shared insights into how science, empathy, and a holistic approach can harmonize these seemingly divergent paths.

Understanding fertility challenges

Navigating fertility challenges while managing a demanding career can be daunting. Factors such as delayed childbearing, chronic stress, and lifestyle habits can impact fertility for both men and women. It's essential to acknowledge the multifaceted nature of these challenges and approach them with compassion and understanding.

Embracing lifestyle changes

While lifestyle modifications can optimize fertility outcomes, it's important to recognize that they are only one aspect of a comprehensive approach to fertility care. Maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise routine, stress management techniques, and minimizing alcohol and caffeine intake are valuable steps. However, individuals may also benefit from personalized medical interventions and emotional support throughout their fertility journey.

Exploring assisted reproductive technologies

Assisted reproductive technologies, including IVF, offer hope to individuals facing fertility challenges. However, it's crucial to approach these options with informed decision-making and a deep understanding of the emotional, physical, and financial implications involved. IVF is just one of many ART options available, and individuals should explore a range of solutions tailored to their unique circumstances and preferences.

Acknowledging emotional support

The journey through fertility treatments, including IVF, can be emotionally taxing. It's important to prioritize emotional well-being and seek support from healthcare providers, counselors, and support groups. Creating a supportive environment that acknowledges the emotional ups and downs of fertility treatments can make a significant difference in individuals' experiences.

In conclusion, achieving a balance between career and family aspirations amidst fertility challenges demands a comprehensive approach, encompassing medical, emotional, and social considerations. By embracing a variety of options and placing emphasis on tailored care and support, individuals can empower themselves to pursue both their career and personal objectives. Let’s applaud the resilience and determination of working women as they navigate this path with courage. Indira IVF, Nepal stands ready to provide a spectrum of solutions, from IUI and IVF to ICSI, to support individuals in fulfilling their fertility needs while pursuing their personal and professional aspirations.

The author is chief fertility specialist and center head at Indira IVF, Nepal

Constitutionally and politically, women are empowered in the days we live in. In Nepal, the constitution and other prevailing laws are in place to protect and promote the rights of women. The constitutional arrangements ensure one-third representation of women in the legislature, which is a major breakthrough. However, it’s not the end but a means to achieve gender equality.

To argue that countries like Nepal have, exclusively, felt the burn of gender-based discrimination and they have to adopt progressive laws to uproot inequalities would be a futile claim. Developed countries like the United States (US) too have experienced gender inequality.

The American case

In the case of Bradwell v State of Illinois (1872), Justice Bradley of the US Supreme Court held that the natural and proper timidity and delicacy, which belongs to the female sex, evidently makes it unfit for many of the occupations in civic life. The paramount destiny and mission of the women are to fulfill the noble and benign offices of the wife and mother. This is the law of the creator.

In this case, the state of Illinois denied Bradwell, a woman lawyer, an advocate’s license. The US Supreme Court (SC) argued that such a restriction from Illinois was not in contravention to the 14th Amendment to the Constitution. Bradwell was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1890.

In Hoyt v Florida in 1961, the US SC upheld a law placing a woman on the jury list if she made a special request because as put by Harland, J, “a woman is still regarded as the center of the home and family life.”  

Departing from the previous position, the US SC in the case of Muller v Oregon (1908) was of the view that the woman’s physical structure and the performance of maternal functions place her at a disadvantageous position for subsistence. It is still true that in the struggle for subsistence, she is not an equal competitor with her brother. She will still be where some legislation to protect her seems necessary to secure a real equality or right.

Nevertheless, the instances show that the judicial department in the US has interpreted the laws progressively as well as regressively. In June 2022, in a devastating decision that will reverberate for generations, the US Supreme Court has abandoned its duty to protect fundamental rights and overturned Roe v Wade (1973), ruling there is no constitutional right to abortion. The ruling in Dobbs v Jackson Women’s Health Organization abandons nearly 50 years of precedent and marks the first time in history that the Supreme Court has taken away a fundamental right.

In Roe case, it was held that the specific guarantee of “liberty” in the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution protects individual privacy that includes the right to abortion prior to fetal viability.

Nepal’s case

Women across the world have fought against all types of abuses and become more aware of their rights. These prejudices led the world community to pass gender sensitive domestic as well as international laws. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), which was adopted by the United Nations in 1979 and ratified by 189 states on 3 Sept 1981, is a treaty that is essential for assessing the government’s progress in eradicating discrimination. This treaty, which Nepal ratified in 1991, is recognized as a strong international agreement to protect gender equality and lessen violence against women.

Acknowledging CEDAW, the drafters of the 2015 Constitution of Nepal have floated ample provisions to ensure the protection of women’s rights through broad and universal principles of equality and participation. The preamble of the Constitution pledges to end all forms of discrimination based on gender. In a similar vein, the equality clauses and affirmative action clauses of the Constitution seek to ensure adequate representation of women in public life. To be specific, Article 38 provisions that all the rights relating to women shall be the fundamental rights. These rights include equal right to lineage, right to safe motherhood, and right to reproduction. In addition to this, Nepal has set aside 33 percent of seats for women in the legislature.

Article 70 envisages that “while conducting election of President and Vice-president under this Constitution, the election shall be held so as to represent different genders or communities.” Interestingly, a similar arrangement has been made for the election of Mayor and Deputy Mayor of the municipality. In the case of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representative, one of them must be a woman and so is the case with the Chairperson and Vice-chairperson of the National Assembly.  

This arrangement endeavors to press forward gender sensitive laws and policies. The reservation benefits ensured to women are there to supplement the principle of proportional inclusion.

The inclusivity and diversity are the core focus of the 2015 constitution,” argues Prof Bipin Adhikari in his book, Salient Features of the Constitution of Nepal, 2015.

Way forward

The traditional ideas of society, culture and rights have undergone a significant change the world over. While there is still more to be done to protect women’s rights, there has been significant progress toward this end.

Change happens gradually. Nepal’s Constitution gives the government an enhanced role to establish and enact initiatives, programs and regulations that will safeguard and advance the rights of women and children. A beginning in the right direction is having one-third representation of women at legislative spectrum.

In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “Democracy is something that would give the weak the same chance as the strong.” Nepal’s constitution contains progressive provisions that support the cause of women. But passing fair rules without enforcing them in the letter and spirit would only be cosmetic.  Prof Adhikari in his book, From Exclusion to Inclusion: Crafting a new legal regime in Nepal rightly observes: Nepal’s journey towards inclusion depends, to a great extent, on the quality of democracy and constitutionalism it will achieve on the foundation of its constitution.

Summing up, the mere glorification of the laws and celebration of International Women’s Day (without implementing rules) would be a mockery of democracy.

Nepal is the land of breathtaking landscapes in the heart of the Himalayas along with its vibrant culture and profound spirituality. The country does not only have a diverse geography but also a heritage of diverse cultures and existence, where various ethnic and religious groups practice different feasts and celebrations. Mahashivaratri is one of the festivals celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, on the 13th night and 14th day of the lunar month of Falgun (February/March). The festival holds significant spiritual and cultural importance among Hindus around the world, particularly in Nepal and India. Mahashivaratri is a cultural and spiritual occasion that brings millions of worshippers together in their quest for divine blessings and inner serenity. Nepali Army also celebrates Shivaratri as the Army Day, to commemorate its founding day. It is an occasion for the nation to honor the bravery and service of its national army, fostering a sense of unity, patriotism and pride among Nepali citizens. 

Shivaratri stands as one of Hinduism's most significant festivals, marked by the worship of Lord Shiva, the deity of destruction and regeneration. Devotees observe rigorous fasting, perform rituals and engage in night-long prayers to seek blessings, enlightenment and purification. Legends surrounding Shivaratri, including the marriage of Shiva and Parvati or the cosmic dance of Tandav, infuse the festival with mythological depth and symbolism. It serves as a time for introspection, spiritual renewal and devotion, uniting millions in reverence and celebration across the Hindu world, fostering a sense of community, devotion and connection to the divine.

The Nepali Army used to mark the Army Day on the fifth of Magh to commemorate the founding of the Gorkhali Army by King Prithvi Narayan Shah on 5 Magh 1818 BS, which later developed into the Nepali Army. This historic event marks the genesis of Nepal’s military prowess and its role in shaping the nation’s destiny. However, from 2005, the tradition of celebrating the Army Day was shifted to the day of Shivaratri to coincide with this auspicious festival, aligning the celebration with cultural and religious sentiments while still honoring the legacy of the Nepali Army. Army Day is a significant national observance in Nepal, commemorating the establishment of the Nepali Army and celebrating its pivotal contributions to the nation. The day honors the bravery, sacrifice, and dedication of the army personnel who have served and continue to serve the country. It serves as a reminder of the Nepali Army’s role in safeguarding the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peace of the nation. Through various ceremonies, military parades, and cultural events, Nepali Army Day not only pays homage to the soldiers but also reaffirms the nation’s commitment to the defense and security of Nepal. This occasion fosters a sense of national pride, unity, and gratitude among Nepali citizens towards their national army, highlighting their vital role in the country’s progress and prosperity.

The Army, formed by King Prithvi Narayan Shah in the mid-18th century to unify the fragmented kingdoms and principalities into modern-day Nepal, boasts a rich and storied legacy dating back centuries. Nepali soldiers, renowned for their bravery, loyalty and martial prowess, have served in numerous conflicts and wars worldwide, earning a formidable reputation. Domestically, the Nepali Army has played a crucial role in safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity, particularly during times of internal conflict and insurgency. Its commitment to peacekeeping missions, disaster relief efforts, development works and nature conservation underscores its dedication to solidifying its position as a pillar of national progress along with Nepal's security. 

If we relate the eternal cycle of creation, preservation and dissolution of Hindu mythology, the Nepali Army has played a vital role in the creation of modern Nepal and maintenance of national unity.  

Shivaratri and Nepali Army Day, while distinct in their observance, share profound symbolism and values that resonate deeply within Nepali culture. The spiritual ethos of Shivaratri, with its emphasis on devotion, self-discipline and the triumph of good over evil, finds resonance in the discipline and honor upheld by the Nepali Army. Just as devotees of Lord Shiva engage in rigorous fasting, prayers and meditation to attain spiritual enlightenment and purity, soldiers of the Nepali Army undergo intensive training, adhere to strict codes of conduct and make personal sacrifices in service to their nation. Both Shivaratri and the Nepali Army prioritize self-discipline, perseverance and a sense of duty toward a higher cause. Moreover, the symbolism of Shivaratri, which represents the cosmic balance, mirrors the Nepali Army’s role in safeguarding the nation's sovereignty and protecting its citizens from external threats and internal unrest. In this way, the spiritual values embodied by Shivaratri serve as a source of inspiration for the discipline, honor and dedication demonstrated by the Nepali Army in fulfilling its duty to the nation. 

Shivaratri and Nepali Army Day serve as powerful occasions to reinforce a sense of national pride and unity among the Nepali people, transcending religious and cultural differences. Both events highlight the importance of courage, unity and service to others, whether in the pursuit of spiritual growth or in defense of the nation. They serve as reminders of the values that bind Nepali society together, fostering a sense of pride, community and resilience among its people.

Modern governments have a primary duty and obligation of providing social protection to their citizens.  Governments around the globe make budgetary allocations for this purpose every year. 

There is a huge gap across regions and countries with respect to budgetary allocations and coverage of population. Europe has the highest level of social security expenditure (nearly 25  percent of its GDP), followed by 21 percent in OECD, 16.6 percent in North America, seven percent in the Asia-Pacific and 4.3 percent in Africa. In sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, social security coverage ranges from five percent to 10 percent of the population. Middle-income countries have social security coverage ranging from 20 percent to 60 percent of their respective populations, whereas in developed countries the coverage is nearly 100 percent. In the Asia-Pacific, social security schemes cover 44.1 percent of the total population of the region. 

Neighboring countries are ahead of Nepal with respect to coverage of people under social security. China has medical insurance coverage for 95 percent of its population whereas India and Bangladesh have 24.4 percent and 28.4 percent of their populations under their social security nets. But Nepal has a paltry 17 percent of its population under different kinds of social security programs. 

It is important to note here that the expenditure on social security exceeds capital expenditure in Nepal because of a low coverage of its population under social security. A trend over the years shows that the government expenditure on social security exceeds capital expenditure. This was evident in the fiscal 2021-22 and 2022-23, for example. Expenditure on social security in 2021-22 was Rs 252bn whereas capital expenditure was Rs 216bn. Fiscal 2022-23 saw a similar trend whereas in the fiscal 2023-24, Rs 253bn and Rs 234bn have already been spent under the topics of social security and capital expenditure, respectively. 

Both expenditure on social security and capital expenditure are important for Nepal’s entry into the club of middle-income countries, which is easier said than done. If Nepal desires to join the grouping of middle-income countries, its capital expenditure should exceed expenditure on social security. 

This is because capital expenditure helps increase production and productivity of the whole population, which are crucial for achieving targeted economic growth and creating employment opportunities for the masses, thereby driving the country toward prosperity and sustainability. 

Capital expenditure in Nepal leaves much to be desired as most of our rural and urban roads, which are muddy and dusty, show. Air pollution is high in the Kathmandu valley not because of the presence of industries but because of unmanaged traffic movement along highly-congested and dusty roads. Blacktopping these roads means spending capital. 

But funds for such works are hard to come by  with an increased focus on social security for targeted sections. 

Capital expenditure helps create employment opportunities for the masses, including the poor, the downtrodden, unskilled, semi-skilled and skilled youths, among others. 

Whereas expenditure on social security helps increase the consumption of targeted people such as the poor and the downtrodden, elderly citizens, malnourished children and single women. Of course, both capital expenditure and expenditure on social protection are primary duties of a modern government. 

While social protection is a must, it cannot be a substitute for capital expenditure. Thus, it is necessary to maintain discipline while spending money. Transfer of funds from one purpose to another is a common practice of the government of Nepal. 

Summing up, a government committed to social welfare and conducting development activities for sustainable economic growth must make rational decisions when it comes to spending its hard-earned capital.