Project Sarangi completed
Project Sarangi Foundation, in collaboration with Surya Nepal’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, announced the completion of a project dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the traditional folk instrument ‘Sarangi’. This initiative, deeply rooted in Nepali culture, aims to ensure the continued flourishing of the local traditional sarangi for generations to come.
The project spanned seven schools in seven municipalities of Kathmandu, offering a comprehensive experience that included a free 3-month sarangi training program for aspiring musicians and engaging workshops, evoking a sense of pride and responsibility among new generations in safeguarding their rich cultural legacy.
“We are proud to witness the culmination of this initiative, symbolizing a renewed commitment to empowering the new generation to carry Nepal's musical heritage forward,” said Kiran Nepali, director at Project Sarangi Foundation.
Alarming gap in earthquake preparedness
In a recent study conducted by Sudal Rai, a fourth-year Geology student at Tri-Chandra Campus, the earthquake awareness and preparedness levels among residents of Basantapur area in Kathmandu District have been brought to light. The study, published in the GEOWORLD Students’ Journal Vol 11 [ISSN: 3021–937X Print], exposes significant gaps in understanding and readiness for potential seismic events even after the devastating 2015 Gorkha-Nepal earthquake.
Shockingly, 37.5 percent of respondents attributed earthquakes to divine creation, hindering efforts towards effective preparedness. The study reveals that a lack of basic earthquake knowledge is prevalent among those with lower educational qualifications, with 62.5 percent lacking knowledge of essential earthquake response action ( Drop, Hold And Cover). About 57 percent of survey respondents revealed a lack of awareness regarding safe zones, open spaces, or evacuation routes in the Basantapur area.Top of Form
Only 12.5 percent of respondents are found to be actively working on earthquake preparedness plans, indicating a critical need for targeted education and outreach programs.
In Paper, Author Rai emphasizes the imperative for local authorities to conduct thorough seismic risk assessments, identifying vulnerable buildings and implementing targeted measures to enhance structural resilience. Additionally, Rai advocates for the initiation of public awareness campaigns, concentrating on evacuation routes and safety measures, with the primary goal of informing and educating residents on crucial steps to be taken during seismic events. Furthermore, the research strongly recommends integrating earthquake safety education into school curricula, underscoring the importance of ensuring that children are well-informed and actively contribute to community preparedness.
One held for allegedly murdering colleague in Malaysia
Police have apprehended a Nepali worker, who allegedly murdered his colleague in Malaysia.
The suspect has been identified as Anil Kumar Sah of Gaushala, Mahottari, according to Nepal Police Spokesperson and Deputy Inspector General, Kuber Kadayat.
Sah was on the run after allegedly killing Dhan Bahadur Pradhan on December 11. He came to Nepal after the incident.
Police arrested Sah after receiving a complaint about the crime.
He will be prosecuted for the charge within Nepal, DSP Kadayat said.
Jajarkot earthquake: 4,000 affected receive first installment of assistance
A total of 4,282 people affected by the November 3 earthquake in Aathbiskot Municipality of Rukum West have received the first installment of government assistance meant for building temporary shelters.
Over 9,000 have been identified eligible for receiving the earthquake assistance. They each got Rs 25,000 and the amount has been deposited in their bank accounts, according to Aathbiskot Municipality Acting Chief Administrative Officer Maniraj Shah.
The local government was provided Rs 175 million from the District Disaster Management Fund to assist the disaster affected to manage the temporary shelter. The amount for other affected will be deposited once their bank accounts come into operation, it is said.