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In recent weeks, social media platforms are abuzz with suggestions for Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli regarding his official trip to Beijing from Dec 2–6. Although the visit has not been officially announced, preparations are underway, and debates surrounding the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Nepal-China relations have intensified, often factoring in India’s role in the equation.

On Nov 25, former Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai shared his perspective on social media, stating that he could not attend Oli’s consultation meeting but wanted to offer advice. “Nepal is the oldest independent and sovereign country in South Asia, and one of the oldest in the world. It has every right and responsibility to assert and maintain its sovereignty, come what may,” he wrote. Highlighting Nepal’s unique geopolitical position between rising powers China and India, Bhattarai stressed the need to maintain friendly relations with all parties for national interests. He advocated leveraging opportunities presented by the BRI, just as Nepal has done with India and the US, to boost its economy. While he supports the BRI, his stance on whether Nepal should opt for loans or grants remains unclear.

Political polarization on the BRI continues, with Chinese Ambassador Cheng Song actively lobbying key political leaders to create a favorable environment for its adoption. As the visit approaches, Indian media and think tanks have weighed in. On Nov 22, Rishi Gupta from the Asia Society published an article in The Print titled “India does not need to sweat over Oli’s China drift—Nepal knows the limits.” The piece sparked reactions in Nepal. Aneka Rebecca Rajbhandari, co-founder of The Arnika Project, criticized Indian analysts for their narrow security-focused lens on Nepal-China relations. Similarly, Akhilesh Upadhyay, former editor of The Kathmandu Post and columnist at Hindustan Times, remarked that Indian analysts suffer from an “imperial gaze” toward smaller neighbors but noted that Chinese attitudes are not significantly different.

Despite the ongoing discourse on the topic, Prime Minister Oli has yet to secure full support for the BRI. While he asserts that loans should not fund BRI projects, key coalition partner Nepali Congress (NC) remains hesitant. On Nov 22, Pankaj Das, who identifies himself as a cadre of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) cadre and observer of Nepal’s geopolitical affairs, noted a shift in NC’s stance. In his post, he said: “When in government, NC opposed the BRI. In opposition, it rejected both loans and grants. Now, as part of the government, it might consider BRI projects if grants are provided.” Das also suggested that NC and the UML have already agreed in principle to pursue BRI agreements.

Prominent voices on social media have added to the debate. Ajaya Bhadra Khanal, a media personality, suggested that Nepal should carefully examine and remove any suspicious provisions in the BRI implementation plan. In a X (formerly Twitter) post directed at NC General Secretary Gagan Thapa, he emphasized the risks of adopting China’s economic model, which may lead to long-term challenges. Similarly, Pramod Raj Sedhain, a self-taught geopolitical analyst, posted on X that public debate and scrutiny, akin to the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) discussions, are essential for BRI projects. He advocated for transparency and parliamentary debates to ensure accountability.

The lack of transparency surrounding Nepal’s BRI framework agreement, signed in 2017, has fueled further suspicion. Although a four-page document is publicly available, its official status remains unconfirmed. Vijay Kant Karna, a researcher in international relations, stated in a X post on Nov 21 that secret agreements on strategic projects like the BRI are unacceptable without broad stakeholder consultations. He called for comprehensive discussions, similar to those held for the MCC, to ensure public trust.

“China’s BRI strategic plan needs comprehensive discussions in all stakeholders like MCC. Secret accord without proper discussions in parliament and political parties will not be acceptable,” he stated.

Comparisons to past foreign aid initiatives have also surfaced. Journalist Prakash Timalsina highlighted how King Mahendra successfully leveraged Cold War-era assistance from Russia, India, and China for projects like the Mahendra Highway and Araniko Highway. In response, journalist Birat Anupam remarked that he supports both the MCC and the BRI, a stance he described as rare in Nepal’s polarized discourse. Meanwhile, former Foreign Minister Kamal Thapa criticized political parties for undermining national decision-making by relying on foreign support for their political and economic agendas.

“Political parties who are taking not just political support but also economic support from foreign powers for their interests are gradually losing the decision-making power for the national interest,” Thapa argued.

Jainendra Jeevan, a political analyst, warned the NC against adopting an overly rigid stance on the BRI. He argued that antagonizing China, a global power, could strain relations with the ruling UML and alienate other pro-China groups. Jeevan added that without hidden political or military agendas, foreign initiatives like the MCC and BRI could benefit Nepal. However, he stressed the importance of balanced engagement to safeguard national interests.

As Oli’s visit approaches, he has intensified consultations with coalition partners and stakeholders. While dozens of bilateral issues could be addressed, the BRI dominates public discourse. Oli’s previous visits to China were marked by major agreements: the 2016 Transit and Transport Agreement and discussions on railway projects in 2018. The 2024 visit is poised to center on the BRI. Although Oli has not explicitly outlined his agenda, he has emphasized the need for tangible outcomes from the trip.

Interestingly, social media trends reveal a gradual consensus even among NC-leaning experts, who now acknowledge the importance of engaging with the BRI while opposing loans. Left-leaning intellectuals, on the other hand, have long advocated for concessional loans under the BRI framework. This evolving sentiment underscores the complexity of Nepal's position. While the BRI offers economic opportunities, its dominance in public discourse has overshadowed other pressing bilateral issues with China.

In the backdrop of these debates, public demand for transparency and accountability grows louder. Citizens, analysts, and politicians alike agree that robust discussions, both in Parliament and the public sphere, are essential for any agreements under the BRI. Lessons from past controversies, like the MCC, highlight the importance of open dialogue and clear communication to prevent misunderstandings and foster trust.

The stakes of Prime Minister Oli’s upcoming visit are high. Balancing the BRI’s potential benefits with its financial and geopolitical implications will require careful diplomacy. At the same time, ensuring that domestic consensus aligns with national interests remains challenging.

Top leaders’ take

“During my visit, there will be no agreements related to loans. However, the claim that Nepal is at risk of falling into a debt trap is untrue. If we ever need loans, we are free to seek them from any source.” - Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli

“Nepal should not take loans from China under the BRI, as the country lacks the capacity to handle such financial commitments. However, we are open to accepting grants.” - Sher Bahadur Deuba, NC President

“Nepal should proceed with the BRI projects, as they align with our national interests. Having already joined the BRI framework, we must move forward to realize its potential benefits.” - Madhav Kumar Nepal, CPN (Unified Socialist) Chairperson

“Consultations between the Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML regarding Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s visit to China are ongoing. There are no significant differences between the two parties, and I am traveling to China to assist with preparations for the visit.” - Arzu Rana Deuba, Minister for Foreign Affairs

“Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is facing pressure during this trip because the ruling coalition partner, the Nepali Congress, opposes certain aspects of the BRI. Specifically, the NC is firmly against taking any loans. It will be interesting to see how China views this dynamic during the visit.” - Jhala Nath Khanal, CPN (Unified Socialist) senior leader

“The agreements signed with China in the past must be implemented during PM Oli’s visit. The BRI projects should be executed in both letter and spirit, and the implementation plan must be finalized during this trip.” - Pushpa Kamal Dahal, CPN (Maoist Center) Chairperson

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that the Nepal Premier League will directly contribute to promoting tourism and presenting the youth talent in the international arena.

Unveiling the NPL Trophy from the historic Dharahara premises today, he gave assurances of the government's cooperation and encouragement to NPL as far as possible. The PM said the government is always with the players for the development of the sports sector.

He believed that the NPL will add a new dimension to Nepali cricket.

"Cricket is the dream and also a topic of glory for our present generation. Let us be able to add a new dimension in the Nepali cricket through this League. The government is with you. My interest and ownership will always be there whether, personally, I am in the government or not," Prime Minister Oli said and extended best wishes to all the participating teams for their victory.

He also wished that may the youth talent be exposed and the thinking that Nepalis can do if given the opportunity be established through the NPL.

Prime Minister and CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli has urged industrialists to invest as an investment friendly environment is created within the country.

Addressing the awareness assembly organized by CPN-UML Kathmandu Valley's three district committees today at Durbar Marg, Prime Minister Oli urged the investors to invest with confidence as the government is on a mission to create a 'Prosperous Nepal and Happy Nepali' by maintaining peace and security in Nepal.

"Nepal's economy was in a bad state. The economy is improving due to the policies and plans adopted by the current UML-Congress led government," said Prime Minister Oli.

Prime Minister Oli urged Nepal's industrialists and multinational companies to invest in the country. "You should invest, the government will arrange security and good governance," he said.

On another note, Prime Minister Oli said even though there are many rumors against them there was no logic to follow such baseless rumors.

"There have been things surfaced like deceiving the cooperative and blaming others, using shameful remarks, and swearing. Any kind of fraud is not acceptable. The Nepali people will continue to fulfill the vision of 'Prosperous Nepal and Happy Nepali' by maintaining the history and pride of their culture," Prime Minister Oli said.  He challenged those who point fingers at him to come in face-to- face discussions.  

Mentioning that those who do not have to pay the bank loans will destroy the country's economy, he claimed that the NEA should collect the arrears from the defaulting industries as per the bill but it should not stop power supply to them.

8:00 am, Nov 14

New Baneshwor

The tea shop was buzzing with energy, but I managed to find an open seat amid the crowd. A lively group of around ten people had already gathered, deeply engrossed in conversation on various societal issues, including the latest political developments. They were discussing the recent passing of Bimala Gauchan, a Gandaki Province Assembly member who had succumbed to dengue. Some shared personal stories, recounting how family members and friends had also fallen victim to this spreading disease.

One man remarked, “Dengue has even reached the hill districts now. Back in 1992, I spent a year in Mustang, and there wasn’t a mosquito in sight because of the cold.” Another chimed in, “With more roads connecting remote areas, dengue is spreading even to the mountains.” Predictably, the group began criticizing the government’s inability to control the outbreak in Kathmandu Valley and beyond. The mention of Manang and Mustang brought the discussion to another familiar topic. “People in Manang are incredibly wealthy. If the rest of Nepal were as prosperous, we’d be the richest country in South Asia,” someone declared.

The group briefly touched on the recent arrest of Deepak Manange, a member of the Gandaki Province Assembly, though no one seemed eager to dive into his controversies. Meanwhile, a man near the entrance, buried in a newspaper, interrupted loudly, “Every page is filled with stories of corruption, crimes, and road accidents!” This drew the group’s attention. They began talking about a recent tragic accident in Kageshwori Manohara, where one person had died in a collision involving a car driven by Prakash Bhujel, a self-styled shaman with a social media following, and a motorcycle.

The conversation shifted to shamanism. Some argued that such beliefs were outdated and harmful, while an older gentleman, likely in his seventies, shared how a shaman had treated his paralysis 30 years ago. Another participant admitted he didn’t believe in shamanism but respected those who did. They noted that Bhujel had promised to cooperate with authorities—something, one remarked, that many politicians might not be so quick to do.

After a short lull, talk shifted to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s upcoming trip to China. “The Western countries will be watching his every move,” someone stated bluntly. They mentioned China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the projects it entails but didn’t delve deeply into it. A participant speculated that Oli would likely avoid any major agreements with China, though few seemed interested in exploring the topic further.

Out of nowhere, someone brought up the rising trend of love marriages in Nepal. An older man expressed disapproval, claiming that such marriages often lead to divorce. “Eighty percent of love marriages end in separation,” he said, “inviting new societal problems.” This sparked a debate about the “right” age to marry. “Decades ago, people married at 18 or 20; now, they’re waiting until their 30s,” someone observed. Soon, the discussion broadened to cover the declining population trend in Nepal and beyond, linked to delayed marriages. Another man spoke about the growing empowerment of women in Nepali society, noting that women now play key roles in household decisions, with men ceding some of their traditional authority.

By 8:30, the group began to disperse, each heading off to start their day. As the tea shop slowly emptied, I lingered over my black tea, debating whether to order another cup or leave. Just then, two young men entered, looking like they were in their twenties. One ordered tea with milk, while the other opted for black. Curious, the one with milk asked why his friend preferred it plain. “I have gastritis,” he replied. They soon fell into a conversation about their hectic college and work schedules, complaining that they barely had time to eat properly.

In lowered voices, they shared their financial struggles. “I earn just Rs 8,000 a month, working from 11 am to 7 pm, but it barely covers rent and food,” one said, as they lamented the rising prices of tea and snacks. “I spent all my savings during Dashain and Tihar; I have nothing left now,” he added. Their conversation turned to their future plans—whether to stay in Nepal or try their luck abroad. They looked visibly worried, the uncertainty of their future weighing on them. Just then, four students entered, asking the shopkeeper for cigarettes, who politely pointed them to the designated smoking area.

Last week, I began a weekly column titled Teashop Gossip, where I’ll be capturing and sharing these vibrant exchanges that unfold in Nepal’s local tea shops. For years, these spots have been more than just places for tea—they’re forums where people from all walks of life come together to discuss the pressing issues of our time. In this column, I aim to present these conversations as they happen, preserving the raw voices, views, and insights of the people

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said the government would forward the process to include Nepal Bhasa in school-level curriculum.

After garlanding the statue of the founder of Nepal Sambat and national luminary Shankhadhar Sakhwa at Sankhadhar Sakhwa chowk, Madhyapur Thimi, today, Prime Minister Oli underlined that he personally and from the position of Prime Minister was ready to protect language, culture and civilization.

At a programme organized by Shankhadhar Sakhwa Foundation, he mentioned that some genuine demands of the Foundation would be fulfilled gradually as per the capacity of the state. 

"The Foundation has demanded to include Nepal Bhasa as the secondary level optional subject in curriculum. It can be included in the curriculum as optional subjects like Maithili, Bhojpuri but it cannot be announced here today without making any decision", added PM Oli.

The Prime Minister shared that different initiatives are underway from government-level to protect Nepal Bhasa, stating that Rastriya Samachar Samiti (RSS), Nepal Television and Radio Nepal have started disseminating and broadcasting news in Nepal Bhasa in this connection.

Saying Bhaktapur is considered as the living museum, he said the government was committed to preserving the historical arts and culture here. 

Similarly, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, mentioned that Shankhadhar Sakhwa had given identity of patriotism and nationalism even at that time. 

Likewise, Mayor of Madhyapur Thimi Surendra Shrestha shared that the municipality is organizing Madhyapur festival in the Nepali month of Poush in order to spread historical arts, culture and tradition of the district in the world.

On the occasion, PM Oli honored 63-year-old organization, Nhyajya Khala Thimi and leader of Nepal Sambat and member of Language Commission, Suresh Kiram Manandhar, with Shankhadhar Samman.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has extended warm wishes to all Nepali sisters and brothers, both at home and abroad, on the occasion of Laxmi Puja, a significant day dedicated to the worship of the Hindu goddess Laxmi during the Tihar festival

In a social media post, the PM stated, "May this day illuminate every home and bring happiness to each family." The Prime Minister said the festival symbolizes the brightness of lights, the fragrance of flowers, and the deep bond between humans and animals, highlighting the importance of sibling love.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has directed the Nepal Doorsanchar Company Limited (Nepal Telecom) to deliver quality services.

The Prime Minister directed the Telecom team, which reached the Prime Minister's Office to inform about the amount of assistance deposited to the Prime Minister's Disaster Relief Fund, to engage full-fledged efforts to provide service to the people.

He assured that the government would extend support, if necessary, for equipment and technology and urged to keep the reputation of the organization as the property of the nation.

Minister for Communications and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung and Ministry Secretary Radhika Aryal were also present on the occasion.

On the occasion, Telecom's Managing Director Sangita Aryal informed that Rs 10.27 million has been deposited to the fund.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is scheduled to visit China from Dec 2 to 5 at the official invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, according to high-level sources. This visit comes after discussions between Prime Minister Oli and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where Foreign Minister Yi suggested that Oli keep his schedule clear for early December.

Upon his return to Nepal, Prime Minister Oli held informal discussions with senior CPN-UML officials about his upcoming visit to China, which they encouraged. Following these discussions, Chinese Foreign Minister Yi reportedly briefed President Xi on Oli's planned visit. The Chinese Foreign Ministry then sent a formal letter to the Chinese Embassy in Nepal, which Ambassador Chen Song delivered to Oli as an official invitation from President Xi.

In preparation for Oli’s visit, Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba is coordinating with the Prime Minister’s Office. A senior official indicated that Foreign Minister Rana may travel to Beijing in advance for essential discussions and logistical coordination.

Prime Minister Oli, who was appointed on July 15, met with Ambassador Chen shortly after assuming office, where they had an informal exchange about his potential visit to China. The final dates were coordinated with the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Beijing.

While there has been speculation about a potential visit to India, no formal decision has been reached. Prime Minister Oli did, however, have a brief meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New York. Additionally, Oli’s planned visit to Bangkok for the BIMSTEC summit was postponed after Thailand delayed the meeting.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has reaffirmed the government's commitment to discouraging anarchy. He stated that there are ongoing attempts to promote disorder and communal disharmony, adding that such activities will be thwarted.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony for Armed Police Force (APF) inspectors at the National APF Training Academy, Matatritha today, the Prime Minister expressed the government's commitment to resisting unlawful activities.

He congratulated the graduates and promised to amend existing laws to improve facilities for APF personnel and enhance their performance.

The Prime Minister commended the APF's role in strengthening border security and emphasized the need to expand the organization's capacity.

Among those present at the ceremony were Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister Bishnu Prasad Rimal, Chair of the Public Service Commission Madhav Prasad Regmi, Chief Secretary Eaknarayan Aryal, Chief of Army Staff Ashok Raj Sigdel, Home Secretary Gokarnamani Duwadi, Inspector General of Nepal Police Basanta Bahadur Kunwar, and APF Inspector General Raju Aryal.

A total of 45 individuals graduated as APF inspectors during the event. 

The meeting of the National Security Council presided over by Prime Minister and Chairman of the Council, KP Sharma Oli, reviewed the international, regional and national security situations on Sunday.

The review meeting dwelt on the conflict in the Middle East and its effects on national security, challenges, safety of the people in the region and future strategy.

Member Secretary of the Council, Rameshwor Dangal, informed that the meeting dwelt on challenges to be faced in national security in the wake of international conflicts.

Similarly, the meeting also decided to recommend the Council of Ministers for its policy level approval to purchase arms and ammunition required for Nepal Army for the fiscal year, 2081/82.

A procedure to conduct the meeting, 2081 was endorsed by the meeting attended by Home Minister, Defense Minister, Chief Secretary, Chief of Army Staffs, and Defense Secretary.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said he will not compromise on national interest to remain in power.

Addressing an event ‘Role of former security personnel in national security and development’ organized by the Nepal National Ex-army and Police Association on Sunday, Oli said his government is committed to the protection of national unity and the welfare of the country.

He said, “We can’t give up our national interest for power or for keeping the government afloat”.

Oli recalled that the government had faced blockades in the past and toppled later on. He added, “At that time, we had pledged to return to power through the main gate of Singhadurbar through elections and not through deception, and we did.”

Prime Minister Oli recalled signing of a trade and transit agreement during his previous term when an Indian embargo was in place.

Describing speculations of his decreasing credibility as sponsored, he insisted that he will show how popular he is in the upcoming elections.

Mentioning that his government is implementing the report of the parliamentary committee on co-operative embezzlement, Prime Minister Oli said it is against democratic norms and values to shout slogans on the court premises in favor of a person under investigation.

PM Oli added that he is not biased toward anyone and that everyone should accept court judgments.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that there will be no compromise on the issues of nation and national interests for the cause of power bickering.

Addressing a seminar on the national 'Role of Ex-Security Personnel on National Security and Development', the Prime Minister recalled the signing of the Trade and Transit Agreement with China by considering the national interest when India imposed an economic blockade on Nepal.

"Now, attempts are made to attack the forms of national security under different pretexts. We have moved ahead with the firm determination not to harm others but to grasp our genuine interests," the PM added.

PM Oli said that the current government of two major political parties, Nepali Congress (NC) and CPN-UML, was working to safeguard the aspirations of national unity and national interests.

On a separate context, PM Oli, also the CPN-UML Chairman, said the weapons that are kept under the ground and are rusted won't make any sense now and urged the concerned side not to issue threats to the Nepali society by false publicity.

Likewise, the PM urged his critics-- who term him being unpopular -- to wait until the upcoming elections.

Similarly, he said that democracy was not anarchy and added that any sort of threats was unacceptable in a democracy.

On the occasion, PM Oli said that the government implemented the report of the parliamentary committee on investigations on cooperative funds' embezzlement and stated that showing unruly acts in the court defending the investigated persons was against the democratic norms and values.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has recommended utilizing IT innovations to simplify our lives.

In his address to the "Artificial Intelligence (AI) International Conference,' organized by the Youth Association of Nepal today, the Prime Minister stressed the need to promote the use of science and technology to pursue a more convenient lifestyle.

"We have a thirst for development and the concept of Digital Nepal was launched to address such desire.  We should ensure the responsible use of AI, being aware of its potential misuse," the Prime Minister said. He also echoed the need for legal provisions to prevent the potential abuse of AI technologies.

He advised that the use of AI in education be explored to improve students' performance. Prime Minister Oli also said the government will develop policies and plans on AI.

The two-day event aims to educate youths, political parties, and the public about AI development and its applications, it is said

Prime Minister Oli today inaugurated the event which is said to be the first of its kind in Nepal. According to YAN Chair Kshitiz Thebe, the event is expected to help enable an atmosphere conducive to preparing a national policy on AI.

"We hope this conference will contribute to the further development of the IT sector in Nepal," he said, adding that it has been attended by around 1,000 representatives from home and abroad.

Association General Secretary Suman Puri said the Conference will feature 10 panel discussions on various AI-related topics with the participation of foreign AI experts and representatives including from the European Union, Japan, the UK, and so on.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli instructed the concerned ministries and agencies to eloquently advocate for climate justice in the impending COP-29 climate conference.

PM Oli directed the relevant ministries and agencies to strongly raise the issues relating to climate justice for vulnerable countries like Nepal as articulated by Nepal in the UN's 79th General Assembly (UNGA).

The UN climate conference is taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan from November 11 to 22 this year. The Nepali delegation to the conference is being led by President Ram Chandra Paudel.

Addressing the third meeting of the Environment Conservation and Climate Change Management National Council at the Office of Prime Minister and Council of Ministers today, Oli urged the Nepali delegation to put forward Nepal's clear stance and perspective on climate change and its impact in the upcoming COP-29.

PM Oli has been championing climate justice and advocating for compensation for Nepal from the countries responsible for significant carbon emissions, highlighting the adverse effects of global warming on the Himalaya region and its habitat.

He is calling for an action-plan from the global community aimed at maintaining environmental balance from high mountains to sea.

Prime Minister Oli directed to give priority to intensive forest expansion by ending the situation where there is no forest in the designated forest areas. He emphasized that even though Nepal has 46 percent of forest area, only 28 percent of special forest area should be expanded in the remaining 12 percent area.

Prime Minister Oli urged the authorities to work to maintain at least 40 percent forest area and mentioned that Nepal is contributing to global environmental cleanliness by keeping forests, mountains and valleys.

In Nepal, 17 percent of the land is mountains and 7 percent is lakes. Prime Minister Oli also instructed not to delay the approval of the Ministry of Forest for the work that the government has decided for the project. He said, "The Ministry of Forest should not act as if it brought the forest from its own home. During the construction of the project, there have been complaints that the Ministry of Forest has stopped the decisions made by the Council of Ministers.

Protecting the forest according to the need, the industry will be allowed to operate in places where there is no forest. The meeting reviewed the work of the council for one year and informed about the status of implementation of the decisions of the previous meeting, the effective participation of Nepal in the World Climate Conference (COP-29) to be held in Baku, Azerbaijan in November 2024, changing the name of the Ministry of Forests and Environment to Forests, Environment and Climate Change and It has decided to take guidelines etc. for the next one year.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Urban Development Minister Prakashman Singh, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Physical Infrastructure and Transport Minister Devendra Dahal, Forest and Environment Minister Ain Bahadur Shahi, Chief Ministers of various provinces, National Planning Commission Vice Chairman Dr Shivraj Adhikari, chief secretary Eak Narayan Aryal and others.

As Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli completes his first 100 days in office, public reaction to the government’s performance is mixed. Despite unveiling a long list of accomplishments, criticism from both the ruling party and opposition focuses on allegations of corruption and failures in governance.

Oli claims that 70 percent of the government’s targets have been achieved, but this is part of a routine practice where governments present progress reports during their "honeymoon period" that often fail to impress the public. After forming the government, there was a delay in setting priorities, with a shared policy resolution introduced only after 67 days. As a result, beyond routine matters, the government has made little substantive progress.

In July, the Nepali Congress (NC) and CPN-UML formed a coalition government, promising political stability and economic development. They also pledged to amend the Constitution, but there has been little action. After 100 days, there is no visible enthusiasm for the amendments within the ruling parties. NC and UML have yet to initiate discussions within their parties or with others on potential changes, particularly to the electoral system and federalism. Meanwhile, opposition parties, including the CPN (Maoist Center), have started cautioning against regressive changes to the constitution.

Despite the coalition’s promise of government stability, reports of a growing rift between NC and UML have surfaced. Oli has repeatedly reassured the public that his government will last its full term, but there are signs of internal division. Tensions have arisen over issues such as the removal of Kul Man Ghising from Nepal Electricity Authority, changes to party split laws and ambassadorial appointments. Fringe parties have also expressed growing dissatisfaction with the government.

The ruling UML's decision to accept donations from businessman Min Bahadur Gurung for party office construction has also drawn strong criticism, including from within the party. On the external front, the government has made little headway. Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba’s visits and Prime Minister Oli’s meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the UN General Assembly have yielded limited progress. Relations with China have also stagnated.

Meanwhile, tensions between ruling and opposition parties are escalating, with the opposition warning of street protests in the coming months. The arrest of former home minister and Rastriya Swatantra Party Chair Rabi Lamichhane has further strained relations. Opposition leaders, including Pushpa Kamal Dahal of the Maoist Center, claim Lamichhane’s arrest was politically motivated and that the government is targeting opposition figures while neglecting broader governance issues. Dahal has accused the government of selective prosecution in corruption cases.

The Maoist Center is preparing to organize a demonstration in Kathmandu to warn the government against taking any decisions targeting the opposition parties. Dahal is of the view that the government has become too weak in governance and is targeting the opposition parties on the pretext of fighting corruption.

Another contentious issue is Oli’s attempt to introduce an ordinance to lower the threshold for party splits. Under current law, 40 percent of lawmakers are required to split a party, but the proposed ordinance would reduce this to 20 percent, enabling members of CPN (Unified Socialist) to defect to UML. Opposition parties have urged President Ramchandra Paudel to reject the ordinance, warning that it could create a rift between the President and Prime Minister. So far, the President has avoided major controversies.

In its first 100 days, the government has made little progress in addressing the country’s economic challenges, and there have been no visible improvements in governance or service delivery. Dissatisfaction is growing, both within major political parties and among the public, as optimism fades about the government’s ability to deliver meaningful change or stability.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has urged all for their efforts to control dengue spread.

In a video message today, the PM has urged one and all to work for this as some of the districts in the country are affected from dengue spread.

The PM has urged the stakeholders from the federal, province and local levels, civil servants, security bodies, educational institutions, social campaigners and all members of the community to conduct the 'search and destroy' of campaign mosquitoes nationwide at 10:00 am on every Friday.

The PM has stressed that the breeding sites of mosquitoes should be identified and the larva and pupa should be destroyed for the best way to control the dengue spread.

"Making a prosperous Nepal is possible only if the citizens are healthy. So, I urge all to extend their support from their respective places to make this campaign a success for dengue control," the PM stated in his message.