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The government has taken a new strategy to promote religious places.

Presenting the annual budget for the upcoming fiscal year 2024/25 in the federal Parliament on Tuesday, Finance Minister Barshaman Pun said that the government is to operate transport services from the Nepal-India border to visit Pashupatinath, Swargadwari, and Muktinath temple.

He said that the budget has been arranged to promote tourism.  

The government is to encourage foreign tourists to get married in Nepal.

Finance Minister Barshaman Pun made such an announcement while presenting the annual budget for upcoming fiscal year 2024/25 in the federal Parliament on Tuesday.

He said that Janakpur will be developed as a wedding hub and Lumbini as a birthing hub.

Multifaceted efforts have been made toward tiger conservation, and Nepal today boasts over 355 tigers in the wild. In 2010, this number was only a third of it—at 121. However, conservation of this umbrella species seems to have created new challenges in human-animal conflict management across the country’s national parks.

Tiger attacks on humans have more than tripled in the last 10-15 years and Nepal seems to be at a crossroads when it comes to managing human-animal balance. Efforts to control this conflict seem to have even challenged the country’s capacity to define development with nature in the balance. On May 14, I visited the Devnagar Tiger Rescue Center in Chitwan and came out with mixed feelings of the direction conservation was headed in Nepal.

The rescue center is primarily meant to keep and conserve ‘troublemaker tigers.’ At the gate, I was told that some 150-200 people have been visiting the center daily since its opening earlier around the Nepali new year. The plan is to reinvest the money raised from ticketing this conservation-tourism effort back into the operations of the rescue center.

All of this was good news, but when I actually went inside, my heart sank. The center seemed too small and cage-like. According to a report published in a daily on May 14, the center covers an area of around 4000 square feet. Separated into two rooms, with indoor and outdoor spaces, two male tigers are kept in this mini-enclosure. I spoke to some of the guides, who had brought in guests, mostly Indians and Nepalis, and one of them mentioned that those running the center ought to accommodate spaces for the tigers to hunt naturally so that when and if the tigers are considered rehabilitate-able into the wild, they can adapt. According to the Wild Tiger Health Project, tigers in rehabilitation should have an enclosure, which is ideally a large (> 0.5 hectare), natural area with good shade trees, plenty of vegetation providing cover, a varying terrain, a pool for bathing and a natural stream system to ensure a clean water supply.

However, I’m really not sure what a rescue center envisions for the rescued  tigers' future, if not rehabilitation into its natural habitat. There is plenty of space around the rescue center to build a larger enclosed nature-like habitat for tigers. I’m assuming it may lack budget, which is the main reason behind the establishment of a small enclosure.

I was also feeling hopeful that ‘conservation tourism’ could actually be quite a larger than life segment for Nepal's tourism industry. But it must be done correctly rather than conveniently. Imagine a tiger in a much larger ‘natural-looking’ space, not immediately visible, guests on binoculars searching, brochures in their pockets that introduce the tigers story and its journey, etc. 

 I must also acknowledge that the government has tried to manage human-animal conflict quite well because rescue centers are only a part of the larger puzzle to conserve and manage flora and fauna in Nepal. Fifty-nine people have died in tiger attacks across various national parks in Nepal since 2018, according to government sources. In 2021-22, tigers killed 21 people, whereas some 10 years ago (2012-13), five human casualties had occurred in the course of conflicts with tigers.

For comparative analysis, more people die because of mosquito bites than tiger attacks in Nepal. According to the Journal of Travel Medicine, mosquito-borne diseases killed more than 55 people in Nepal in 2022. But tigers, not surprisingly, seem to draw more attention, the feline has magnetic charisma, which we must understand and consider in our analysis of human-animal conflict management.

Most tiger attacks have been happening on the outer edges of jungles where weaker tigers roam. Human habitats, which not surprisingly are closing into jungle spaces, mostly witness these encounters. In Meghauli last year, a young mother not even in her 20s died in a tiger attack while foraging the buffer area early in the morning to pluck wild spinach (‘niuro saag’).

Soon after the news of the attack/death spread, locals rioted and demanded park authorities to take the tiger into captivity and relocate the ‘human-eater’. Locals refused to take the body of the young woman out of the jungle until authorities took the tiger away. Local politicians even gain popularity for getting tigers caught and relocated, making tiger attacks a political affair.

Therefore, let’s understand that it is still not too late to envision better rescue and rehabilitation centers. We should  look at the Devnagar rescue center as an example of what is in progress to not only manage human-animal conflict but also an effort to attract quality tourism into a new sphere of “conservation-wildlife tourism” in Nepal. Hopefully, visitors who come to the center will not only be first and last time visitors but wish to be a part of the animals rescue and rehabilitation journey. Hopefully more visitors come for educational purposes and to be a part of quality conservation efforts in Nepal.

It should even be possible to turn the rescue of tigers into a movement. Well-documented visuals and stories through dedicated national broadcasts for conservation tourism could enrich Nepal’s ongoing engagement with tigers. People from across the world could play a part in raising awareness and money to support our government in its efforts to manage human-animal conflict. As Nepal tries to navigate into quality and modern conservation efforts, possibilities are endless, if the right course is taken.

Better shelters and management will surely contribute to a positive conservation tourism sector and attract not only visitors for wildlife tourism (165,000 visitors were recorded at the Chitwan National Park last year), but also for quality wildlife conservation tourism across Nepal's several national parks and conservation areas. However, for the time being, I am left wondering as to what the future holds for the two tigers I saw.

Nepal has a lot of untapped investment potential especially in the areas of infrastructure development, renewable energy, green hydrogen, hydropower, tourism, agri-business, and information and communication technology. Manufacturing is another area where Nepal could attract projects.

KPMG in India has a track record of supporting government agencies on investment promotion programs, business reforms and investment summits. We will be happy to advise the Government of Nepal on the Nepal Investment Summit. For the success of the investment summit, along with inter-ministerial collaboration, laying the platform with a stronger policy environment, effective promotion and targeting investors across key sectors, it will be essential to showcase investable projects that are ready to execute.

The workshop on ‘Unlocking Nepal’s Investment Potential’ organized by KPMG in India, along with the Investment Board Nepal (IBN) in Kathmandu was a precursor to the proposed summit in April. The focus was on promoting private investments, particularly Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), to unlock the country's full potential. The speakers elaborated on potential strategies which could be adopted to reduce compliance burden for investor fraternity and simplify the business processes for obtaining requisite clearances and approvals by investors. Drawing from its extensive experience, KPMG shared success stories from other similar economies and drew parallels to offer indicative actionable recommendations for Nepal. Nepal is on the cusp of transformation, and the workshop concluded with a commitment to enhance the country’s investment climate through legal, procedural, and regulatory reforms.

To foster economic expansion and enhance investment potential in Nepal, a comprehensive strategy should focus on strengthening the policy environment, infrastructure development, regulatory reforms, ensuring ease of doing business, and targeted sector-specific investment promotion. Strengthening key sectors like tourism, technology, renewable energy, green hydrogen, and manufacturing can also play a pivotal role in attracting investors and fostering sustainable economic growth. Additionally, building a business-friendly environment, easing process friction, and encouraging innovation will further contribute to creating an attractive investment climate in Nepal.

There are several areas where India could increase investment in Nepal, particularly in areas of synergies and leveraging learnings from each other in ease of doing business (EODB), managing large programs, and infrastructural development through public-private partnerships (PPPs). By fostering collaboration in key sectors such as renewable energy, green hydrogen, manufacturing, digital public infrastructure, technology centers, agriculture, and tourism infrastructure, services, both nations could drive mutual growth and development. Several factors could contribute to the gap between promised investments and actual outcomes. Identifying and addressing these issues, improving transparency, and ensuring a stable investment climate could help bridge this gap.

The author is CEO of KPMG, India 

A senior United Kingdom official has said that Nepal has high potential of attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) in some distinct areas if some key issues related to tax and investment safety are duly addressed. Harjider Kang, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for South Asia who was in Nepal to participate in the Third Investment Summit, said he came to Nepal to see and explore the potentials Nepal has in the areas of investment.

Speaking with a select-group of journalists, he said that the two countries are discussing signing a Double Tax Avoidance Agreement in order to attract British investors in Nepal. To this end, he had held discussions with high-level government officials and the governor of Nepal Rastra Bank. 

Kang told journalists that Nepal and the UK are very close in achieving such an agreement. As Nepal already has such agreements with India, Bangladesh and other countries, Nepal can make similar agreements with the UK as well.  According to him, assuring the international investors about the safety of their investment is obviously one of the major issues that the Nepal government should look after to attract FDI.

Investors want to be ensured that their investment is safe, there would not be changes in the laws related to tax and there would not be nationalization of companies, he said. If those issues are looked at, he said, UK companies want to come to Nepal. He further added that their messages have been well understood by the Nepal side and issues will be dealt once two sides back to the negotiation table.

According to him, tourism is one of Nepal's core areas which has the high-potential of attracting foreign investment. It is a distinct area so Nepal should tap this opportunity, he said. Other possible areas, according to him, are Information Technology, financial and pharmaceutical areas.  

Finance Minister Barshaman Pun has said the Third Nepal Investment Summit-2024 has been a grand success.

The minister said this in his address to a sideline meeting with representatives from the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, International Monetary Fund, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and ambassadors of various countries to Nepal held earlier today under the Summit.

He said the government has been encouraged by the enthusiastic participation of development partners in the meeting and such participation made the Summit a grand success.  "The presence in the meeting is a testament to suggest that Nepal is one of the suitable and emerging destinations in the world for investment."

Pledging to further strengthen the cooperation with the development partners in the days ahead, he said the event sent a message to the world that Nepal is united in terms of efforts to build an atmosphere conducive to investment.

He said that the political presence, remarks, and commitments including from the major opposition leaders contributed to establishing the fact that Nepal presents ample investment opportunities. He thanked the development partners for their remarkable presence and commitments expressed during the Summit, contributing to making it successful.

He also expressed his happiness over the good attraction of development partners and investors towards the projects presented during the Summit.

He took time to say that the amendment of nine laws through an ordinance on the eve of the Summit to build an investment-friendly atmosphere has enhanced the level of confidence among investors. According to him, the process of Sovereign Credit Rating, one of the concerns of development partners, has been initiated.

The minister states that there are abundant opportunities for Nepal's energy, tourism, information technology, agriculture, and infrastructure sectors.

As Nepal is progressing towards graduation to a middle-income developing country from the category of the least developed country and in this context, other capacity enhancements are the priorities of the government.

He said that Nepal situated in between two emerging nations: China and India suggest a great opportunity for domestic and foreign investment.

Minister Pun further said that Nepal's biological diversities and the abundant availability of natural resources make it a suitable zone for investment.  He pledged further policy and legal reforms and procedural simplification for investment in the days to come.

The finance minister utilized the forum to say that social justice, good governance, and prosperity are the priorities of the CPN (Maoist Centre)-led government, and the budget for an upcoming fiscal year will address these matters with much priority.

The 17th Nepal-China (Tibet) Economic and Trade Fair is going to be held in Kathmandu on April 29.

The trade fair is held every two years in one another country as per the agreement reached between the government of Nepal and the commerce department of the Tibet Autonomous Region of China in 1990.

According to the Trade and Export Promotion Center, the main objective of the fair is to further expand the bilateral economic and trade relations between Nepal and China (Tibet).

Around 125 businesspersons including a five-member high-level delegation will participate in the fair.  The official delegation will be led by the Vice Chair of the Tibet Autonomous Region Government of China, Long Fukuan.

There will be 50 exhibition stalls on behalf of China (Tibet) in the fair, including herbs, agricultural products, modern agricultural tools, tea, electrical appliances, household appliances, carpets, beverages, handicrafts, incense, two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, electric vehicles and beauty products.

Likewise, there will be 15 exhibition stalls on behalf of Nepal, including herbs, coffee, tea, handicrafts/carpentry, metalwork, carpet, pashmina and other products.

The fair will be open from 10 am to 6 pm and entry is free.

Over the span of four decades, community forests (CF) in Nepal have emerged as transformative forces, profoundly impacting the lives of forest-dependent communities. Renowned globally for their prowess in carbon sequestration, regeneration, and localized environmental protection, these initiatives have undeniably flourished. However, amidst this acclaim looms a critical inquiry: do they genuinely amplify the voices of the marginalized?

Despite their laudable achievements, the landscape of gender equality, disability rights, and social inclusion remains shrouded in ambiguity and skepticism. By definition, socially excluded groups (SEG) encompass a spectrum ranging from women and Dalits to Adivasi Janajatis, Madhesi, Muslims, and people with disabilities, along with those from geographically remote locales. While many project interventions claim to incorporate the perspectives of these segments, the reality often falls short. In particular, individuals with disabilities find themselves relegated to token representation, existing merely to fulfill bureaucratic checkboxes. Despite their numerical significance (2.2 percent of the total country population), their voices are frequently sidelined, ignored, or dismissed when it comes to crucial decision-making processes dominated by the elite. Are they truly empowered to wield their rights and privileges to the fullest extent?

Although various quotas and reservation systems ostensibly aim to uplift these communities, their tangible impact within the realm of community forestry remains wanting. Their limited involvement and exposure underscore their status as the most marginalized within CF initiatives, facing discrimination long before access to even the most basic resources. Amidst this landscape of inequity and partiality, the story of Bishnu Lamsal from Sundari CF representing the people with disabilities community, nestled in the heart of Nawalpur, stands as a beacon of possibility. Her journey exemplifies how empowering disabled communities within CF initiatives can yield profound transformations.

Bishnu Lamsal epitomizes empowerment as a differently-abled woman catalyzing change within her community in Sundari Community Forest. Reflecting on her journey, she recalls a stark dichotomy between her early life and her transformative role today. Initially confined within her home not by familial restrictions but societal prejudices, she was perceived as incompetent. However, within Sundari CF, she flourishes, holding multiple pivotal roles including representing the Community Forest User group and serving as Secretary of the saving and cooperatives and Manager of Namaste Women Saving and Cooperatives.

In recounting her socialization process, Lamsal speaks of a profound evolution over the past decade. She traversed from a life devoid of social interactions to becoming a confident and expressive activist. Sundari CF became her gateway to understanding social dynamics, fostering networks, and embracing her identity within society. The transformation is palpable—from being disregarded and confined to limited mobility between home and college, to now being an integral part of the community. Through Sundari CF, she found a platform where her voice is heard, her contributions respected, and her identity redefined. Lamsal’s journey signifies not only personal growth but also the power of inclusive initiatives in redefining societal perceptions and creating meaningful change.

Recalling her journey to becoming a part of Sundari CF as a disabled woman, Lamsal vividly remembers the discrimination that marked her early years, confining her social interactions. Despite these challenges, she was fortunate to have supportive family members who encouraged her to pursue higher education before focusing on her career. Refusing to settle for a job without obtaining her master’s degree, Lamsal visited Sundari CF to receive Baisakhi, an aid provided to disabled individuals as part of the CF’s annual program. During her visit, she noticed a vacancy targeted towards individuals willing to work in the disability sector. However, the eligibility criteria, which included being a high school graduate, female, and proficient in cycling, struck a chord within her. Lamsal found this requirement insensitive, recognizing that not all disabled individuals would possess the ability to ride a bicycle. Determined to challenge this notion, she decided to apply for the position despite feeling unprepared mentally. Her decision stemmed from a desire to prove that disability does not equate to weakness and to advocate for the capabilities of differently-abled individuals. Lamsal emphasizes the importance of inclusive employment practices, highlighting the detrimental impact of insensitive job requirements on marginalized communities already facing limited opportunities.

Lamsal has dedicated a decade to leading the Namaste Women Saving and Cooperatives within Sundari CF. Inspired by a peace campaigner training under the Hariyo Ban Program, over 100 women committed to economic independence and societal impact, leading to the formation of the cooperative. Timber is provided to marginalized women at discounted rates after thorough investigation, ensuring genuine need. Lamsal’s role extends to overseeing Triphala enterprises, managing operations from collection to marketing, and facilitating wage payments. She actively engages with NGOs, INGOs, and local governments to address issues facing the disabled community, advocating for their rights and seeking services. Through her multifaceted involvement, Bishnu strives to empower marginalized women and enhance inclusivity within Sundari CF.

Lamsal praises Sundari CF for its exceptionally inclusive environment, especially for individuals with disabilities. She attests to the ease of working within the CF, noting its progressive policies and programs catering to disabled people. Sundari CF has established a Disability Rehabilitation Committee and Subcommittee to oversee various initiatives, including the distribution of prosthetic limbs, advocacy programs, and commemoration of International Disabilities Day. Disabled individuals receive support through the CFUG fund, further emphasizing the organization's commitment to their welfare.

Sundari CF’s inclusive approach has garnered significant recognition, including the prestigious Ganesh Man Singh Award, thanks to its focus on disability issues. This recognition has extended internationally, with CF members invited to share their expertise in countries like Brazil. Despite Sundari CF’s success, Bishnu observes that other CFs often overlook the perspectives and preferences of disabled people. She advocates for greater inclusion of disabled individuals in CF committees nationwide, stressing the importance of recognizing their capabilities and providing suitable opportunities, such as desk-based work.

Moreover, Lamsal emphasizes the need to avoid underestimating the abilities of disabled individuals, acknowledging that they may excel in different ways, such as administrative tasks. She suggests that CFs should adapt their expectations and recognize the diverse skills disabled people bring to the table. Sundari CF serves as a model for empowering disabled communities through its inclusive practices, demonstrating that with the right support and environment, disabled individuals can achieve remarkable milestones. Lamsal’s advocacy underscores the importance of inclusivity within CF initiatives, not only for the benefit of disabled individuals but also for the broader community’s welfare and progress.

Experts and environmentalists critique Community Forest (CF) policies for marginalizing vulnerable segments like the poor, women, and especially people with disabilities, intensifying their exclusion from rights and responsibilities. While legal frameworks have shifted from Gender Equity and Social Exclusion (GESI) to Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI), practical implementation lags, notably within CF initiatives. To foster inclusivity, it’s imperative to identify and address the root causes of exclusion, develop tailored strategies, and rigorously monitor their effectiveness. CF areas should prioritize disabled-friendly infrastructure, including restrooms and seating, while offering support aids. 

By recognizing the diversity within the disabled community and drawing inspiration from individuals like Lamsal, CFs in Nepal can emerge as catalysts for empowering disabled communities. Lamsal’s journey exemplifies how disability can be a source of strength, driving social transformation. Thus, CFs have the potential to lead the charge in creating a more inclusive and empowering environment for people with disabilities.

The presumption of innocence is the greatest shield ever to have been provided to an accused in criminal lawsuits. It is a vital aspect of the criminal legal system around the world. It states that every accused is ‘innocent’ until proven guilty and the burden to prove their guilt lies with the prosecution i.e., the State. Whenever a person is arrested by the government for their alleged involvement in a crime, the government must collect all evidence to prove that person’s guilt in an independent, impartial, and competent court, beyond reasonable doubt. Until that happens, the arrested individual cannot be deemed to be a ‘criminal.’

The right to be treated as innocent until proven guilty is a fundamental constitutional right and it is protected in Article 20(5) of the Constitution. Similarly, Section 12 of the National Penal Code (Act), 2017 perpetuates the presumption of innocence in criminal lawsuits. 

This legal notion has become the standard of the ‘civilized’ legal system and it has enabled States to perpetuate their obligations to protect, promote and fulfill human rights of their citizens. The US case Coffin v. United States (1895) posited that the notion of presumption of innocence lied at the foundation of the administration of criminal law. Similarly, the case of Rabindra Bhattarai v His Majesty’s Government of Nepal, Nepal Law Magazine 2055 (BS), Decision Number 6622 meticulously iterated the essence of this presumption and held that no person shall be deemed as a criminal merely based on an accusation. Thus, it is undoubtedly an elementary legal principle that helps to protect a civilian’s freedoms. 

What would happen if an accused were deemed guilty until proven innocent? The accused would have to collect evidence of their innocence with limited resources available to them. On the other hand, the court would be ready to convict them merely based on accusations. Therefore, it would be unscientific and contrary to people’s human and legal rights. 

How should an accused be treated? Theoretically, they must be granted the same respect as that of unaccused individuals. Their fundamental rights must be protected by the State, and no person shall slander them or label them as ‘criminal’ until the court finds their guilt. But does society view such a person accordingly, with no biases at all? Does it comprehend easily that such a person is still a respected citizen and deserves no eccentric remarks until the court decides?

One of the best ways to assess the social psychology of Nepali society is to skim through various social media and observe the comments and remarks people express in various criminal matters. We can fairly observe that most people are quick to judge the accused and label them as ‘criminals’ based on rumors and whims influenced by news headlines and incomplete details from case files. It is as if an individual instantly becomes a criminal the moment they are accused of committing a crime. But does it happen if the accused is rich, influential, and admired by many?

The answer is generally ‘no’ and a recent example is how people (on social media) not only declared Sandeep Lamichhane (former captain of the Nepali cricket team) as innocent on a rape charge but also slandered the victim and perpetuated how ‘baseless’ the lawsuit was. To say that the entire nation was shocked would be an understatement. When he was released on bail in Jan 2023, a mass of people rushed to him to “celebrate” his release and many women were seen chanting his name as he left the court premises. What image of Nepali society does this “influence” paint? Why were people chanting his name knowing that the victim of rape was allegedly a minor? Why did they not think the cantillation of his name would directly attack the victim’s status and shake her belief in society and the justice system?

One of the answers to this is rape myth acceptance. RMA refers to acceptance of prejudicial, stereotyped, and distorted beliefs about rape, rape victims and rapists. These are the false attitudes and beliefs about the crime, yet widely held to serve and even justify male sexual aggression especially against women. When news of rape is broadcast, people in the first instance ask questions like “Why was the woman with the man?”; “Was she wearing revealing clothes?”; “Was she provocative?”; “Why did she not come for help sooner?”; “Why would a successful man risk his life and career?”

This attitude is not only prevalent in Nepal but also in countries all over the world. Due to RMA, many women tend to blame themselves and not bring the matter to light, let alone seek legal remedy. Patricia A. Resick in her journal article “The Psychological Impact of Rape” enumerated a wide range of problems faced by women such as fear, anxiety, PTSD, depression, sexual dysfunctions, issues with self-esteem, declined social adjustment and more. Yet many people in Nepali social media, in many instances, are quick to assassinate victims’ character. 

What could be the general ways to “fix” this attitude? Nepali society must understand that every accused has their fundamental rights intact until they are proven guilty by the court. Their rights to live with dignity, to freedom, to privacy, to health, to food, to housing and such, shall be respected. At the same time, if the accused is an influential personality, he or she shall not be celebrated or given a clean chit by the public. The people should let the law do its work and refrain from lionizing such individuals. They must think about the victim who is claiming that they were subjected to abhorrent injustice. 

To alleviate this attitude, the quickest short-term measure is to strengthen laws legislated to protect women. Courts play a crucial role in establishing and nourishing robust criminal jurisprudence in favor of women’s security and clarifying the idea of sexual consent. The more pragmatic the definition and boundaries of sexual crimes, the better social and legal understanding of sex crimes. This is also where strict monitoring of social media behavior comes into place. Nepal requires an upgrade in cyber laws to prevent online sexual misconducts. 

The best long-term measure would be to educate children from early ages to protect themselves, to call out for help in need, and to teach them the idea of consent. It would be beneficial if every workplace had a periodic mandatory anti-sexual harassment training to educate employees about respect and positive behavior. As time goes on, people must be cognizant about condemning lewd remarks on women through jokes, songs, and stereotypical narratives. If we could only adopt half of these measures, our society will be a safer place for women and girls. We could prevent numerous sex offenses and maintain a victim-centric attitude to make victims believe in social restoration. 

The author is student of BA LLB at Kathmandu School of Law

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

Until a few years ago, winter days in major cities across Nepal, including the Kathmandu Valley, were characterized by hazardous air quality, posing significant health risks to the public.

On January 4, 2021, the Department of Environment issued an alert to the public regarding the perilous air quality in Kathmandu Valley and other major cities, urging them to take preventive measures when outdoors.

Now, here is good news for us: air quality has relatively enhanced in recent years. According to Deepak Gyawali, the Department's information officer, although air pollution significantly increased in 2021, it has been gradually decreasing since then.

Major contributors to air pollution include carbon emissions from motor vehicles, dust particles released during road repair and construction and other construction works, emissions from industries and brick kilns, poor waste management practices, and forest fires.

Similarly, using firewood as a cooking fuel in rural areas contributes significantly to indoor air pollution. Moreover, increasing development activities in India and the burning of agricultural residues near the border towns and settlements exacerbate air pollution issues in Nepal.

According to Gyawali, the occurrence of rains and wind during peak pollution seasons, as well as the dry season, significantly contributes to mitigating air pollution.

Furthermore, the decrease in infrastructure development activities following an economic slowdown is speculated to have contributed to the improvement in air quality, although this hypothesis requires further study for confirmation.

Similarly, the use of electric vehicles and electric cookstoves has increased. The brick factories, which are one of the sources of air pollution, have also installed new technology. On the other hand, only around 50 percent of these factories are operating due to the economic slump.

Shankar Bahadur Chand, President of Nepal Brick Factory Federation, said the market for brick has reduced by 80 percent at present. "Only 40-50 percent of all the brick kilns are in operation these days, and that also not in their full capacity. Out of the 1,100 brick factories across the country, only about 500 are in operation at present," he said. He further added that it is difficult to re-operate a brick factory once it is closed down.

Kathmandu's air quality below standard

However, the air quality in some big cities, including in Kathmandu, is lower than the WHO standard.

The air quality from 0-50 in the Air Quality Index (AQI) is considered good for health. AQI 50-100 is considered average while AQI above this indicates an unhealthy atmosphere.

The AQI in Kathmandu today (Thursday) is 160 on average. Therefore, experts have pointed out that a lot of work has to be done to improve the quality of air in Kathmandu Valley.

The possibility of air pollution resulting from wildfires is always there in Nepal. Dust particles and the smoke, carbon, chemicals and various gasses emitted from factories and industries and incidences of fires are mixed in the air due to heightened pollution.

Toxic gasses like sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide that are produced when burning fossil fuels damage human health as well as contribute to the global temperature rise.

The government has established Air Quality Monitoring Stations at 27 different places in the country to measure the air quality. Preparation was underway to set up air quality monitoring stations at three more places in the current fiscal year. Air becomes most polluted between 7:00 am-8:00 am. 

Program Director of Environment and Public Health Organization (ENPHO), Rajendra Shrestha, said opinions regarding improvement in air quality should be verified.

Accepting that sources of air pollution have decreased and people have become aware, he shared, "Air pollution might have decreased due to reduction in factories, increase in use of electric vehicles and stoves, decrease in development construction activities, operation of brick kilns and road upgrading."

Three major reasons behind the death of the people in Nepal are disease related to heart, liver and brain hemorrhage. These three types of disease also have a connection with air pollution. Cases of diseases mainly related with respiratory problems are found to have increased due to air pollution.

As per the World Health Organization, around seven million people in the world die untimely every year due to air pollution. It is said that around 40,000 people lose their lives in Nepal every year from it. 

Air pollution has been making negative impacts on the overall environment not only on human beings. Therefore, partnership was necessary among all stakeholders to control air pollution.

The World Bank (WB) has said that Nepal’s economy is expected to grow by 3.3% in FY24, driven by revived tourism and a pickup in hydropower exports.

On the demand side, private consumption will drive growth, supported by a substantial increase in remittance inflows, according to the World Bank’s twice-a-year country development update.

In its latest Nepal Development Update, the WB stated that the country's economy is on a recovery path, but private investment remains low while projecting a further rebound in growth of 4.6% in FY25.

However, the forecast is subject to multiple risks, including a growth slowdown in partner countries, notably India, Gulf countries, and Malaysia which could lead to a drop in remittances and tourism. Further business environment reforms aimed at attracting more private investment will be needed to support medium-term growth.

“Strengthening the implementation of capital expenditure, boosting business confidence, and strengthening Nepal's international competitiveness are key to stimulating economic growth and reducing poverty,” said Faris Hadad-Zervos, World Bank Country Director for Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

The Nepal Development Update is prepared in parallel with the South Asia Development Update, a twice-a-year World Bank report that examines economic developments and prospects in the South Asia region and analyzes policy challenges countries face. The April 2024 edition titled Jobs for Resilience shows growth in South Asia is again higher than any other emerging markets and developing country region in the world, projected at 6% in 2024 and 6.1% in 2025. But this strong outlook is deceptive, says the report. For most countries, growth is still below pre-pandemic levels and is reliant on public spending. At the same time, private investment growth has slowed sharply in all South Asian countries, and the region is not creating enough jobs to keep pace with its rapidly increasing working-age population.

“South Asia is failing right now to fully capitalize on its demographic dividend. This is a missed opportunity,” said Franziska Ohnsorge, World Bank Chief Economist for South Asia. “If the region employed as large a share of the working-age population as other emerging markets and developing economies, its output could be 16% higher.”

The South Asia Development Update recommends a range of policies to spur firm growth and boost employment, including increasing trade openness, improving business climates and institutions, removing financial sector restrictions, improving education, and strengthening legal protection of women’s rights. And these measures would also help lift employment growth and boost productivity, and free up space for public investments in climate adaptation.

In the hushed gymnasiums of Massachusetts in 1895, amidst the echoes of bouncing balls and reverberating laughter, a new sport emerged—volleyball. Crafted by the ingenious mind of William G Morgan, initially dubbed ‘mintonette’, this game of finesse and camaraderie quickly found its niche within the esteemed circles of the YMCA. From its modest beginnings, volleyball's influence swelled like a tidal wave, washing across the United States and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on the global sporting landscape. As the 20th century unfurled its wings, volleyball's ascent was nothing short of meteoric. Its allure transcended borders, capturing the imaginations of athletes and enthusiasts alike. Across the vast expanse of Asia, the sport’s radiance burned brightest, illuminating events such as the illustrious Far-Eastern Games of 1913. With each passing milestone, from the inception of the Federation Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) in 1947 to the inaugural men's and women's World Championships in 1949 and 1952, volleyball solidified its position as a premier athletic pursuit on the world stage.

Yet, nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Himalayas, another chapter in volleyball’s saga unfolded—in the storied land of Nepal. Here, the sport’s history traces back to the dawn of the 20th century, as Nepalis serving in the British Army introduced volleyball to the rugged terrain around 1933/4. However, it wasn’t until the tides of political change swept through the nation in the 1990s, with the dissolution of the Panchayat system, that substantive progress was witnessed. Amidst the shifting sands of Nepal’s socio-political landscape, the seeds of volleyball found fertile ground. The establishment of the Nepal Volleyball Association in the late 1940s signaled the dawn of organized efforts to institutionalize the sport. Though evidence of active participation during this nascent period remains scarce, a groundswell of advocacy, spearheaded by the National Sports Council (NSC), surged forth. Volleyball soon became intertwined with the fabric of Nepali society, with its popularity burgeoning beyond the confines of Kathmandu.

In the aftermath of World War II, the echoes of volleyball’s splendor resonated across Nepal, as sporadic matches sprung up among police and army ranks, laying the foundation for its burgeoning popularity. The NSC’s visionary initiative to distribute equipment across districts from 1969 catalyzed grassroots development, while Tribhuvan University’s 1970 inter-college competition served as the crucible for formalized tournaments. The year 1974 marked a turning point in Nepal’s volleyball odyssey with the establishment of the National Volleyball Association under the stewardship of Anoop Shamsher Jung Bahadur Rana. As the nation tentatively dipped its toes into the waters of international competition in 1976, a new chapter in Nepal’s sporting history was etched, despite the modest tally of one gold, one silver, and four bronze medals.

Today, as volleyball courts dot the landscape of Nepal’s 77 districts, the sport’s enigmatic origins stand as a testament to its enduring legacy in the heart of the Himalayas. From the hallowed halls of Massachusetts to the majestic peaks of Nepal, volleyball’s journey is a tapestry woven with the threads of passion, perseverance, and the unyielding spirit of camaraderie.

In May 2017, Nepal made a historic decision by designating volleyball as its national sport, a move that reverberated throughout the nation’s sporting landscape. This decision wasn’t just symbolic; it was a catalyst for transformative change, reshaping the way Nepalis perceive and engage with sports. Volleyball, with its adaptable nature, swiftly asserted itself as a prominent fixture, particularly in the rugged terrains of the western and far-western regions, where it found a natural habitat amidst the challenging topography.

Unlike sports like football or cricket, which demand vast expanses of open space, volleyball thrives in compact areas, making it accessible even in regions with limited sporting infrastructure. This accessibility has fostered widespread participation, serving as a conduit for social interaction and community bonding. It’s not just a game; it’s a unifying force that bridges geographical divides and fosters a sense of belonging among diverse populations. The cultural fabric of Nepal intricately intertwines with its vibrant volleyball scene. Festivals serve as vibrant backdrops for volleyball tournaments, blending athleticism with cultural festivities, thereby enriching both. Events coinciding with revered celebrations such as Dashain and Tihar not only showcase sporting prowess but also reinforce cherished traditions and values, uniting people beyond the boundaries of caste and creed. Additionally, tournaments held in memory of departed souls offer solace to grieving families while nurturing a sense of collective remembrance and spiritual connection.

Beyond its social and cultural significance, volleyball plays a pivotal role in Nepal’s economic landscape. Supported by sponsorship from both local entrepreneurs and Nepali diaspora, volleyball tournaments serve as lucrative ventures, driving revenue and employment opportunities. These events not only bolster local economies but also provide a platform for businesses to enhance their visibility and invest in grassroots sports development. Furthermore, initiatives aimed at promoting corporate social responsibility, such as the provision of sports equipment to schools and clubs, contribute to the overall well-being of communities, fostering a healthier and more active youth populace.

The allure of volleyball extends beyond the realm of mere competition; it embodies resilience, inclusivity, and a sense of communal spirit. As Nepal continues to embrace its national sport, the synergy between geography, society, and economy will propel the nation towards greater sporting prowess and cultural enrichment. In the towering peaks of the Himalayas, volleyball stands not just as a sport but as a potent symbol of Nepali resilience and unity, echoing the spirit of a nation determined to reach new heights, both on and off the court.

In closing, while Nepali volleyball may face formidable challenges on its journey towards excellence, the spirit of determination and resilience ingrained in the nation’s DNA will undoubtedly propel the sport forward. By embracing innovation, fostering inclusivity, and investing in infrastructure and talent development, Nepal can carve out a unique identity on the global volleyball stage. As the fervor for the game continues to ignite passion and unity across communities, the future of Nepali volleyball shines brightly, promising to inspire generations to come and solidify its place as a symbol of national pride and sporting prowess.

With the increasing internet penetration, access to smartphones and usage of new media, digital contents too have proliferated. In Nepal as well the social media platforms have established their presence and content creators representing an array of interests and expertise are creating and sharing their digital content, one of them being podcasts.

Although there are a plethora of podcasts being broadcast in Nepal, most of them are targeted to local audiences, covering local people and issues. None of these podcasts have attempted to rise in the global space bringing global thought leaders in their programs. One exception,however, is ‘Ink & Insights with Sumit Sharma Sameer’ that hosts interaction with global thought leaders as well as Nepali entrepreneurs and ambassadors from various sectors in Nepal.

The podcast is unique in the sense that it aims to elevate Nepali podcasts at the global stage as a credible space for interaction and deliberations inviting global celebrities and leaders in the program. It is also elevating Nepal’s image and connecting Nepal’s entrepreneurs and experts from diverse fields, such as business, cinema, art, literature, to the global audience.

As per the host, Sumit Sharma Sameer, the podcast publishes conversations weekly. The podcast has covered conversations with renowned speakers like globally renowned Pulitzer-prize winning author, Kai Bird; advisor to the current PM of India Narendra Modi, Sanjeev Sanyal; globally renowned philosopher, Peter Adamson; Nobel Laureate Sir Richard J. Roberts. The last episode of the podcast featured Canadian economist Jack Mintz where Mintz shared his ideas about Canada's economic policy, global economy, government intervention in shaping the economy during crisis, globalization and its impact etc.

Podcast with Nobel Laureate Sir Richard J. Roberts was equally insightful and to listen from Nepal with the host being Nepali is definitely a great feeling. In the interaction, host Sameer conversed on issues like human relationship with bacteria, experiences of winning the Nobel Prize, Sir Robert’s research approach, misconceptions about medicine, global challenges and the future of molecular biology.

Podcaster Sumit Sharma Sameer is an award-winning author. He is the recipient of KLF Book Award 2022 for his debut fiction, ‘Wake Up Ali…Wake Up Now’. He is a political analyst and commentator of Nepali and South Asian politics. He is a graduate of the London School of Economics and Political Science, UK and the Queen’s University, Canada.

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has said it accords top priority to Nepal.

A visiting high-level delegation from the AIIB said this during a meeting with Finance Minister Barshaman Pun, according to the Minister's Secretariat.

On the occasion, Finance Minister Pun urged the AIIB for scaling up its investment in Nepal's infrastructure development and other projects.

In reply, AIIB Director RMP Rathnayake, who leads the delegation, praised Nepal's endeavors for investment policy reforms and for their enhancement. He pledged to adopt a policy of increasing investment in Nepal in the days to come on the basis of the availability of resources. 

The Minister also urged the AIIB for a partnership with Nepal's private sector as per its policy of mobilizing its 50 percent capital in partnership with the private sector. In response, the delegation chief suggested the possibility for collaboration with Nepal's private sector by selecting multi-year projects. 

On the occasion, the finance minister invited the AIIB to the Third National Investment Summit that Nepal is scheduled to host on April 28-29. Director Rathnayake said a high-level participation will be there from the AIIB in the Summit.

The minister utilized the forum to call on the AIIB for ensuring provisions to provide a concessional loan to Nepal and middle-income developing countries. He shared to the delegation that Nepal has been deprived of leveraging on expected benefits from the AIIB due to its relatively high interests’ rates. "Despite being the AIIB founding member, Nepal has failed to take expected benefits from its investments due to a high interest rate," he said.

Stating that multiple projects of infrastructure development are to be carried out in Nepal, he insisted on the concessions on AIIB borrowings to Nepal. He said that the government accords top priority to the infrastructure development and it is required to source out the funds due to its limited internal resources.

The minister advised the AIIB to invest in Nepal's infrastructure development, hydroelectricity, tourism and information technology sectors, and the areas of relative benefits.

He apprised the delegation that an agreement has been reached to supply 10,000 megawatts of electricity and added that there is no market issue for power to be generated in Nepal. Likewise, as per the power trade agreement between Nepal and Bangladesh, Nepal will be soon exporting 40 megawatts of electricity to Bangladesh.

Sharing about Nepal's process to graduate from the least developed country to a developing country by 2026, the Minister sought diversifications of AIIB investment in Nepal.

Similarly, stating about Nepal's plan to mobilize the climate change finance in Nepal's development projects, he also urged for the AIIB support towards that end.

The AIIB has invested USD 40 million in the under-construction 216-MW Upper Trishuli-1 hydroelectricity project. It has investments in some under-construction transmission lines in Lumbini and Karnali Provinces.

The present political scenario of Nepal is very much challenging and unpredictable. Nepali Congress (NC) was dethroned from the government in a very dramatic and unanticipated move as per the design of KP Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal. Naturally, NC is in a highly ferocious and revenge-taking mood and hence watching and waiting for the opportune moment to retaliate while CPN-UML chair Oli and the party is in a very happy and victorious mood. They think they have won a very difficult war. Madhav Kumar Nepal and his party, though a part of the government, are confused—they don’t know whether joining the government was a right decision. 

Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is happy and satisfied after getting important berths and good representation in the government. Madhes-based parties are divided and they are fighting among themselves as enemies and not just as competitors. Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) seems deeply annoyed and indignant for her isolation in the whole making and breaking process. Some power centers are very much happy while some are extremely sad. People are eagerly waiting for good governance, service delivery, job and political stability.

The question now is how the situation moves ahead? RPP and some Hinduvadi (pro-Hindu) forces are talking about street protests and have announced some slogans and programs for this purpose after submitting a memorandum consisting of their demands to the prime minister. In my opinion, they will try their level best to cash in on the situation and destabilize the whole scenario to create an atmosphere for effecting changes in the Constitution. For this purpose, they are likely to continue with their efforts to garner the sympathy and support of all those forces who are against the present government and coalition. Some power centers may extend their support to those who are not happy with the present coalition.

Now the question is what will be the tactics and strategy of NC? Will the party extend any kind of sympathy or support directly or indirectly to the street protestors? As a true parliamentary democrat, will it instead play the role of a strong and constructive opposition inside and outside the parliament? Presently, the party is blocking the House session and demanding the resignation of the Home Minister accusing him of involvement in a Cooperative Scam. The House is tense and anything can happen.

Madhav Nepal’s party is also not in order and seems to have a high degree of dissatisfaction and grudges inside. Nobody can predict what will happen at that party. There are two distinct political trends in that party. One trend is for left unity and the other for left and democratic unity. Madhav Nepal is suffering from the policy of indecisiveness and confusion.

Hence the present coalition seems very fragile. Hostilities between the present coalition and the main opposition party, Nepali Congress, is increasing and there is a risk that competition between the two may transform into enmity. If such a political situation arises, it may injure and damage the democratic course. It may weaken or retard the constitutional process and ultimately encourage and strengthen the revivalist forces.

Confrontation or long indecisiveness will create political instability and hence chaos and uncertainty in the country. It is not good for a smooth political and economic development of the country. 

Nepal needs political stability and people need good governance, service delivery, jobs and social peace.

The present government should focus on people’s daily life and their needs as well as their aspiration of a corruption-free country and a job-creating economy. If the government cannot deliver and bring stability and win hearts and minds, it does not have political or moral rights to govern. And the duty of the opposition in parliamentary democracy is to raise the plight and hardships of the common people in the parliament, focus on national issues and stand for political stability and economic development of the country.

In my opinion, the present political and economic situation of the country is very challenging, which should be the agenda of all political forces despite their different political places. Some political forces are challenging and questioning the federal democratic republican and secular fabric of the Constitution. So, there should be some level of understanding among the pro-Constitution forces.

The national economy is in poor shape. Capital expenditure is not increasing, public revenue is not satisfactory, mass-migration of young people is ongoing, market is suffering from depression, business activities are slowing down, jobs are hard to find, industrial activities are declining, people’s purchasing power is decreasing, there is crisis in the farm sector and the economy is mainly dependent on remittances and loans. Such a scenario may cause a Sri Lanka-type crisis anytime. Hence for political stability, for the protection of the Constitution and for overcoming the economic crisis, major political forces of the country should reach a political understanding and consensus.

Views are personal