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The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu gifted 35 ambulances and 66 school buses to various organizations, spread across different districts of Nepal, and working in the field of health and education respectively on Sunday.

Indian Ambassador to Nepal Shri Naveen Srivastava handed over the keys of vehicles in the presence of Finance Minister Barsha Man Pun.

Mayors and chairpersons of municipalities and rural municipalities of various districts as well as representatives of various beneficiary organizations, political representatives, officials of the Government of Nepal, and social workers were also present at the event, reads a statement issued by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu today.

The representatives of the Embassy handed over the two out of the total 101 vehicles gifted today to the earthquake-affected Jajarkot and West Rukum districts.

The Government of India has been giving ambulances and school buses on the occasion of the Independence Day and the Republic Day of India for 3 decades to various beneficiary organizations in different parts of Nepal, giving high priority to Nepal's health and education sectors.

On the occasion, the Ambassador stated that this has been one of the long-standing initiatives of the Government of India under the Nepal-India Development Partnership to bolster the efforts of the Government of Nepal to strengthen its infrastructure in health and education sectors.

Ambassador further highlighted that this is a part of the robust and strong development partnership between India and Nepal and has a geographical spread throughout Nepal, touching people's lives and bringing out tangible progress in the development journey of Nepal, according to the statement.

 Finance Minister Pun, during the program, appreciated Government of India’s various ongoing developmental projects in Nepal and expressed that these will continue to strengthen people-to-people connectivity and bilateral relations between the two countries.  He emphasized that this flagship program is very beneficial for the people of Nepal.  

Since 1994, the Government of India has gifted 1,009 ambulances and 300 school buses across Nepal, including those gifted today. It is part of Government of India’s continued support for the efforts of Nepal to strengthen its health and education facilities and to facilitate easy physical access to these services.

The Jhulaghat border crossing point with India will be closed from Tuesday.

The border transit point is going to be closed in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in India, said Chief District Officer of Baitadi, Bhimkant Sharma.

Parliamentary elections are going to be held in the neighboring Uttarakhand state of India on April 19.

In view of the election, the Jhulaghat checkpoint will be closed from 7 pm on April 16 to 7 pm on April 19.

The transit point is being closed due to security concerns. However, it can be opened for emergency reasons based on mutual agreement, it is stated.

The school and hostel buildings of Shree Sharada Secondary School in Rawa Besi Rural Municipality, Khotang, built with Government of India’s financial assistance of Rs 36.10 million under ‘Nepal-India Development Cooperation’ was inaugurated on Thursday.

The buildings were jointly inaugurated by San Bahadur Rai, Chief, District Coordination Committee, Phatik Kumar Shrestha, Chairman, Rawa Besi Rural Municipality, Khotang and Shri Suman Shekhar, First Secretary, Embassy of India, Kathmandu, reads a statement issued by the Embassy of India.

Public representatives, government officials, social workers, representatives of the school management, teachers, parents and students were also present on the occasion.

The Government of India grant under ‘Nepal-India Development Cooperation’ was utilized for the construction of a double storied school building, hostel building and procurement of furniture for both buildings. 

This project was implemented through the District Coordination Committee, Khotang.

The project was taken up as a High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP), earlier known as Small Development Projects, under an agreement between the Government of India and the Government of Nepal.

Shree Sharada Secondary School was established in 1952. The school is providing education from Class 1 to 10+2 level. There are over 365 students studying in the school, about 50% of whom are girls.   The school has achieved remarkable success in providing quality education.

Since 2003, the government of India has taken up over 550 HICDPs in Nepal in various sectors and has completed 488 projects.

Amongst these, 85 projects are in Koshi Province in various sectors, which includes one project in Khotang. In addition to these, the government of India has gifted 974 ambulances and 234 school buses to various hospitals, health posts and educational institutions in Nepal on the occasion of Independence Day and Republic Day of India. Amongst these, 141 Ambulances and 35 School buses have been gifted in Koshi Province, which includes 4 ambulances and 1 school bus provided in Khotang District, according to the statement.

As close neighbors, India and Nepal share wide-ranging and multi-sectoral cooperation.                  

The implementation of HICDPs reflects the continued support of the Government of India in bolstering the efforts of the government of Nepal in upliftment of its people, augmenting infrastructure in the field of priority sectors especially in the education sector in Nepal. 

The 3rd Edition of the “Prospects for North Bengal – Investments in Sustainability” an initiative of the Bangal Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BNCC&I) held in Siliguri, India on Thursday with the objective to understand, discuss and initiate dialogues for business opportunities and investments in the sectors which are thriving in North Bengal and also the one which have more potential for accelerating the growth of North Bengal.

Delivering a keynote remark in the inaugural session of the event, Vice President of Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce & Industry (NICCI) Sunil KC underscored the untapped opportunities for economic cooperation between Nepal and India, particularly in the context of North Bengal. He emphasized the need for a holistic approach to development, prioritizing sustainability and inclusivity while leveraging the region's natural resources and strategic location, reads a statement issued by NICCI.

KC proposed key recommendations for economic growth, including further investments in infrastructure development, which he deemed essential for unlocking North Bengal's full economic potential. He emphasized the necessity of increased investment in improving road, rail, and air connectivity along the Siliguri corridor, a crucial transit route linking Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal (BBIN). Upgrading existing infrastructure and establishing logistics hubs were identified as priorities to facilitate the seamless movement of goods and people across borders.

Secondly, he advocated for facilitating cross-border trade and investments, which emerged as a central theme of discussions. KC stressed the importance of simplifying customs procedures and reducing trade barriers to promote greater economic integration within the BBIN region. He also proposed the creation of special economic zones (SEZs) and industrial parks along the Siliguri corridor to attract foreign investments and spur economic growth.

Furthermore, KC emphasized recognizing the imperative of sustainable development. Participants underscored the need to integrate environmental considerations into business operations and investment decisions, including promoting the adoption of green technologies, supporting renewable energy initiatives, and implementing environmentally friendly practices across industries. By prioritizing sustainability, North Bengal can position itself as a responsible and attractive destination for investors committed to long-term environmental stewardship, the statement reads.

Gautam Deb, Mayor of Siliguri Municipal Corporation, Andalib Elias, Deputy High Commissioner, People’s Republic of Bangladesh in Kolkata, Eshor Raj Poudel, Consul General of Nepal in Kolkata, Bhaskar Roy, and Vice President Techno India Group also spoke at the event, representing their respective organizations.

The event successfully brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to explore avenues for investment and development in North Bengal, with a particular focus on leveraging the region's strengths and potential for sustainable growth.

Throughout the event, stakeholders engaged in fruitful discussions and networking sessions aimed at identifying collaborative opportunities and forging partnerships for mutual benefit. The importance of innovation, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing emerged as key drivers of economic growth and sustainability in North Bengal, according to the statement.

Angana Guha Roy Chowdhury, Assistant Director-General of the Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry, expressed gratitude to all participants for their valuable insights and contributions. She reaffirmed BCCI's commitment to supporting initiatives promoting sustainable development and inclusive growth in North Bengal, underscoring the organization's role as a catalyst for positive change in the region.

India has refrained from commenting on the recent political developments in Nepal, describing them as ‘internal matters’ of Nepal, and reaching out to senior members of a nascent Cabinet on a hectic day.

At  a meeting with Finance Minister Barsha Man Pun, India’s Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava said India’s position on Nepal remains unchanged. The change in the coalition is an internal matter of Nepal, so it does not affect India’s views and position on Nepal, he said.  

Ambassador Srivastava also paid a courtesy call on newly-appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Narayan Kaji Shrestha, congratulating the latter and extending best wishes to him.

During the meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, DPM Shrestha and Ambassador Srivastava discussed various topics of bilateral and mutual interest, said spokesperson for the ministry, Amrit Bahadur Rai. The topics included ways to strengthen bilateral ties and timely completion of development projects underway in Nepal with Indian assistance. 

During Indian Minister for External Affair S Jaishankar’s Nepal visit last week, Nepal and India signed an agreement on implementing High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) with new terms and an increased amount of grants. The two countries increased the fund size for the projects to Rs 200m. The fund size was previously capped at a maximum of Rs 50m per project.

Some political leaders have expressed displeasure over the deal, saying it goes against Nepal’s national interests. What does this agreement really mean for Nepal and is there any truth to what the critics are saying? Let’s find out.

What are small development projects ?

In the 2000s, India revisited its development projects mainly in the neighborhood. Indian policymakers realized the importance of community-driven development projects, so that they could be completed within the stipulated time frame. As a pilot project in South Asia, India first launched the projects in Nepal under the name of Small Development Projects (SDPs) which gradually expanded over time. The core concept of this program was ensuring a triangular partnership between communities, local governments and the Embassy of India in Kathmandu supporting small development projects. According to a study carried out by the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), a New Delhi-based think tank, the idea is to link development projects with community and with local development efforts, and at the same time, ensure the role for local agencies. According to RIS, this program has evolved over the years and is now being extended by India in other neighboring countries like Afghanistan, Bhutan and Sri Lanka. The focus areas of the program are education, health, and cultural heritage, among others. In 2003, then Prime Minister Surya Bahadur Thapa agreed to implement such projects in Nepal. 

What are HICDPs? 

This is a continuation of the  SDPs initiated in 2003 and it is an important portfolio of development partnership. According to the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu, these grassroots projects have been implemented in the priority sector of Nepal, such as hospitals, schools, colleges, drinking water facilities, sanitation, hydropower plant and embankment and river training works. According to a research conducted by the Center for Social Inclusion and Federalism, prior to Nepal’s transition to federalism, the district development committees used to send applications to the respective ministries, such as education and health, for aid. Those ministries would then forward the applications to the Finance Ministry. But in 2020, Nepal and India agreed to a new provision. According to Nepal government’s decision of 30th September 2020, to receive aid under the Indian Embassy’s SDPs, organizations are first required to submit a proposal to the respective local body, either municipality or rural municipality. 

How many projects have been completed so far? 

Since 2003, over 544 HICDPs have been undertaken by India. Of them, 480 projects have been completed and the remaining 59 projects are still ongoing. After Nepal adopted federalism structure with the promulgation of the 2015 constitution, Nepal and India worked on how to implement the projects. Province-wise, 84 projects have been completed in Koshi, 81 projects in Madhes, 105 in Bagmati, 61 in Gandaki, 60 projects in Lumbini, 14 in Karnlai and 41 in Sudurpaschim. 

Which other South Asian countries have implemented HICDPs? 

Other South Asian countries to implement HICDPs are Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan. In 2023, India doubled its high-impact community development projects in Bangladesh. The two countries had signed the initial agreement in 2005. In Bhutan, 392 projects have been completed under the program. India and Bhutan have formed a separate committee to implement HICDPs and they review the projects on a periodic basis. Similarly, India and Afghanistan expanded these projects in 2019. 

How are projects selected? 

The Ministry of Finance has stated that funding requests from local units are first filtered by the Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development (MoFALD). The Finance Ministry receives project recommendations from the MoFALD, shortlists the projects on priority basis and requests the Indian government for funding. The respective rural municipality and municipality must also contribute counterpart funds of five percent and 10 percent, respectively. This provision, however, can be relaxed under special circumstances.

What is the application process for HICDPs ? 

According to the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu, to apply for HICDP funds, there is a specific format that must be followed along with submission of necessary documents, duly attested by the Nepal government agencies. The concerned local government must submit the proposal by disclosing project title, location, budget requirements and local government’s contribution, among others. 

Where are the projects implemented ? 

The CESIF research says, one could expect a higher concentration of project grants in the Tarai region bordering India. However, analysis shows India’s grants are relatively more concentrated in the northern districts bordering China than in the southern districts. Since 2019, India has funded in total 23 projects—18 education related, two health related, and three small infrastructure projects—in 26 districts bordering India, the research says. In the same period, India has funded 48 projects—23 education related, 18 health and sanitation related, two culture related and five small-scale infrastructure projects—in 15 northern districts bordering the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. 

What do the critics say about HICDP? 

Critics argue that HICDP grants India the opportunity for micromanagement, enabling the Indian Embassy to engage with local stakeholders. Political leaders are divided on the program. Senior leader of CPN (Unified Socialist) and former Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal has vehemently opposed the decision to renew HICDP. He said that obtaining funds from foreign embassies for projects in Nepal is detrimental to the national interests of Nepal. “This goes against our independence and sovereignty. This is against our national interests,” Khanal told the media recently. CPN-UML leader Raghuji Panta also said that the agreement is against national interests. Speaking at the Parliamentary Committee for State Affairs and Good Governance, he warned that the HICDPs could lead to political meddling. He has also made a written request to Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal to reconsider the agreement, terming it a foreign interference in Nepal’s internal affairs.

What do the defenders say? 

Nepali Congress leader Bimalendra Nidhi has welcomed the agreement. He dismissed the claims that the projects are chosen solely at the discretion of the Indian Embassy. “The involvement and approval of the concerned ministries are a must to select the projects,” he said. “Various leaders and activists have already been soliciting development funds for their areas from Indian ambassadors and officials. Their opposition to the agreement now reveals their dual character.”

Nepal and India held important discussions and agreed on eight various topics on the energy sector.

The 11th meeting of Nepal-India Energy Secretary Level Joint Steering Committee that concluded in Chitwan today has agreed on especially the topic of strengthening the electricity transmission system.

Nabin Raj Singh, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, said the meeting discussed various agenda prepared by the Joint-secretary level Joint Task Force.

Secretary at the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Gopal Prasad Sigdel, and Secretary at India's Ministry of Energy, Pankaj Agrawal, co-chaired the meeting.

Before this, the 11th meeting of Nepal-India Energy Joint Task Force co-chaired by Joint-Secretary Singh and Joint-Secretary of India's Ministry of Power, Dr D Saibaba, held necessary discussions on the existing, under-construction and proposed inter-country power transmission lines, various projects having Indian investment and the related transmission line projects, among other topics. The taskforce meeting also made recommendations to the Secretary-level meeting on these topics after discussing them.

However, it is said that most of the topics agreed upon this time shall be finalized by the technical groups, as these agreements are concerned more with technical topics.

The meeting made a decision on principle only since most of the topics are more technical-related, according to the Nepali high officials participating in the meeting.

Both sides have agreed on expanding the capacity of the Dhalkebar-Mujaffarpur Inter-country Transmission Line to 1,000 megawatts. Required infrastructures would be constructed at Dhalkebar substation for this purpose. At present, the export and import of 800 megawatts electricity is taking place from this transmission line.

The Joint Technical Committee will study and make necessary decisions on the topic of utilizing this transmission line in its maximum capacity. Nepal has also been paying the transmission fees for utilizing the full capacity of this transmission line.

The high officials of the Ministry of Energy who attended the meeting said that an important agreement has been made regarding utilization of the maximum capacity of the first inter-country transmission line linking Nepal and India.

Similarly, the Joint Technical Committee shall also take the necessary decision regarding determining the capacity of electricity that can be transmitted via the Dhalkebar-Sitamadhi 400-kV transmission line being constructed by the Indian company, Satluj Vidhyut Nigam. The Indian company is constructing this transmission line for exporting electricity to be produced from the Arun III Hydropower Project. This company, which is constructing the Arun-III project, has also taken responsibility for constructing other projects as well. It will take long until these projects are completed.

Likewise, the meeting has agreed that the Joint Technical Committee will conduct a study on the feasibility of exporting power up to 200 megawatts through the 132 kV Tanakpur Mahendranagar transmission line or other high-voltage capacity transmission lines.

The meeting has approved the process and procedure on electricity export and import between Nepal and India during the monsoon via the existing transmission lines of 132 kV capacity or less by using the power transmission system of the neighbouring Indian states. These processes and procedures were prepared by the Central Electricity Authority of India in coordination with Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) and other agencies of India.

The meeting has also given the responsibility to the Joint Working Group for construction of additional two transmission lines of higher capacity. The 400-kV Yanrupa-Purnia transmission line and the New Lamki (Dododhara)-Bareily transmission line will be constructed between Nepal and India. The objective is to construct these two transmission lines until 2028. The modality of these transmission lines will also be finalized by the Joint Working Group.

The taskforce led by the Joint-Secretary of the Energy Ministry of the two countries will prepare the necessary modality for this.

Discussions have also been held in principle on having soon a separate tripartite agreement, in accordance with the Power Import and Export Guidelines of India, among NEA, the NTPC Vidhyut Vyapar Nigam of India and the Power Development Board of Bangladesh for export of 40 megawatts electricity from Nepal to Bangladesh by using India's transmission system. 

Based on this discussion, the necessary mechanism would be established for the three-nation partnership. This mechanism will make the necessary decisions, it is said.

These agreements related to transmission line and energy sector were reached in the context of Minister of External Affairs of India Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar's visit to Nepal on January 4 and 5.

The Agreement Between the Government of Nepal and the Government of India on Long Term Power Trade was signed during the visit of the Minister of External Affairs of India, opening the door for the export of 10,000 megawatts of electricity to India from Nepal in 10 years.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Nepal and the Minister of External Affairs of India remotely inaugurated the 132 kV cross-border transmission lines between Nepal and India, namely the second circuit of Raxaul- Parwanipur line, the second circuit of Kataiya- Kusaha line and the New Nautanwa-Mainhiya lines.

Resident doctors working in Central Institutes in India have requested the government of Nepal to take steps to make sure that they get stipend from the medical colleges they are studying in.

Nepali resident doctors working in All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi lament that they have to perform usual clinical/hospital duties as part of their courses without remuneration, while their Indian counterparts get more than InRs 100,000 for the same job.

At least 60 Nepali students enrolled in MD, MS, MDS, DM and MCH courses are working as resident doctors in one of India’s top medical colleges. They log 12 hours on a normal shift and have to put in 48 hours extra during emergencies, without getting paid.

As their long-pressed demand for stipend has gone unheard, resident doctors at AIIMS have requested the government of Nepal to take up the matter with India, once again.

Notably, earlier government effort in a similar case has paid off. 

Nepali students in Post-Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh and Jawaharlal Institute of Post-Graduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry have been getting the stipend. 

These institutions started paying the Nepali students too after the then Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli raised the issue during his visit to India in 2020. 

However, AIIMs students in New Delhi and Rishikesh continue to struggle for the same, even after repeatedly requesting Indian and Nepali government authorities to address their concern.

“This comes as a huge economic burden for us, for our families and for our nation. Seats are allocated for Nepali medical students, but stipends are not provided. This needs to stop,” said Dr Laxman Bhagat, one of the representatives of the Nepalese Resident Doctors in AIIMS Delhi.

Despite repeated efforts from the doctors, including meetings with relevant officials and written communication with Indian government authorities, this issue remains unaddressed, said Dr Bhagat.

Notably, this is an instance of non-reciprocal treatment on the part of Indian authorities.  

Nepal has been providing stipend to post-graduate Indian students studying in Nepali medical colleges. The Indian students studying in the Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University and BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan under self-financing schemes get a monthly stipend of Rs 33,000 and Rs 32,000 each.

It may be noted that the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India, had written to AIIMS to inform the latter about amendments required in the act/rules/regulations to facilitate payment of stipend to students from Nepal enrolled in PG courses in AIIMS, New Delhi, to no avail. 

AIIMS offers postgraduate degrees in about 55 different specialties/super specialties.

India saw a single day rise of 656 new cases of coronavirus on Dec 24, pushing the active cases to 3,742 according to the Union Health Ministry. Amid the surge in cases of Covid-19, health experts have asked people to remain calm and follow Covid-appropriate behavior.

In Nepal, health experts have suggested people not to worry about the latest surge of coronavirus infection in India. They say that the mutations of the virus are always evolving, and this is one of the mutations of the omicron variant. 

“Though this strain is circulating faster, it is not very serious. It is not that scary. If you are vaccinated once or twice, or were previously infected there won’t be much severity if you get infected,” said Sameer Mani Acharya Dixit, chairperson and head of research at Intrepid Nepal Pvt Ltd.

The symptoms of the infection are similar to the infection caused by similar other variants of the coronavirus, such as headache, sore throat, fever, etc. Health experts, however, have advised people to take booster shots to prevent oneself from the severity of the infection.

What is JN.1?

JN.1 is a closely-related descendant of BA.2.86, a highly mutated strain that first worried scientists over the summer. BA.2.86 was deemed a “variant of interest” by the World Health Organization back in August.

The UN health body has recently designated JN.1 as a variant of interest, differentiating it from its parent lineage BA.2.86. The WHO defines variants of interest as strains that are worrying enough to trigger stepped up investigations of the variant by countries, like laboratory studies and field investigations of its outbreaks.

Despite its swift dissemination, the WHO has underscored that the overall risk associated with JN.1 is currently considered low based on available evidence.

In recent weeks, JN.1 was reported in multiple countries, and its prevalence has been rapidly increasing globally. But the WHO has maintained that there is no evidence to suggest any additional public health risk posed by the variant.

Concerns triggered

After first being spotted in the United States in September, the variant has spread across 41 countries.

Health experts say the JN.1 is spreading fast in all regions, probably because it has an additional mutation in the spike protein compared to the BA.2.86 variant from which it’s descended.

The outbreak of the JN.1 sub-variant of the coronavirus in India has triggered concerns among the Nepalis. Indian states Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Goa, Puducherry, Gujarat, Telangana, Punjab and Delhi have reported a slight increase in the number of cases of late. 

According to the Indian media reports nearly 93 percent of those infected have mild symptoms and are isolating at home. Among those who are undergoing treatment at hospitals across the country, only 0.1 percent are on ventilator support, 1.2 percent are admitted into the intensive care unit and 0.6 are on oxygen support.

No need to panic

Nepal currently hasn’t seen a rise in the number of coronavirus cases. The authorities however say that they are closely monitoring the development in India.

“Many people in Nepal have had the infection and people have received at least two doses of the vaccine. Therefore, the probability of severe infection is low,” said Dr Prakash Budhathoki, spokesperson at the Ministry of Health and Population. “Intensive care units, oxygen plants, and other physical infrastructure constructed during the Covid-19 pandemic can be utilized if needed.” 

Following the surge in coronavirus cases, health desks established at checkpoints and international airports have been placed on standby, and a request has been made to place patients with respiratory problems under special supervision.

“As the infection is seen in Kerala, we are relatively at lower risks. If the infection was seen in the southern areas of India that borders Nepal, it would have been quite risky, as there are high chances for the variant to enter the country in a shorter time span,” said Dr Budhathoki. 

He also informed that patients with long-standing respiratory problems have been recommended for gene sequencing. The ministry has also requested health centers to keep a check on the people visiting the hospitals with the symptoms of coronavirus and has asked them to submit a report to the ministry.

“It is anticipated that this variant may cause an increase in Sars-Cov-2 [coronavirus] cases amid a surge of infections of other viral and bacterial infections, especially in countries entering the winter season,” the WHO said in its risk assessment.

The UN health agency also noted that there is still limited evidence on how capable JN.1 is of getting round the immunity offered by vaccines.

Strengthen surveillance

The WHO has urged countries in the South-East Asia region to strengthen surveillance and for people to take protective measures in view of increasing numbers of cases of respiratory diseases, including due to coronavirus and its new sub-variant JN.1, and influenza. 

“The Covid-19 virus continues to evolve, change and circulate in all countries globally. While current evidence suggests the additional public health risk posed by JN.1 is low, we must continue to track the evolution of these viruses to tailor our response. For this, countries must strengthen surveillance and sequencing, and ensure sharing of data,” said Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, WHO regional director for South-East Asia. 

Considering the available, yet limited evidence, the additional public health risk posed by JN.1 is currently evaluated as low at the global level. It is anticipated that this variant may cause an increase in Covid-19 cases amid a surge in infections of other viral and bacterial infections, especially in countries entering the winter season.

 Ways to protect

 Health experts have advised people to take protective measures and seek timely clinical care when unwell. They have also urged people with high risk such as elderly citizens, people with comorbid health conditions to take vaccination against coronavirus and influenza.

“All WHO-approved Covid-19 vaccines continue to protect against severe disease and death from all variants, including JN.1,” said Dr Singh. “With Covid-19 continuing to circulate at high levels globally, countries must strengthen surveillance, sequencing and reporting to effectively manage respiratory diseases and to protect people’s health.”

To prevent infections and severe disease, the WHO advises to:

• Wear a mask in crowded, enclosed areas
• Cover up coughs and sneezes
• Clean your hands regularly
• Stay up to date with covid and flu vaccinations, especially if vulnerable
• Stay home if ill
• Get tested if you have symptoms

On Dec 11, the Supreme Court of India delivered a historic judgment on the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35(A). Through its judgment, the Court has upheld the sovereignty and integrity of India, something that is cherished by every Indian. The Supreme Court rightly observed that the decision taken on 5 Aug 2019 was done with the purpose of enhancing constitutional integration and not disintegration. The Court has also recognised the fact that Article 370 was not permanent in nature.

Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh’s breathtaking landscapes, serene valleys, and majestic mountains have captivated the hearts of poets, artists and adventurers for generations. It is a place where the sublime meets the extraordinary, where the Himalayas reach for the sky, and where the pristine waters of its lakes and rivers mirror the heavens. But, for the last seven decades, these places have witnessed the worst form of violence and instability, something which the wonderful people never deserved.

Unfortunately, due to centuries of colonization, most notably economic and mental subjugation, we became a confused society of sorts. Rather than taking a clear position on very basic things, we allowed duality, leading to confusion. Sadly, Jammu and Kashmir became a big victim of such a mindset. At the time of independence, we had a choice of making a fresh start for national integration. Instead, we decided to continue with the confused society approach even if it meant ignoring the long-term national interests.

I have had the opportunity of being connected with the Jammu and Kashmir Andolan from a very early part of my life. I belong to an ideological framework where Jammu and Kashmir was not merely a political issue. But, it was about addressing the aspirations of society. Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee held an important portfolio in the Nehru Cabinet and could have remained in government for a long time. Yet, he quit the Cabinet over the Kashmir issue and preferred the tough road ahead, even if it meant paying with his life. His efforts and sacrifice led to crores of Indians becoming emotionally attached with the Kashmir issue. Years later, Atal Ji, at a public meeting in Srinagar gave the powerful message of ‘Insaniyat’, ‘Jamhooriyat’ and ‘Kashmiriyat’, which has also always been a source of great inspiration.

It was always my firm belief that what had happened in Jammu and Kashmir was a great betrayal- to our nation and to the people living there. It was also my strong desire to do whatever I can to remove this blot, this injustice done to the people. I have always wanted to work to alleviate the suffering of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

In very basic words- Articles 370 and 35 (A) were like major obstacles. It seemed like an unbreakable wall and the sufferers were the poor and downtrodden. Articles 370 and 35 (A) ensured that the people of Jammu and Kashmir never got the rights and development that the rest of their fellow Indians got. Due to these Articles, a distance was created between people belonging to the same nation. Due to this distance, many people from our nation who wanted to work to solve the problems of Jammu and Kashmir were unable to do so even if they clearly felt the pain of the people there.

As a Karyakarta who has seen the issue closely over the last several decades, I had a nuanced understanding of the specifics and the complexities of the issue. Yet, I was crystal clear about one thing—that the people of Jammu and Kashmir want development and they want to contribute to the development of India based on their strengths and skills. They also want a better quality of life for their children, a life free from violence and uncertainty.

Thus, while serving the people of Jammu and Kashmir, we gave primacy to three pillars—understanding of the citizens’ concerns, building trust through supportive actions, and prioritizing development, development and more development.

In 2014, just after we assumed office, deadly floods struck Jammu and Kashmir, with a lot of damage in the Kashmir valley. In Sept 2014, I went to Srinagar to assess the situation and also announced InRs  10bn as a special assistance for rehabilitation, signaling our government’s commitment to supporting the people during crises. I had the opportunity to meet people from different walks of life and there was one common thread in these interactions- the people not only wanted development but they also wanted freedom from the rampant corruption prevailing for decades. The same year, I decided not to mark Diwali in remembrance of those we lost in Jammu and Kashmir. I also decided to be in Jammu and Kashmir on Diwali day.

In order to further strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s development journey, we decided that our Government ministers would frequently go there and interact with people directly. These frequent visits also played a crucial role in building goodwill in Jammu and Kashmir. From May 2014 to March 2019, over 150 ministerial visits took place. This is a record in itself. The special package of 2015 was a significant step in addressing the developmental needs of Jammu and Kashmir. It contained initiatives for infrastructure development, job creation, tourism promotion and support to the handicraft industry.

We harnessed the power of sports in Jammu and Kashmir, recognising its potential to ignite the dreams of the youth. Through sporting initiatives, we witnessed the transformational impact of athletic pursuits on their aspirations and futures. Sporting venues were upgraded, training programmes were organized and coaches were made available. One of the most unique things was to encourage the setting of local football clubs. The results were outstanding. The name of the talented footballer Afshan Ashiq comes to my mind- in Dec 2014 she was a part of a stone pelting group in Srinagar but with the right encouragement she turned to football, she was sent for training and excelled in the game. I recall interacting with her in one of the Fit India Dialogues where I said it’s time to move over ‘Bend it like Beckham’ because it is now ‘Ace it like Afshan.’ Other youngsters began to shine in kickboxing, Karate and more.

The Panchayat polls were also a watershed moment in the region’s quest for all-round development. Once again, we were faced with a choice of either remaining in power or standing by our principles- the choice was never tough and we let go of a Government but preferred that those ideals that we stand for, the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir are given top priority. The success of Panchayat polls indicated the democratic nature of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. My mind went back to an interaction I had with Pradhans from the villages. Among other issues, I made a request to them- that at no point must schools be burnt and that must be ensured. I was delighted to see that this was adhered to. After all, if schools are burnt the biggest sufferers are the small children.

The historical day of 5th August is etched in the hearts and minds of every Indian. Our Parliament passed the historic decision to abrogate Article 370. Since then, much has changed in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. The judicial court verdict came in December 2023 but seeing the wave of development across Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, the people’s court have given a resounding thumbs up to the Parliament’s decision of abolishing Articles 370 and 35(A) for four years now.

At a political level, the last 4 years have been marked with a renewed faith in grassroots democracy. The women, tribals, SC, ST and marginalized sections of society were not getting their due. At the same time, the aspirations of Ladakh were totally ignored. 5 Aug 2019 changed all that. All Central laws now apply without fear or favor. Representation has also got more widespread- a three tier Panchayati Raj System is in place, BDC elections have been held, and refugee communities who were all but forgotten have begun to enjoy the fruits of development.

Key Central Government schemes have attained saturation levels, thus covering all sections of society. These include Saubhagya, Ujwala and Ujjwala schemes. Strides have been made in housing, tap water connection and financial inclusion. Healthcare, otherwise a major challenge for the people, has witnessed an upgrade of infrastructure. All the villages achieved ODF Plus stats. Government vacancies, which were otherwise a den of corruption and favoritism have been filled in a transparent and process driven manner. Other indicators like IMR have shown betterment. The boost to infrastructure and tourism has been for everyone to see. The credit for this naturally goes to the resilience of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who have shown time and again that they want only development and are willing to be drivers of this positive change. Earlier, there was a question mark on the status of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. Now, there are only exclamation marks about record growth, record development, record tourist inflow.
In its verdict on Dec 11, the Supreme Court has strengthened the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’—it has reminded us that what defines us is the bonds of unity and a shared commitment to good governance. Today, every child born in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh is born with a clean canvas, where he or she can paint a future full of vibrant aspirations. Today, the dreams of the people are no longer prisoners of the past but are possibilities of the future. After all, Development, democracy and dignity have replaced disillusionment, disappointment and despondency.

Centre for Social Inclusion and Federalism (CESIF) organized a round table discussion on Nepal-India bilateral relations, focusing on the Prime Minister’s visit to India from May 30 to June 3, 2023. The discourse brought together distinguished parliamentarians, experts, journalists, former bureaucrats and diplomats.

Raj Kishor Yadav, chairperson of the International Relations and Tourism Committee at the House of Representative, was the chief guest speaker of the discussion.

Similarly, former Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation and lawmakers Barsha Man Pun, Udaya Shumsher Rana and Sunita Baral were the prominent speakers of the event.

The Prime Minister’s official visit to India last May/June further strengthened Nepal-India close ties in many fronts, including power trade, cross-border infrastructures, among others.

The visit was noted by many as a fruitful development to the existing relations; however, the burden now falls upon the implementation of the deals and agreements signed. The discussion was aimed at critically analyzing the visit and reviewing the implementations of the deals and agreements reached, reads a statement issued by Centre for Social Inclusion & Federalism.

The dialogue was moderated by the Executive Chair of CESIF, Ambassador Vijay Kant Karna.

In his opening remarks, he reflected that the visit showed an increased political trust as evidenced by PM Modi’s pledge on border issues to be resolved through dialogues. “Nonetheless, controversial issues like border disputes demand considerable preparation and consensus from both sides,” Ambassador Karna analyzed.

The dialogue brought together diverse views from the parliamentarians and participants, according to the statement.

Lawmaker Baral expressed satisfaction regarding economic perks that were achieved during the PM’s visit to India.

Likewise, lawmaker Pun agreed on the fact that slowly and gradually, an environment of trust is being witnessed which has obvious economic perks.

Similarly, lawmaker Rana emphasized on compartmentalizing structural and economic issues while dealing with India. “Issues like border disputes require a long-term solution, and the present concentration should be on economic aspects,” he reflected.

Chief Guest Yadav concluded that it is important for Nepal to also learn of India’s concerns in order to effectively navigate diplomatic hurdles. “Nepal and India’s issues are interconnected, and thus we need to carefully tread the path,” he shared.

During the program, all the participants expressed that there is a trust deficit between Nepal and India, and that there has to be diversification and decentralization of diplomacy, the statement further reads.

Regarding the PM’s visit to India, while some remarked it to be successful, some also expressed dissatisfaction.

The crux lies in the implementation of the deals and agreements signed, which is yet to be seen.

However, it would be unfair to anticipate a radical breakthrough, in this visit, on longstanding contentious issues that have plagued Nepal-India relations for decades. This isn’t to claim that there was no room for further negotiations and deals but owing to the limitations, only so much could have been achieved.

Acting on the commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India on Thursday handed over a third tranche of over 12 tons of earthquake relief material to Nepal.

The relief materials consisting of blankets, sleeping bags, tents and essential medical supplies were brought to Nepal via a special Indian Air Force (IAF) C-130 flight.

As a first responder, India has provided 33 tons of emergency relief materials for the earthquake affected families in Nepal through three special Indian Air Force flights.

The support included tents and tarpaulin sheets, blankets and sleeping bags as well as vital medicines, and medical equipment such as surgical equipment, portable ventilators as well as hygiene supplies to meet the urgent requirements of the earthquake affected families.

India’s swift response affirms its commitment to support Nepal as a close friend and neighbor.

As Nepal’s foremost development partner, India has been steadfast in its efforts to support the people of Nepal in this difficult time.

India will continue to provide support based on the priorities and guidance provided by the Government of Nepal, reads a statement issued by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu.

The border guarding forces of Nepal and India are discussing wide-ranging issues related to border security and management, at a time when Nepal is grappling with a 6.4 magnitude quake and aftershocks that have left behind a trail of death and devastation. 

The seventh edition of bilateral talks between the Armed Police Force and Sashatra Seema Bal kicked off in New Delhi on Monday. According to officials, the two sides are discussing measures to curb trans-frontier crimes and timely sharing of intelligence inputs, among other issues.

As per the SSB, “the annual talks on mutual issues have been held alternatively in India and Nepal since 2012”.

This annual meet is significant as the heads of APF and SSB engage in discussions on border-related matters such as trans-border crimes and intelligence-sharing. The meeting also helps in strengthening coordination between the two border guarding forces for more effective management of the open and unfenced India-Nepal border.

APF and SSB are also expected to raise other issues such as effective border management, a new mechanism to collaboratively combat trans-border crimes, facilitation of real-time information and exchange of critical information.

The last coordination meeting between the two border guarding forces was held at Kathmandu in Sept 2022. 

India handed over the first consignment of emergency relief materials worth INR 1 billion to Nepal on Sunday.

Following the earthquake in Jajarkot on November 3, 2023, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed his commitment to provide all possible assistance to Nepal.

A special Indian Air Force C-130 carrying the consignment of over 11 tons emergency relief materials that included tents and tarpaulin sheets, blankets and sleeping bags as well as essential medicines and medical equipment such as portable ventilators for the affected people landed at the Nepalgunj Airport this afternoon.

Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava on behalf of the Government of India handed over the relief materials to Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Purna Bahadur Khadka in the presence of Karnali Province Chief Minister Raj Kumar Sharma.

Further consignments of the relief material are expected to arrive in the coming days, the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu said.

“As a close friend and neighbor, India remains committed to extending all possible support to those affected by the earthquake in Nepal”, the Embassy further said.

India continues to be a first responder in crisis situations in its neighborhood and beyond.

Following the 2015 earthquake in Nepal, the Government of India was the first responder and carried out its largest disaster relief operation abroad - Operation Maitri.

India had also extended USD 1 billion to Nepal as part of its long-term assistance for post-earthquake reconstruction in housing, education, health and cultural heritage sectors and included reconstruction of 50,000 houses in Nepal’s Gorkha and Nuwakot districts.

The Indian government, which has banned the export of sugar, has now allowed Nepal to import up to 25,000 metric tons of sugar.

A meeting of the Agriculture Ministry held recently decided to export sugar equal to that quantity to Nepal.

Earlier, the Nepali market had been facing a shortage of sugar due to the ban imposed on sugar by India.

India, the world’s largest sugar producing country, had stopped exporting sugar to other countries citing decrease in the production.

India had banned the export of sugar for the past three-four months.

“We have expected that there will be an easy supply of sugar in the market leading to the end of black marketing,” Tartharaj Chiluwal, Director General at the Department of Commerce Supply and Consumer Protection, said. “Now, there will not be an acute shortage of sugar in the market. Once the sugar is exported to Nepal, it will be enough for three months.”

Nepal needs 300, 00 metric tons of sugar annually. At least 150, 000 metric tons of sugar is produced in Nepal.

India has implemented a new energy rule that allows its distributors to include imported hydropower energy within the renewable energy quota allocated to them.

In a notification published in the Gazette on Oct 20, India’s Ministry of Power established a revised quota for renewable energy that distribution companies must adhere to, starting from the fiscal year 2024/25. This new quota comprises separate shares for wind, hydropower, distributed renewable energy, and other renewable sources.

As per the new rule, Indian energy distributors are required to source 29.91 percent of their total energy demand from renewable sources in 2024/25. The share will increase to 43.33 percent by 2029/30. The specific quota for hydropower has been set at 0.38 percent for 2024/25, with an increment to 1.33 percent by 2029/30.

“The hydropower renewable energy component may also be met from hydropower projects located outside India, as approved by the Central Government on a case-to-case basis,” the notification states. Previously, Indian energy distributors were allowed to count hydropower produced domestically to meet their hydropower purchase obligations (HPOs). Distributors who fail to meet the new HPOs may face penalties imposed by the government.

Kul Man Ghising, executive director of Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), welcomed the new rule and said that it would benefit Nepal and Bhutan as well as India. “We had long been requesting Indian officials to recognize imported energy within the HPO, and it has finally been implemented,” Ghising said. “This new rule, if effectively enforced, will create a promising market for our energy in India.”

NEA has been exporting surplus energy to India during the wet season. It has received permission to sell 522 MW in the Day-Ahead market of the Indian Energy Exchange (IEX). Furthermore, it has been selling 110 MW to NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Ltd after reaching a five-year agreement with the Indian energy distribution company. NVVN is distributing energy imported from Nepal in the Haryana state. NEA has also received permission to export 44 MW, out of the 522 MW permitted for sale in the competitive market, in the Real TIme market of IEX.

Meanwhile, NEA exported electricity worth Rs 11.8bn to India from the second week of June to mid-October. NEA began its energy exports on June 11 this year. It sold electricity worth Rs 4.02bn in the month of mid-Sept to mid-Oct alone. Likewise, it sold energy worth Rs 1.75bn in mid-June to mid-July, Rs 2.14bn in mid-July to mid-Aug and Rs 3.47bn in mid-Aug to mid-Sept. 

The average unit price for the energy sold stood at Rs 10.27. Kul Man Ghising, Executive Director of NEA, projects that NEA could earn Rs 16bn by selling energy to India during the current fiscal year. The Indian cabinet has already decided to import 10,000 MW electricity from Nepal in the next 10 years.