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The government has urged people not to panic about the new variant of the coronavirus identified in India. Health authorities in Nepal say they are closely monitoring the development in India.

India has been seeing a rise in the number of Covid-19 sub-variant JN.1. As per media reports, 614 new Covid cases have been detected in India as of Wednesday. Meanwhile, three people infected with the new variant have died in Kerala, per the reports.

Nepal however hasn’t seen a rise in the number of coronavirus cases as per the Ministry of Health and Population.

The World Health Organisation has designated the new variant as a “variant of interest” separate from its ancestor BA.2.86 that is commonly referred to as Pirola.

WHO maintained that there was no evidence to suggest that the new variant poses additional public health risks.

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 WHO back in August.

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.

“Many people in Nepal have had the infection and people have received at least two doses of the vaccine. Therefore, the probability of severe disease is low,” said Dr Prakash Budhathoki, spokesperson at the Ministry of Health and Population.

Problems related to the respiratory system are currently increasing in India and China.

“Intensive care units, oxygen plants, and other physical infrastructure constructed during the Covid-19 pandemic can be utilized if needed,” Dr Budhathoki added.  

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,” Dr Budhathoki said.  

The spokesperson also informed that patients with long-standing respiratory problems have been recommended for gene sequencing.

The ministry has 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.

Digital banking can be defined as the availability of banking services through online platforms, encompassing both transactional and non-transactional services. This eliminates the need for customers to physically visit brick-and-mortar banks. Technological empowerment is a key driver behind the seamless delivery of these services. Customers commonly interact with banks through various digital channels, including websites, mobile apps, social media, mobile banking, email, Viber/Messenger and call centers.

Customers can avail themselves of banking services through these digital channels or by directly visiting branches or using ATMs/POS. The array of options includes online shopping, mobile banking, third-party wallets/websites, Visa cards, payment options, POS machines and ATMs. The surge in access to finance through digital channels, such as internet and mobile banking, has been accompanied by the adoption of payment methods like debit cards, mobile wallets and QR codes.

In Nepal, where over 72 percent of the population owns mobile phones, these devices have become instrumental in promoting financial inclusion. E-wallets have emerged as convenient tools for making cashless payments. The utilization of digital channels and payment methods brings numerous benefits to individuals, facilitating easier savings, money transfers and access to financial services. Businesses stand to have improved efficiency, reduced costs and a broader customer reach. The Covid-19 pandemic played a significant role in accelerating the adoption of digital banking platforms in Nepal. Many banks responded to the challenges resulting from the pandemic by launching online account opening and e-KYC filling services during the Covid-19 lockdown. Nepal’s e-payment landscape has witnessed a remarkable surge over the past four years. 

From 2020 to 2023, Nepal's e-payment landscape experienced an impressive surge in transaction volume, witnessing a remarkable growth of over 300 percent. However, the transaction amount exhibited a more nuanced pattern, initially soaring and later experiencing a slight dip in the last year. Despite this recent decline in value, the sheer volume of transactions underscores the rapid transition toward digital payments in Nepal. As of mid-October 2023, when examining the volume of e-payment transactions, the top three channels utilized are mobile banking, e-Wallets and debit cards. Collectively, these three channels account for 66 percent of the total number of transactions conducted.

Mobile banking, debit cards and e-wallets have reshaped Nepal's financial landscape. The widespread adoption of smartphones and the expansion of mobile networks have propelled the popularity of mobile banking, providing users with features such as fund transfers and bill payments. Debit cards offer a widely accepted cashless transaction method, particularly in urban areas. Simultaneously, e-wallets have gained traction due to their simplicity and versatility.

The significant surge in the frequency of digital commerce reflects the recent expansion of Nepal's digital payment system. While there is still a considerable journey ahead, the ongoing transformation of the Nepali payment system is due to the collective efforts of relevant stakeholders, including Nepal Rastra Bank and other government agencies, the private sector, and the ultimate consumer—the people.

Nepal has embraced the digital age wholeheartedly. While this digital evolution brings convenience and efficiency, it also introduces new threats, making the safeguarding of digital assets an integral aspect of national security. One common attack in the banking sector is phishing, a technique involving the deception of individuals into divulging sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords or credit card details by posing as a trustworthy entity. Phishing attacks can target both bank customers and employees, potentially leading to unauthorized access to accounts or sensitive banking systems. Malicious software, or malware, presents another threat by infecting computer systems to gain unauthorized access, steal information, or disrupt operations. Malwares can target online banking systems, compromising customer credentials and facilitating fraudulent transactions.

Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks overwhelm a system, network, or website with traffic, causing it to slow down or become temporarily unavailable. Disruption of online banking services due to excessive traffic can result in financial losses and undermine customer confidence.

In a Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attack, malicious actors intercept and potentially alter communication between two parties without their knowledge. This type of attack can lead to the capture of sensitive data during online transactions, including login credentials or financial details.

Criminals may also affix devices to Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) to capture card information and Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) from unsuspecting users, leading to unauthorized withdrawals and compromising customer accounts.

Ransomware poses yet another threat, encrypting a victim's data and demanding a ransom for its release.

Social engineering involves manipulating individuals to disclose confidential information through psychological tactics. These attacks can trick bank employees into providing access to credentials or sensitive information.

To mitigate such risks, banks should implement a comprehensive framework that identifies, assesses, prioritizes and monitors IT risks. This framework should align with regulatory requirements and industry best practices. Regular vulnerability assessments, coupled with a layered security approach involving firewalls, intrusion detection systems, access controls, encryption and data loss prevention solutions are essential components of a robust cybersecurity strategy.

Automation tools can play a crucial role in tasks such as patching, configuration management and incident response. Additionally, leveraging data analytics enables proactive detection and response to threats.

As Nepal continues its digital journey, the imperative for robust cybersecurity has become increasingly evident due to a growing reliance on digital services and communication, exposing the nation to various cybersecurity threats, ranging from ransomware to data breaches. Building a team of skilled cybersecurity professionals, keeping employees informed about recent threats in the international market, conducting periodic third-party IT security audits and ensuring compliance with industry-specific regulations like PCI-DSS and Basel III are crucial steps to mitigate IT risks. These regulations address data privacy, security and operational resilience, providing a comprehensive framework for enhancing cybersecurity in the financial sector.

The author is a member of Information Systems Audit and Control Association , USA

“Just days ago, I was on the melting ice of Antarctica. Not long before, I was among the melting glaciers of Nepal. These two spots are far in distance, but united in crisis. Polar ice and glaciers are vanishing before our eyes, causing havoc the world over: from landslides and floods, to rising seas...” This is what United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said to the world leaders during the opening of the Global climate change conference, COP28.

His acknowledgment of Nepal’s problems resulting from climate change is noteworthy.

During his visit to Nepal, he journeyed to the Sagarmatha Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, and the birthplace of Shakyamuni Buddha, Lumbini. This illustrates his profound affection for Nepal and its people.

Guterres also participated in a high-level roundtable discussion titled ‘Call of mountains: Who saves us from the climate crisis’, organized by Nepal and chaired by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal. During the session, he expressed his concern, stating, “It is profoundly alarming to witness the rapid melting of Nepal’s mountains. Hearing firsthand from local communities about the devastating impact on their lives is deeply distressing.”

Furthermore, he emphasized, “Nepal, alongside other vulnerable mountainous nations, bears the brunt of a crisis not of their making. Over just 30 years, the country has lost nearly a third of its ice, a direct consequence of greenhouse gas pollution warming our planet. This loss results in swollen lakes and rivers that flood, washing away entire communities.”

Guterres’ statements signify his sensitivity to the issues facing Nepal and other mountainous countries. He urged developed nations to extend support to countries like Nepal through climate funds and the pursuit of climate justice. This recognition marks a significant milestone for Nepal on the global stage.

There has long been a debate regarding the relevance of the UN due to its perceived failure to intervene effectively. However, on Dec 8, Secretary-General Guterres invoked Article 99—a rarely utilized clause in the UN Charter—to caution the Security Council about the escalating situation between Israel and Hamas, highlighting its potential threat to international peace and security.

In a letter addressed to the 15-nation council, Guterres cited the “appalling human suffering, physical destruction and collective trauma across Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory” as grounds for invoking Article 99. This marked the first time in his nearly seven-year tenure that he utilized this crisis-oriented provision. The last explicit invocation of Article 99 was in 1971, amid the war leading to the creation of Bangladesh and its separation from Pakistan.

Guterres’ action underscores the UN’s capacity to intervene in humanitarian crises, reaffirming the significance of its existence. It showcases a leadership dedicated to upholding human rights and humanity in crisis situations.

The developed nations, being major funders of the UN, often have their specific reservations and expectations from the UN and its leadership. In numerous instances, past UN leaderships have aligned with the directives of developed nations. However, Guterres has demonstrated a commendable balance and timely intervention, navigating between various interests and perspectives.

He has managed a delicate equilibrium, considering the concerns and expectations of developed nations while making independent and appropriate interventions when necessary. Guterres’ ability to uphold the UN’s integrity while taking decisive action when called for signifies a balanced and nuanced approach to leadership within the international organization. Hence, it has helped to make the UN stay relevant even in a fast-changing world.

The author, a member of the Supreme Court Bar, has been practicing corporate law for around three decades

The Bagmati Province alone has a total of 1,253 people suffering from autism. Among them, 495 are in Kathmandu, 113 in Chitwan, 83 in Lalitpur, 78 in Bhaktapur and 77 in Makawanpur.

Likewise, 75 people are suffering from autism in Kavre, 70 in Dhading, 65 each in Nuwakot and Sindhuli, 54 in Sindhupalchowk, 33 in Dolakha and 17 in Rasuwa.

As per the information shared at a workshop on autism organized by the Bagmati Province Health Ministry, currently 4,886 people now are suffering from autism in Nepal.

According to the Health Ministry's expert doctor Shakar Khanal, it is estimated that around 300,000 people, including one in 100 people, have this problem based on the data of the World Health Organization. He said that four men equal to one woman have this problem.

According to him, 328 people in the mountains, 2,229 in the hills and 2,329 in the Terai have this problem according to the geographical condition.

It was informed that the problem of autism is increasing in urban areas rather than in rural areas.

As per the data provided, 1,728 people are living with the problem in villages and 3,158 people in the urban areas.

According to Surendra Bajracharya of the Autism Care Nepal Society, autism is not a disease but a problem. "Though autism is detected at the age of six months in different countries, it is found only after 18 months in Nepal", he said.

Sharing that around 0.8 percent of the population with disabilities are also having autism in Nepal, he said autism is a genetic condition and caused by genetics, environment and infection.

So far there is no treatment of the problem, he said, adding it can be improved with various types of therapy and rehabilitation measures.

On the occasion, Bagmati Province Health Secretary Deepak Tiwari said that the province government has made efforts for the first time to solve the problems seen in the issue of autism.

He said such programmes would facilitate the government's future works and collection of actual data.

Representatives from the health institutions within the province and various organizations working in the field of autism participated in the program.

The Indrawati Hydropower Station, Nepal’s first private sector hydropower project that commenced operations in 1993, has conducted a study to assess its impact on carbon emissions reduction. The study revealed an annual reduction of 41,000 tons of CO2, 62 tons of SO2, and 46 tons of NOx, along with the substitution of 1,616,141 tons of charcoal. Despite these significant achievements, the project has not been able to secure compensation from the climate fund. Given the evolving context, it is evident from the statistics that private hydropower projects, such as the Indrawati Hydropower Station, have made substantial contributions to reducing carbon emissions. Projects of this nature should be eligible for facilities from the climate fund.

In recent times, climate change has impacted Nepal's government-private hydropower projects and power plants. Two critical aspects need consideration in this context: evaluating the reduction in carbon emissions by projects promoted by the private sector and assessing the loss and damage caused by climate change. A comprehensive research effort is essential to collect relevant data. The Independent Power Producers Association of Nepal (IPPAN) and hydropower promoters should take needful initiatives in this regard. This is because income generation from hydropower should not only be their focus; attention must also be given to how a sustainable economy can contribute to the national economy, aligning with the United Nations’ call for adopting Sustainable Development Goals within the next decade.

Since 1992, the private sector has invested or is preparing to invest Rs 1,800bn in the hydropower sector. Despite challenges like the lack of transmission lines, hydropower promoters have invested a substantial amount of money in projects with a combined capacity of 42,000 megawatts. Apart from equity investments by the private sector, banks have contributed approximately 60 percent of this fund. This also includes investments by the state-owned power utility and the general public through public offerings. This confirms that energy production, a cornerstone of the green economy, has significantly contributed to reducing carbon emissions. The direct and indirect investment of citizens has increased, making a noteworthy national contribution to the critical issue of hydropower.

Examining global statistics on carbon emissions from excessive fossil fuel use and industry, the world emitted about 37.124bn tons of carbon in 2021, as per Our World in Data. Nepal’s carbon emissions during the same year were only about 0.014bn tons, accounting for 0.038 percent of the total global carbon emissions. Despite this negligible negative contribution, Nepal bears the brunt of global climate change effects. The primary reason for the increasing carbon emissions in Nepal is the growing use of imported fossil energy. To achieve a sustainable economy and reduce emissions, it is crucial to transition to green and clean energy.

While COP28 participants remain divided on the phasing out of fossil fuels, Nepal, with the potential to produce affordable green hydrogen, can leverage its position. The fossil fuel reserves may deplete, but by storing green hydrogen, Nepal can attract global interest and investment in green technology development. Nepal annually imports petrol, diesel, and LP gas worth Rs 500-600bn. Replacing these imports with hydrogen fuel can contribute to self-sufficiency in iron and urea fertilizer production. Additionally, converting hydrogen into ammonia for export could boost Nepal's income and sovereign credit rating.

Nepal's neighboring countries, such as India and China, are significant importers of fossil fuels. India imports fossil fuel worth $160bn annually, and China relies heavily on gray energy. Nepal, despite its minimal contribution to emissions, faces environmental challenges due to industrial pollution in these countries. Nepal should exert pressure on developed nations to attract domestic and foreign investment for green technology and energy. The upcoming Nepal Investment Summit in April presents an opportunity to position Nepal as an attractive destination for green and clean energy investments. Conducive policies and laws should be established to facilitate businesses in this regard.

IPPAN’s role

While there was no prior preparation for participation in the COP28, we participated in the global climate conference. During COP28, we held discussions with key individuals and organizations, including those from Japan, China, India, the USA, the United Arab Emirates, and the European Union. Topics included information about climate fund operations, technology preparedness, and experiences in reducing carbon and using hydrogen equipment. A particular emphasis was placed on understanding the carbon fund’s payment process and how hydropower plants and energy projects can directly benefit from it.

Discussions also covered the unprecedented climate change-related damages incurred by various hydropower projects and power stations in Nepal’s eastern regions due to floods and landslides last year. Insights were gathered on claiming compensation for loss and damage, managing procedures, and fund operations.

It is crucial to ensure clarity on how Nepal’s private sector can directly benefit from climate funds received from developed countries through the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank. IPPAN, in collaboration with national and international agencies, should actively engage in discussions about the climate fund, payment for carbon emissions reduction, and the implementation of government action plans. IPPAN should also advocate for the representation of its officials in the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation National Implementation Plan chaired by the Prime Minister. Establishing a dedicated climate task force and coordinating with relevant entities will be instrumental in realizing these objectives.

In today’s world, content creation involves more than just having a meaningful thing to say or a relevant issue to speak on. The formal, editing and designing aspect of the content is also important to creators. With more avenues for formal control, social media websites can expect to grow in user-base, and creative engagement with those websites might also take place for longer durations. 

Popular apps like Snapchat and Tiktok (recently banned in Nepal) are examples where editing and designing videos is a user-centric process. Such a process allows users to feel more ‘in charge’ of their content, and thus motivates them to create more. A service which withheld such creative control would not prove as satisfying to users, even if it allowed wide dissemination of their content. 

The uptake of such apps and services in the Nepali public can be attributed not only to the opportunity to raise voice but also to show one’s skills in communication and expression. Views, reactions and comments reward and recognize the ability to present in media in tandem with the words and ideas presented. In short, not just what you say but how you say it is more important than before. 

It is in part due to the disabling of ‘expression’ (how one says something) and not just curtailment of content (or ‘speech’—what one says) that there has been an outcry over the loss of freedoms since the popular TikTok app got banned by the Nepal government. Freedom of expression is concerned with more than just publishing of the content. It is concerned with how proactively one arrived at that content. Users want the government to see that doing an investigation and/or processing available data in depth are instances of the meaningful work behind an act of expression published online.

Synthetic media

A technology which has been prevalent since the advent of computers, but which has grown significantly more sophisticated today, is ‘synthetic media.’ It is about to make content creation even more exciting. Synthetic media is any media (in visual, audio and/or text format) that has been made using computers. Of late, Artificial Intelligence has been used to create synthetic media. For example, in text-based synthetic media services (ChatGPT is an example), a textually articulated idea can be transformed into a news article or essay that  the service produces by itself.

In the near future, creation of sophisticated synthetic media will be inexpensive and efficient. This bodes well for certain sections of Nepali society. Small-businesses can create advertisements for their products using synthetic media, thereby sidestepping a costly production process. In a different case, teachers can use synthetic media to present their ideas more clearly. For one, if preliminary ideas are acquired with relative ease due to the use of synthetic media in presenting, then the more technical and cutting-edge education can also be made part of the curriculum.

Extremely pertinently for Nepal’s case, synthetic media can help with public messaging on critical issues such as health and discrimination. Development organizations can create videos that are able to vividly represent the problems that they want to address. Effective communication of such societal problems would enable communities themselves to deliberate and enact solutions. 

In all, a positive picture

With the use of synthetic media, Nepal’s media landscape is likely to be both representative of a diversity of voices and rich with meaningful expression. But, the potential to create meaningful content needs to be harnessed more strongly in our case. At the very least, there is a need to look carefully to see whether a rural-urban gap is developing in the production of content. 

To gain a more organized outcome from a technological resource, the particular roles that it can play for particular groups needs to be explored clearly first. Thereafter, policies must be made with a clear goal of supporting positive outcomes for each of the groups using the technology.

Nepal, predominantly characterized by its hilly terrain, with hills covering 80.7 percent of the land, boasts numerous valleys and lakes, resembling natural view towers.

During my recent visit to Los Angeles, situated at the foothills of California, specifically Norwalk and Riverside, I marveled at the landscapes. Riverside, nestled at the base of hills, offers well-constructed trails that allow people to ascend and enjoy panoramic views of various cities. From atop one of these hills, I beheld the picturesque landscapes of Riverside, Moreno Valley, San Diego, Ontario, Los Angeles, and beyond. These cities, surrounded by hills on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, create a captivating spectacle.

Similarly, in Nepal, regions such as Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, Surkhet, and Dang are embraced by hills, presenting a tremendous opportunity for the tourism industry. Nepal has the potential to develop trails providing access to these hills. By investing in road construction and cable cars, millions of visitors could be enticed to explore these elevated terrains. The breathtaking views of cities and the Himalayas from these natural view towers can be a significant attraction, much like the view towers of southern California. Constructing hiking trails on these hills can be achieved at a minimal cost, exemplified by the natural view towers in Pokhara, offering stunning vistas of the lake city.

However, the challenge lies in the lack of awareness and vision among Nepali rulers and decision-makers regarding how and where to allocate scarce resources. Random decision-making appears to be the norm, with little role for expert input. Political leaders often operate with self-interest, leading to decisions that benefit a select few. The absence of a coherent national agenda for development is evident, and questioning the actions of political parties seems futile.

Nepal can draw inspiration from iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Gate, which serves as a view tower for Los Angeles. Similarly, a hill in San Diego, housing an army camp, functions as a view tower offering stunning perspectives of the city and the Pacific Ocean.

Nepal is in a learning phase, acknowledging imperfections and seeking improvement. While mistakes are inevitable, the ability to learn from them is paramount. The prevailing egoism among rulers takes precedence over self-sacrifice, a fundamental quality for fostering a healthy and prosperous economy. Unfortunately, self-interest permeates Nepalese society, giving rise to nepotism, favoritism, and corruption. Policy decisions often legitimize these practices, hindering positive progress.

In contrast to constructing view towers, Nepal could invest in an eight-foot-wide road along the hills, facilitating trekking to hilltops. Redirecting resources from constructing towers to building footpaths around the hills of Kathmandu Valley could create a network of accessible viewpoints. Numerous spots could serve as small view towers, allowing people to appreciate the scenic beauty of the Kathmandu Valley hills. This strategic approach could offer a more sustainable and immersive experience for both locals and tourists.

COP28 has concluded with an agreement that signals the ‘beginning of the end’ for the fossil fuel era by laying the ground for a swift, just and equitable transition supported by substantial emissions reductions and increased financial commitments.

Despite this progress, the absence of a concrete deadline for phasing out fossil fuels remains a notable shortcoming, particularly in meeting the crucial 1.5-degree temperature rise limit. While celebrations echo in the Western world, the outcome has left least developed and developing countries dissatisfied.The most celebrated outcome for countries like Nepal is the operationalization of loss and damage funds. But pledges made by big countries to the fund are disappointingly low at $700m.

 Studies show developing nations require a minimum of $400bn annually to effectively address loss and damage due to climate change. Furthermore, the operational details of the fund and its beneficiaries remain unclear. Nevertheless, Nepal achieved success in highlighting the agendas of mountainous regions and issues related to the least developed countries during COP28. 

High-level rhetoric does not automatically translate into action. We have struggled to attract sufficient funds from international sources in the past. For instance, due to a lack of sufficient homework and preparations, Nepal received very minimal support from the Green Investment Fund. While Nepal is technically eligible for loss and damage funds, the responsibility lies with the country to conduct thorough groundwork and preparations. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal has returned home after attending the COP28. However, he has not held any meeting with agencies concerned to undertake the necessary preparations.

The Prime Minister is just engaged in a publicity stunt saying that Nepal has been loud and clear this time without specifying what that means. The global community is well aware of the severe impacts of climate change in Nepal. It is a brutal reality that Nepal is not alone in facing these challenges. Securing climate finance is a competitive process and it is contingent on a nation’s capacity. As far as documentation is concerned, Nepal has done a commendable job. 

The Ministry of Forests and Environment has done adequate study about the multifaceted impacts of climate change. However, Nepal lags behind in enhancing capacity for negotiations and research. While the ministry is the nodal agency for handling such issues, there is a lack of coordination among government bodies. PM Dahal should, therefore, form a high-powered mechanism dedicated to climate-related issues. The PM’s efforts to advocate for Nepal’s agenda will be judged by tangible actions, not mere words.

Center for Social Inclusion and Federalism (CESIF) organized a round table discussion on Nepal-China Bilateral Relations, reflecting on the Prime Minister’s visit to India from September 23-30, 2023.

The discourse was held at Basera Boutique Hotel on December 12, 2023 and 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 program, reads a statement issued by Center for Social Inclusion & Federalism.

Similarly, Tsering Lhamu Lama (Tamang) and Sishir Khanal, both members of the International Relations and Tourism Committee, Dr Minendra Rijal, former Defense Minister of Nepal and Central Working Committee member of the Nepali Congress and Ambassador Madhu Raman Acharya, former Foreign Secretary of Nepal and Permanent Representative of Nepal to the United Nations, New York, were the prominent speakers.

The Executive Chair of CESIF, Ambassador Vijay Kant Karna reflected in his opening remarks that the Prime Minister’s visit was an important event but had limitations. Although a 12-point agreement was announced in the joint statement of both prime ministers, earlier agreements are yet to be followed up by both countries. “The visit was unsuccessful in attracting significant Chinese investments in infrastructure development,” Ambassador Karna said.

The dialogue brought together diverse views from the parliamentarians and participants.

Raj Kishor Yadav expressed the necessity to maintain a balanced relationship between China and other world and regional powers.

He further noted that our foreign policy must avoid “fear psychosis” when dealing with foreign countries.

Similarly, Tsering Lhamu Lama (Tamang) expressed the importance of opening border points between Nepal and China. Lama representing Karnali Province, reminded that five of the border points are in Karnali, which can hugely benefit the economy of the province. Lama concluded that the visit was successful as it was also able to secure the agreement with China to build a road to Man Sarovar from Nepal, according to the statement.

Likewise, Sishir Khanal noted that the Prime Minister’s visit was not clear enough in its objectives. He further said that the visit did not make any significant contributions towards the relationship between Nepal and China, including the BRI agreement and the border points. He raised a concern as Nepal formally accepted the “One China Principle,” moving on from the “One China Policy”.

Dr Minendra Rijal said that the joint communique has a language that is rather imposing on Nepal. He expressed concerns about debts Nepal is taking from China, including the amount for the Pokhara International Airport.

Moreover, Ambassador Madhu Raman Acharya pointed out that there was no substance in the agreement except the transmission line between Kerung and Rashuwagadhi. He said that among the seventy agreements since the former PM KP Sharma Oli visit to China, only a few are being implemented. He also expressed concerns about the joint communique’s language against Taiwan’s independence.

Overall, the participants were united in expressing that the agreements signed during this and previous visits have not been successfully implemented. There was also a concern that official agreements to implement BRI in Nepal are not yet public, which is allowing China to shift goalposts.

The participants opined that Nepal needs to understand China's strategic concerns better and express Nepalese interests specifically with China.

In the heart of the Himalayas, where the mountains touch the sky, 99’s Section Nepal of the Ninety-Nines organization stands testament to the resilience of women in aviation. The recent ‘Wings of Friendship’ event from 5-8 Dec 2023, was more than a celebration of flight; it was a profound commitment to empowerment beyond the cockpit. Emerging as a vibrant chapter, 99’s Section Nepal catalyzes change, tirelessly advancing women’s presence in aviation and championing initiatives in education, safety, cultural exploration, and gender diversity across Nepali communities.

Actively engaging in impactful initiatives, 99’s Section Nepal provides scholarships in Karnali province, conducts teacher training programs in the western region, enhances safety through Euroguard installation at Surkhet Airport, organizes diverse fundraising events, facilitates interaction programs with Air Traffic Control and pilots, and offers Meteorological and performance classes. Each initiative reflects the chapter's holistic commitment to empowering women in aviation and fostering a supportive and knowledgeable community. 

In the event’s final days, participants immersed in a blend of aviation excitement and cultural discovery, with a Dec 5 hike and a bus trip to Panauti showcasing 99’s Section Nepal’s holistic empowerment approach. Cultural immersion continued in Bhaktapur on Dec 7, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of empowerment. The pivotal December 8th meeting, graced by Deputy Mayor Sunita Dongol, shared poignant stories of challenges faced by women pilots, nodding to resilience and determination.

Beyond accolades, 99’s Section Nepal believes everyone, regardless of gender or appearance, has the right to serve and soar. The sentiment shared during the general meeting echoes: It doesn’t matter if it’s the cockpit or the kitchen; judgment based on gender or appearance has no place. Every individual has the right to fly, serve, and be recognized for their abilities, not stereotypes.

In the spirit of celebration, 99’s Section Nepal empowers women at every stage, creating an atmosphere where every achievement is recognized, and every individual is uplifted. As we share these moments of camaraderie, celebration, and empowerment, 99’s Section Nepal invites readers to join the journey. Breaking barriers within our communities, the organization fosters a world where every woman can navigate her own destiny. The recent events from 5-8 Dec 2023, epitomize this commitment, showcasing that empowerment knows no boundaries, and the skies are just the beginning.

“Sky is not the limit; it’s just the view from your cockpit. So, spread your wings and soar beyond, for in the vast expanse of the sky, every dream finds its flight.”

Nepal has received foreign investment commitments, totaling Rs 22.85bn, for 199 business ventures in the first four months of the fiscal year 2023/24.

According to the Department of Industry (DoI), foreign investors have pledged investments amounting to Rs 18.35m across 178 new industries. Additionally, commitments totaling Rs 3.72bn have been made for 21 existing industries.

In the fourth month (mid-Oct to mid-Nov) of 2023/24 alone, foreign investors expressed a commitment to invest Rs 2.74bn. This includes Rs 1.75bn earmarked for 27 new industries and Rs 56.3m dedicated to share purchase agreements (SPA) and share subscription agreements (SSSA) in two existing industries, according to the DoI.

However, the actual investments received by Nepal are notably lower. According to Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), the central monetary authority, the country received foreign investments amounting to Rs 3.37bn in the first three months (mid-Sept to mid-Oct) of 2023/24.

In the first four months of 2022/23, Nepal attracted foreign investment commitments of Rs 33.14bn. The DoI approved 327 foreign investments during that period, promising the creation of 17,012 jobs. The commitment figure stood at Rs 54.14bn in the first four months of 2021/22.

The breakdown of foreign direct investments (FDIs) in the first four months of 2023/24 reveals commitments for 170 small industries, five medium-sized, and three large industries. The tourism sector received the highest investment commitment, followed by the service, manufacturing, ICT, and infrastructure sectors.

As of mid-July 2022, the total stock of FDI in Nepal reached Rs 264.33bn, as per the central bank, with contributions from 57 different countries.

However, the trend of repatriations by foreign investors from Nepal continues to outpace the FDI received. In the first four months of 2023/24, foreign investors repatriated Rs 748.67m as royalty and Rs 1.41bn as dividends. In the same period of the fiscal year 2022/23, foreign investors took home Rs 2.12bn in dividends and Rs 875.40m in royalty.

According to the central bank, foreign investors repatriated Rs 26.7bn as dividends in 2020/21.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal is scheduled to attend the 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), starting from Nov 30 to Dec 12 in Dubai. The Ministry of Forest and Environment said preparations are underway for Dahal’s visit, planned from Nov 29 to Dec 4. 

On Dec 2, Prime Minister Dahal will address the high-level session scheduled for Dec 1 and 2, which will feature addresses by heads of state/government from around the world.

Nepal has intensified preparations for the conference. To finalize Nepal’s agendas, the ministry has announced a ‘National Climate Conference’ set to take place in Kathmandu on Nov 21.

The conference will delve into discussions regarding the National Adaptation Plan, the implementation plan based on the Nationally Determined Contributions, and the agenda for COP28.

Buddhi Sagar Paudel, Head of the ministry’s Climate Change Management Division, mentioned that senior officials from the ministry, chief ministers, heads and officers of concerned organizations, development partners, media representatives and others will partake in the program.

The ministry has already devised a roadmap for Nepal’s engagement at the conference and has been working accordingly. Joint Secretary Paudel stated, “For the conference preparations, a committee comprising secretaries of relevant ministries and key representatives of other concerned bodies, under the guidance of the minister, has been formed. Efforts have been made to gather suggestions.” 

Additionally, under the department’s leadership, a working group comprising representatives of line ministries has made significant progress in crafting the ‘National Position Paper’ for COP28 through coordination and consultations with stakeholders, he added.

Thematic groups covering topics like climate adaptation, mitigation, finance, loss and damage, global measurement and transparency, mountains, gender equality, young children and tribes have already taken shape.

As part of preparations for Nepal’s agendas at the COP28 conference, the ministry has established an expert group focusing on six core areas: Climate finance, adaptation, transfer of mountain technology and capacity-building, loss and damage, gender, youth, children, climate empowerment, and mitigation of climate change effects.

Nepal has prioritized specific issues for this conference, including climate finance, adaptation strategies, managing funds for climate-related loss and damage, addressing mountain-related concerns, reducing emissions and fostering inclusivity.

The ministry announced Nepal’s plan to set up a pavilion at the conference venue to host its programs. They anticipate more than 34 programs, covering diverse subjects, with a schedule of four programs per day at the pavilion from Dec 3 to 11. This marks the first instance where various national and international organizations will conduct programs at the pavilion, focusing on Nepal’s highlighted issues.

Experts in the field anticipate that the events held at the pavilion will effectively showcase Nepal’s concerns and help raise awareness and support for these critical issues.

On the eve of the conference, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres paid a four-day official visit to Nepal from Oct 29 to Nov 1. Nepali officials believe that Guterres’ priority on climate change, exhibited during the visit, will also make it easier for highlighting problems facing Nepal at the global stage.

During his visit, Guterres highlighted the critical issue of climate change in the Himalayas, emphasizing the alarming rate at which glaciers are melting. He drew parallels to regions like Greenland and Antarctica, pointing at rising sea levels and other visible impacts in the form of floods, landslides and consequential disruptions to communities. Guterres emphasized the urgency of climate action, stating, “We must stop this madness. We must move forward with climate action.”

Highlighting Nepal’s challenges, he noted that the country’s glaciers had melted 65 percent faster in the last decade than in the previous one. 

To better understand the real impact of climate change on local livelihoods, Guterres engaged with residents of Khumbu Pasang Lhamu rural municipality-4 in Solukhumbu district. This interaction allowed him to comprehend firsthand how climate change has multifaceted effects on their daily lives. 

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Dahal has affirmed his commitment to assert Nepal’s stance and views on the impact of climate change directly at COP28. Speaking at an event organized on Saturday by the Nepal Mountaineering Association to hand over the peace torch at the Sagarmatha base camp, Dahal emphasized the need to assert rights rather than relying solely on supplication.

He highlighted Nepal’s stance, stressing that those responsible for carbon emissions must take greater accountability and contribute to the climate fund. Nepal, in the global climate discourse, aims to claim its rights rather than seek mere assistance.

Moreover, the Prime Minister recalled the recent visit of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to the Khumbu region, citing it as a reminder to the world about pressing issues. He noted Guterres’ visit, during which he inspected the impacts of climate change and engaged with local residents and representatives. Dahal highlighted the significant contribution of Guterres’ visit in highlighting the climate change challenges facing the region on a global scale.

During the second Voice of Global South Summit also, Prime Minister Dahal reiterated that climate change poses a significant threat to humanity. He affirmed Nepal’s unwavering dedication to implementing the Paris Agreement, emphasizing the country’s measures aimed at safeguarding and sustainably managing natural resources. “Nepal is actively engaged in effective adaptation and mitigation strategies and has expressed commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2045 through the promotion of green initiatives,” he added.

Agendas for COP28

• Climate finance: Strategies and mechanisms to secure funding for climate-related initiatives, focusing on sustainable development and resilience against climate change impacts
• Adaptation: Developing and implementing strategies to adapt to changing climatic conditions, emphasizing resilience-building measures
• Transfer of mountain technology and capacity-building: Facilitating the transfer of relevant technologies suitable for mountainous regions and enhancing the capacity of local communities to manage and adapt to climate change
• Loss and damage: Addressing the impacts of climate change-induced loss and damage, including measures to mitigate and manage these effects
• Gender, youth, children, climate empowerment: Promoting inclusivity and empowerment of marginalized groups such as women, youth, and children in climate action and decision-making processes
• Mitigation of the effects of climate change: Implementing strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change through various measures and initiatives

The government decision to ban TikTok, citing disruption of social harmony, family structure  and goodwill, has left everyone puzzled. There is no clear answer as to why the government abruptly shut down the popular video-sharing app. This move contradicts constitutional provisions and international commitments to safeguard freedom of speech and expression.  

While the government has the authority to ban apps affecting national security, social harmony, and law and order, the lack of clear reasons for the TikTok ban is problematic. Currently facing 10 writ petitions in the Supreme Court, and more in the pipeline, the government's decision is under scrutiny. Advocate Dinesh Tripathi, one of the petitioners, warns that the government may extend the ban on other apps as well.

The misuse of TikTok has been a persistent concern for government agencies, prompting continuous discussions between TikTok and the Nepal government regarding content regulation.  On 3 November, TikTok representatives presented a detailed working process, moderation and model of collaboration to the Nepal government. Earlier, an internet safety summit was organized in the presence of TikTok representatives, civil society and government officials. Similarly, TikTok has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nepal Telecommunication Authority to create awareness about the misuse of the platform.

Also in June, TikTok provided access to the Trust and Enforcement Tool to Nepal to ensure the reporting of content that is in violation of local laws. TikTok says it has since removed around three million videos by Nepali users for violating community standards. It appears that the government's desire for complete control over the so-called objectionable content led to the ban.

According to one government source, the ban was prompted after TikTok refused to remove all the videos that were flagged by the government.  The government's decision lacks transparency, with no specific reasons shared with the public. Three major political parties—Nepali Congress, CPN-UML and CPN (Maoist Center)—have by and large remained mum about the ban. Minister for Information and Communication Technology Rekha Sharma has suggested that there was an all-party consensus to ban TikTok. 

The silent position taken by major parties backs Sharma’s claim of all-party consensus. While some Congress leaders including Gagan Kumar Thapa, Bishwa Prakash Sharma and Shekhar Koirala have opposed the decision, the party President, Sher Bahadur Deuba, has not said anything.

In an all-party meeting held a few days ago, leaders expressed their concerns over the use of TikTok to disturb social harmony and religious tolerance. Following the discussion, the government came up with social media guidelines, asking the public to avoid the misuse of social media. Observers say, major parties may have agreed to ban TikTok after new political parties and rabble-rousers were heavily featured on TikTok clips where they defamed politicians and government. Security agencies have also expressed concerns about the misuse of TikTok to create social discord. A senior security officer says there were several videos on TikTok that created discord and disharmony among various religious and ethnic groups. 

But former deputy inspector general of Nepal Police, Hemanta Malla, says the government’s ban on TikTok cannot be justified. He notes that  there are far more objectionable contents on other platforms. Some experts say geopolitical factors may also have influenced the government’s decision to ban TikTok, as there have been global concerns about TikTok's potential threat to data security.  The ban has particularly hit small businesses, especially those led by women. For them, TikTok was a crucial platform to promote their products and brands. The app also helped to promote Nepal’s tourism destinations.

After India along with 59 Chinese-owned apps  banned TikTok in 2020, Nepal was the largest market for the platform.  The ban by India came shortly after a clash between Indian and Chinese troops at a disputed Himalayan border killed 20 Indian soldiers and injured dozens. 

As TikTok does not want to lose its user base in Nepal, its representatives are in Kathmandu to negotiate the lift on the ban. Experts suggest regulating the platform instead of a complete ban, but government officials argue that Nepal lacks sufficient mechanisms for content regulation. The plea for social media giants to open offices in Kathmandu echoes the need for better regulation rather than outright prohibition.

According to news agency AP, TikTok, owned by China’s ByteDance, has faced scrutiny in a number of countries because of concerns that Beijing could use the app to harvest user data or advance its interests. 

Countries including the United States, Britain and New Zealand have banned the app on government phones despite TikTok repeatedly denying that it has ever shared data with the Chinese government and would not do so if asked, according to AP.  It has 1 billion uses globally. Nepal has banned all pornographic sites in 2018. 

TikTok, owned by Chinese technology company Bytedance, has long maintained that it doesn’t share data with the Chinese government. It says a project to store American user data in the U.S. will put it out of China’s reach and it disputes accusations that it collects any more user data than U.S. social media companies do, according to AP. 

Nepal defeated Japan by 45 runs to  secure third position in the Women's T20 Quadrangular Series held in Hong Kong.

Batting first after winning the toss, Nepal scored 115 runs for the loss of five wickets. Pooja Mahato top-scored with 43 runs followed by Roma Thapa who scored 22 runs while Rubina Chhetri scored 21 runs.

In reply, Japan could muster only 70 runs by losing six wickets in the allotted 20 overs.

For Nepal, Sangita Rai, Indu Burma, Sita Rana Magar, Khushi Dangol and Soni Pakhrin took one wicket each.

Earlier, Nepal had defeated Japan by 67 runs in the last match of the group stage held on Saturday.

Nepal, Tanzania, Japan and Hong Kong are participating in the four-nation series. After coming up as winners and runners-up of the group stage, Tanzania and Hong Kong will play for the title later this afternoon.

Led by captain Indu Burma, the Nepali team comprises vice-captain Bindu Rawal, Rubina Chhetri, Sita Ranamgar, Asmina Karmacharya, Kajol Shrestha, Kanchan Shrestha, Khushi Dangol, Sangeeta Rai, Soni Pakhrin, Somu Bista, Pooja Mahato, Roma Thapa and Samjhana Khadka.

As part of the commemorating 20 years of successful implementation of the High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) in Nepal, through grant assistance of Government of India, the Embassy of India formally handed over the Mangaladevi Birthing (Maternity) Center at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu to the hospital representatives.

Finance Minister Prakash Sharan Mahat, Minister for Federal Affairs and General Administration Anita Devi, and Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava jointly handed over the center to the hospital representatives amidst a function.

Political representatives, officials of Nepal Government, social workers and local community leaders were also present at the event. 

Furthermore, agreements for 3 more HICDP projects being undertaken in Nepal under Indian grant assistance at total estimated cost of Rs 130 million in the Baitadi and Mustang districts were also signed on the occasion, reads a statement issued by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu.

Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital is one of the most prestigious medical institutions in Nepal.

Mangaladevi Birthing Center at TUTH has been built with Government of India’s financial assistance of Rs 44.04 million as an HICDP under Nepal-India Development Cooperation framework.

In addition, 2 sets of 40 KVA Diesel Generators, 5 Buses and 2 Ambulances have been provided to different departments, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, for this hospital in which 1 Ambulance is fully equipped with Advanced Life Support.

TUTH representatives informed that this birthing center is being managed by nurses and could function as the model birthing center for implementation in other regions across Nepal, which could result in reduced maternal mortality rates, according to the statement.

HICDPs, earlier known as Small Development Projects, were launched on  November 7, 2003 through bilateral agreement between Government of Nepal and Government of India regarding India’s Grant Assistance for Implementation of Small Development Projects through Nepali entities working at local level.

 There projects are an innovative and important segment of the Development Partnership with Nepal and are being implemented in the priority sectors of the Government of Nepal for creating infrastructure to enhance the quality of life at the grassroots level for the people of Nepal.

Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Srivastava highlighted that this journey of implementation of HICDP projects over the past 20 years has been very successful.

He expressed satisfaction that since 2003, nearly 550 projects have been taken up under this framework in various sectors including Education, Health, Road & Bridges, River Training, Drinking Water, Electrification, Irrigation, Culture, Social Welfare etc, which have impacted people’s lives directly.

Of these, 480 projects have been completed and remaining are ongoing.

This success translates into over 27 projects every year or simply more than 1 new project being implemented every fortnight in Nepal under Nepal-India Development Cooperation over the last 20 years.

The Ambassador thanked the Government of Nepal for its support in this regard, and committed to further enhance and strengthen the implementation of HICDPs in future, the statement further reads.

These HICDPs have been diverse in sector and geographical spread. It covers all the provinces of Nepal. 84 Projects have been undertaken in Koshi Province, 81 projects in Madhesh Province, 105 projects have been undertaken in Bagmati Province, 61 Projects in Gandaki Province, 60 projects have been undertaken in Lumbini Province, 14 in Karnali Province and 41 in Sudurpaschim Province. These are apart from 107 projects that spread in more than one province.

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Mahat thanked India for its continuous support in the creation of development infrastructure in Nepal.

He highlighted that HICDP projects are the cornerstone of the development partnership between India and Nepal.

He assured that Government of Nepal’s full support in implementation of such projects which impact the livelihood of common Nepali people.

Similarly, Minister Anita Devi highlighted that the key aspects of such projects is their quick gestation period and role that they play in economic development at the local level. She thanked the Government of India for its support. She highlighted that HICDPs, despite being small in size, create a big impact in lives of the common Nepali people and therefore have been appropriately described as Highly Impactful in bringing changes in community.

Further, Government of India has also been gifting ambulances and school buses every year to various institutions working in the health and education sectors in Nepal on the occasion of Independence Day and Republic Day of India.

So far, 974 ambulances and 234 school buses have been gifted to beneficiaries in different parts of Nepal which translate into one ambulance being gifted every week and 1 school bus every month. These services are placed to be part of the first line of treatment and contribute significantly to the health care and education sector. This initiative is connecting with grass-root people even in the remotest parts of Nepal.

Nepal government and 16 development partners agreed to consolidate and scale up financing and technical assistance to support Nepal to implement a set of high-priority investments and policies in line with Nepal’s Green, Resilient, and Inclusive Development (GRID).

A joint communique to operationalize Nepal’s GRID Strategic Action Plan was endorsed at a high-level event organized today by the Ministry of Finance with support from the World Bank and other development partners.

 At the event, the government, development partners, civil society organizations, private sector stakeholders, and think tanks also renewed their commitments to work across institutional and sectoral boundaries to continue to finance and implement Nepal’s GRID priorities. 

“In Nepal, we have already internalized the GRID approach to build a greener, more resilient, and more inclusive economy that can withstand shocks, protect our environment, and uplift the lives of our people,” said Finance Minister, Dr. Prakash Sharan Mahat. “Nepal’s new GRID Strategic Action Plan can be a policy vehicle that accelerates growth and job creation, strengthens livelihoods, and boosts the prosperity of Nepali people sustainably.”

The external financing for the GRID Strategic Action Plan includes grants and other concessional financing such as subsidized loans, and innovative financing such as carbon finance. External financing is complemented by Nepal’s public budget and also aims to leverage foreign and domestic private sector investment.

The GRID Strategic Action Plan identifies a set of ten priority actions including: managing land, water, and forests in a more productive, sustainable, and integrated way for more resilient infrastructure, ecosystems, and food systems; equipping people with new skills and resilient livelihoods.

Other areas include :  greening urban development; scaling up water supply and sanitation, reducing air pollution and managing solid waste; scaling up renewable energy; boosting the sustainability and resilience of transport; strengthening disaster risk management; and enhancing social protection and health systems to be more responsive to shocks.

“The World Bank is proud to support Nepal to take this strategic step toward a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive economy,” said Anna Bjerde, World Bank Managing Director for Operations. “Nepal’s GRID approach focuses on the quality of development and growth—the type of growth that reduces extreme poverty, narrows structural inequalities, protects the environment, sustains the growth process, and makes it more resilient.”

Investment priorities in the GRID Strategic Action Plan aim to build on Nepal’s development success stories, scale up action on the ground, help mobilize private sector investment, and deliver sustainability along with resilience and inclusion at the same time.  This will help create more jobs for more people; build the resilience of people and their livelihoods; boost environmental, climate, water, and food security; and create opportunities for a more inclusive and durable economy, World bank said.