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Nepal’s interim government is operating amid a deep national crisis. Public trust in the state is weak. Institutions are working at cross purposes. Citizens, especially the youth, are demanding change on the streets, while political factions and external actors closely watch for any weakness to push their own agendas. The government’s mandate is limited but crucial: conduct national elections within six months, of which one month has already passed. This cannot be achieved through short-term political arrangements or by simply reacting to every crisis. The state must fix its weak institutional foundations. Fortunately, the Constitution offers a clear instrument for this task: the National Security Council (NSC). This is one of the government’s most strategic, but most underused, institutions.

Nepal’s instability is not happening in isolation. Youth groups are demanding structural change, while political parties that lost power after the dissolution of the lower chamber of the bicameral parliament (the House of Representatives) see this as a chance to make a comeback. At the same time, supporters of a return to the erstwhile royalist order are becoming more vocal, presenting themselves as an alternative political force. External actors are also watching the situation closely. 

A weak and distracted Nepal suits the strategic interests of some regional and global powers. The longer state institutions remain uncoordinated, the more space internal and external actors will find to influence national affairs. The current situation, latent inter-agency rivalries, uncoordinated responses, and widespread public anger reflect a deep crisis of coordination and command. If this gap remains, it could become very difficult to control later.

The NSC, established under Article 266 of the Constitution, was created precisely for such a situation. It is meant to serve as the strategic brain of national security, bringing together the Prime Minister and the Ministers of Defense, Home, Finance, and Foreign Affairs. However, successive governments have allowed the NSC to remain a ceremonial body, meeting rarely and acting even less. This interim government can change that. Reactivating the NSC requires no new law or constitutional amendment, only political will. The NSC offers a neutral platform to depoliticize security discussions, the authority to bring all security agencies under a common plan, and a legally sound way for an interim government to address security challenges.

Reviving the NSC should not mean only holding closed meetings. It should become a real center for coordination, planning and communication. The government can give it three immediate tasks. First, the NSC should issue a clear public directive explaining which agency does what during a crisis. This simple step will reduce confusion and close the gaps that opportunistic actors currently exploit. Second, intelligence and security agencies must be required to share information and work on the basis of a common threat assessment as fragmented works allow destabilizing elements to take advantage of blind spots. Third, the NSC should hold regular briefings to inform citizens about the security situation and present a common narrative. This is not about revealing sensitive information; it is about preventing rumours, misinformation and disinformation from filling the gap. While the NSC membership is constitutionally fixed, its processes can be more inclusive. It should consult representatives from the private sector, civil society, scholars, technology experts and youth groups as these stakeholders bring perspectives from the ground that government officials often miss.

Given limited time and high risks, the government’s approach must be focused and realistic. In the first phase, the government should activate the NSC by holding a serious, substantive meeting and publicly declaring it as the central coordinating body. This will signal both to the public and to external observers that there is a clear hand on the wheel. It should also launch an independent inquiry by forming a time-bound, judge-led commission to investigate recent protest violence. Showing accountability will strengthen public confidence and deny critics their strongest arguments. Alongside this, the government should establish a crisis communication desk to serve as a single, trusted source for verified information. When rumors spread about “foreign hands” or hidden agendas, citizens should know exactly where to get the truth.

In the second phase, the NSC’s policy directives must be translated into operational orders across all security agencies. In sensitive districts, local security committees made up of officials, police and community leaders should be set up to identify grievances early and prevent external exploitation.

The interim government’s success will not be measured only by whether the streets become quieter for a short period. Its real success will be judged by whether it leaves behind a more coherent, trusted and functional state than it inherited — one that is less vulnerable to internal manipulation and external pressure. The NSC can and should be the central instrument to achieve this. By reactivating the NSC and using it strategically, the government can provide clarity, restore coordination, and close the gaps that currently invite instability.

The author is a self-practicing social analyst. Through her independent study of Nepali society, she provides a unique perspective on societal norms

In addition to highlighting the long-simmering generational resentment in the nation, the GenZ protests in Sept 2025 brought about one of the worst economic shocks in Nepal’s recent history. What started as youth-led protests against political stagnation, unemployment, and corruption swiftly descended into violence, resulting in dozens of fatalities, thousands of injuries, and an enormous financial loss. The actual question now is whether Nepal can withstand these shocks without spiralling into more severe cycles of instability. The protests’ financial toll is already apparent: direct damages totalling billions of rupees, a decline in investor confidence, a contraction in essential industries, and an increase in unemployment. These losses, if ignored, will worsen the very circumstances that pushed young Nepalis onto the streets, raising the possibility of future unrest.

The most apparent and agonizing toll is the human one. Over two thousand people were injured during the protests, and at least seventy-four people were killed nationwide, including protesters and security personnel. Public trust in the state’s ability to maintain law and order was broken and prison breakouts contributed to the growing sense of lawlessness. The less obvious but no less terrible tale of economic devastation, however, is hidden behind these headlines. According to estimates from economists, the collateral damage caused by the protests is approximately Rs 3trn, which is nearly half of the nation’s GDP and equal to the government’s budget for almost one and a half fiscal years. The foundation of Nepal’s economy, the tourism industry, has been especially severely affected. According to tourism officials, the industry lost approximately Rs 25bn during and immediately following the protests, as thousands of cancellations destroyed what was supposed to be a prosperous season. With reported losses exceeding Rs 25bn and damage exceeding Rs 8bn at the Hilton in Kathmandu alone, the hotel industry has been disproportionately affected. These numbers are more than just statistics; they reflect the closure of businesses, unpaid workers, and a decline in Nepal’s reputation as a safe and secure travel destination abroad. When order is restored, the effects won’t go away; damage to a tourism industry's reputation may persist for years, discouraging subsequent tourism and investment in associated infrastructure.

The entire private sector has also suffered greatly. An estimated 15,000 jobs were directly impacted, and businesses reported losses of about Rs 80bn. These new job losses run the risk of escalating the cycle of economic despair in a nation already beset by pervasive underemployment and a significant reliance on foreign migration for employment. In addition to undermining household incomes, unemployment increases outbound migration and strengthens Nepal's reliance on remittances from abroad. Due to business closures or reductions during the unrest, nearly 10,000 Nepalis reportedly lost their jobs within a short period. This weakens the very demographic advantage Nepal should use for development, exacerbating an already precarious situation where the young, skilled labour force sees greater prospects abroad than at home.

The losses extended beyond small businesses and the tourism sector. Due to increased consumer demand, the automobile industry, which has been one of the most dynamic in recent years, sustained damages totalling about Rs 15bn. Along with interrupted imports and supply chains, the destruction of showrooms and warehouses runs the risk of slowing down a market that was previously growing. Consumer confidence and purchasing power might take some time to recover, even with the reconstruction of physical infrastructure, particularly as inflationary pressures increase and household incomes remain stagnant. This illustrates how instability undermines long-term growth prospects: years of gradual progress in industries that reflect the burgeoning middle-class economy can be reversed by a single wave of violence.

The cumulative effect of these losses has negatively impacted the macroeconomic outlook for Nepal. The economy was expected to grow by 3.5 to 4 percent this fiscal year, but growth forecasts have since been drastically reduced; some economists now predict growth of less than one percent. Others note that if reconstruction is postponed or funded carelessly, Nepal might experience complete contraction. According to one estimate, the protests caused losses of $22.5bn, or nearly half of Nepal’s GDP. As a result, the GenZ protests would rank among the most severe economic shocks to South Asia during a period of peace in recent memory, in addition to being a disruptive episode. This magnitude of loss runs the risk of igniting a fiscal and monetary crisis for a nation still recuperating from the pandemic and having trouble managing its debt.

The state is already feeling the financial strain. The government has been forced to reallocate funds for increased security spending, emergency relief, and compensation for the families of the victims. The fiscal deficit has widened as a result of the collapse of tourism and commerce revenues. Nepal may have to borrow more money as a result of declining revenues and growing debt. However, borrowing now runs the risk of trapping the nation in a debt cycle, particularly if grants and concessional loans from outside partners are not forthcoming. The burden will only get worse if borrowing costs increase, especially if credit rating agencies reduce Nepal’s risk profile in reaction to political and economic unrest. A declining rupee and growing import prices could cause inflationary pressures that further reduce real incomes and exacerbate public annoyance.

A new generation of Nepalis has taken to the streets to vent their frustration because they are better educated, more globally connected, and more conscious of the shortcomings of the government. Disillusionment will increase if their complaints are only addressed through repression and short-term fixes rather than structural changes. That might undermine democratic stability by opening the door for frequent demonstrations or more extreme forms of mobilisation. Nepal runs the risk of becoming caught in a vicious cycle where protests erode the economy further, which in turn leads to more protests. Economic despair and political alienation are a volatile combination.

Consequently, Nepal cannot meet the challenge on its own. Being a landlocked nation sandwiched between two powerful countries, Nepal’s instability will unavoidably impact its neighbours, and it needs outside assistance to recover. India, Nepal’s closest neighbour and biggest trading partner, has a special obligation to provide concessional credit lines for reconstruction and investment in industries that create jobs. Targeted assistance in border areas, primarily through cross-border trade hubs and renewable energy projects, may be able to absorb some of the young people without jobs and lessen the pressures of migration. In order to guarantee the transparent use of reconstruction funds, India can simultaneously offer technical expertise in auditing and public finance.

Beijing must put community-sensitive projects that meet local needs ahead of purely strategic objectives if it hopes to be regarded as a reliable development partner. Coordination with Nepali stakeholders, grants rather than high-interest loans, and transparent funding will be essential. The time demands that multilateral organisations like the World Bank and Asian Development Bank reevaluate their priorities, allocating funds not only to infrastructure but also to rural development, youth employment, and governance reforms. Through direct investments in healthcare and education, development bonds backed by remittances, or emergency compensation funds for impacted families, Western donors and Nepal’s diaspora communities can also make a significant contribution.

Nepal’s recent history has taught us that crises rarely come to an end with a single incident. The monarchy was overthrown by the People's Movement of 2006, but federalism and ethnic grievances remained unresolved. Although it alienated important groups, the 2015 Constitution established a new order. The GenZ protests follow this pattern: if youth grievances are not addressed, today’s instability will only serve as the catalyst for tomorrow’s upheaval. Now, structural reform is required in addition to reconstruction. The bare minimum of stability requires the transparent rebuilding of damaged infrastructure, a youth-focused national employment mission, institutional reforms to fight corruption, and sincere communication with younger generations and civil society.

If these economic wounds are allowed to worsen, there is a risk that they will exacerbate disenchantment, accelerate migration, erode the fiscal system, and create the conditions for further upheavals. Nepal and its neighbours, who would unavoidably be affected, cannot afford such a course. It is now the duty of Nepali leaders and outside partners to take note of the possibility to not only restore what has been destroyed but also to establish the framework for a more resilient, inclusive, and stable order. The GenZ protests might be seen as a sign of long-term decline rather than a turning point towards reform in the absence of such a concerted and systemic response.

The author is a PhD Candidate at the School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi

The GenZ uprising of Sept 8-9 has reignited debate over the relevance of Nepal’s federal governance system. Calls are growing to dismantle the provincial structure and empower local levels further. At the same time, a parallel public sentiment questions whether seeking alternatives to federalism is premature. Political and social representatives emerging after the movement have openly presented divergent perspectives on the issue.

Nepal formally adopted a federal system with the 2015 Constitution, which came into full implementation in 2018. While federalism had been sporadically discussed in earlier debates, the Madhes movement and other ethnic-regional agitations following the 2007 Interim Constitution were pivotal in institutionalizing it. Political parties of that era accepted federalism under pressure to pacify unrest and restore stability. It is therefore indisputable that federalism in Nepal was not a spontaneously embraced principle but a system established through struggle.

Against this backdrop, dissatisfaction with the provincial setup, considered the “soul” of federalism, has emerged as a pressing subject for analysis. Why has public support for provinces eroded so rapidly? This question lies at the heart of the ongoing national debate: Why are the provinces neglected?

An ambiguous role

Nepal’s Constitution clearly delineates powers and responsibilities among the federal, provincial and local levels, including both shared and exclusive authorities. Despite these clear provisions and subsequent functional reports further clarifying them, the federal government has failed to sufficiently empower the provinces.

The Constitution restricts provinces from enacting laws that contradict federal legislation. Yet, because the federal parliament has delayed passing or amending necessary laws, provinces were left in a prolonged legal vacuum. Consequently, they began drafting their own legislation. For instance, the Federal Civil Service Act is still pending, whereas provinces have already enacted their civil and local service laws, creating legal inconsistencies that have reached the Constitutional Bench.

Fiscal federalism has similarly suffered. Major taxes and large infrastructure projects remain under federal control, preventing provinces from achieving financial self-reliance and making them dependent on federal grants. This situation has raised questions about the federal government’s genuine commitment to federalism. Administrative disruptions, particularly in personnel adjustment, have compounded the problem. Forced adjustment often met with resistance undermined the provinces’ ability to implement federalism effectively. The failure to stabilize the administrative backbone weakened the system’s overall efficacy.

Provinces’ weaknesses

In the initial phase, provincial governments appeared relatively agile and committed. Small seven-member cabinets functioned despite limited staff and legal gaps. Over time, some of these challenges got resolved, but then the provinces began replicating the federal government’s problematic practices.

Unnecessary expansion of ministries, oversized cabinets, bloated advisory bodies and costly administrative setups increased recurrent expenditures without producing tangible improvements in citizens’ lives. Provincial legislators frequently engaged in party splits and political maneuvering to secure positions and power—further eroding public trust. Corruption and uncontrolled benefits by political personalities amplified public criticism.

Government change in the Center also affected provincial stability. Governments were formed or dissolved at the federal leadership’s signal, weakening provincial autonomy. As a result, provincial administrations—the intended embodiments of federalism, began operating under external influence, failing to establish themselves as credible institutions in the public eye.

Judiciary’s ineffective role

Scholars have long expected the judiciary to guide provinces to become stronger and more capable through clear constitutional interpretation. Judicial decisions significantly shape federal practices, yet courts have failed to safeguard provincial autonomy adequately.

Most of the cases accusing the federal government of unnecessary interference or lack of facilitation have remained unresolved. Decisions, when issued, lack uniformity. For example, cases filed by the Madhesh Province Government over the Sagarnath forest project or staff adjustments have remained unresolved for seven years. Supreme Court rulings on the Gandaki Province government formation have given rise to significant legal disagreements. Differing court orders on writs filed by transferred civil servants further entrenched uncertainty for provincial governments and employees.

Such inconsistencies have reinforced the perception that centralized thinking dominates the judiciary. The courts’ failure to act as constitutional guardians of provincial stability is a major factor impacting public confidence in the federal system.

Irresponsible media

Mainstream media could have played a pivotal role in consolidating federalism. Instead, driven by TRP (Target Rating Point) competition, sensationalism often eclipsed informed reporting.

Positive provincial initiatives such as investments in social sectors, improvements in human development indicators and tourism promotion have received limited attention. In contrast, stories on cabinet reshuffles, ministerial lifestyles and petty scandals got amplified, fostering negative perceptions of the provincial structure.

While corruption has existed historically, media reports often exaggerated its prevalence only after the formation of provincial governments. Pro-federal voices were relegated to minor columns, while anti-federal perspectives dominated front pages. This biased information flow heightened public dissatisfaction and distrust toward provincial governments.

Influence multiplied

In today’s digital age, social media amplifies public discourse alongside traditional media. Activists and influencers compete for followers and views, often overlooking positive provincial initiatives. Single mistakes are sensationalized, analyzed from multiple angles and sometimes mixed with fabricated claims.

This flood of misinformation and malinformation leaves citizens unable to discern fact from fiction. Provincial governance is inherently the most challenging layer of the federal system for public comprehension. While it takes time to demonstrate necessity and effectiveness, various interest groups have exploited this period to magnify weaknesses and advance their agendas. Misleading campaigns have significantly contributed to public neglect of provinces.

Conclusion

Federalism forms the backbone of Nepal’s constitutional, political, and administrative framework. It was introduced not merely for administrative convenience but to ensure inclusive governance that accommodates Nepal’s diverse social, cultural and regional realities. Today’s imperative is not to dismantle provinces but to reform them—creating lean, efficient and results-oriented provincial structures. Through improved, citizen-centric federal practices, provincial governments can regain public confidence and become foundational pillars in building a tolerant society and a prosperous Nepal.

Nepal has exported electricity worth nearly Rs 15bn so far in the current fiscal year 2025/26, according to the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA).  The country has been exporting an average of 1,000 megawatts (MW) of surplus electricity daily since the beginning of the fiscal year in mid-July. NEA officials say the utility is currently exporting around 1,000 MW of electricity every day after meeting domestic demand.

Nepal has been exporting electricity to India and Bangladesh. It received permission to sell energy on the competitive day-ahead market of the Indian Energy Exchange Limited (IEX) in the last week of Oct 2021. In the initial phase, the NEA was permitted to sell a modest 39 MW of electricity generated by Trishuli (24 MW) and Devighat (15 MW). Since then, the volume and value of power exports have steadily increased.

Nepal sells electricity to India through both competitive market mechanisms and bilateral agreements. Along with the day-ahead and real-time markets of the IEX, Nepal also exports electricity to Haryana and Bihar states of India under the government-to-government deals.

In addition, Nepal is exporting 40 megawatts of electricity daily to Bangladesh through India’s transmission network. The power is transmitted from the 400 kV Dhalkebar–Muzaffarpur line in Nepal to India and then routed to Bangladesh via the Behrampur–Bheramara cross-border transmission line. Electricity exports to Bangladesh began on June 15 and are scheduled to continue for five months. The NEA expects to earn around US$ 9.4m from these exports over the period.

Power exports to Bangladesh began in 2023 following a trilateral arrangement among Nepal, India and Bangladesh. Electricity trade with India is conducted in Indian rupees (INR), while transactions with Bangladesh are settled in US dollars. The NEA has received approval to export a total of 1,165 MW of power to India and Bangladesh combined.

In 2024/25, Nepal exported electricity worth approximately Rs 17.4bn to India and Bangladesh. Total exports reached 2.35bn units, with India accounting for Rs 17.19bn of the purchases and Bangladesh for Rs 266.7m.

Nepal has been exporting electricity generated by projects like Trishuli (23.28 MW), Devighat (14.55 MW), Marsyangdi (67 MW), Kali Gandaki A (140 MW), Middle Marsyangdi (68 MW), Likhu IV (51 MW), Chilime (21.44 MW), Solu Khola (22.80 MW), Kabeli B1 (24.25MW), Lower Modi (19.40 MW), Upper Kaligandaki (32.70 MW), Upper Chamelia (37.30 MW), Upper Dordi A (24.25 MW) and Upper Balephi A (34.92 MW).

Nepal defeated Kuwait by 58 runs in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Asia and EAP Qualifiers.

Chasing a victory target of 142 runs posted by Nepal in the match held at the Al Amerat cricket ground in Oman, Kuwait managed to score 83 runs losing all the wickets in 18.1 overs.

Only three Kuwait batsmen could score in double digits with opener Clinto Anto and batsman Yashin Patel contributing 26 and 19 runs respectively. Meet Bhavsar scored 11 runs in 12 balls.

Nepali bowlers Lalit Rajbansi, Sandeep Lamichhane and Captain Rohit Paudel took two wickets each in giving their team the first win of the qualifiers. Sompal Kami, Nandan Yadav and Kushal Bhurtel claimed one wicket each.

Earlier, batting first after losing the toss, Nepal scored 141 runs in 20 overs at the loss of seven wickets.

Opener Kushal Bhurtel top-scored with 66 runs in 56 balls followed by Dipendra Singh Airee and Gulshan Jha who scored 20 runs each.

Captain Rohit Paudel was the third batsman to reach double figures, scoring 16 runs in 15 balls. Bhurtel won the player-of-the-match award for taking 1 wicket as well.

For Kuwait, N Rajendran and A Chandamara took two wickets each followed by M.A. Farooq and M. Aslam who took one wicket each.

Led by captain Paudel, Nepali national team comprises Asif Sheikh, Kushal Bhurtel, Kushal Malla, Sandeep Jora, Dipendra Singh Airee, Lalit Narayan Rajbanshi, Sompal Kami, Nandan Yadav, Gulshan Jha and Sandeep Lamichhane.

Nepal have been grouped together with Kuwait and Japan in Group B. There are three groups comprising nine countries vying for a spot in the T20 world cup taking place from February to March in 2026.

Nepal and Germany today signed a technical and financial cooperation agreement on 41 million euros in grant.

German Ambassador to Nepal Udo Volz and Joint Secretary and the head of the Foreign Aid Coordination Division at the Ministry of Finance Dhani Ram Sharma signed the agreement on behalf of their respective governments, reads a statement issued by the German Embassy in Kathmandu.

The agreement builds upon the commitments made during the government-to-government negotiations held in Berlin on September 4-5, 2024, in accordance with international law.

The agreement encompasses several projects in the areas of energy, sustainable economic development and health, according to the statement.

One is the Power Distribution Strengthening Program (PoDiSP)which aims to enhance electricity distribution and consumption in and around the cities of Pokhara, Butwal, and Bharatpur. 

An additional 20 million euros has been allocated for this initiative to a previously granted 10 million euros. 

The agreement also includes an additional 12 million euros to strengthen the GRAPE (Green Resilient Agricultural-centeredPrivate Sector Economic Development) project. Another notable project is the Strengthening of Quality Infrastructure for the Health System, with a budget of 1.5 million euros.

The projects will be implemented by the German Implementing Agencies – Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), GMBH, Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW), and Physikalisch- Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB).

During the agreement signing ceremony, German Ambassador Udo Volz expressed his appreciation of the longstanding German-Nepal Development Cooperation. “With these new commitments, we further deepen our cooperation with the country and the people of Nepal in the areas of Energy, Sustainable Economic Development and Health,” the ambassador said. 

Joint Secretary Sharma stated that the agreements reflect the strength of Nepal-German relations and demonstrate the shared commitment to inclusive and sustainable development. "We are deeply grateful for Germany’s continued support in key sectors that matter most to the people of Nepal," he noted, the statement further reads.

The agreement signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of Finance at Singha Durbar. 

Representatives from GIZ, KfW and PTB, and from relevant Nepali line ministries were also present on the occasion.

Nepal defeated Malaysia to clinch Women's Twenty20 International Series cricket on Wednesday.

Nepal won the series defeating Malaysia by five wickets in the fifth and decisive match held at Bayuemas Oval Cricket Ground of Malaysia this morning.

With this victory, Nepal won the five-match series by 3-2 against Malaysia.

Nepal achieved the target of 104-run posted by Malaysia in 18 overs at the loss of five wickets.

For Nepal, Rubi Poddar scored 26 runs, Puja Mahato 23 runs, Rubina Chhetri 15 runs (not out) and Samjhana Khadka 13 runs.

Ainna Hamizah, Nur Dania Syuhada, Aisya Eleesa Erni Firdaus and Nur Alya of Malaysia took one wicket each.

Earlier, choosing to bat first after winning the toss, Malaysia gathered 103 runs in 20 overs at the loss of seven wickets.

Winifred scored the highest 40 runs for Malaysia while Mahira Izzati Ismail made 19 runs, Ainna Hamizah 15 runs and Nur Dania Syuhada 11 runs. 

Similarly, Kabita Kunwar and Rajmati Airee took three wickets each and Rachana Chaudhary claimed one wicket.

To put it bluntly, Nepal’s disaster management system is a chronic liability for the nation’s economy and development. Year after year, the same pattern repeats: infrastructure buckles under predictable monsoon pressure, commerce grinds to a halt and the government scrambles to provide the bare minimum response. From a commoner’s perspective, this is not just a humanitarian crisis; it’s a fundamental risk to growth, and public trust.

Let’s look at last week’s flood as a case study. Over 120 millimeters of rain in the Kathmandu valley, and what happens? The Bagmati river overflows, settlements get submerged and thousands of travelers get stuck. Major roads, the arteries of trade and mobility, are paralyzed. The cascading impact on businesses, logistics and supply chains is enormous. Missed deliveries, spoiled goods, delayed projects: these translate directly into lost revenue.

The government’s response? Only warnings and temporary road closures. That’s risk mitigation at its most reactive, not proactive. This signals a systemic weakness. If the capital city can’t guarantee basic resilience for its infrastructure, what does that say to entrepreneurs or multinationals considering Nepal as a regional hub? It’s not just embarrassing; it’s a red flag.

What’s truly troubling is that none of this was unforeseen. Meteorological departments both local and international had issued alerts. Risk maps were available. The knowledge was there, but execution was absent. In the private sector, such a disconnect between planning and action would be deemed operational failure. Heads would roll. In the government, it’s business as usual, and that’s a problem.

The root cause isn’t the rain or the rivers or even climate change in isolation; it’s governance. Subpar infrastructure isn’t a quirk of nature; it’s the result of weak regulations, poor enforcement and a culture of shortcuts. When roads collapse or bridges fail, it’s often because substandard materials were used, inspections were skipped or contracts were awarded based on connections rather than competency. This is inefficiency that costs lives but also eats into GDP.

Every broken bridge or flooded market is a direct hit not only to the public purse, but to the broader economy. Taxpayer money gets funneled into rebuilding the same structures year after year, a recurring expense with no strategic return. Meanwhile, the opportunity cost is massive: funds that could go into education, healthcare, technology or even modernizing infrastructure are instead funneled into endless repairs.

And the cycle is disturbingly predictable. Disaster strikes, there’s a flurry of aid, some short-term fixes, and then the urgency fades. Budgets shift elsewhere, reports are filed and forgotten, and nothing really changes before the next crisis. This isn’t just bureaucratic inertia; it’s a structural risk that anyone would flag immediately. You can’t build a future on such shaky ground.

As climate volatility makes weather patterns more extreme and unpredictable, designing for “average conditions” is a recipe for failure. For Nepal to position itself as a viable market, it must engineer infrastructure to withstand not just the probable, but the possible. This means higher upfront costs, yes, but also far greater long-term returns and resilience.

Unplanned construction along rivers and unstable slopes is no longer a public safety issue; it’s a long-term occupational risk. Relocation of vulnerable communities should be done with foresight and dignity, not as a panicked reaction when disaster hits. Every major development project must include a robust climate risk assessment as part of due diligence. To ignore this is, quite literally, to invite future losses.

Accountability remains the missing ingredient. Nepal’s disaster agencies are good at issuing warnings but poor at delivering results. Coordination is weak, resources are stretched and responsibility is diffuse. In the private sector, a failure to deliver on risk management would mean restructuring, tighter oversight and clear consequences. The public sector must adopt a similar approach if it wants to foster sustainable growth and protect both lives and livelihoods.

This endless loop of crisis and neglect is not just unsustainable; it’s a major drag on competitiveness. It normalizes inefficiency, stifles innovation and discourages the kind of long-term planning that underpins successful economies. 

Why do the same roads collapse every year? Why does reconstruction always cost more than prevention? 

These are some of the questions the government must address, without further delay.

Accepting this as normal guarantees the same losses, year after year. If Nepal wants to break the cycle, disaster management must become a strategic priority, not an afterthought. This means investing in maintenance, building up local response capabilities, keeping risk maps updated and ensuring seamless coordination between agencies.

Relief efforts can only do so much; they’re a band-aid on a festering wound. True preparedness, the kind that saves lives and preserves economic stability, starts long before the rain begins to fall. Every failed bridge, every flooded street, every preventable tragedy should be a catalyst for investigation and reform, not just another line item in next year’s budget. Nepal can no longer afford to treat disaster management as a seasonal inconvenience. It’s a catastrophic risk and the cost of inaction is mounting.

The author is an engineer and certified project management professional advocating for enhancing project management practices in Nepal

The Nepali national cricket team is taking on Kuwait today under the ICC T20 World Cup and East Asia Pacific Regional Qualifier with the target to participate in the T20 World Cup third time.

The Nepal-Kuwait match under the tournament beginning today in Oman will be held at 8.45 pm Nepali time.

Earlier, Nepal had participated in the 2014 and 2024 world cups.

Nepal are in Group 'B' in the ICC T20 World Cup Asia and East Asia-Pacific Qualifier with Kuwait and Japan.

Nine teams are participating in the tournament. The participating teams have been divided into three groups.

Group 'A' consists of Malaysia, Qatar and UAE, while Group 'C' includes Oman, Papua New Guinea and Samoa Islands.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Six.

The Nepali team comprises captain Rohit Paudel, vice-captain Dipendra Singh Airee, Kushal Bhurtel, Lokesh Bam, Kushal Malla, Asif Sheikh, Adil Alam, Karan KC, Nandan Yadav, Sandeep Lamichhane, Sandeep Jora, Arif Sheikh, Lalit Narayan Rajbamshi, Gulshan Jha and Sompal Kami.

When thousands of youths marched onto the streets on September 8, many in school dresses, they challenged the traditional power structure using digital platforms. Two things were particularly uncommon in this protest: First, the term “GenZ” and the second, the use of digital platforms. GenZ, often referred to as the first tribe of digital natives, are the demographic cohort after millennials. Analysts describe GenZ as compassionate and thoughtful, yet also anxious in a world of global crises and constant information flow. Second, their reliance on digital tools for communication and mobilization was a defining characteristic during the recent protest.

This decentralized and leaderless protest was a grassroot movement coordinated by GenZ through digital platforms. Platforms like Discord, YouTube and TikTok acted as a central point for information sharing, coordination and collaboration, building consensus and amplifying actions.

As Virginia Matthews once noted, GenZ channels their political power via online identities and digital activism. This holds true in global stage too, movements such as #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter have shown how digital platforms can amplify voices and turn local frustrations into global advocacy.

Fueled by deep-seated frustration over corruption, inequality and systematic failure, the protest moved beyond the political ideology. It highlighted the ability of digital space to form a common voice, organize and pressure change—faster than conventional politics. It unified young people across cities and even inspired older generations and Nepalis living abroad to offer their support.

Why it matters

The significance of this protest goes beyond the moment of anger and frustration over corruption, inequality and growing influence of a generation in reshaping Nepal’s future.

The oldest members of GenZ are moving through universities, entering the workforce and even stepping into government, just like the previous generation but at a faster pace. They bring entrepreneurial spirit, a comfort with technology and impatience with outdated systems.

Many GenZ are already running digital startups from clothing brands on instagram to gaming companies and e-commerce platforms. For them, digitalization has provided unique opportunities to develop skills, remove social barriers and create sustainable growth. The restriction in the access to the digital world not only limits their potential but also their access to information and social support. The recent protests set a powerful reminder that comprehensive digital education is fundamental for civic participation, economic opportunity and accountable governance.

The protest also exposed how fragile Nepal’s governance system remains. When the public records and digital infrastructure were affected by the protest, it highlighted the vulnerability of paper-based systems. In contrast, data centers and backup availability protected countless documents. For a generation raised online, digitalization is not a luxury or convenience but a necessity, it is more about security, accountability and future stability of the nation.

What the protest revealed?

Education gaps

The protests clearly highlighted that Nepal's GenZ workforce is technologically-driven. This spotlighted the mismatch between GenZ potential and Nepal’s education system. While the jobs like software development, digital marketing and fintech are emerging, most schools place little emphasis on developing these skills. Schools’ curriculum rarely include practical IT training and entrepreneurial skills. If this continues, Nepal risks losing its first generation of digital natives to opportunities abroad. GenZ may be fluent in digital platforms but there is a gap in translating it into the production skills required for Nepal’s digital economy.

Continuing instability

The destruction of the private assets during the GenZ protests highlighted the uncertainty facing entrepreneurs and investors. This widespread fear is rooted in an unstable political-economic environment—most prime-ministers served less than two years in the last decade. This cycle of uncertainty poses a threat to aspiring entrepreneurs to innovate with confidence and ensure support for their products/services. As Nepal aims for graduation from the club of least developed countries in 2026, an unclear and uncertain roadmap threatens to drive both the talent and investment away. The urgency to build stronger and resilient systems to withstand social and political shocks is indeed necessary.

Misinformation and trust

The protest demonstrated how quickly the unverified rumors can spread in times of unrest even as the digital platform helped in forging coordination and sharing verified updates. This highlights the lack of strong foundation in digital literacy, fact-checking mechanisms and responsible online engagement. Without safeguarding, misinformation can distort public understanding and further weaken institutional trust.

Digital readiness

Although the GenZ protest showcased the power of technology to organize and mobilize, it also revealed the uneven digital readiness. The persistent digital divide among urban and rural areas, limited connectivity and uneven digital access among the youth limited the equal participation. Such divides led to an uneven voice among GenZ, these gaps are not only a matter of equality, but also of national progress. Without bridging these gaps, the transformative potential of GenZ to address long-standing issues such as inefficiency, corruption, and inaccessibility might remain limited.

Looking ahead

The GenZ protest revealed the beginning of a digital movement. If nurtured in time, GenZ could lead Nepal’s first true digital transformation. This includes e-government services to make public institutions more transparent, connecting local entrepreneurs with global buyers through digital marketplace and establishment of innovation hubs for young people to design solutions for pressing needs. However, all this depends on today’s choices. Without infrastructure, investment, digital literacy and supportive policies, the movement’s potential will be lost. What is needed is a strong commitment that turns the protest energy into a blueprint for a more open, efficient and inclusive Nepal.

The author is a graduate student in International Cooperation and Development and an EdTech researcher

Due to floods and landslides triggered by incessant rains since the night of Oct 3, movement along highways and roads has been difficult. Tourists visiting Nepal have been stranded in several parts of the country. However, as rainfall has now subsided, life is gradually returning to normal, and tourists are also able to reach their destinations, said Deepak Raj Joshi, Chief Executive Officer of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB).

According to the NTB, most tourists currently in Nepal are trekking in regions such as Manaslu, Annapurna, Sagarmatha, and Langtang, while others are in Pokhara, Chitwan, and Kathmandu. CEO Joshi said there are currently around 21,000 tourists in Nepal, and all are safe. Since the beginning of October, around 3,500 tourists have been arriving daily—similar to last year’s figure. Although the board had expected daily arrivals to exceed 4,000 this season, the prolonged monsoon and reduced travel by GenZ tourists have had some impact.

“The situation for tourists in Nepal is now stable,” Joshi said. “Some tourists were stranded when road and air transport were disrupted due to the October 3 rains, but everyone is now in contact and safe. Road transport has resumed, and all major highways except the BP Highway have reopened.” Domestic flights at Tribhuvan International Airport, which were suspended throughout Saturday, also resumed on Sunday.

Some tourists had been stranded on Saturday, but local hotels, administrations, and communities provided support—offering discounted or even free accommodation. Joshi said this positive response has also helped promote Nepal as a destination that informs, assists, and protects tourists even during difficult situations.

Following the heavy rainfall warnings issued by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, the NTB reported no major damage, crediting the safety measures adopted for tourists. The board has been disseminating information through trekking agencies and tourist police offices in major destinations such as Jomsom, Namche, Lukla, Gorkha, and Pokhara. It is also coordinating through social media and hotline numbers to assist tourists. “We have been receiving information through calls from tourists, travel agencies, and tourist police,” Joshi added.

One foreigner and five Nepalis have gone missing due to continuous rains. According to Joshi, a Korean national and his companion, Pemba Sherpa, who had come to Nepal for trekking, went missing while attempting to climb Mera Peak in Taplejung. Search and rescue operations are underway. Similarly, four Nepalis who had gone trekking in Langtang are also missing, and search efforts are ongoing.

September, October, and November are considered the peak months for both domestic and international tourism in Nepal—particularly for trekking and visits to Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan. However, both domestic and foreign tourists are currently adopting a wait-and-see approach. The board has expressed optimism that the current situation caused by continuous rain, floods, and landslides will be resolved in a few days.

Landslides, a lighting strike and flooding triggered by severe rainfall killed at least 22 people in Nepal and 12 others were reported missing on Sunday, officials said, Associated Press reported.

Several villages in Nepal’s eastern mountain district of Illam were swept away by landslides on Sunday, killing at least 18 people and leaving seven others missing, Nepal police spokesman Binod Ghimire said.

Six people in the same family were killed when a landslide crushed their home while they slept, Illam’s assistant administrative officer Bholanath Guragai said.

Rainfall was hampering efforts to reach the villages and many roads were swept away or blocked by the landslides. Guragai said helicopters from the central government were needed for medical evacuations, according to Associated Press.

Three other people in a separate district were killed as they were struck by lighting and one person died in flooding in southern Nepal.

Until the dawn of Sept 9, Nepal was set to graduate from Least Developed Country status on 24 Nov 2026, after meeting two of three UN criteria. By the dusk of the same day, the infrastructure and wealth of the nation had been brought to ashes by destructive riots, in the guise of GenZ demonstrations. Now is the time to focus on recovering from the damages, addressing challenges, building economic resilience and reforming policies to enable the country to move forward on its own feet, without relying on foreign aid.

For the time being, India and China seem to synchronize their tunings—we are happy. Chances are high for a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war—we are happy. We are likely to see improved regional connectivity and cooperation across the Himalayas and around the Bay of Bengal—we are happy. Sure, these topics sound high. For Nepal, a country sandwiched between two giant neighbours, more important is whether these developments make our pie larger.

As recently as within a century, Nepal and her sons have tremendously supported both India and China. We participated in the Quit India Movement (QIM). Nepali-origin leaders like Dambar Singh Gurung, Bhim Bahadur Gurung and Dhanbir Singh Gurung supported India’s freedom struggles. Lakhan Thapa Magar inspired resistance. Thousands of Gorkhas joined Subhas Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army, contributing bravely to India’s fight against the British colonial rule. At least three major Nepali leaders—BP Koirala, Ganesh Man Singh and Manmohan Adhikari—actively participated in India’s independence movement during the 1940s. They joined protests, supported the QIM and faced arrests.

Nepal sided with the current Beijing-based Chinese government, at a time when the Taipei-based Kuomintang was representing China in the UN. We have unequivocally recognized Tibet and Taiwan as inalienable parts of China. We suppressed the Khampa rebels, who were trying to use Nepali land to stir Tibet. We have supported almost all non-strategic Chinese initiatives. We have asked nothing other than economic cooperation and technical collaboration, from India or China in return.

For almost a century, Nepal has also supported a US-dominated world order. We have actively participated in the UN, stood by resolutions of the UN Security Council and beginning from 1958 provided the largest number of peace-keeping forces, sacrificing 76 volunteers.

Our cooperations with all countries and regions are guided by peaceful and ecofriendly developmental goals. We cooperate with all, against poverty and natural disasters. Nepal is already burdened with natural calamities like earthquakes, floods, landslides, wildfires, vector-borne diseases and lightning. We don’t want to invent or invite man-made problems. We don’t want to produce enemies. We only seek friends. Our friendship with one is not targeted against another.

Our asymmetries in economic size, diversity and quality with both neighbors, inadequacy of trade complementarity and lack of meaningful comparative product or service advantage pose a big challenge to our international trade. We have yet to identify our trade strengths and need to develop technologies that make our resources more valuable. While political non-alignment is the bottomline for survival, the depth of our friendship is gauged by economic interests and technical cooperations.

We want to live in peace, we don’t want to become Kashmir, Gaza or Ukraine. We are a liberal country; domestically we respect the choice of our people. As to the internal issues of other countries, they are none of our business. When it comes to international relations, we only seek friendship and cooperation, and we don’t seek conflicts. We have never been offensive. We have only supplied peacekeeping forces under the UN banner.

The above description is not an exaggeration. We lived by principles. We supported our neighbors unconditionally, even when the then world powers were humiliating them. What comes, we will continue to stick to our policy of prioritizing neighbors. To safeguard our hard-earned sovereignty, we will stick to a non-alignment policy.

We have border issues with India, which has occupied Nepali territories including Kalapani, Lipulek and Limpiyadhura. We have repeatedly informed this to our northern neighbour and asked them not to deal with India on our occupied territory, especially following the 2015 India-China plan to promote their bilateral trade through Lipulek. The infringement on our sovereignty has ignited widespread patriotic sentiments and a renewed demand for diplomatic action and territorial integrity. The deal can become a turning point in our world view, awakening national consciousness and unity, discarding divisive foreign lenses. 

As a country, we are confined within current geographical borders. As a nation with a broader diaspora of 5-6m, Nepalis already have become a global society, and Nepal needs to look after the interests of all Nepalis one way or the other. The economy alone can no longer link them all. We need to link through subtler bonds: language, culture, arts, history, religion, genetic heredity, to name a few. Such bonds help strengthen nationality in the long run, as seen in the formation of Israel out of the Jews spread across the continents.

A healthy and constant engagement with diaspora can be the safest and fastest way to acquire high-techs. Look, India’s nuclear program benefited from returnees like Homi Bhabha, who was trained at Cambridge and helped build India’s nuclear infrastructure with support from Indian scientists abroad. Pakistan’s program was significantly advanced by Abdul Qadeer Khan, a metallurgist working in the Netherlands, who transferred centrifuge designs and helped develop uranium enrichment facilities. Israel relied on support from the international Jewish diaspora, with scientists like Ernst Bergmann and political figures like Shimon Peres securing French cooperation to build the Dimona reactor. In China, US-trained scientists such as Qian Xuesen returned during the Cold War and played a central role in missile and nuclear weapons development. Nepal doesn’t lack highly skilled patriotic sons and daughters, now working in different world-class technology facilities.

Hitting the streets, shouting slogans and blaming each other or past leaders may bring self-indulgence, but such acts are unlikely to lead the nation to glory. Let us unite, develop Nepali perspectives and move forward. Once we stand on our feet, we are one step nearer to success.

Ever since I started using Facebook in 2015, I’ve realized how deeply social media shapes our narratives and reflects society, often more than we notice. Recently, the government called for a social media ban, requiring platforms to register under the Directive on Regulating the Use of Social Media, 2080, issued by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MoCIT). The directive was heavily criticized for its perceived risk of censorship. With 16.5m Facebook users in Nepal as of Aug 2024 (51.6 percent of the population), questions arise about what exactly we are consuming.

The concept of GenZ has often been misunderstood in Nepal, as seen this past week. GenZ refers to those born between 1997 and 2012. What began as a peaceful movement demanding the restoration of social media and accountability for corruption quickly escalated into unprecedented violence. Government buildings, including Singha Durbar, the Supreme Court, the Federal Parliament, provincial and local offices, along with the homes of politicians and commercial properties, were vandalized and set ablaze. The protests were not limited to GenZ; older generations linked to political parties also joined in.

Tensions intensified after KP Sharma Oli, then Prime Minister, issued a press release, and large sums of Nepali and foreign currency were discovered in the home of Sher Bahadur Deuba, Chairperson of the Nepali Congress, and his wife, Arzu Rana Deuba, then serving as Foreign Minister.

The aftermath left Nepalis grappling with both shock and guilt, sparking intense debate across the country. Young people from diverse backgrounds discussed legal, economic, and political issues, prompting me to reflect on Nepal’s education system. Ironically, many who were previously disengaged from politics now gave passionate lectures. The GenZ movement soon shifted focus toward leadership. Sudan Gurung, head of the NGO Hami Nepal, led negotiations with the Nepali Army and the President, representing GenZ’s call for former Chief Justice Sushila Karki to lead the interim government, along with the dissolution of parliament. However, the NGO’s links with controversial partners and possible political affiliations raised questions about the movement’s legitimacy and long-term sustainability. Though partially successful, the government has been slow to act against corrupt politicians or restore damaged public property, including police stations.

Social media content fueled much of last week’s discussions. Civil society and media figures largely blamed GenZ without offering constructive guidance. Observing these intergenerational exchanges made me reflect on how different age groups consume content. Where older generations once relied on television and radio, today nearly everyone with a smartphone receives content from across the globe.

Contents consumed by the GenZ and younger generations 

GenZ and younger groups spend more time on Instagram, TikTok, and other social apps than older generations. Having grown up with Google and social media, they differ significantly in how they learn and interact. Urban youth engage with reels, influencer content, gaming, and sports, alongside a growing wave of cultural revival. Rural youth follow viral local trends on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. Businesses and social organizations actively target them with content for outreach and sales, explaining why marketing investment has shifted online. Social media is also a tool for job hunting, especially in IT, marketing, business, and the social sector, through platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.

Young Nepalis abroad, many of them GenZ, also shape the flow of ideas, political debates, and transnational activism. Some creators from legal, political, and business backgrounds produce educational content, though much of it is based on assumptions or incomplete analysis. Political discourse often takes the form of short videos, memes, or sensational claims, which spread rapidly and challenge traditional norms. Platforms like Reddit provide space for anonymous debates. As digital natives, young people absorb and share ideas quickly, though not always with careful fact-checking.

Contents consumed by Millennials and Gen Y

Millennials and GenY share some overlap with GenZ but generally gravitate toward different content. Their feeds are filled with news, interviews, political analysis, celebrity gossip, clickbait, and shopping-related posts. Professionally, they track sector-specific updates. Many engage with TikTok trends, actively express opinions, and play significant roles in government, civil society, and mid-sized businesses.

This generation is also strongly represented among Nepalis abroad, many of whom participate in policy debates, election campaigns, and social issues online. On Twitter, they openly discuss politics and governance.

Millennials are often seen as both cautious and naive online. They balance traditional and digital media, approach content critically, and are influenced by news, articles, peers, and the broader political context. Depending on their needs, they consume both national and international news.

Contents consumed by older generations

Older generations, generally less tech-savvy, rely mostly on YouTube, Messenger, and Facebook. They prefer content in local languages, particularly religious programs, bhajans, folk songs, and television-style reality shows. However, they are more vulnerable to clickbait and misinformation, as fact-checking is difficult on local YouTube channels.

Although the recent social media ban mainly targeted younger generations, it inevitably affected all age groups. People increasingly depend on these platforms not just for information, but also for business promotion and communication with family abroad. Many older users, not fully comfortable with technology, are especially vulnerable to misinformation.

These dynamics have deepened polarization across age, region, ideology, and education. Generational divides even appear within households, as narratives shaped by different online spaces clash. In one tragic case, a young boy livestreamed his suicide on Facebook after being harassed as a “GenZ” by political party affiliates.

While social media has amplified activism around the environment, mental health, and women’s rights, it has also fueled political tensions and misunderstandings.

Nepal’s reported average IQ score of 42.99, the lowest globally, has sparked debate and skepticism. While such figures may not accurately capture intellectual capacity, they underscore the urgent need for accessible, fact-checked, and unbiased content across platforms.

Beyond regulation, civic education and digital literacy are essential. Social media can be a space for informed discussion, but it also risks becoming a source of division. Promoting critical thinking, responsible sharing, and awareness of credible sources can help Nepalis of all generations navigate the complex digital landscape more responsibly.

“For someone who believed that change in Nepal was impossible, this moment feels like a victory,” says 22-year-old Anish Maharjan, reflecting on the recent GenZ-led protests. 

Despite all the destruction and devastation, he is optimistic about the future. There was a time when Maharjan had lost all hope for the country. That all changed when the youth-led protests on Sept 8–9 brought the old political parties to their knees. 

The movement gained momentum with the appointment of Sushila Karki as the 42nd Prime Minister, sparking fresh hope for progress. “We are hoping for a country where merit is prioritized over nepotism, where living feels like a blessing, not a forced choice”, adds 20-year-old Seejal Rai from Kathmandu. 

She explains that youth frustration stems from a corrupt system that has failed to meet even basic needs. “From corruption to unemployment to political instability, there are many problems in this country. No wonder young people are concerned about their future.” 

On Sept 8, thousands of youths took to the streets across Nepal against the corrupt system. The demonstration escalated after security personnel gunned down dozens of protesters. “We want to make Nepal better,” says 18-year-old Uttam Pariyar, who joined the protests on Sept 8 and 9.

The wave of protest even reached abroad. Amar Lama, who is currently in Australia, describes his conflicting emotions. “The news about young people dying in protests shattered my heart. Now with the new government in place, I hope things will get better.” If opportunities existed at home, Lama says many youths like him would be in their own country.  

Psychologist Gopal Dhakal at MARC Nepal says the GenZ protests were the culmination of pent-up frustration and resentment against the corrupt political leaders. “Most people today seek fairness, equal opportunities, and a society free of corruption. When these things are denied, they will protest,” he adds.
The two-day protests were marked by violence, vandalism, and arson. Government buildings, police stations and private homes of politicians across the country were set alight; there were prison riots and lootings; and security personnel were overrun by angry mobs, forcing them to run for cover.

“On the afternoon of Sept 9, all I could hear was the sound of gunfire, with black columns of smoke rising in the sky,” says 23-year-old Sima Maharjan, who lives in the Baneshwar area. For others the horror of the protests came online. Asmita Bhujel recalls being shocked at the images and videos of young protesters who were shot by police. “It was too much to bear. I couldn’t find peace,” she says.

Psychologist Dhakal says such a situation can intensify anxiety and stress. “The barrage of misinformation on social media made matters worse.” 

Meanwhile, widespread destruction of businesses and office buildings have left many people jobless. Dhakal warns this could lead to further hopelessness and mental health issues.  

While social movements can indeed be transformative and bring the masses together, Dhakal says it is crucial to keep this unity intact for realizing the much-needed reforms and changes. “The protests have lit the spark, now everybody must channel their energy toward building a better country.”  

Shiva Raj Shrestha, who was part of the GenZ protests, says every honest, hard-working Nepali wanted this change. “I believe every generation aspired to see this change, and it was made possible through the collective effort of youth.” 

Nepal’s exports surged by nearly 89 percent in the first two months of the current fiscal year, but the sharp rise has once again exposed the country’s growing overdependence on refined edible oil shipments to India.

According to the Department of Customs, Nepal exported goods worth Rs 47.32bn during mid-July to mid-September, compared to Rs 25.09bn in the same period of last fiscal year. Nearly half of the export earnings came from soybean oil alone, while sunflower oil and palm oil took the second and third spots, respectively.

In just two months, Nepal exported 509,962 tons of soybean oil worth Rs 20.42bn (509,962 tons) to India. Sunflower oil followed with Rs 1.38bn (35.2m liters) in exports, also to India. Refined palm oil, which ranked low in last year’s list, jumped to third place with Rs 1.31bn (7.4m liters) in shipments.

Nepal’s edible oil trade with India has flourished largely because of a loophole in regional trade agreements. Under the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) and the bilateral India-Nepal Trade Treaty, Nepali exports to India enjoy zero-duty access. In contrast, exporters outside South Asia face a 35 percent tariff on soybean oil exports to India. This makes Nepali refined oil significantly cheaper for Indian buyers.

Nepal imports almost all of its crude soybean oil from countries such as Argentina, Brazil, China, Iraq, Thailand, and Ukraine, refines it, and re-exports it to India. Domestic production of soybean, which was just 36,671 tons in 2023, is insufficient even to meet local demand.

Experts say this re-export model leaves Nepal highly vulnerable to Indian policy changes. Indian refiners, led by the Solvent Extractors’ Association of India (SEA), have long complained that cheaper Nepali oil has been affecting their business. Earlier this year, SEA urged the Indian government to regulate edible oil imports from Nepal and other SAARC countries.

If India were to curb these imports, Nepal’s export earnings would collapse overnight. This will put investments made in refining plants at serious risk.