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Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs jointly organized a workshop on 'Partnership for Nepal Promotion'.

The workshop was organized with an aim to strengthen the common commitment to promote Nepal in an integrated manner through public, economic and cultural diplomacy.

Addressing the workshop, Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai said that tourism is the key to Nepal’s development, underscoring that confident, coherent and authentic 'story-telling' is indispensable for branding Nepal to the world.

He believed that tourism and public diplomacy will contribute to national dignity, international reputation and prosperity.

Also speaking at the program, Nepal Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Deepak Raj Joshi mentioned that public diplomacy is important in tourism promotion,  expressing the opinion that it is necessary to strengthen institutional coordination and cooperation.

He added that Nepal can be established as a strong tourism destination in the long term if government agencies, diplomatic missions, private sector and policy research institutes move ahead with common goals.

As we say goodbye to 2025, we commemorate the 70th anniversary of China-Nepal diplomatic relations. Looking forward to 2026, the two neighboring countries linked by mountains and rivers will enhance meaningful engagement based on mutual trust and mutual benefit. 

Nepal and China share not just borders, also friendship for ages and aspirations for shared prosperity. The bilateral relationship, formally established on 1 Aug 1955, represents a model of neighborly diplomacy founded on principles of mutual respect and sovereignty. It has evolved from initial ties and fortification of friendship in the 1950s to 1970s to enhanced engagement in the 1980s and 1990s. The first two decades of this century saw a pragmatic expansion, culminating in a significant strategic elevation in 2019. A landmark visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Nepal that year underscored this evolution, resulting in the designation of bilateral relationship as a “Strategic Partnership of Cooperation for Everlasting Friendship and Development,” marking bilateral relations as mature and dynamic.

At the turn of history to the future, 2026 is critical for both countries domestically and internationally.  The people of Nepal could decide on more sustainable national goals and policies for political stability and prosperity through the 2026 election, which was announced following the GenZ-led mass movement (as defined by the Nepal government). People are expecting a new government responding to public demands for change and fostering federal democracy while enhancing governance and economic development. This year, China also initiated its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030) focused on transitioning to an innovation-led economy and enhancing social welfare. As both nations are developing countries and share an amicable historical ties, they reaffirm not just neighborly relations but a dedicated partnership towards a shared future, illustrating a commitment to mutual prosperity and stability.

China’s stance of sovereign equality and non-interference in Nepal’s domestic politics has strengthened the relationship, while Nepal has continuously adhered to the One-China principle. The economic links, which date back to the ancient Silk Road, were institutionalized with the 1956 Economic Aid Treaty and continue under the Framework Agreements for Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) collaboration. BRI collaboration intends to meet Nepal’s development needs, particularly in infrastructure, energy, transportation, tourism, and the digital sector. In recent years, China has emerged as Nepal’s primary source of foreign direct investment (FDI) and commercial partner, with bilateral trade expected to reach $2.16bn by 2024-2025 fiscal year. This demonstrates our growing interdependence and mutual cooperation for the benefit of the people in our respective countries.

In light of these significant developments, Nepal is encouraged to identify its national objectives, policies, and also policies regarding relationships with neighbors and friends. China, an all-weather friend of Nepal, is ready to support Nepal’s journey toward political stability and prosperity. Chinese President Xi Jinping has highlighted a Chinese belief system that is consistent with the Chinese government’s policy motto, ‘common prosperity’, which holds that the countries of a region should work together for common development and common prosperity. 

We believe that if a country desires for stability and prosperity, no nation can continue to experiment with politics every other decade. Therefore, 2026 should be a pivotal year for Nepal to concretize its sustainable national goals, governance model, and implementable policies that can address the aspirations of the people of all generations in the country. Once Nepal determines its objectives and policies, neighbors like China could be sources to help the nation achieve these goals while respecting political independence. The tie between China and Nepal, established over seven decades ago, underscores a commitment to shared goals and mutual progress between the two nations. As a neighbor, we are seeing silver linings in the existing political clouds in Nepal. 

The author is head of Center for Nepal Studies at East China University of Technology, Jiangxi China

Nepal is in the middle of an important shift in its mobility landscape. Over the past few years, the rise of electric vehicles has been unmistakable. Anyone who walks through the streets of Kathmandu today will notice the growing number of e-scooters weaving through traffic, electric microbuses beginning to serve busy routes, and an increasing curiosity among customers about EV cars. This change is not just a passing trend, it is backed by numbers. According to the Department of Transportation, Nepal imported more than 18,000 electric two-wheelers and around 3,000 electric cars in the fiscal year 2023/24. This represents an astonishing 223 percent jump, driven largely by government tax incentives. With fuel prices constantly rising and people becoming more conscious about long-term costs, EVs today feel like the more sensible choice for many Nepalese.

However, while we celebrate this transition, we are overlooking a crucial piece of the puzzle, what happens to the batteries that power these vehicles. The conversation in Nepal has focused heavily on promoting EV adoption, reducing fuel dependency, and encouraging clean mobility. However, very little attention has been paid to the lifecycle of EV batteries—how long they last, how they should be maintained, and what to do with them once they can no longer power a vehicle. If Nepal continues to expand its EV market without addressing battery management, the country may face a serious environmental and economic challenge in the years ahead.

EV battery management essentially covers the entire journey of the battery, from the moment it enters the country to the time it reaches the end of its life. Most EVs in Nepal use lithium-ion batteries, which generally last six to ten years depending on how the vehicle is charged, the local climate, and daily driving patterns. Managing this lifecycle properly brings several benefits. Batteries last longer, the risk of fire decreases, consumers spend less on replacements, and the country reduces the need for expensive imports. It also opens doors for new industries such as battery refurbishing, testing labs, and recycling units. Countries like China, South Korea and several European nations have already invested heavily in creating a circular battery ecosystem. Nepal, however, is just beginning to recognize the importance of this issue.

The growth of EVs in Nepal is encouraging, but it also means thousands of batteries will reach the end of their life in the coming years. This raises several concerns. Nepal still does not have a formal lithium-ion battery recycling plant. Most used batteries either end up in landfills, are sold to informal scrap collectors, or sit for months in a car service center (workshop) because no one is quite sure how to dispose of them safely. When chemicals like lithium, cobalt and nickel mix with regular waste, they pose a serious threat to soil and groundwater. The lack of a proper disposal mechanism is a looming environmental risk that needs immediate attention.

Another concern is the absence of strong quality standards for battery imports. Many importers simply rely on foreign suppliers without a national system to test battery capacity, cycle life, thermal performance or the reliability of the Battery Management System (BMS). As a result, some customers report battery degradation within just two to three years. Low-grade imports with weak BMS units also increase the likelihood of overheating and fire incidents, this is an issue several EV dealers have quietly acknowledged.

Consumer awareness is another major gap. Based on conversations with EV dealers across Nepal, nearly 60 percent of battery failures are linked to how users handle their vehicles. Overcharging, storing EVs in extreme temperatures, frequent fast charging, and driving in hilly terrains without understanding battery limitations are just a few examples. Most customers buy an EV because of fuel savings but are rarely educated on battery behaviour, which is the heart of the vehicle.

The after-sales ecosystem is also not strong enough yet. Battery replacement remains expensive and often becomes a deciding factor for customers considering an EV. A 3 kWh scooter battery costs between NPR 90,000 and 140,000, while car batteries can exceed NPR 15 lakh. Without local refurbishment centres, consumers have no option but to import new packs, increasing both the cost and the country’s dependency on foreign suppliers.

If Nepal continues adopting EVs at the current pace, it could generate nearly 25,000 tonnes of used lithium-ion battery waste by 2032. If the country does not prepare today, this waste could turn into a major environmental and public health crisis. Fire hazards in scrapyards, contamination from heavy metals, and loss of valuable minerals that could have been recycled are all realistic risks. Nepal promotes clean mobility internationally, but without proper battery waste management, this green transition may unintentionally create its own set of problems.

The good news is that Nepal still has time to act. A national battery management framework could guide the country in the right direction. The first step is to introduce a national battery policy that sets minimum import standards, mandates safety certifications, and establishes clear rules for end-of-life handling. Countries like India have adopted an Extended Producer Responsibility model where manufacturers are required to take back old batteries. Nepal can adopt a similar approach to ensure accountability throughout the supply chain.Secondly, the country should build recycling and refurbishment facilities. Developing units in industrial areas such as Hetauda, Birgunj or Butwal through a public-private partnership model could create jobs, recover valuable minerals, and reduce environmental impact. Until Nepal becomes fully capable of processing lithium-ion waste locally, the government can collaborate with India or China to send recyclable materials for processing under bilateral arrangements.

There is also significant potential in second-life battery applications. When an EV battery drops below 70–80 percent capacity, it may not be suitable for vehicles but still works well for stationary energy storage. These used batteries can support solar systems, micro-hydro plants, telecom towers, and even backup power for schools and hospitals in rural areas. For many remote communities, repurposed batteries may become a more affordable and sustainable alternative to traditional lead-acid systems.

To support these efforts, Nepal must build technical capacity. With EVs growing each year, the country will need more than 5,000 technicians trained specifically in battery diagnostics, thermal management, safe handling, transportation, and refurbishment. Institutions like CTEVT and other training centres can introduce specialized programmes to develop the required workforce. A strong technical base will reduce failures and give consumers more confidence in EV technology.

Finally, Nepal should introduce a digital battery registry where every EV battery receives a unique identification number linked to a national database. This system can track battery health, ownership, repair history, and whether the battery was recycled properly. It would also help prevent counterfeit batteries from entering the market and ensure greater transparency.

Nepal’s electric mobility movement is inspiring, but the country must focus on battery management if it wants this transformation to be truly sustainable. Acting now will help Nepal avoid an environmental crisis while unlocking new economic opportunities in the circular battery economy. Battery management is not just a technical requirement; however, it is a national necessity. With the right planning and collaboration, Nepal can ensure that its EV revolution remains clean, responsible, and long-lasting.

US Ambassador to Nepal Dean R. Thompson and Dr Suresh Suras Shrestha, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation (MoCTA) signed a Cultural Property Agreement (CPA) to safeguard Nepal’s cultural heritage and prevent illicit trafficking of artifacts. 

Under the agreement, the US will restrict import of designated Nepali archaeological (32,000 BCE–1770 CE) and ethnological (13th c.–1950) materials unless accompanied by a Nepali export certificate. Covered items include religious objects, manuscripts, and architectural elements.

The CPA strengthens bilateral cooperation, curbs looting, promotes responsible stewardship, supports cultural tourism, and fosters collaboration with US museums and researchers.

On the occasion, Ambassador Thompson stated, “the CPA underscores the deep respect the United States holds for Nepal’s cultural heritage.  It strengthens cooperation to prevent illicit trafficking, supports lawful cultural exchange, and reinforces our shared responsibility to protect Nepal’s cultural heritage for future generations.”

Secretary for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Mukunda Prasad Niroula said, “The Government of Nepal would like to thank the Government of the United States for its continued partnership in protecting Nepal’s cultural heritage.  Over the past two decades, this partnership through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation and now the Cultural Property Agreement (CPA) reflects the strong Nepal–U.S. collaboration and our shared commitment to preventing illicit trafficking of cultural property and preserving cultural heritage for future generations.”

With 30 such agreements in force worldwide, the United States is a global leader in cultural heritage preservation.

The Cultural Property Agreement with Nepal builds on the United States’ longstanding commitment to protecting Nepal’s sovereignty and heritage, which includes support through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) for 28 projects over the past two decades.  

These projects have restored historic monuments and manuscripts, safeguarded cultural heritage sites, and recently established Nepal’s first modern conservation laboratory in Lumbini.

The Government of Nepal has extended its sincere gratitude to the Government of the State of Qatar for the Amiri Amnesty granted to the 13 Nepali inmates on the occasion of the National Day of the State of Qatar and the International Human Rights Day.

"The Ministry highly values the kind gesture of pardon granted on humanitarian ground as the manifestation of deepening friendship and cordiality in the existing bilateral relations between Nepal and the State of Qatar," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a press release on Thursday.

Nepal welcomed a total of 1, 158, 459 foreign tourists in 2025, a slight increase than the previous year.

Altogether 1, 147, 548 visitors had visited Nepal in 2024, reported the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB).

The NTB broke down the numbers of foreign tourists visiting Nepal this year, according to which, Indian tourists constituted the highest number at 292,438 followed by Americans at 112,316.

Similarly, Nepal attracted 58,684 Chinese tourists last year while 57,545 tourists arrived in Nepal from the UK.

Likewise, altogether 49,357 visitors came to Nepal from Bangladesh, 37,550 from Australia, 30,243 from Sri Lanka, 30,227 from Thailand and 24,763 from Germany in 2025, said the Board.

In the last December month alone, 98,190 foreigners arrived in Nepal, stated the Board.

Earlier, as the NTB put it, the highest number of foreign tourists to enter Nepal was in 2019 with a whooping 1,197,191 tourists.

In Nepal, hospitality is not merely a business. It is a culture, a tradition, and a way of life. From small family-run lodges in the hills to modern hotels in cities and tourist hubs, Nepali hotels offer more than beds and buildings. They offer warmth, care, and genuine human connection. Guests are not seen as mere customers; they are treated as revered visitors. A welcoming smile, attention to small details, and service offered straight from the heart turn hospitality into an experience, not just a convenience. It is not the rooms that define Nepali hotels, but the sincere warmth and heartfelt care of the people who run them. This is why hospitality in Nepal is often called “hospitality from the heart.”

Nepal is a country where the ancient saying “Atithi Devo Bhava” (the guest is like a god) remains deeply respected. This belief is not just spoken; it is practiced every day. When a guest enters a hotel, they are not treated like a room number but welcomed like a family member. A smile at the reception, a warm greeting, and personal attention make guests feel comfortable from the very first moment.

Many travelers who visit Nepal remember not only the mountains and temples, but also the people. Hotel staff often go beyond their job descriptions to help guests, guiding them on local culture, food, festivals, and travel plans. Sometimes, they sit together over tea, listening to stories and talking like old friends. This emotional connection is something money cannot buy.

One special feature of Nepali hotels is personalization. In many places, staff remember guests’ names, food preferences, and travel interests. A casual mention of liking spicy food may result in a customized meal the next day. If a guest falls unwell, staff often check in personally and offer home-style remedies. These small gestures create lasting memories.

Family-owned hotels and lodges play a major role in shaping Nepal’s hospitality identity. Owners and their families are often directly involved in daily operations. Guests may meet them during breakfast or dinner, creating a strong personal bond built on trust and comfort. For many visitors, staying in such hotels feels less like a commercial stay and more like being welcomed into a Nepali home.

Food is another powerful expression of hospitality in Nepal. Hotels proudly serve local dishes prepared with care and love. Traditional meals such as dal-bhat (Thakali thali), momos, and local pickles are often made using family recipes. Many hotels take time to explain the food culture, turning dining into a cultural experience rather than a simple service. Sharing food becomes a way of sharing stories, culture, and emotion.

Nepal’s hospitality industry also reflects resilience and humanity. After natural disasters like earthquakes, and during difficult times such as the Covid-19 pandemic, many hotels opened their doors to support communities. Some provided shelter, food, and assistance to locals and stranded travelers, proving that hotels in Nepal are not just businesses, but responsible members of society.

Respect for nature and sustainability is another important aspect. Many hotels, especially in the Tarai and mountain regions such as Sauraha, Meghauli, and Bandipur, embrace eco-friendly practices. They use local materials, support local farmers, reduce waste, and encourage responsible tourism. Guests are educated about protecting nature and respecting local culture. This care for the environment comes from values rooted in the heart, not just written policies.

Training and professionalism in Nepal’s hospitality sector have improved significantly in recent years. While skills can be taught, what truly sets Nepali hotel staff apart is their attitude. Kindness and sincerity come naturally. A simple “How was your day?” asked with genuine interest can transform a guest’s entire experience.

For international tourists, Nepali hospitality often feels refreshingly different. In a fast-paced, commercial world, the slow, caring, and respectful service in Nepal stands out. Guests feel seen, valued, and remembered. Many return again and again—not only for the destinations, but for the people they met along the way.

For domestic travelers, hotels are spaces of celebration and comfort. Weddings, family gatherings, business meetings, and festivals are hosted with care and emotional understanding. Hotel teams recognize the meaning behind each occasion and work hard to make every event memorable.

The future of Nepal’s hospitality industry looks promising. As hotels grow and modernize, it is essential to protect the heart of hospitality. Technology, luxury, and design matter, but they should never replace human warmth. The true strength of Nepal’s hotels lies in their people, their smiles, respect, and willingness to serve with sincerity.

In conclusion, hotels in Nepal are more than rooms and facilities. They are spaces of connection, culture, and care. Hospitality from the heart is not a slogan here; it is a daily practice. Guests may forget the room number, but they never forget how they were made to feel. That feeling of being truly welcomed is the real luxury of Nepali hospitality.

In Nepal, guests may check out of a hotel, but they never check out of the hearts that welcomed them. Long after the doors close and the journey continues, it is the kindness, smiles, and genuine care that remain alive in memory. That is why Nepal’s hotels are not defined by walls or rooms, but by the warmth of the souls inside, where hospitality is felt, not just offered, and every guest leaves feeling less like a visitor and more like family.

Nepal’s foreign trade deficit during the first five months of the current fiscal year (mid-July to mid-December) has reached Rs 649.68 billion out of a total foreign trade volume of Rs 882.69 billion.

According to the foreign trade statistics released by the Department of Customs, imports during the review period stood at Rs 766.18 billion, while exports totaled Rs 116.50 billion. Compared to the same period last fiscal year, imports increased by 15.83 percent and exports rose significantly by 58.17 percent, the Department reported.

The country recorded a trade deficit of Rs 339.02 billion with India over the past five months. Imports from India amounted to Rs 434.06 billion, whereas exports were valued at Rs 95.04 billion. Likewise, imports from another neighboring country China totaled Rs 163.73 billion, while exports to that country were limited to Rs 466.8 million.

Romania emerged as the leading country in terms of Nepal’s trade surplus, with a profit of Rs 63.4 million. Nepal also recorded trade surpluses with Sweden and Iraq during the same period.

In terms of imports, petroleum products accounted for the largest share. 

The country imported diesel worth Rs 45.6 billion, petrol worth Rs 27.33 billion, and cooking gas valued at Rs 22.39 billion. 

Other major imports included smartphones worth Rs 19.13 billion, crude soybean oil amounting to Rs 46.97 billion, and iron products valued at Rs 21.84 billion.

Soybean oil was the single largest import item, totaling Rs 46.55 billion. 

In addition, Nepal imported large cardamom worth Rs 5.53 billion, carpets valued at Rs 4.13 billion, and sunflower oil worth Rs 3.73 billion during the review period.

The Trump administration is recalling nearly 30 career diplomats from ambassadorial and other senior embassy posts as it moves to reshape the U.S. diplomatic posture abroad with personnel deemed fully supportive of President Donald Trump’s “America First” priorities, according to Associate Press. 

Africa is the continent most affected by the removals, with ambassadors from 13 countries being removed: Burundi, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Gabon, Côte d’Ivoire, Madagascar, Mauritius, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Somalia and Uganda, according to Politico. 

Second is the Asia-Pacific region, with ambassadorial changes coming to six countries: Fiji, Laos, the Marshall Islands, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines and Vietnam affected.

Four countries in Europe (Armenia, Macedonia, Montenegro and Slovakia) are affected; as are two each in the Middle East (Algeria and Egypt); South Asia (Nepal and Sri Lanka); and the western hemisphere (Guatemala and Suriname), according to Politico. 

Nepal hosted a special side event at the United Nations Headquarters in New York to mark the second World Meditation Day. 

The event, titled "Awakening the Mind: Pathways to Peace, Health, and Harmony," was co-hosted by the Permanent Mission of Nepal to the UN and the Jeevan Vigyan Foundation. 

During the event that took place on December 19 at the UN Headquarters, ahead of the official World Meditation Day, Representatives LP Bhanu Sharma and Ramesh Prasad Nepal of the Jeevan Vigyan Foundation represented Nepal and spoke about how Jeevan Vigyan or the science of living helps promote peace and harmony through yoga and meditation.

Speakers highlighted the role of meditation in fostering inner peace, strengthening emotional well-being, and developing conscious leadership amidst global challenges.

The event was part of the UN's observance of World Meditation Day, which was officially declared through a resolution by the UN General Assembly on December 6, 2024. Nepal was part of the core group of countries, along with India, Sri Lanka, Andorra, and Mexico that worked to finalize this resolution.

The event was attended by United Nations Under-Secretary-General Atul Khare, Nepali Permanent Representative to the United Nations Lok Bahadur Thapa, and Jeevan Vigyan Foundation President Devi Guruma, among others, representatives from various countries and communities.

A press release issued by the foundation states that the event has helped spread spiritual awareness around the world, including yoga, meditation, and samadhi, the roots of which are based in ancient Nepal.

A Cambodia–Nepal B2B Business Interaction Program 2026 is set to be held with the aim of strengthening trade, investment and cultural cooperation between Nepal and Cambodia.

The event to be held in Cambodia in the last week of Poush month will be organized by Cambodia's Juba Supplies and Maintenance Company Limited (JSM Cambodia), while Nepal's Season Media is said to manage the event.

The program will include the participation of business representatives from Nepal such as the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Nepal Chamber of Commerce, as well as from the tourism, aviation, travel and tourism, manufacturing, culture, technology, and import-export sectors.

Ram Prasad Padhya, the program coordinator, said that representatives from the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, Tourism and Hospitality Association, aviation company, private investment groups, business organisations, and the cultural-creative sectors will participate from Cambodia.

According to him, it will also provide a platform for networking and sharing experiences for businesspeople, artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators from Asian countries.

Lal Singh Khadka, former president of the Non-Resident Nepali Association Cambodia and a businessman, said it is expected that the bilateral friendship, cultural diplomacy and tourism promotion between Nepal and Cambodia will be further strengthened through this programme.

Investment and business meetings, sectoral discussions, business networking and policy dialogues will be conducted between Nepali and Cambodian businesspeople as part of the program.

Similarly, opportunities for joint investment and collaboration will be identified in high-potential sectors such as tourism and hospitality, aviation, travel services, agriculture, manufacturing, real estate, cultural and creative industries, and digital innovation.

As a special attraction of the program, outstanding entrepreneurs, industrialists and institutions contributing to economic development, innovation and bilateral cooperation between the two countries will be honoured with the 'International Excellence Award'.

This award ceremony will honour individuals and organizations from Cambodia and other Asian countries who have made exceptional contributions in various fields such as industry, arts, innovation, tourism, education, and health.

Program Manager Pradeep Raj Onta said that the International Excellence Award is being organized to recognize the contributions of professional and institutional personalities across Asian countries and to promote international cooperation and cultural exchange.

Businessman Khadka stated that the International Trade Conference 2026 programme serves not only as a business meeting but also as an important platform for establishing long-term partnerships, expanding people-to-people relations, and building a foundation for shared prosperity between the two countries.

It is believed that the program will make a significant contribution to promoting bilateral trade, tourism development, and investment expansion.

The government has expressed a firm commitment to launching a campaign against corruption so that integrity and good governance would be established.

Secretary at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, Gobinda Bahadur Karkee, on Tuesday, made such commitment while addressing a session under the 11th Session of the Conference of States Parties to the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) themed 'Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity' in Doha, Qatar.

In his statement, Secretary Karkee informed that the current government in Nepal had adopted a strict zero-tolerance policy against corruption, and pursued robust legal, administrative and institutional reforms. 

He highlighted the efforts and commitments of the interim government formed following the historic public movement aimed at promoting good governance and controlling corruption. 

Secretary Karkee shared before the global community about the measures taken by the Nepal government in criminalizing bribery, abuse of authority, illicit enrichment, money laundering, and related offences in line with UNCAC.

The leader of the Nepali delegation reaffirmed Nepal’s unwavering commitment to the UNCAC, and shed light on the obligations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Action Plan, and the Second National Strategy and Action Plan against Corruption being finalized.

The conference is considered the world’s largest gathering dedicated to combating corruption. It began on Tuesday.

The nationwide tiger census, conducted once every four years, officially commenced today. 

The launch was marked by a formal inaugural program held in Sauraha, Chitwan.

The census is being led by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) under the Ministry of Forests and Environment, in coordination with the Department of Forests and Land Conservation. The National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Nepal, and the Geological Society of Nepal are providing technical and logistical support.

The tiger count is being carried out with the assistance of the Nepal Army, Buffer Zone and Community Forest Users’ Committees, it is said. 

According to the DNPWC, the census is expected to be completed within two and a half to three months, with the nationwide mobilization of 25 technical personnel.

DNPWC Director General Buddi Sagar Paudel stated that 1,100 advanced camera traps are being installed across tiger habitats. 

The tiger population will be estimated through the analysis of photographic captures of the species.

An estimated budget of approximately Rs 30 million is expected to cover the cost of the census, covering the mobilization of human resources, management of memory cards, tents, sleeping bags, and other logistical requirements.

The camera traps being used for the census were procured earlier, with each purchased at an around Rs 35,000.

Nepal has started counting the tiger population systematically using automated camera trap since 2009. 

In 2009, there were 121 tigers in Nepal. 

Counting of tigers has been carried out every four years since 2009. 

As per the Tiger Conservation Action Plan, the tiger census was already conducted in 2013, 2018 and 2022. Now, the counting of tigers is being conducted for 2026. 

Nepal has started observing Tiger Day since 2067 BS and counting of tiger population is carried out nation-wide every four years.

The population of tigers was 98 in 1995, 109 in 2000, 126 in 2005, 121 in 2009, 198 in 2013 and 235 in 2018.

To reduce the human-tiger conflict, he suggested providing alternative means of livelihood to the communities living on the fringes of the forests so that they will not have to go into the forests for livelihood and to change the attitude and behavior of the locals towards the wildlife.

18 problematic tigers caged throughout the country

The issue of problematic tigers is also rising in national parks, conservation areas and surrounding regions with a significant increase in the number of tigers.

In particular, tigers that have entered human settlements, attacked humans and domestic animals, or have been found injured are being rescued and kept in enclosures.

Currently, there are 18 troublesome tigers across the country. 

Among them, five are kept in cages at the central zoo in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, seven in Chitwan National Park, four in Bardia National Park, and one each in Banke and Parsa National Parks. 

The government has been spending a large amount annually on the daily feeding, care, treatment, and other management of such tigers.

According to the latest figures in 2025, the number of tigers in the world has increased to 5,357. 

Among them, the highest number is in India with 3,167, followed by Russia with 750, Indonesia with 400, Nepal with 355, Thailand with 189, Bhutan with 151, Malaysia with 150, Bangladesh with 146, Myanmar with 22, China with 20, Vietnam with five, and Laos with two tigers.

The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Nepal, in collaboration with the Independent Power Producers’ Association Nepal (IPPAN), organized the Nepal–Korea Energy Cooperation Seminar in Kathmandu on Monday.

This is the first time that such event was held in Nepal to promote private-sector cooperation in the energy sector.

Addressing the seminar as chief guest, Chiranjeewee Chataut, Secretary at the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, said Nepal seeks long-term partnerships with Korean investors, particularly in hydropower and energy development.

He noted that Nepal and South Korea have maintained economic cooperation through trade agreements, joint ventures, labour collaboration and resource sharing, and expressed hope for increased Korean investment in Nepal’s energy, water resources and irrigation sectors.

Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Nepal Tae-Young Park said the Korean government has supported Nepal’s development for more than five decades, including the construction of three hydropower projects with Korean financing.

Highlighting strong potential for bilateral cooperation in energy, he said the seminar provided a platform for companies from both countries to explore future collaborative projects.

The embassy also distributed a directory of Korean companies operating in the hydropower sector.

The seminar was organized with an aim to strengthen collaboration with private energy producers and attract Korean investment.

Former government secretary Madhu Prasad Bhetuwal, in his presentation, outlined investment opportunities in hydropower generation and transmission infrastructure, along with government policies in the sector.

About 150 participants, including government officials, media representatives, hydropower developers from Nepal and South Korea, officials from KOTRA New Delhi, and IPPAN members, were present on the occasion. 

Foreign Secretary Amrit Kumar Rai and Ambassador of Switzerland to Nepal Danielle have jointly unveiled a commemorative logo at Ministry of Foreign Affairs to mark the 70^thanniversary of diplomatic relations between two countries.  

The logo will be used throughout 2026 by Embassy of Switzerland in Kathmandu and the Embassy of Nepal in Geneva on various occasions to celebrate and highlight the enduring friendship between the two countries. Nepal and Switzerland diplomatic relations in November 1996. 

Sri Lankan Ambassador to Nepal Ruwanthi Delpitiya has held a meeting with a delegation from the Nepal Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NSCCI), led by the President Vijay Shrestha.

The meeting focused on enhancing trade relations, exploring avenues to promote two-way tourism and new trade opportunities and fostering mutual growth between Sri Lanka and Nepal, according to the Embassy.

Commercial Officer Bibek Wosti delivered a presentation on Sri Lanka Expo 2026 outlining the event prospects.

The discussions emphasized ways to further develop bilateral trade, enhancing tourism collaboration and highlighted the potential for collaboration in upcoming trade initiatives, including participation in Sri Lanka Expo 2026.