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Poverty in Nepal remains widespread, especially in rural areas. Many poor people struggle to earn enough to meet their basic needs, relying on small, often unproductive pieces of land. This land doesn’t produce enough crops or generate enough income, making poverty more severe in rural areas compared to urban ones.

In 2010-11, about 25 percent of Nepal’s population lived below the poverty line. By 2023-24, this number had decreased to 20.3 percent, a reduction of 18.8 percent. While this shows some progress, many people still struggle to make ends meet. A 19 percent reduction in poverty over a decade is but a small improvement. Progress has been slow, and many still face difficulties, especially in rural areas. Efforts to fight poverty have not been strong enough to make a significant impact. According to a recent World Bank report, most of the poverty reduction can be attributed to remittances. This suggests that government efforts alone have not been enough to bring significant change.

This highlights the need for more action within Nepal to tackle poverty. There should be more local job opportunities, better access to education and healthcare, and better support for farmers so that people can improve their lives without having to migrate. While remittances help, they are not a long-term solution to poverty. The government and relevant organizations need to address the root causes of poverty and provide local opportunities for growth.

To reduce poverty further, Nepal must improve conditions for rural communities. This includes better access to education, healthcare, and technology, as well as improving farming practices. It’s also important to create more job opportunities outside of farming, so people don't have to rely solely on agriculture for survival.

Meanwhile, inequality in income or spending has decreased. In 2010-11, the Gini coefficient (GC), which measures income distribution, was 0.33. By 2023-24, it dropped to 0.30, a three percent decrease. The Gini coefficient ranges from zero (perfect equality) to one (extreme inequality). A GC of 0.3 shows that while inequality has decreased, it is still at a moderate level, meaning there is still a gap between the rich and the poor in how resources are shared.
Although the reduction in inequality is a positive sign, more work is needed. The three percent decrease suggests that efforts to reduce inequality are moving in the right direction, but there is still a long way to go to ensure fairer distribution of wealth and opportunities across Nepal. The government and organizations must focus on policies that help reduce inequality further. This could include improving access to education, healthcare and job opportunities for everyone, especially those in rural areas or from poorer backgrounds. By creating more equal opportunities, Nepal can continue to reduce inequality and move toward a more balanced society.

In conclusion, while poverty and inequality have decreased in Nepal, the changes are still not enough. Stronger and more effective efforts are necessary, particularly in rural areas. Remittances have played a key role, but they are not a long-term solution. The government needs to create more local opportunities for people to improve their lives and address inequality to ensure a fairer distribution of resources and opportunities across all communities.

The 13th meeting of the India-Nepal Joint Working Group (JWG) on Border Management (BM) was held in Pokhara, Nepal on March 27-28.

In the meeting, the two sides reviewed the decisions taken in the last JWG on BM that took place in New Delhi on 15-16 June 2022, particularly with respect to repair and maintenance of border pillars.

They also deliberated on issues related to trans-border criminal activities; strengthening of border infrastructure particularly ICPs, roads and railway-network; empowerment and capacity building of various security-related institutions; and ways to strengthen cooperation in disaster risk reduction and management.

The JWG on BM also reviewed progress on concluding the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) and the working of Border District Coordination Committee (BDCC) between the two sides.

The two sides agreed to ensure that the meetings of the JWG on BM are held regularly.

The Indian delegation extended an invitation to the Nepali delegation for the next JWG on BM to be held in India next year. Mihir Kumar, joint-secretary (Border Management), Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, led the Indian delegation while Ramchandra Tiwari, joint-secretary (Security and Coordination), Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of Nepal, led the Nepali side. 

Every time we hear the term “alcohol” or “beer”, we often resonate it with addiction and health issues. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that in developing countries like Nepal, the beverage industry plays a pivotal role in economic development. This sector contributes significantly to employment generation, government revenue and tourism industry.

The alcohol industry is projected to become a billion dollar industry by 2025, including both in-home and out-home revenue. A report by World Travel And Tourism Council suggests that Nepal’s tourism sector generated Rs 327.9bn ($2.5bn) in revenue and supported 1.19m jobs directly and indirectly in 2022. In 2019, tourism contributed seven percent to Nepal’s GDP—much like the measured alcohol content that gives a beer its perfect kick. Even as pandemic sedated this vital sector, its upsurge now offers a unique opportunity to the alcohol industry to be able to cash in. Nepal can boost its economic flavor by intertwining beverage traditions with tourism.

The history of alcohol in Nepal has a close relation to its bioclimatic and ethnic diversity. For countless generations, several ethnic communities have been crafting and consuming fermented alcoholic beverages. Ethnicities such as Newar, Rai, Limbu, Tamang etc. consider alcohol an integral part of their tradition. People normally produce alcohol for local consumption and use it as a formal greeting during marriage and other occasions. Some households include a certain amount of alcohol into the fabric of daily life. In some communities, they are offered to guests and tourists that are prepared right in the household kitchen. A common form of drinks  called “raksi”, “aila” and “jaand” are made from the distillation of millet,rice or wheat, and are typically consumed.

Apart from the cultural contribution, there are families, making a living through production of local-alcohols. Domestically produced alcohols are cheaper as they skip labelling and branding, nevertheless, in reality they hold immense potential in gaining a premium market if launched with proper strategies.

In Nepal, the regulation on alcoholic beverages comes under “Madira Ain”. This law sets limitations in local production of alcohol because of branding, labelling and quality concerns. A lack of coordination can be seen between these governments and these communities. Much like the ongoing debate on the legalization of Marijuana, the indigenous alcohol’s are perceived as harmful to health whilst their massive economic benefits are overlooked. The legal alcohol industry still seems illegal as the regulations are not fostering authentic and local production while the international brands are being imported in heavy amounts. Although effective commercialization channels may be lacking, the locally produced alcoholic beverages are being recognized on the global stage. In 2018, “Raksi” was ranked 41th among the world’s 50 most delicious drinks.

However, commercializing local alcohol brands in Nepal faces several challenges, especially with the dominance of well-established competitors. Despite the presence of many Nepali beer industries producing and exporting outside the country, the lack of global recognition makes it difficult to compete. The challenge is further intensified by distribution barriers and consumer trust. Due to the lack of  consumer trust issues due to concerns about the quality of beverage and raw materials used, the local industries are unable to scale. Nevertheless, this can be reversed if the government comes together with the producers and incentivizes tourism-related alcohol production. Initially, making a strong capital investment is important, where visitors simultaneously experience the culture and  the products. After this, aiming for global expansion can change the course of the alcohol industry in Nepal. As we make a global recognition, the beverages will export our culture and promote tourism for good.

Moreover, these drinks include higher content of alcohol making it tough for commercialization to tourists who are generally accustomed to milder options like beer.

If we want to uplift national revenue, prioritizing the local production over the import of fancy beers is important. “Beerification” of  traditional alcoholic beverages such as: raksi, jaad and xyaang into internationally appealing products in Nepal can represent a transformative approach to rebranding our traditional alcohols. By rebranding these conventional drinks into premium beverages, our tourism industry will gain an edge over our neighbors. Visitors in Nepal seek experiences that celebrate our tradition and culture with authenticity. By presenting our unique, locally produced drinks, we celebrate our heritage while crafting unforgettable moments that enrich every traveler’s journey.

Upon navigating the  data from across the world, the contribution of the alcohol industry to their respective economy is quite remarkable. For example, the Scotch Whisky Association reported that the whisky industry supported Scotland with around 40,000 jobs and generated over £5.4bn in exports where whisky tourism alone added roughly £68.3m in annual revenue. Similar is the case of Ireland and its reputed beer industry.

In the USA, the reintroduction of legal beer during the Great Depression revitalized the nearly decimated beer industry, spurring job creation and rejuvenating local economies. As argued by Professor Jason E Taylor in his book, “The Brew Deal”, allowing 3.2 percent beer to return played a crucial role in the economy during the nation’s darkest of times. Having said that, comparison of Nepal with politically stable countries might not be fair, but Nepal can always capitalize on the ever-expanding alcohol industry bolstered by its tourism potential.

Much like the ongoing debate on legalizing marijuana for its beneficiary production commercialization, the indigenous alcohol production in Nepal is suppressed and stakeholders are brushing aside  its potential. The blend of the tourism industry with the flavor of local-alcohol can galvanize Nepal’s economy,especially in the post-pandemic era. Immense support from the government to promote “Aila”, “Jhaand” and “Raksi” is necessary, whereas, “Beerifying” the alcohol with the aim of diverse exposure and making subtle changes in marketing strategies can enhance our tourism industry as well as overall economy. 

The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors today approved a financing package of USD 150 million for Nepal’s Third Bridges Improvement and Maintenance Program (BIMP-III). The support is to help strengthen the resilience of bridges in the Strategic Road Network, ensuring safer and uninterrupted connectivity across the country’s diverse and challenging terrain. 

Nepal's bridge system serves as critical lifelines connecting remote and urban communities to essential services, including healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. Vulnerabilities caused by frequent climate-induced disasters such as floods, landslides, and earthquakes severely affect the bridge infrastructure.

The program, led by Nepal’s Department of Roads, will focus on climate-resilient measures such as enhanced structural designs and innovative technologies, including real-time monitoring systems to safeguard bridges against extreme weather events. The program will also support bridge designs prioritizing accessibility for all users, connecting marginalized communities to vital services, according to a press release issued by the Bank today.

Meanwhile, Division Country Director for Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka David Sislen has said the resilience of Nepal’s bridge network is fundamental for safe and sustained connectivity. This program emphasizes resilient infrastructure development and promoting access to markets and services for vulnerable communities while promoting Nepal’s sustainable growth.

The program includes capacity-building initiatives for the Department of Roads, promoting innovative solutions and strengthening institutional systems for effective infrastructure management.

Nepal’s first modern highway, Tribhuvan Rajpath (named after King Tribhuvan), is not just a road but also a historical heritage. Famous by the name ‘Bairod Ko Bato,’ this route was the first motorable road connecting Kathmandu with the southern Tarai. Before the construction of this road, the only means of transport in Nepal were foot travel, horse-drawn carts and caravans of pack animals. The development of this Rajpath (Royal Path, later renamed Lokmarg et al to reflect political changes) had a profound impact on Nepal’s economy, trade and the lives of people.

Construction and historical events

Before the 1950s, the Kathmandu Valley was completely isolated from the outside world. Nepal had no paved roads, making the transportation of goods and travel quite difficult. After the end of the Rana rule in 1951, a plan was made to construct the first modern highway in Nepal with Indian assistance. With collaboration between Indian engineers and Nepali workers, the project initiated in 1953 got completed in 1956 and was named Tribhuwan Rajpath in honor of the then King.

When the artery was completed, in 1956, a jeep made its first trip from Birgunj to Kathmandu marking a historic moment when Nepal saw its first motor vehicle travel to the capital. That same year, the first bus service was also introduced in Nepal. People were so eager to see the bus that they would wait for hours to catch a glimpse of it. It was a marvel for everyone, from children to elders. Even today, this road is considered one of the toughest driving routes in Nepal. Sim Bhanjyang (2,483 meters) is the highest point of this route, where the cold climate and sharp turns pose a constant risk of vehicle overturning.

Stories of a hard road

In the past, traveling along the road used to be quite challenging for drivers, especially for those operating buses and trucks. When a new driver took a bus on this route for the first time, experienced drivers would perform a special ritual to ensure the new driver’s safety. One such tradition involved a brake test, where drivers would place stones on the road to check if the vehicle’s brakes were working properly before starting the journey. There were also times when buses or trucks would break down, and drivers and passengers would end up stranded overnight in the cold, surrounded by forests. With no help available in those remote areas, they had to spend the night waiting for assistance, facing the harsh conditions until they could continue their journey.

Center of trade and development

The completion of the road marked the beginning of organized trade in Nepal. Freight trucks started transporting goods from Birgunj to Kathmandu, making it easier to supply goods to shops. Hetaunda became one of Nepal’s major trading hubs, with trade in timber, tea and agricultural products growing. Daman is considered the most beautiful spot along this highway, offering a breathtaking view of the Himalayas, which made it a popular tourist destination. In the 1970s, as the Prithvi Highway and Mahendra Highway were constructed, people began to find easier and safer alternatives, and gradually the use of the old artery decreased. However, it remains a favorite route for bikers, adventure enthusiasts and lovers of history. Many tourists in Nepal still choose this route to experience the journey of the old times.

Full operation necessary

Transportation in Nepal is often disrupted due to monsoon rains, floods and landslides. The Banepa-Bardibas and Kathmandu-Mugling highways suffer heavy damage during the rainy season, disrupting traffic between the Kathmandu Valley and Madhes. Therefore, it is crucial to bring the good ole artery into full operation as an alternative and safe route.

A rugged terrain aside, this historic highway, which connects Kathmandu with Hetaunda and Birgunj, can play a vital role in improving Nepal’s transport safety if it is revived and upgraded. If the narrow bends of the route are widened, the road improved, and safety measures enforced, it can help ensure smooth traffic between Kathmandu and Madhes.

Revival

The history of the Rajpath reveals that it was not just a road, but Nepal’s first step toward modernization. As new highways continue to be developed in the country, it’s essential to modernize this historic route as well. One of the major challenges of this highway is its sharp bends, narrow roads and steep descents. In many areas, the road is so narrow that two vehicles can’t pass each other. To improve safety, it’s necessary to widen these dangerous bends, add safety railings, and place warning signs. Installing solar lights and reflector sign boards along the route would also make night travel much safer.

Over the years, the road has suffered significant damage due to rain and landslides, with potholes and broken surfaces being major contributors to vehicle accidents. To address this, regular maintenance and repairs should be planned, and efforts should be made to widen and pave the road so that even heavy vehicles can travel more easily.

There was a time when this road was the most important trade route in Nepal, connecting towns like Hetaunda, Palung and Daman, which thrived because of it. Today, to boost tourism and business, developing tourism hubs in places like Daman and Hetaunda would be a great idea. These towns could be promoted as part of a historic tourist route, with new markets and eateries created to support local businesses and attract visitors.

Though most people now use the Prithvi Highway and other modern routes, it’s important to recognize that the Rajpath is more than just a road; it is a significant part of Nepal’s heritage. The road should be preserved and developed as a heritage route. The government could declare it an adventure and heritage driving route to encourage more people to use it. Additionally, installing memorials and information boards at key historical sites along the route would help educate visitors and preserve its rich history for future generations.

Conclusion

To restore the lost identity of ‘Bairod Ko Bato,’ it is the right time to modernize and make it safe, reviving Nepal’s pride. This road is more than a road; it is a symbol of Nepal’s historical, cultural and economic transformation. This route not only led Nepal toward modernization but also awakened a new consciousness in Nepali society. Though journeys along ‘Bairod Ko Bato’ may have gone down today, it will always be remembered as Nepal’s first and most historic road. The transportation system in Nepal is frequently disrupted due to monsoon rains, floods and landslides. Particularly, the Banepa-Bardibas and Kathmandu-Mugling highways suffer significant damage during the rainy season, disrupting traffic between the Kathmandu Valley and Madhesh. In such a case, bringing the Rajpath into full operation as an alternative and safe route is extremely essential. This historic highway could prove to be significant for Nepal’s transport security if it is revived and improved. If the narrow bends are widened, the road is better, and safety measures are implemented, it will help ensure uninterrupted traffic between Kathmandu and Madhes. Its operation will not only boost trade, tourism and the local economy, but also act as a reliable alternative route during natural disasters. Hence, the modernization and reactivation of the historic artery is imperative for Nepal’s long-term development.

The Sichuan Series of Celebrations on China-Nepal 70th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations and the Sichuan-Nepal Culture, Tourism, Economy and Trade Exchange Month commenced with an inaugural event held at Chengdu, China. 

The event held on Friday was jointly organized by Foreign Affairs Office of the Sichuan Provincial Government and the Consulate General of Nepal in Chengdu.

Speaking at the event, Director General of Foreign Affairs Office of Sichuan Province, Zhang Tao, reiterated the recent progress in connectivity between Nepal and Sichuan, highlighting the momentum of socio-cultural exchanges in the past year.

In his remarks, Ambassador of Nepal to China, Krishna Prasad Oli, reminisced about the historical ties shared by the two countries and more importantly, the bonds shared by the people of these countries. 

Chief Executive Officer of Nepal Tourism Board, Deepak Raj Joshi, stated that Nepal is ready to welcome Chinese tourists and offer them an unforgettable experience in every corner of Nepal. 

The Consul General confirmed the Consulate’s readiness to facilitate and encourage all forms of trade, tourism and cultural exchange initiatives between Sichuan and Nepal.

The event included performances from Chinese performers and Himali Cultural Group, who arrived in Chengdu for Sichuan-Nepal Culture, Tourism, Economy and Trade Exchange Month.

Various Nepali products were showcased by Nepali exhibitors during the event. During the month-long Sichuan series, Nepali local products’ exhibition and cultural exchange events will be held in different cities of Sichuan Province.

The Sichuan series is also expected to enhance integrated and robust cultural, trade, economic and people-to-people exchange between Nepal and Sichuan, according to the Consulate General of Nepal in Chengdu, China.

In the face of global trade uncertainties, Nepal must proactively adapt to geopolitical shifts while diversifying its economic partnerships. Strengthening regional ties, investing in domestic industries, leveraging supply chain shifts, and prioritizing digital transformation will be key to sustaining economic growth and reducing external dependencies. A well-calibrated trade strategy, backed by strong governance and infrastructure development, can enable Nepal to navigate the evolving global trade landscape with confidence.

Adapting to geopolitical realities

Nepal should reduce dependence on major powers like the US and China by expanding trade partnerships within South Asia and beyond. Strengthening economic ties with regional and interregional platforms such as BBIN, SAARC, BIMSTEC, ASEAN, IORA, and the African Union can provide alternative markets and enhance economic resilience. Additionally, closer engagement with EU agencies and Middle Eastern economies can help diversify Nepal’s trade and investment sources.

However, deepening foreign trade relations demands strong governance and accountability. Nepal must implement stricter scrutiny on foreign aid to ensure effective fund utilization, while also building trust with international donors.

Overcoming institutional challenges

A major roadblock to regional trade integration is bureaucratic inertia and political unwillingness to implement complex initiatives. Keay challenges include:

• Limited political commitment to advancing regional economic cooperation.
• Under-resourced institutions that lack the capacity to negotiate and implement effective trade policies.
• A shortage of skilled professionals with expertise in international trade and economics.

To overcome these obstacles, Nepal must prioritize institutional reforms and invest in building a capable workforce equipped to navigate the intricacies of global trade.

Solution: Invest in human capital

Nepal must empower its workforce with skills in IT, AI, and fintech to make the economy more adaptable to global shifts. Skilled labor will be a critical factor in leveraging the ongoing supply chain shifts from China to South Asia, where Nepal can benefit through IT outsourcing and low-cost manufacturing.

Diversification and self-sufficiency

To strengthen its economic base, Nepal must focus on domestic revenue generation. Key strategies include:

• Taxation reforms to enhance revenue collection and reduce reliance on foreign aid.
• Industrial growth and public-private partnerships (PPPs) to boost productivity and innovation.
• Regulatory simplification to eliminate bureaucratic red tape and foster a business-friendly environment.
• Digitization of trade and business processes to minimize corruption and improve efficiency.

Strengthening domestic industries

Nepal must reduce reliance on imports by fostering growth in agriculture, manufacturing, and services. Instead of exporting raw materials, Nepal should develop processing and manufacturing capabilities to create value-added products. Agro-based, herbal, natural fiber, and bamboo industries hold significant potential to generate employment and exports.

FDI and trade policy reforms

To attract FDI, Nepal should offer incentives in manufacturing, energy, and technology sectors. Simultaneously, tracking global trade policies—especially tariffs imposed by the US on China, the EU, and India—can help Nepal identify trade opportunities and capitalize on shifting market dynamics. Key considerations include:

• Analyzing how global firms and markets are adjusting to US tariffs and leveraging these shifts to Nepal’s advantage.
• Assessing the impact of rising consumer costs in the US and negotiating preferential market access for Nepali products.
• Capitalizing on the supply chain shift from China, which is expected to redirect five percent of global production to South Asia. Nepal can position itself as a hub for IT services and cost-effective manufacturing, provided it reforms labor laws to ensure fair wages and job security.
• Rather than pursuing retaliatory trade measures, Nepal should adopt a strategic diplomatic approach, negotiating preferential market access while quietly building trade capabilities.

Infrastructure and trade facilitation

The government must focus on policy reforms, trade facilitation, and accreditation to ensure that Nepali products meet international standards. Key infrastructure investments include:

• Developing transshipment ports to enhance access to international markets.
• Strengthening logistics and port-road connectivity to reduce trade bottlenecks.
• Enhancing trade-related services to streamline export and import processes.

Nepal must also maximize economic diplomacy by leveraging the Hub and Spoke Mission approach. Appointing trade specialists and improving foreign policy foresight and scenario planning within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can strengthen Nepal’s position in international trade negotiations.

Conclusion

Given the shifting geopolitical landscape and evolving US trade policies, Nepal must tread carefully to safeguard its trade interests. The US’s increasing reliance on tariffs and sanctions as economic tools, along with rising tensions between major global economies, calls for a strategic and diversified approach in Nepal’s trade policies. To strengthen resilience, Nepal must focus on regional cooperation, trade diversification, and digital transformation while ensuring robust governance and policy reforms.

Inclusive education is the approach where equitable access to quality education for all, including individuals with physical, sensory, intellectual, and developmental disabilities, is ensured by integrating them into mainstream settings with necessary support, fostering equal opportunities, skill development, and overall well-being. Nepal’s Constitution of 2015, the Compulsory and Free Education Act, 2075 has devised several provisions pertaining to inclusive education. In the backdrop, this article at first discusses the key policy provisions, then it presents progress in line with the policy and program and points out key challenges and finally offers a way forward. 

Policies to promote inclusive education

Nepal’s Constitution of 2015, under Article 31, upholds the right of every citizen to accessible and equitable education, ensuring compulsory and free education up to the basic level and free education up to the secondary level. It reinforces inclusivity by mandating free higher education for individuals with disabilities and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Recognizing diverse learning needs, the Constitution guarantees visually impaired students’ access to free education through Braille script and ensures that students with hearing or speech impairments receive education in sign language. Furthermore, it safeguards linguistic inclusivity by affirming the right of every Nepali community to receive education in their mother tongue and establish educational institutions to promote their language and culture. 

Similarly, Article 40 guarantees free education with scholarships for Dalit students from primary to higher education, along with special provisions for their access to technical and professional fields. The Compulsory and Free Education Act, 2075, aligns with the Constitution to ensure that all public school students receive textbooks through local-level distribution, while also guaranteeing free higher education for economically disadvantaged, disabled, and Dalit citizens. Section 27 of the Act requires private schools to operate early childhood and basic education with a focus on public welfare, mandating at least 10 to 15 percent student reservation based on school size. 

Other policy provisions that talks of the inclusive education are national policy and plan of action on disability (2006), special education policy (1996), equity strategy (2014), international commitment on MDGs (2016-2030), Incheon conference in Spain ( 2015),  all the national plans after 10th  plan has prioritized the inclusive education.

Implementation status of the inclusive education in Nepal

Nepal has made significant efforts to promote inclusive education through a variety of initiatives. A case study jointly conducted by the Education Journalists Group (EJG) and British Council covering select schools in three districts namely Nawalparasi, Syanja and Palpa reveals that some schools in the districts have started giving due attention to inclusive education. The study mentions that Chandeshwari Mavi Gudar in Kawasoti, Nawalparasi, has comparatively improved access to education for the Majhi, Musahar, and Bote communities in Kawasoti-15. This improvement was achieved through a door-to-door campaign, awareness-raising activities, scholarship support, and the creation of a child-friendly school environment, among other initiatives.

To address educational disparities, the Curriculum Development Center (CDC) has developed a sample curriculum for 26 mother tongues, published reference books in four, and created children's learning materials in 15. In grades 1–3, the local curriculum is taught five times a week with 100 full marks and 160 teaching hours per year, while in grades 4–8, it is taught four times a week with 100 full marks and 128 teaching hours per year. This apart, various scholarships have been provided to marginalized groups, including students with disabilities, Dalits, girl students, children from endangered castes, children of martyrs, and those from Karnali. 

Furthermore, Girls’ Scholarship Programs (GSP) support girls and children from marginalized communities to promote education and reduce dropout rates. GSP also provides special scholarships for students in Karnali Province. Similarly, since 2019, Karnali Province has implemented the ‘Bank Khata Chhoriko Suraksha Jiwan Bhariko’ program to promote gender equality and financial security for girls. Under this initiative, a bank account is opened for girls born after July 2019, with an initial government deposit of Rs 1,000, followed by a monthly deposit of Rs 500 until they turn 20. However, thes program has been affected lately. 

Madhes Province launched the ‘Beti Padhau Beti Bachau’ (Educate Daughter, Save Daughter) campaign in 2019 to improve girls’ education across eight districts. The program provides school-going girls with bicycles for easier travel and social connections. Additionally, baby girls born on or after 15 Jan 2019, are insured under the program, receiving Rs 125,000 upon obtaining their citizenship certificate to support their education.

Likewise, informal, open, and home education programs have been implemented alongside formal education, and disability-friendly school infrastructure has also been prioritized. Religious educational centers, such as Madrasas and monasteries, have also been recognized as formal education institutions,  with budget allocations. Teacher recruitment processes have been made more inclusive, and training programs have been offered to equip educators with the skills to support diverse learners. “Some schools have started identifying different types of disabilities, grouping students accordingly, and using appropriate teaching methods”, the case study report mentions. Teachers have become more sensitive to disability issues and have adapted their teaching approaches to support these students effectively.  

Initiatives like the Midday Meal program have also been implemented to support student nutrition and improve attendance. Furthermore, some schools now provide free sanitary pads to support girls’ education and reduce dropouts during menstruation. The Sanitary Pad Distribution and Management Procedure, 2019 ensures free sanitary pads in public schools as part of a broader campaign for “dignified menstruation,”. “There are many positive changes in terms of addressing issues from inclusivity perspective with the support from the British  Council Nepal”, the case study mentions.

Challenges

Despite legal and institutional support, mother tongue education has struggled due to a lack of textbooks, trained teachers, and a mindset that sees it as difficult. Most local governments are unwilling to invest in the necessary infrastructure, and even declared multilingual schools fail to teach in languages other than Nepali.  

Bullying is another hindrance to the progress of inclusive education. The case study revealed that an 8th-grade girl student at Chandeshwori Secondary School in Gudar, Nawalpur, suddenly stopped coming to school. After a thorough inquiry by the teacher, it was discovered that she had quit school due to bullying from her classmates, who would tease her for her dark complexion and being born to a Majhi family. 

Furthermore, Nepal’s remote regions, plagued by poverty, superstition, and religious and cultural bigotry, have created environments where marginalized groups struggle to access education. The lack of comprehensive policies addressing the educational needs of children from nomadic communities, such as the Raute, further compounds the issue. Despite the push for girl-friendly and disability-friendly schools, efforts have failed to yield meaningful results. Corruption has also affected the true spirit of some initiatives. For example, despite the positive intentions behind Madhes’s ‘Beti Padhau Beti Bachau’ campaign, the initiative has faced criticism over alleged fund mismanagement, particularly concerning the allocation for bicycle purchases.

Way forward 

To advance inclusive education in Nepal, focus should be on improving teacher training to equip educators with skills for diverse student needs, particularly those with disabilities. Anti-bullying measures and stigma reduction must be prioritized to create supportive learning environments. Expanding resources and infrastructure for marginalized and remote communities, including disability-friendly facilities, is essential. Strengthening policy implementation and addressing corruption will ensure transparency in educational programs. Additionally, promoting multilingual education through resources and teacher training is crucial for equitable access to education for all. These steps will help ensure every child in Nepal has equal opportunities for quality education.

Nepal has achieved remarkable success in poverty reduction, nearly eradicating extreme poverty, largely driven by remittances. To strengthen future growth, Nepal should prioritize policy actions that unlock domestic opportunities, according to the World Bank’s Nepal Country Economic Memorandum: Unlocking Nepal’s Growth Potential, released on 24 March 2024. 

Despite progress, Nepal’s economic growth lags behind regional peers. Nepal’s economy grew at an average annual real rate of just 4.2 percent between 1996 and 2023, ranking sixth out of eight South Asian nations, the report states. Structural challenges such as low productivity, declining exports, and a stagnant industrial sector have held back the economy and led to slow job creation in non-agriculture sectors. Young workers are migrating abroad in search of better job opportunities as domestic prospects remain limited.

“Nepal’s success in poverty reduction is impressive, but its economic potential remains largely untapped,” said David Sislen, World Bank Division Country Director for the Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka. “Nepal has significant potential to drive stronger growth and create jobs by implementing key reforms to increase the returns from migration, boost exports, use hydropower efficiently, and boost digitalization.”

“The 16th Plan for Nepal outlines a vision of good governance, social justice and prosperity and prioritizes productivity and competitiveness, decent and productive jobs, social security, and ensuring a smooth transition from LDC status. The government is committed to ensuring an enabling policy environment for Nepal’s sustainable growth,” said Vice Chair of the National Planning Commission, Prof Shiva Raj Adhikari.

Produced every five years, the Nepal Country Economic Memorandum offers a roadmap for faster growth in key sectors. It recommends policy actions in four critical areas to unlock Nepal’s economic potential.

A systematic and institutionalized migration system can enhance the returns from migration, the report states: Integrating migration into national development, job creation, and poverty reduction strategies will provide a platform to work toward such a system. Policies should focus on reducing the cost and increasing the benefits and safety for current low-skilled migrants, while also eyeing longer-term skill and destination diversification.

Expanding and better implementing bilateral labor agreements will be critical. Initiatives promoting entrepreneurship and retraining and reskilling programs would allow returning migrants to reintegrate into the domestic labor market, according to the report. 

Improving market competition in key sectors and addressing infrastructure deficits can boost exports. Better managing inflationary pressures would address the erosion of exporters’ price competitiveness, it states: Encouraging people to use remittances for investments and business growth could help ease inflation. Simplifying the process for businesses to get tax refunds on imported materials and lowering import taxes would make it easier for them to export more products. With Nepal’s transition from Least Developed Countries status and the loss of trade preferences, authorities should seek additional preferential trade agreements. 

Developing a clear financing strategy to develop the hydropower sector will help mobilize much-needed investments, goes the report. This strategy could include developing the domestic bond market and an effective framework for large-scale public-private partnerships. Strengthening the regulatory and legal frameworks, by reducing bureaucratic red tape and streamlining the current licensing process, would improve the structure of the electricity market and attract additional investment, the report adds.

Nepal Tourism Board emphasized the promotion of Buddhist tourism at the 'Nepal-Myanmar Trade and Tourism Expo 2025' held in Yangon, Myanmar.

The program was organized on March 21 and 22 on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Myanmar.

During the expo, Buddhist tourism was promoted and Nepali tourism products, information technology solutions, and other products were also showcased.

A total of 16 tourism companies from Nepal and 30 from Myanmar took part in the event.

On the occasion, Nepal said that special emphasis should be given to promote Buddhist tourism while urging Myanmar tourists to visit Lumbini through flights to the new Gautam Buddha International Airport (Bhairahawa) in Nepal.

Myanmar Union Minister U Tun Ohn, Nepal's Ambassador to Myanmar Harish Chandra Ghimire and Nepal Chamber of Commerce President Shiva Agrawal jointly inaugurated the expo.

Addressing the program, Minister U Tun Ohn stressed on the need for cooperation in tourism promotion while strengthening trade relations between Nepal and Myanmar.

Experts and politicians have said that Nepal should learn lessons for the country's economic growth and physical prosperity from China's development initiatives.

At a program organized by Friends of Silk Road Club-Nepal on 'China's Two Sessions 2025: Lessons, Opportunities, and Implications for Nepal' on Thursday, they stated that Nepal can learn lessons and benefit from China's economic rise made in the last four decades.

Standing Committee Member of the CPN-UML and former Industry Minister Karna Bahadur Thapa said we should expand Nepal-China relations and take maximum benefits through partnership for the implementation of sustainable development policies. "For this, we should deepen our diplomatic ties through political level," Thapa added.

Likewise, CPN (Maoist Center) central committee member and Bagmati Province Assembly Member Yubraj Chaulagain called for intensive collaboration on economic issues between Nepal and China adding that rising economic power of China could be beneficial for Nepal's development efforts.

Similarly, Nepali Congress central committee member Madhu Acharya argued that Nepal could advance ahead by taking technical expertise from China adding that China's stride in technological advancement was impressive.

Also speaking at the programme, Executive Director of CEDA of Tribhuvan University (TU) Prof Dr Arjun Kumar Baral and foreign affairs expert Gopal Khanal said that China's strategies on economic growth, industrialization, modernization, good-governance and reforms are the key areas that Nepal should learn from Chinese experiences.

General Secretary of Club Dr Kalyan Raj Sharma stressed the need of investment partnership with China adding that Nepal can bring in a huge amount of FDI from China by further deepening our ties.

Spend a few minutes scrolling through social media about Nepal, and you might get an impression that the country is in a state of irreversible collapse. Political instability, corruption, the mass migration of young people, bureaucratic deadlock—these dominate the discourse. The prevailing sentiment: Nepal has no future. Everything is a disaster. But is this the ground reality, or are we trapped in a collective mood—a pervasive atmosphere of despair that shapes how we interpret events? 

Martin Heidegger, the German philosopher, argued that moods are not just personal emotions but collective states that shape how people perceive the world. A mood is not simply a fleeting feeling; it determines what appears possible or impossible. When we are in despair, everything looks hopeless. When we are optimistic, the very same circumstances can seem full of opportunity. The danger is that we mistake the mood for reality.

Right now, Nepal seems gripped by a mood of crisis. Every political event is framed as another step toward collapse. Social media amplifies outrage and negativity, reinforcing the belief that nothing works, that all roads lead to failure. 

Even during periods of political stability, opposition forces often work to undermine it. Even when policies are introduced, bureaucratic inertia slows them down. In such an atmosphere, even genuine progress can go unnoticed, overshadowed by a narrative of dysfunction. Consider the issue of youth migration. Thousands of young Nepalis leave the country every year in search of better opportunities. But this fact alone does not mean Nepal is doomed. Migration is not unique to Nepal—many countries, even developed ones, experience waves of emigration at different points in their history. What matters is how a country responds. Will Nepal create conditions that encourage its youth to return with skills, experience and investment? Or will we resign ourselves to the belief that youth migration is irreversible? 

Our answers to these questions are shaped by our collective mood. 

Political instability is an undeniable reality, but does that mean democracy itself has failed? Nepal has seen frequent changes in government, but it has also witnessed major democratic movements, an engaged electorate, and a growing demand for accountability. Corruption remains a problem, but civic activism, investigative journalism and digital transparency tools are also emerging. The bureaucratic system is slow, but Nepal’s private sector—especially entrepreneurs in digital industries—continues to innovate despite these hurdles. And yet, these positive aspects rarely define the national conversation. 

Instead, the dominant mood ensures that we focus only on dysfunction.

The possibility within breakdown

Heidegger also gives us another lens: breakdown. When things no longer function as expected, when the structures we rely on falter, we are forced to confront possibilities we may not have seen before. A system in crisis is also a system in transition. History shows that moments of instability often precede major transformations. 

Many of today’s thriving economies—South Korea, Singapore, even post-war Germany—went through prolonged periods of political and economic crisis before they found their footing. Their progress was not inevitable; it was made possible because they saw their breakdowns as moments of reevaluation rather than permanent decline. 

Nepal is at a similar juncture. The problems are real, but so are the possibilities. The same youth who are leaving for opportunities abroad are also part of a globally-connected, highly-skilled generation. The same political instability that frustrates us is also a sign of democratic contestation—a struggle to define Nepal’s future rather than resigning to a single, unchangeable fate. The same bureaucracy that slows progress also means that any reform, when it happens, has the potential to be institutionalized for the long term.

If we see only the breakdown and not the possibility within it, we risk deepening our national pessimism. And pessimism is not just an attitude; it shapes action. A country that believes it has no future acts accordingly. Talented people leave instead of staying to build. Entrepreneurs hesitate instead of investing. Policymakers, sensing the public’s resignation, prioritize short-term survival over long-term vision. But the opposite is also true. If we start recognizing the possibilities within this moment, we will act differently. We will invest, innovate, and engage. We will challenge the systems that don’t work rather than accepting them as permanent. Change begins not just with policy but with perception.

Choosing to see possibility 

The power of mood is that it determines what we believe is possible. And what we believe is possible determines what we attempt to build. If Nepal continues to see itself as a country on the brink of collapse, it will act like one. But if it sees itself as a country in transition, in the messy but necessary process of change, then it can begin to focus on solutions rather than just problems. This is not an argument for blind optimism. It is not about ignoring Nepal’s challenges or pretending that everything is fine. It is about resisting the easy, self-fulfilling trap of despair. 

Because in the end, national progress is not just about policies and politics, it is also about belief. Nepal’s greatest challenge today is not just political instability or economic hardship; it is the crisis of belief in its own potential. Just as mood shapes how we see the present, it also shapes what we believe about the future—and that belief, in turn, influences the path we take as a nation, from governance to progress and beyond.

The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Government of Nepal.

 In response to inquiries from ApEx, a State Department spokesperson stated, “While programs that do not align with American interests have been terminated, the United States remains committed to strengthening its partnership with the Government of Nepal.”

Building on 77 years of successful collaboration, the United States is dedicated to supporting Nepal’s sovereignty by bolstering democratic resilience and promoting economic opportunities, the spokesperson added. When asked about the list of canceled projects under the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the spokesperson noted, “The US Government's review of all foreign assistance is ongoing.”

Recently, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) had terminated 83 percent of USAID-run programs globally, amounting to the cancellation of 5,200 projects. While reports suggest that dozens of USAID-funded projects in Nepal have also been affected, there has been no official confirmation. Officials indicate that not only are ongoing projects at risk, but several American institutions in Nepal are also on the verge of closure. Regarding specific projects, the spokesperson said, “We do not have additional information to share on specific program awards at this time.”

On March 18, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Arzu Rana Deuba, met with Ricky Gill, Special Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs and National Security Council Senior Director for South and Central Asia, on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi. Gill assured Minister Deuba that the US would continue to support Nepal. “Gill and I also discussed Nepal-US ties, which are rooted in shared democratic and human rights values,” Rana said. “I am confident that our cooperation will continue to grow over the years.”

In a related development, a federal judge ruled that the dismantling of USAID likely violated the US Constitution. The court order requires the Trump Administration to restore email and computer access to all USAID employees, including those placed on administrative leave.

In his verdict, Judge Theodore Chung wrote, “The court finds that defendants’ actions to shut down USAID on an accelerated basis, including the apparent decision to permanently close USAID headquarters without the approval of a duly appointed USAID office, likely violated the United States Constitution in multiple ways.”

The ongoing debate surrounding Nepal’s Civil Service Bill raises concerns about the effectiveness of bureaucratic reforms and their potential to improve public service delivery. While the bill is a step toward modernizing the Civil Service Act, many argue that it fails to address the core issues plaguing the bureaucracy, including inefficiency, lack of motivation, and poor service delivery at the local level. The real question is whether the bill will bring about meaningful change or simply become another bureaucratic hurdle.

A decade has passed since the promulgation of the Constitution, yet the Federal Civil Service Act, has not been passed. The lack of this foundational law has contributed significantly to the problems at the local level. For example, while municipalities are designed to be self-governing entities, they face severe staffing shortages and inefficient resource management. The education branches of municipalities, such as those with 15 schools, are staffed with just four positions, including a deputy secretary, while rural municipalities with over 80 schools face similar issues. These staffing arrangements are meant to be a solution but have instead become a significant source of dysfunction.

Moreover, senior employees are often posted under junior subordinates, violating principles of natural justice and further exacerbating internal tensions. The mechanical process of adjusting staff has created more problems than it has solved, and currently, over 300 municipalities are struggling with administrative failures, which have become a chronic issue in the federal system.

The root causes of bureaucratic inefficiency are complex and multifaceted. Are employees demotivated because they lack a working environment conducive to productivity? Is it because they don’t have clear career development paths or feel marginalized in decision-making processes? These questions must be addressed before any meaningful reform can take place.Without a proper working mechanism and clear standards for promotion, transfer, and career development, employees often lack the motivation to perform at their best. Additionally, the public service system in Nepal remains highly politicized, with leaders often selecting personnel based on political loyalty rather than merit or competence. This system leads to inefficiencies, as unqualified individuals are placed in key positions, affecting the overall functioning of government bodies.

The current Civil Service Bill fails to tackle these deep-rooted issues. While it introduces provisions regarding the appointment of administrative heads in municipalities, the role of the provincial secretary, open competition quotas, and retirement age, these measures do little to address the fundamental problems within the bureaucracy. By focusing on these surface-level changes, the bill misses the opportunity to bring about real structural reform.

Currently, many employees in Nepal’s civil service are trapped in a system that does not reward merit or effort. Career progression is often determined by political considerations rather than performance, leading to widespread dissatisfaction. Moreover, the lack of effective leadership and clear communication further contributes to poor morale within the bureaucracy.

A cultural shift is needed within the civil service, one that prioritizes professionalism, accountability, and public service over political loyalty. This can only be achieved through comprehensive reform that goes beyond changes in the law and addresses the underlying values and systems that govern bureaucratic behavior.

The Civil Service Bill, as it stands, fails to address the core issues within Nepal’s bureaucracy. To improve public service delivery, governance, and development, a more comprehensive and thoughtful approach to reform is needed. The bill must go beyond surface-level changes and focus on creating a civil service that is motivated, accountable, and capable of meeting the needs of the people.

Ultimately, the key to improving bureaucratic performance lies in addressing the root causes of inefficiency, such as political interference, lack of motivation, and ineffective career development systems. If these issues are not tackled head-on, any new law or bill will simply perpetuate the existing problems rather than solve them. 

The government has started discussions with Cambodia to operate direct air services.

The government discussed the operation of the air service during a meeting with senior Cambodian government officials in Phnom Penh on Tuesday.

Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey, who is on a visit to Cambodia, held discussions with his Cambodian counterpart regarding the operation of direct air service between Nepal and Cambodia.

He also met with the Minister for Culture and Religious Affairs of Cambodia, Chay Borin, and discussed the matter.

On the occasion, discussions were held between Nepal and Cambodia on developing religious and tourism networks along with the Greater Buddha Circuit, the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation stated.

Minister Pandey also discussed tourism promotion and various aspects of bilateral interests between the two countries.

With proper investment in infrastructure and athletes, Nepal can become a strong contender on the global stage. The support for athletes of every sport and enthusiastic cricket fan base indicate a promising future for Nepal to use sports as a tool for enhancing its global profile and soft power.

Sports transcend borders, cultures, ideologies and bring people together. It has long been a source of unity and competition among nations. Sports and athletic events provide a platform to foster international relations, promote peace, and build cultural exchanges between nations. Diplomacy in sports began in ancient Greece in 776 BC, where the Olympic Truce ensured the safety of athletes and spectators coming from different parts of the world by laying down their weapons during the Olympic Games.

Harvard University International Relations theorist Joseph Nye coined the term “soft power” in the 1990s. According to Nye, soft power is ‘the ability to get what you want through attraction rather than coercion’. The elements of soft power include diplomacy, foreign aid, democracy, culture, institutions, cinema, the internet, sports, etc.

Sports are not only an element of soft power but also a tool of public diplomacy. Sports can figure in all areas of public diplomacy. Soft power has gained a reputation in international relations in the modern world, where sports play a highly significant role as it serves as a non-political bridge between nations to enhance cultural exchange, promote peace and people to people relations. Hosting international sporting events tempts every country with the capacity to host, as the hosts can brand events to spread any particular message to the world. 

In addition to that, winning at a major event can raise or maintain the profile of an actor. Sports is one area in which Palestinians can attempt to achieve international standing and appear in the role of an independent country. The quest for national prestige is a primary driving force behind every country’s participation in international sporting events. 

Nepal has a unique geopolitical existence positioned between two emerging superpowers. It doesn’t figure prominently on the global map in terms of economic and military prowess or in terms of hard power. As a relatively small state with noticeable diversity in culture, tradition, religion and geography, Nepal has various soft power assets at its disposal to enhance its global recognition.

However, there is a significant asymmetry between Nepal and its neighbors and other globally impactful countries in terms of population, resources, influence in global politics and the economy. In that context, leveraging soft power becomes invaluable for Nepal to enhance its global prestige and among its various options, sports can be a powerful tool. Sports have been a major means of strengthening national unity and establishing national identity in the international arena. Developing and expanding sports would create healthy, competent, and disciplined citizens and establish Nepal’s identity while increasing its respect in the global stage. 

Nepal’s official foreign policy document also mentions sport as a medium to promote its soft power. Nepal participated in an international sporting event for the first time at the Asian games held in New Delhi in 1951. Nepal has participated in every Olympic game since its first participation in 1964, except in the 1968 Mexico Olympic Games. Bidhan Lama won Nepal’s first Olympic bronze in the demonstration event of Taekwondo in the Olympics (1988), but was not officially recognized. Palesha Govardhan won a bronze medal in the recently held Paris Paralympics in 2024 in the 57 kg Taekwondo event. Sabitra Bhandari, aka ‘Samba,’ Nepal’s women football icon is currently playing for the French women’s first division club EV Avant Guingamp. 

The world was surprised to learn about the huge fan following of Nepal cricket in the recently held ICC T20 World Cup held in the West Indies and the USA, the International Cricket Council (ICC) was posting and sharing the content, including posts about Nepal, time and again acknowledging the Nepali fan base. A famous cricket commentator, Ian Bishop, also praised the Nepali crowd as they had painted the whole Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas in a sea of red and blue with Nepal’s beautiful jersey. 

Logan Van Beek, the Dutch medium pacer in the same game was unsure whether the game was being held in Nepal or Dallas because the crowd was so loud cheering for Nepal. These fans went to support Nepal with Nepali flags, ‘Panche Baja’, wearing ‘Dhaka Topi’, posters showing Buddha and Sagarmatha. This portrays sports can not only be a source of soft power but also a medium to promote other soft power elements and garner attention of the world community. These events highlight Nepal’s potential to gain international recognition through sports. With proper investment in infrastructure and athletes, Nepal can become a strong contender on the global stage. The support for athletes of every sport and enthusiastic cricket fan base indicate a promising future for Nepal to use sports as a tool for enhancing its global profile and soft power.

The Cricket Association of Nepal’s logo has one horned rhinoceros in an effort to promote the iconic animal and to attract tourists to Nepal. Nepali ‘Dhaka Topi’ is quite famous these days in the associate cricket world, thanks to our very own Andrew Leonard ‘Taklu Dai’, an Irish cricket commentator who mostly covers associate cricket commentary. European countries like Croatia, Denmark which are smaller in size and population than Nepal are regularly participating in FIFA world cup which have positively impacted their tourism industry. Nepal can do the same via sports by participating or hosting such events. While hosting global sports events like the FIFA World Cup, Olympic, Cricket World Cup might seem far from reality as of now, we can host regional events and other events unique to us such as Elephant Polo and Himalayan-based sports like cycling and marathon in the hills, etc. to promote our culture, natural beauty and hospitality. Such events not only promote tourism but also enhance our prestige. 

Recognition also aids in cultural diplomacy. Which will have a significant positive impact on our economic growth. Climate change has affected Nepal to a large extent. Organizing sporting events based on hills and mountains provide a good platform to share our story with the world and advocate for addressing such consequences of climate change.

When Nepal plays an international game, whether it is at Tribhuvan University cricket ground, Dasarath Stadium, or anywhere else in the world, it brings all the Nepalis together and unites them as one people forgetting their ethnicity, religion, culture, ideology, or geography. Their common identity becomes that of Nepali. With a significant portion of the youth population interested in sports in Nepal, if local leagues with improved training facilities are developed, sports can play a pivotal role in our soft power arsenal, generate significant goodwill towards Nepal, shape others’ perceptions of our country and enhance Nepal’s image on the global stage.