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Karl Wine is an emerging musical talent who has quickly made a name for himself with his energetic performances and music. Hailing from France, Wine has successfully collaborated with various international artists, expanding his reach and influence in the global music scene. His dedication to his craft and his passion for music are evident in his engaging stage presence and the enthusiastic response he consistently receives from fans. As Wine was in Nepal for Nepal Bike Day, Nesum Limbu from ApEx, talked to him about his Nepal visit and his music career.

How has your experience been so far in Nepal?

This is my first time in Nepal, and I have to say, I’m thoroughly enjoying it. The warm weather is absolutely wonderful, and I’m delighted by the local cuisine, especially dal-bhat, which I could eat every day. I’m also captivated by the country’s supportive and close-knit community, where everyone treats each other like family. The culture is fascinating, and the sense of solidarity among the people is heartwarming. Being a nature enthusiast, I always thought I’d be here for the natural beauty, but I never expected to have the opportunity to collaborate with Nepali artists. Overall, I’m loving everything about my time here, from the scenery and the food to the culture and the people. This journey has been more rewarding than I could have ever imagined.

Can you tell us about your recent projects and any new music you’re working on?

Yes, there’s this song called ‘Paisa’ by the singer Kushal Pokhrel. He reached out to me to collaborate, and when I heard the song, I thought it was amazing. We’re planning to release an international remix of the song in a few weeks, and I’ll be shooting the video here in Nepal, which is really exciting. Another project currently in the works is an album that my friend and I are creating with only Nepali artists. It will feature international music but exclusively with Nepali talent, highlighting their unique styles and voices. Since many people recognize me from the song ‘Oh-Na-Na’, we’ve decided to name the album after my verse from the song ‘Asian Beauty’. Once the album is released, we have plans for extensive promotions not only here in Nepal but also in the United States. 

What are your thoughts on the music scene in Nepal? Have you come across any local artists or music styles that have caught your interest?

A lot, actually. The first time I heard Yabesh Thapa, I was captivated by his style. I love that he’s singing in Nepali but using international beats, rather than sticking to traditional music patterns. This unique approach really fascinated me. Their singing styles intrigue me with a softness and distinct quality unlike what I hear in Europe. Their sounds and word usage are compelling. Even without understanding the lyrics, I feel deeply connected to their music, as their emotion and expression transcend the language barrier. That’s why I believe the music scene in Nepal is truly fantastic. 

You’ve collaborated with some of the Nepali artists. Can you tell us how these collaborations came about?

I’ve always wished to work with Asian artists because I admired the mutual respect they have for each other, which is different from what I often see in Europe. When an artist from the Philippines reached out to me for a collaboration, I immediately agreed, and that’s how ‘Oh-Na-Na’ came to be. Four years later, I started receiving messages saying the song was very popular in Nepal. At first, I was skeptical since I wasn’t familiar with the music scene there. Curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to look up some Nepali artists to see if I liked their work and could create new music with them. That’s when I came across Yabesh Thapa. I messaged him, expressing my interest in working together, and he responded saying he knew my song. This led to the idea of making a remix of ‘Oh-Na-Na’ with him. I also reached out to Sushant KC, proposing that he join us in the remix. We completed the song, and it became an instant hit in Nepal, with people all over the country participating in dance challenges. 

You recently performed at Nepal Bike Day. How was the experience performing at such a unique event, and what was the atmosphere like? Additionally, how did the audience react to your performance?

The event far exceeded my expectations. Initially, I was slated to perform just a few songs, and I was feeling quite nervous since it was a biker’s event. I had serious concerns that my vibe and musical style might not resonate with the biker crowd. However, those worries began to fade when Bizen went on stage before me, and the crowd went absolutely wild with excitement. When my turn finally came, the audience’s energy was even higher, and their enthusiastic response was overwhelming. It turned out to be not only a fantastic performance but also an amazing experience overall. The warm reception and the incredible atmosphere made it an unforgettable night, leaving me eager for more opportunities like this in the future.

Throughout your musical journey, what has been the most challenging aspect you’ve encountered? Moreover, what message do you aim to communicate through your music?

In the world of music, there are numerous obstacles, especially if you lack the necessary knowledge about the industry and the intricate process of creating music. These challenges can be quite daunting and overwhelming. My goal with my music is to bring joy and enjoyment to people from all walks of life. I want my audience to feel the urge to dance, to let loose, and to have fun. Through my songs, I aspire to help them temporarily forget their problems and immerse themselves in a world of sound that provides happiness and relief. When people listen to my music, I want them to experience a sense of freedom and exhilaration. I hope my melodies and rhythms can offer a respite from their daily stresses, giving them moments of pure, unadulterated joy. By creating an atmosphere of positivity and excitement, I aim to foster a connection with my listeners that transcends the ordinary, leaving them with lasting memories of happiness and enjoyment.

Amid changing politico-electoral dynamics in India, its relations with immediate neighbors are likely to be transfigured. Nepal-India relations, however, have been mostly centered on “belief”, ‘over-belief”, or ‘crises of belief”, largely swayed by elite rulers.

Beyond government-to-government relations, Nepal can strengthen its relations with the formidable opposition in the Indian parliament through party-to-party ties, or shadow government relations, given the steadfast support Nepal has garnered over the years from the Indian opposition on political, diplomatic, economic, trade, environmental, demographic and geographic issues.

Nepal should use tact and tone rather than counteract emotions to advance its national interests through a variety of avenues, including institutional, diplomatic, public and personal.

Nevertheless, both the neighbors need to broaden their perspectives and lessen the antiquated stereotype of one neighbor over the other by laying emphasis on truth, trust, tone and respect as cornerstones of their relationships for tracing a conscious and concrete relationship roadmap.

The higher secondary school curriculum is essential for developing responsible citizens. By the end of their education, students should understand their country, environment, customs, festivals, and societal perspectives. They need basic knowledge about Nepal's physical environment, natural resources, and sustainable use. Currently, the curriculum in secondary and higher education levels lacks sufficient coverage on these topics, especially geology. Without studying geology, students cannot fully understand Nepal’s environment, resources, geological hazards, geological structures, tectonics, seismic activity, fault lines, river origins, or essential infrastructure construction.   

After the new education policy, science teaching became systematic. Science was introduced in the 1930 as an optional subject and became compulsory in 1992 for secondary students. From 1992 to 2016, the curriculum included Physics (40 percent), Chemistry (20 percent), Biology (30 percent), and Astronomy and Geology (10 percent). In 2017, it was revised to Physics (30 percent), Chemistry (30 percent), Biology (30 percent), and Astronomy/Geology (10 percent). In teaching science, physics, chemistry, and biology were prioritized, while geology was limited to a brief unit on the earth's origin. Looking at the average of the curriculum currently in use, in grades 8, 9 and 10, Geology is given only a two percent. Similarly, this subject (Geology) is not included in Grade XI & XII science stream. What these figures show is that geology is still not accepted as an important part of science, while without the knowledge of geology, it is not possible to make development structures and minimize the impact of natural disasters in Nepal.

Understanding geological hazards

Historical data and ongoing seismological studies have clearly indicated that Nepal is highly susceptible to geological hazards such as earthquakes, landslides, and floods due to its location in a tectonically active zone (On the boundary of the Indian and Eurasian Tectonic Plates). Tragically, this vulnerability has led to the loss of countless lives and widespread destruction over the years. Nepal is ranked 11th in earthquake risk according to the Global Report on Disaster Risk, reflecting the frequent occurrence of earthquakes in the country. Also, according to the Nepal Disaster Report 2009, Nepal ranks seventh worldwide in terms of deaths resulting from the combined consequences of floods, landslides, and avalanches. Despite these realities, Nepal’s education system has largely overlooked the importance of geology and disaster management in the science curriculum. So, introducing geology as a subject in the science stream of higher secondary level provides students with a deeper understanding of the Earth’s structure, tectonic processes, and seismic activity, enabling them to comprehend the underlying causes of earthquakes and other geological hazards.

Disaster awareness and preparedness  

Damage assessments conducted by the Government of Nepal Department of Education (DoE) revealed that more than 27,000 public school classrooms were completely destroyed during the 2015 Gorkha Earthquake, while an additional 26,000 classrooms sustained substantial damage. These statistics highlight the unimaginable scenario where students would have been severely affected if the earthquake had struck during the school hours. Both global school-related disaster data and Nepal’s past experiences indicate that Nepalese school students face significant risk from natural disasters, particularly during school hours. Geoscientists are repeatedly warning the possibility of such a catastrophe occurring in any part of the country. Therefore, students must be educated about disaster awareness and preparedness through the curriculum to ensure their safety.

Resources management 

Nepal possesses abundant natural resources including minerals, water, forests, and agricultural products. Various regions hold potential for different resources: the Terai Plain for gravel, sand, and groundwater, the Sub Himalaya for construction materials and minor coal seams, the Lesser Himalaya for metallic minerals (iron, copper, lead, zinc, cobalt, nickel, tin, tungsten, gold, uranium) and industrial minerals (magnesite, limestone, dolomite, bauxite, kaolin, graphite, mica, quartz, silica sand and gemstones), and the Higher Himalaya for precious stones and metallic minerals. Introducing geology at higher levels promotes specialized courses, producing skilled manpower crucial for economic development.

Career opportunities

Introducing geology at the secondary education level in Nepal can prepare students for a range of career paths, including geoscience research, environmental management, natural resource exploration, and disaster risk reduction. Geologists can find employment opportunities in groundwater management, geological surveying, natural gas and mineral exploration, physical infrastructures (road, tunnel, irrigation canal, etc.) as well as industries related to zinc, copper, and other minerals. By exposing high school students to the principles of geology, educators can inspire future geologists and earth scientists in the career fields such as engineering geology, hydrology, mining geology and paleontology.

Long term impact

Nepal is composed of about 83 percent of mountainous with weak and fragile geological structure, tectonically active zone. Nepal is highly susceptible to landslides and slope failures in addition to earthquakes. Many villages and settlements are located on old landslide sites or near unstable slopes, which are prone to reactivation. Earthquakes often trigger landslides, resulting in significant loss of life, livestock, property, and infrastructure in Nepal. Introducing geology in higher secondary education can prepare citizens for these hazards, saving lives and promoting sustainable development and resilience.

Conclusion

Nepal is highly vulnerable to natural disasters, yet its education system largely neglects geology education at the secondary and higher levels. Various countries, including Papua New Guinea, several states in India including Maharashtra, Manipur, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Jharkhand, Kerala and many other countries, have already integrated geology into their Grade XI & XII education curricula. Given Nepal’s susceptibility to natural disasters, urgent action is needed to incorporate geology education into grades XI and XII. Engaging with experts in the field of geology, responsible governmental authorities should initiate the planning and implementation of geology education at these levels. This addition will boost students’ scientific understanding and prepare them to tackle real-world issues like natural disasters, environmental concerns, and resource management. Introducing geology will nurture a culture of resilience and readiness among the next generation, contributing to a safer and more secure future for Nepal.

The Constitution of Nepal envisions three distinct branches of government: legislative, executive, and judicial. These branches are meant to function independently, free from interference from each other. 

While the legislative and executive branches are inherently political, the judiciary is intended to remain impartial and free from political influence to maintain its credibility. However, in practice, the Judicial Council, which recommends the appointment of judges in Nepal, is heavily influenced, if not dominated, by political interests. This political influence extends to the Constitutional Council, which recommends the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, making the executive a key player in judicial appointments.

This politicization of judicial appointments has raised significant concerns about the competency, impartiality, and integrity of the judiciary. Many court verdicts in Nepal seem to be influenced by political pressures, undermining the judiciary's credibility and eroding public trust. A competent and independent judiciary is essential for upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is administered fairly.

Shree Krishna Bhatarai, former District Judge, says: “The credibility of the judiciary has been declining due to increasing political interference. Political parties appoint their desired candidates as judges to serve their interests, and they resort to impeachment if any hurdles arise. This trend has recently been on the rise, undermining the principles of constitutionalism and judicial independence.” 

When did politics start infiltrating the judiciary?

Gandhi Pandit, professor of law at Tribhuvan University, says the turning point is often considered  the event of 2013 when then Chief Justice Khil Raj Regmi was appointed the chairman of the Council of Ministers to remove then Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai, due to the lack of consensus among political parties. 

“This move laid the foundation for the political exploitation of the judiciary,” says Prof. Pandit 

According to him, political interference in Nepal’s judiciary began as early as 2047 BS. However, post-2062/63 BS, political meddling increased significantly, culminating in Regmi’s appointment as both the head of the executive and judiciary. Some analysts believe this appointment instilled a tendency among judges to seek political advantage.

Subsequent Chief Justices after Regmi have been embroiled in various controversies. After Regmi, Damodar Prasad Sharma served as acting Chief Justice, a period considered golden for middlemen and the corrupt. Sharma was notorious for appointing his nephew as a judge in the then-Appeals Court, fostering factionalism among Supreme Court judges, and failing to make permanent appointments for competent judges, allowing them to retire instead. Ram Kumar Prasad Shah, who succeeded Sharma, attempted some reforms but was not free from controversy. Kalyan Shrestha, who followed Shah, faced similar issues.

The first female Chief Justice, Sushila Karki, faced impeachment over a dispute regarding the appointment of the police chief. Although the impeachment was later withdrawn, this incident set a precedent for using impeachment as a tool against non-compliant judges, a tactic also used against suspended Chief Justice Cholendra Shamsher Rana.

Increasing political influence and power-sharing deals have eroded the judiciary’s credibility, shaking the foundation of the one institution people still trust. Experts argue that the root cause lies in the flawed appointment process. 

The structure of the Judicial Council, changed through the interim constitution after the second people’s movement of 2006, heightened political interference. The new system included only the Chief Justice and the senior-most justice from the Supreme Court, with three additional members: the Minister of Law, a lawyer sent by the Prime Minister, and another lawyer recommended by the Nepal Bar Association. This made it easier for politically affiliated lawyers to join the council. 

This structure led to a high level of political quota distribution in judge appointments in 2070 and 2071 BS. In 2070 BS, 15 newly appointed Appellate Court judges visited the UML party office to express their gratitude on the same day they took their oaths of impartiality and independence. Now, the UML, which facilitated political intrusion into the judiciary, is trying to distance itself from the issue.

In the midst of widespread controversy and disorder, some interpret the political manipulation of the judiciary as a crisis of the system itself. As major political leaders began using the judiciary to shield themselves and their associates from legal issues and irregularities, public trust in the institution has steadily eroded. Frequent political meddling with the judiciary during the implementation phase of the constitution could undermine confidence in the constitution itself. Therefore, political parties must be cautious, as such interference affects not just individuals but the entire judicial system.

International practice of judge appointment 

For democracy to thrive, the judiciary must be independent and free from political influence.

17th-century French philosopher Montesquieu argued that when legislative and executive powers are concentrated in one body, independence cannot be maintained, and when the executive, legislative, and judicial branches are exercised by a single entity, democracy is hindered. This concept has been adopted by many democratic countries.

Since the constitution itself cannot exercise wisdom and judgment, there needs to be a development of constitutional culture and adherence to constitutional norms. Because the legislature makes laws, the executive may sometimes violate the constitution and laws or infringe upon individual rights. The executive, possessing both weapons and authority, can misuse power, making an independent judiciary necessary to prevent such actions.

Appointing judges by the legislature directly interferes with the principle of separation of powers and checks and balances, placing the judiciary under legislative control. When political representatives select judges, merit becomes irrelevant, which undermines judicial independence. Similarly, judges elected by popular vote must remain loyal to their voters, making impartiality difficult. Even appointments by executive order have not ensured judicial independence.

Therefore, the selection process for judicial officials must emphasize impartiality, independence, fearlessness, and individual qualifications, competence, experience, and conduct. The process and the laws governing appointments are crucial for judicial performance efficiency.

In the US, the President nominates Supreme Court justices, who must be approved by the Senate. This process often involves selecting candidates with similar political and ideological views. Despite the political nature of appointments, the judiciary operates independently. 

For instance, Joseph Story was appointed as a judge at the age of just 32 in 1811. James Byrnes, appointed in 1941, did not have a higher education certificate but gained legal knowledge through self-study. Brett Kavanaugh, who was recommended as a Supreme Court judge in 2019, faced allegations of sexual misconduct from three women dating back three decades. However, after discussions in the Senate, it was decided that his past behavior would not affect his current judicial performance, and he was appointed after receiving majority approval from the Senate. There are also examples of foreign-born individuals becoming judges. 

Supreme Court judges in the US are only dismissed under special circumstances or for misconduct, while experienced judges with 15 years of service and aged 65 or older can also be given responsibility in the Supreme Court.

After the US Federal Constitution was created, then-Chief Justice John Marshall in 1780 declared that the Constitution is the supreme law of the land, and it is the judiciary’s responsibility to uphold the supremacy of the Constitution. He asserted that even the President must operate under the Constitution. This interpretation strengthened American democracy and increased public trust that the President would not act against the country and its people. However, in 1857, then-Chief Justice Roger Taney’s interpretation that slaves could not be American citizens and that black people could not exercise the same rights as white people led to the American Civil War, causing great damage.

Consequently, although the US Constitution does not specify the age or qualifications of Supreme Court judges, it allows the President and Senate to determine qualifications as needed at their discretion. While the appointment of judges in the US appears to be purely political, it is claimed that there is no politicization within the courts, unlike in Nepal.

In the high courts of the United States and the United Kingdom, it is customary to appoint individuals as Supreme Court judges who have at least two years of experience as judges or have demonstrated exceptional expertise in the judicial field by practicing at the same level of court for 15 years. 

In neighboring India, although the constitution emphasizes the importance of executive power in the process of judge appointments, the judiciary has prioritized the role of the Chief Justice in these appointments through its interpretations and actions. A collegium of four senior-most justices, led by the Chief Justice, recommend appointments to the President, maintaining independence from the executive. Similar collegium system is followed while appointing judges for the High Court. 

In the British judicial tradition, individuals who have been associated with political parties, served as Attorney General, Members of Parliament, or Ministers are considered ineligible for judgeship. British society still believes that judges do not engage in corruption.

Policy for judicial appointments in Nepal 

According to Article 129 (2) of Nepal’s Constitution, the Chief Justice is appointed by the President on the recommendation of the Constitutional Council, and other judges are appointed by the President on the recommendation of the Judicial Council. Articles 140(1) and 292(1) outline the appointment process for High Court judges and the parliamentary hearing requirement for the Chief Justice and Supreme Court judges. Article 129(4) specifies a six-year term for the Chief Justice, while Articles 131(b) and 142(1)(b) set age limits for Supreme Court and High Court judges.

However, in practice, there has been noticeable political interference in the appointments of the Chief Justice and justices in the Supreme Court judges, as well as High Court judges. 

Balaram KC, former Supreme Court justice, says: “Individuals who have been MPs and ministers from political parties, presidents and officials of the Nepal Bar Association, Attorneys General, professors, individuals who have engaged in other businesses, amassed wealth abroad, or worked in influential law firms, and those who have failed to establish themselves in the legal profession are selectively appointed as judgesbased on connections, sometimes involving deals worth millions.” 

This manipulation undermines the judiciary's role in validating decisions and protecting political power, leading to significant degradation of public trust. The Nepal Bar, acting as a subsidiary of political parties, has further complicated the issue. Political statements, boycotts, and other disruptive actions are pushing Nepal’s judicial system into a critical state. The Judicial Council and other authorities must address these issues to safeguard the integrity of the justice system.

The second meeting of the Nepal-Finland Bilateral Consultation Mechanism was held in Kathmandu on Wednesday.

Chief of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA)'s Europe America Division and joint-secretary led the Nepali delegation in the meeting while Deputy Secretary of the State for International Development at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland Pasi Hellman led the Finish team.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both sides discussed the Nepal-Finland relations and bilateral cooperation.

The meeting reviewed the bilateral relations and expressed satisfaction on the current status of the Nepal-Finland ties.

Both the sides laid emphasis on exchanging high-level visits and enhancing partnerships.

The Nepali sides had extended gratitude to Finland for its continued support in the areas of drinking water, sanitation, education and climate change. The Finland side had expressed its interest to expand development to Nepal in the areas of innovative facilities, particularly public sector investment facilities.

Matters related to mutual cooperation in the regional and global forums. Both the sides had agreed to work together on global issues, including climate change and multilateralism in the multilateral forums were also discussed in the meeting.

While access to savings accounts has become widespread among the general public in Nepal’s banks and financial institutions, access to credit remains significantly lower. 

A latest study of the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) shows banks and financial institutions (BFIs) have 51.17m deposit accounts, while the number of credit accounts is significantly lower at around 1.84m. This shows that 71.83 percent of the population remains outside the banking system for credit transactions. A survey on the financial literacy situation conducted by the central bank reveals that while 46.34 percent of adults use loans, only 17.6 percent utilize bank loans. The survey reveals significant variations in the usage of different financial services among the adult population. The highest utilization is in savings, investment, or retirement instruments, with 86.64 percent of adults using these services.

Payment instruments follow closely, used by 73.78 percent of the population. However, other financial services have lower adoption rates. Credit instruments are used by 46.34 percent of adults, while insurance services have the lowest penetration at just 30.02 percent.  Similar survey conducted in 2021 showed that 67.3 percent of the population had an account with a bank or financial institution. The central bank last week unveiled its Financial Inclusion Policy, 2024 to promote financial inclusion through expanded financial services, enhanced literacy and consumer protection. The policy prioritizes extending financial access, boosting entrepreneurship, promoting financial literacy, protecting consumer interests and data collection. 

Among others, the policy aims at presenting a draft National Financial Inclusion Strategy to the government this year, incorporating its objectives into monetary policies and budgets and issuing directives to support institutions in its implementation. The policy builds on past plans, programs and practices, focusing on inclusive financial access, digital innovation, gender and eco-friendly banking, sustainable financial system development, infrastructure development, regulatory roles, partnerships and accountability. Likewise, it aims to promote micro, small, and medium enterprises/businesses by developing entrepreneurship, developing business capacity, developing infrastructure and technology, creating an investment-friendly environment and providing appropriate types of loans and low interest rates. Similarly, making services from various agencies technology-friendly to increase the access of target customers to the banking system and encouraging micro, small and medium-level industries, trade  and businesses by simplifying processes is the other objective of the policy.

Furthermore, the policy aims to make services from various agencies more digitally accessible thereby widening the banking system's reach to targeted demographics. 

Commercial banks are present in all 753 local units across the country, except in Saipal of Bajhang, with the total branch network reaching 11,589. Likewise, there are 18.94m digital wallet users, while mobile banking clients number 21.36m, 1.85m use internet banking and ConnectIPS has 1.1m users. Additionally, there are 4,855 ATMs across the country.

Nepal succumbed to a six-wicket defeat against the Netherlands in their first ICC T20 World Cup match on Tuesday.

Chasing the target of 107 runs set by Nepal, the Netherlands made 107-4 with nine balls to spare.

Max O' Dowd scored highest 54 runs for the Netherlands, Vikramjit made 22 runs and Sybrand 14 runs.

Sompal Kami, Dipendra Singh Airee and Abhinas Bohora took one wicket each for Nepal.

Earlier, Nepal, who were invited to bat first after losing the toss, scored a paltry 106 runs in 19.2 over losing all the wickets.

Captain Rohit Paudel top scored for the team with 35 runs off 37 balls hitting five fours.

Similarly, Karan KC contributed 12 runs off 17 balls and Gulsan Jha made 15 runs off 14 balls.

Likewise, Anil Sah added 11 runs to the scoreboard while other batters failed to score in double digit.

Nepal are locking their horns against the Netherlands in their first match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup today.

Nepal, which are in Group D, will play against the Netherlands at 9:15 pm Nepali time at the Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium in Dallas, USA.

Along with Nepal, the Netherlands, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and South Africa are in Group D.

Nepal will play their second match against Sri Lanka on June 11, third against South Africa on June 14 and fourth against Bangladesh on June 16.

Nepal are playing in the World Cup after a decade.

It is necessary for Nepal, which are aiming to make into Super Eight, to register a victory in the first match.

So far, out of 12 T20I matches, Nepal have won five matches, lost six matches and made one match draw.

Nepal and the Netherlands are competing for the first time in the World Cup.

Nepali team

Rohit Paudel (team captain), Kushal Bhurtel, Asif Sheikh, Anil Kumar Sah, Dipendra Singh Airee, Kushal Malla, Lalit Rajbansi, Karan KC, Gulsan Jha, Sompal Kami, Pratik GC, Sandeep Jora, Abhinas Bohara, Sagar Dhakal and Kamal Singh Airee.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Narayankaji Shrestha expressed the government's commitment to develop Nepal as a tourism hub.

He said this at a dinner reception hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Nepal Tourism Board, Gandaki Province Office to welcome the ambassadors and representatives of diplomatic missions of different countries on the occasion of 74th Annapurna Day in Pokhara on Sunday.

A target has been set to attract 1.6 million tourists next year, he said the government was working to identify and promote new tourism destinations.

"The government is planning to develop a tourism circuit along with the identification of new destinations and trekking routes", the DPM noted.

He urged the ambassadors and representatives of diplomatic missions to promote Nepal's tourism in their communities and the country.

DPM Shrestha said the Nepali people are known all over the world in terms of spiritual culture. Tourists from all over the world come to Nepal to see many natural and cultural heritages, including Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha and Mount Everest, the world's highest peak.

DPM Shrestha said Pokhara, the tourism capital, is also being developed as an important destination for adventure tourism activities.

On the occasion of Annapurna Day, ambassadors of various countries and representatives of diplomatic missions marched from Dhampus to Astam in Kaski.

The trekking expedition was organized in memory of the ascent to the 8,000-meter-high mountain for the first time in the world.

On June 3, 1950, French climbers Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachnal scaled the 8,041-meter-high Annapurna First mountain.

Annapurna Day is celebrated every year in memory of this day. The 74th Annapurna Day was celebrated in tourism capital Pokhara today by organizing several activities.

More than 90, 000 foreign tourists have entered Nepal in May this year.

According to the statistics released by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) today, a total of 90, 211 foreign tourists visited the country in May.

The tourist arrival has increased by 16.10 percent this year in comparison to last year.  A total of 77, 703 foreign tourists had visited Nepal in May last year.

The NTB Director Maniraj Lamichhane said that the arrival of foreign tourists is encouraging. He said, "Overall, the arrival of tourists seems to be encouraging. Comparatively, although a large number of Indian and American tourists entered the country, the number of tourists from China has not increased as per expectation."

According to NTB, 38,288 tourists from India, 8,381 tourists from China and 8,527 from the United States visited Nepal in May.

I started thinking about this question after attending the town hall meeting organized on May 24 in honor of Agnès Callamard, the secretary-general of Amnesty International, during his visit to Nepal.

Callamard covered a wide spectrum of issues while answering questions from both the moderator, journalist Dil Bhusan Pathak and from the audience. It was an interesting talk as the Amnesty chief was able to link the inevitable focus on some of the most pressing human rights issues of Nepal with what’s going on globally.

One of the key takeaways was the role of youths. Perhaps encouraged by a large presence of young people in the hall, Callamard underscored the importance of youths playing a leading role to uphold and strengthen human rights.

At the same time, I do wonder if most of the young people do care about them. While I have been working and collaborating with a number of astounding young people who are eager and determined to change the status quo for better, I am not entirely convinced that a vast majority of them really feel that they have a stake in the debate.

Surely there are many pressing issues, of more tangible and practical nature that young people have to think about, especially if they come from vulnerable, and low-income families. Those who struggle the most have to think about more essential things like surviving gruesome urban centers that do offer almost endless opportunities for the better-off but can be nightmares for those who have no privileges nor status.

But what about those young people from middle-class families that do not live a life of luxuries but at the same time are doing quite ok? I believe that involving and engaging this vast “middle” that, according to many statistics, is dwindling because of out-migration to far places like Australia and Canada, is paramount.

Climate change has been so devastating that it has finally become an issue that can grab their attention. And after all, climate activism is a great way of upholding and seeking respect for human rights but what about other issues?

What about caste discrimination about which Amnesty International recently launched a report specifically focused on the deprivations and humiliations that citizens from the Dalit community have to face? What about other issues like freedom of expression, the fight against abuses committed by the state and other powerful entities?

I feel that many youths in Nepal are feeling a bit complacent about what’s going on. Perhaps it is fair enough. After all, as I have already highlighted, it is difficult to think about human rights when there are other issues to deal with. Others, perhaps, are just maximizing their shot at being successful. Amid problems and issues concerning the nation, there are a good number of young people who just try to make it big.

Fair enough, I would say.

Callamard, during her talk, spoke widely about the risks of a breakdown of the international, rules-based order. “If a neighboring country adopts a law against freedoms, there are high risks that such laws will be exported” she told the audience.

Somehow, Nepal has been shielded, insulated from many issues affecting the planet. The country fully internalized that there was a war raging in Ukraine, only when some of its youths were discovered to fight and die in the invading Russian Army.

These days, there has been an uproar about press freedom because the chairman of the biggest private publishing and TV house was jailed. But how much are the youths invested on this issue? With reading habits dropping abysmally, too few of them really know what’s going on. So, the fundamental question is not just asking if young people do care about human rights.

The right question is: How can young people be engaged and recommit to civic and public affairs? Not only those who can afford it in virtue of their family related privileges or those, the active minority, who have some sort of special interest to work at the service of the public good.

We need to engage and involve the silent middle. Schools, both public and private, should play a much bigger role. Resources to enable new programs about civic education and human rights are not a real problem. If alternative Fridays can be conceived, designed and implemented to offer students a more practical type of education, why not also think about “Civic” Thursdays? I am sure that local youth clubs, NGOs could do a lot in this area even with very scarce resources.

A challenge is to make civic education, not the one being already taught, I would say quite ineffectively, much more appealing and interesting. An idea: The major metropolitan governments of the country could launch a competition for schools and not-for-profit organizations and youth groups that, partnering together, would come up with innovative ways to do civic engagement.

We do not only have to find better ways to teach it but also create innovative learning pathways to make students experience and practice it. With civic engagement, I do mean focusing on issues like human rights, education for sustainable development and climate action and public policies as well. If you reflect on it, we need to embed the local curricula, formal and informal, in the classrooms and outside of them, with tons of ethical leadership.

Students, especially those less engaged and less prone to active actions, must be challenged in a positive way because they must understand that they also have a role to play, they have some stakes in the discussion.

Callamard highlighted that youths must get organized and protest but they must do it in a smart way, rather than risking their lives. She is right but I do not think we are nearly close enough to have a majority of youths even ready to play their part in the society.

Good governance is for them the most unappealing and boring thing that they can even conceptualize and imagine. They don’t really have a clue about it, why should they have it considering the state of national politics? Good governance is essential if Nepal wants to reach a higher league of nations.

But such type of governance does not happen just through top-down approaches. Real good governance means inclusive governance where citizens have a voice and agency. In practice, they are not just electing their representatives but they are part of the decision-making. Unfortunately, such a vision is still far, it is still a chimera.

Only by providing cutting-edge curricula and practical opportunities through service and volunteering experiences that elicit their enthusiasm, the vast majority of young people can commit and make the difference and bring that vision on the ground. Human rights do matter because without them Nepal would be a much worse place to live in.

They matter because they are the foundations of the nation’s democracy that, while imperfect, is still the bright and shining story. Youths can stand up and do their best to even improve the state of national affairs but they need some guidance. “Hope is something that we must all build”,  Callamard said in her final remarks. Yes, youths should be the nation’s “Hope Builders” whose contributions are simply indispensable. Can we help them?

The author is the co-founder of ENGAGE and of The Good Leadership

Nepal and other small nations, despite their negligible contributions to carbon emissions, bear the brunt of climate change impacts disproportionately. This inequity underscores a harsh reality: While larger, more industrialized nations emit the lion’s share of greenhouse gasses, it is the smaller, less developed countries that suffer the most severe consequences. 

In Nepal, the effects are palpable—from melting glaciers to increasingly erratic monsoon patterns and heightened vulnerability to natural disasters. This disparity highlights the urgent need for global solidarity and concerted action to address climate change, ensuring that all nations, regardless of their size or level of development, are supported in mitigating and adapting to its effects.

The assertion that war contributes to carbon emissions highlights a sobering reality: While conflicts may be waged by powerful nations, their repercussions extend far beyond, affecting even peace-loving countries like Nepal. Despite not being directly involved in conflicts, Nepal, like many other nations, has to grapple with the environmental fallout of warfare, such as increased emissions from military activities and the destruction of natural habitats.

Given this context, there’s a compelling argument for developed nations to step up and support countries like Nepal in combating the climate crisis. Climate finance, in particular, emerges as a crucial mechanism through which developed nations can fulfill their responsibility to assist vulnerable countries in mitigating and adapting to climate change impacts. Concrete data on the extent of glacial melting or changes in monsoon patterns could enhance the clarity and make the argument in favor of climate finance more powerful.

The recent devastating floods in countries like the US, the UAE, Oman and China serve as poignant reminders of the urgent need to prioritize climate change. These catastrophic events underscore the increasingly severe impacts of climate change on communities and economies worldwide.

Nepal recently convened the ‘International Dialogue on Mountains, People, and Climate,’ a crucial platform where stakeholders voiced their apprehensions regarding the escalating adverse effects of climate change on the Himalayas. Urgent action to mitigate these impacts was fervently advocated for, drawing the attention of the international community to this pressing issue. For instance, Bangladesh’s Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Saber Hossain Chowdhury, expressed grave concerns about the existential threat due to snow-melting in the Nepal Himalayas due to climate change.

Emphasizing the criticality of swift and decisive action, the minister underscored the necessity of adopting timely measures and maintaining heightened vigilance to mitigate the looming impact of climate change. He stressed the imperative of minimizing climate change’s adverse effects and bolstering adaptation efforts to fortify climate resilience, not just for Bangladesh but for all vulnerable regions across the globe.

During COP28 also, Nepal successfully globalized its agenda, amplifying its voice on the international stage. The visit of United Nations’ Secretary-General António Guterres to Nepal further bolstered this effort, providing a crucial platform to elevate Nepali concerns to the global forefront. His visit not only signaled solidarity with Nepal’s cause but also helped to galvanize international support and attention toward addressing the unique challenges faced by mountainous regions.

In this context, engaging ambassadors and diplomats stationed in Nepal to advocate for global attention to Nepal’s environmental concerns is indeed a strategic move with potential far-reaching benefits. These diplomatic figures can leverage their positions to draw attention to Nepal’s pressing environmental issues and rally support from the international community.

Diplomats like Dean R Thompson, the US’ Ambassador to Nepal, whose personal appreciation for Nepal’s natural beauty is evident, can serve as influential advocates for environmental conservation efforts. Their advocacy can help elevate Nepal’s environmental priorities on the global stage and encourage collaborative initiatives to address pressing challenges.

Furthermore, the involvement of neighboring giants like China and India is crucial, given their direct stake in Nepal’s environmental well-being. As Nepal shares critical ecological resources and biodiversity hotspots with its neighbors, cooperation among these nations is essential for effective environmental management and conservation.

Recognizing the inseparable link between the environment and human health is paramount. The impacts of the climate crisis are becoming increasingly apparent, affecting not only the natural world but also humanity and livelihoods.

As the effects of climate change intensify, with rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and environmental degradation, the health and resilience of both the environment and the people are at stake. Addressing the climate crisis is therefore not only an environmental imperative but also a critical public health priority.

By working together to save Nepal’s natural treasures, we can help ensure a healthier and more sustainable future for all Nepalis and the planet as a whole.

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

Amphibians represent a diverse array of creatures that have captivated the interest of both scientists and nature enthusiasts. Renowned for their extraordinary ability to thrive in both aquatic and terrestrial environments, examples of amphibians include frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts. According to the 2024 Amphibia web database, there are a staggering 8,737 species of amphibians worldwide. In Nepal, as outlined in ‘An Updated Checklist of Amphibians and Reptiles of Nepal’, the amphibian fauna comprises 57 species spread across 22 genera, eight families, and three orders, with Nepal hosting 55 frog species, one salamander species, and one caecilian species.

In Nepal, amphibians are least studied creatures due to conservation efforts tend to prioritize furry and and feathery vertebrate species, such as tigers, snow leopards, and rhinos.This is because amphibians  are not considered charismatic enough to receive the same level of attention and conservation focus.  As a consequence of this bias in conservation focus, there is limited knowledge shared among people about small species like frogs, salamanders and caecilians.There are only very few organizations working in such species in Nepal to popularize them like Nepal Conservation and Research Center (NCRC), Biodiversity Research and Conservation Society (BRCS) and Environment Protection and Study Center (ENPROSC).

NCRC is working in the ‘Himalayan Frogs Conservation Initiative in Nepal’, ‘Lowland frogs of Nepal’ and collaboratively with BRCS in ‘Himalayan Salamander Conservation Project’. Similarly, ENPROSC is working on the ‘Croaking Monsoon Project’ which is the citizen science approach to explore the ecology of frogs throughout Nepal. Sadly, due to lack of funding only little ecology of these amphibians are studied but the behavior, reproductive biology and genetics of the creatures are poorly known.

These remarkable creatures play vital roles within ecosystems, serving as both predators, which help regulate populations of insects and other small invertebrates, and as essential food sources for larger predators. By occupying various niches within food webs, amphibians contribute significantly to the equilibrium and stability of ecosystems.

For the rest of the world, worshiping frogs sounds bizarre, but the native inhabitants (Newars) of Kathmandu, Nepal have been following the ritual for many decades. The tradition has been named ‘Byan: jaa nakegu’ meaning to feed rice to frogs. The exact answer is unknown why people continue to feed and worship frogs. Whatever the initial reasons and stories might be, many believe the rituals of feeding and worshiping frogs reminds people of their connection with nature.Similarly, the people of Nepal perform marriage ceremonies of frogs if there is long drought in the belief that their marriage will bring the rain.

Moreover,frogs locally called as Paha are also collected and  consumed in Nepal. The collection is primarily for food use and secondarily preferred as medicinal forms, and utilized by many ethnic groups like Magar, Rai, Gurung, Jirel, etc. in different parts of the country. In context, caecilian people immediately kill them after seeing them thinking they are venomous snakes.

In addition to this, Himalayan Salamander in eastern Nepal is facing multiple threats such as introduction of exotic fishes in its habitats, modification of its habitat into picnic or recreational sites. Such local extirpation will make us lose an order from Nepal.

Herpetologist Bivek Gautam explains that studying salamanders and caecilians presents numerous challenges. Due to their small size, these creatures often go unnoticed by people, making it difficult to conduct fieldwork and raise awareness about these fascinating species.

Similarly, herpetologist Santosh Bhattarai says that amphibians are encountering several challenges, including habitat loss, water pollution, and the unregulated use of chemicals in agriculture. Additionally, illegal trade and hunting pose significant threats. Furthermore, he added, the lack of research on amphibians in Nepal is concerning, as it increases the risk of extinction before their proper documentation and identification.

Observing this scenario, ‘Amphibian Week’ was celebrated on May 9 with students from the New Ekta English Boarding School in the Madhes, aimed at raising awareness about amphibians. The program was attended by 55 students. The event included presentations, demonstrations of research techniques and tools, documentary screenings, and poster distributions, all designed to inspire and motivate conservation efforts for amphibians within their locality. This initiative received support from organizations such as the Katie Adamson Conservation Fund, Nepal Conservation and Research Center, Biodiversity Research and Conservation Society, and SAVE THE FROGS.

In conclusion, amphibians possess remarkable characteristics, including unique life cycles and adaptations, and they fulfill crucial roles within ecosystems while also serving as indicators of environmental health. Therefore, safeguarding and conserving their habitats are imperative for their survival and the overall well-being of the ecosystems they inhabit. Let us unite at the community level to contribute to amphibian conservation efforts.

Kleptocracy, a term etched from the Greek lexicon, combining "kleptes" for thief and "kratos" for rule, paints a somber canvas of governance. It depicts a system where those in power exploit their positions for personal enrichment, draining public coffers through corruption and embezzlement. In Nepal, a nation grappling with persistent political instability and governance challenges, the specter of kleptocracy casts a long shadow, exacerbating social inequalities and impeding developmental progress. This exploration endeavors to dissect the complexities of kleptocracy and its profound impact within Nepal's tumultuous political landscape.

Understanding it 

Kleptocracy epitomizes a distortion of democratic ideals, where public trust is betrayed as officials accumulate wealth and power at the expense of citizens' welfare and national interest. Within such systems, political elites and their allies exploit state institutions and regulatory frameworks to drain public resources, evading accountability and fortifying their grip on power.

Nepal's vulnerability

Nepal's historical narrative, woven with threads of political instability and institutional fragility, provides fertile soil for the seeds of kleptocracy to take root. Rampant corruption and nepotism have entrenched themselves, corroding public trust in state institutions and eroding the foundations of the rule of law.

The nexus

The nexus between political instability and kleptocracy in Nepal is symbiotic, each reinforcing the other in a cycle of dysfunction. Frequent changes in government, protracted political standoffs, and fragmented party politics provide fertile ground for rent-seeking and misappropriation of state resources.

The impacts

Kleptocracy corrodes the fabric of Nepali society, stunting economic growth, exacerbating poverty and widening social disparities. Precious public resources meant for essential services are diverted into the coffers of the corrupt elite, perpetuating cycles of deprivation and disenfranchisement. Moreover, the erosion of trust in state institutions undermines efforts to foster democratic governance, risking perpetual instability and underdevelopment.

Economic crisis

Nepal, a nation ensconced in the heart of the Himalayas, has long been celebrated for its breathtaking vistas and rich cultural tapestry. Yet, beneath this picturesque facade lies a country teetering on the edge of economic collapse, its political foundations shaking. The roots of Nepal's economic malaise run deep, intertwining with systemic issues that have plagued the nation for decades.

Contributing factors

The journey toward Nepal's economic crisis can be traced through its turbulent past, marked by political upheaval, social disparity and natural calamities. The transition from monarchy to democratic republic in 2008 failed to usher in the desired stability and prosperity. Instead, Nepal has been marred by corruption, bureaucratic inertia and a lack of coherent economic policies.

Political Instability: Nepal's political landscape resembles a revolving door, with frequent changes in leadership causing policy inertia and uncertainty. This instability repels foreign investment, stymies economic growth and erodes public faith in the political establishment.

Corruption and governance issues: Corruption runs rampant across various strata of the Nepali society, impeding development endeavors and exacerbating income disparities. Weak governance structures have fostered an environment where corruption thrives, diverting vital resources away from essential public services and infrastructure projects.

Dependency on remittances: Nepal leans heavily on remittances from its vast migrant workforce, particularly those toiling in Gulf nations and Southeast Asia. While remittances have provided a lifeline for many Nepali families, they've also fostered a culture of dependency, stifling domestic entrepreneurship and innovation.

Natural disasters and climate change: Nepal's susceptibility to natural disasters, from earthquakes to floods, poses existential threats to its populace and infrastructure. Climate change compounds these challenges, jeopardizing agriculture, water resources, and overall sustainability.

Underdeveloped infra: Inadequate infrastructure, typified by subpar road networks and limited access to electricity and healthcare, stifles economic progress and hinders the delivery of essential services, particularly to rural communities. This infrastructure deficit deters investment and perpetuates regional disparities.

Economic crisis unfolds: In recent years, Nepal's economic woes have snowballed, culminating in soaring inflation, mounting unemployment and a widening fiscal chasm. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these vulnerabilities, dealing crippling blows to sectors like tourism and remittances. The resultant economic downturn has plunged many Nepalis deeper into poverty, stoking social unrest and disillusionment with the government's response.

Implications for the political system: The confluence of economic distress and political disenchantment has ignited widespread discontent and clamors for systemic reform. Dissatisfaction with the status quo has emboldened opposition factions and civil society groups, demanding accountability, transparency and substantive change. The fragility of Nepal's political institutions has been laid bare, evoking apprehensions of imminent collapse unless decisive action is taken to address the underlying crises.

The way forward

Resolving Nepal's economic quagmire and averting political meltdown necessitates multifaceted endeavors. Political leaders must prioritize stability and consensus-building, transcending partisan rifts to forge a trajectory toward inclusive growth and sustainable development. Strengthening governance frameworks, combating corruption and investing in critical infrastructure stand as imperatives for laying the groundwork for a resilient economy and a robust democratic ethos.

International collaboration and assistance can play pivotal roles in bolstering Nepal's recovery efforts, offering expertise, resources and investment avenues. However, genuine transformation can only materialize through domestic stakeholders' unwavering commitment to prioritizing Nepali interests above narrow political agendas.

In conclusion, Nepal finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with intertwined crises of economic distress and political uncertainty. The path ahead is fraught with obstacles, yet it is also brimming with opportunities for renewal and rejuvenation. By confronting its underlying challenges head-on and embracing a vision of inclusive and sustainable development, Nepal can emerge revitalized, resilient, and better poised to navigate the complexities of the 21st century.

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The Nepal-India border points in Kapilvastu are to remain closed for 60 hours from 6 am today in view of the Loksabha elections in Siddharthanagar of India on Saturday.

Deputy Chief District Officer Bhabishwor Ghimire said that the border points will be closed from 6 am today to 6 pm on Saturday keeping in mind the security sensitivity of the election.

The movement of vehicles and people will be completely curbed in Krishnanagar, Maryadpur, Chakarchauda and Shiwalawa of the district.

A meeting of the chief of Siddharthanagar district of India, Chief District Officer of Kapilvastu, chiefs of security agencies had decided to close the border points in order to prevent the activities affecting the election.

However, in case of emergencies, the border can be reopened through a mutual agreement during the official closure, Chief District Officer Ghimire said.

“The India side helps us by closing border points during the elections in Nepal also,” Ghimire said, adding, “We also closed the border crossings to help India hold the elections in a free and fair manner.”

The attraction of Nepalis towards keeping turtles as pets and the easy availability of the red-eared slider on online market stores requires attention of the researchers and policy makers. The red-eared slider is included on the list of the world’s 100 most invasive species, indicating these reptiles cause serious impact on biological diversity.

The red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) is a common semi-aquatic turtle native to North America. It is widely distributed across the globe mainly introduced through pet trade. It is a popular pet turtle across the world, and the popularity is often associated with their colorful appearance and relatively easy-care requirements. Aquarists find young red-eared sliders particularly appealing due to their small size and vivid color. But they grow rapidly into less attractive, aggressive large individuals requiring more space and other complex needs. 

They are very active and can escape from captivity and may also be released into nearby water bodies to get rid of the annoying pet after a while. These turtles have found their way to non-native water bodies when they escape accidentally or released intentionally by pet owners as they grow too large or become too difficult to care for. These turtles are known to outcompete native species as they can breed successfully in newer habitats. The process of invasion is supported by its characteristics of high fecundity, aggressive behavior, release of chemical cues and adaptability to new habitats.

As popular pets, the captive red eared slider can be found in various household aquariums, online marketplaces as well as in zoos in Nepal. This species is well established in wetlands such as Taudaha Lake in Kathmandu. The presence of red eared sliders was also noted in Chitwan according to a study. The distribution can be estimated to be wide as there is a lack of targeted studies on turtles in Nepal. Due to which the consequences caused by this exotic species on native turtle fauna of Nepal is unknown. The Nepalese turtle fauna consists of seventeen species and nineteen subspecies of native turtles. Of these, thirteen species are already listed in the threatened category by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

It is obvious that this exotic turtle species competes for resources like food, basking site and nesting site with the native turtles. Red-eared sliders are omnivorous feeders and feed on both the plant and animal matter. The juveniles mostly prefer more plant food while mature turtles, especially females consume more animal matter in their diet posing serious threat to native species. It was found that it prey on new hatchlings and juveniles of native species and causes the populations of native species to decline.  As observed in captivity they can victimize water birds and native turtles (Lissemys punctata, Pangshura tecta) which can be predicted due to their aggressive behavior. Trachemys scripta species are identified as the potential carrier of various parasites and pathogens including Salmonella. 

All the species of turtles found in Nepal are listed under Appendix I or Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna). This means that the trade of native species is strictly prohibited and controlled. This exacerbates the import of exotic turtle species for household pets and market stores. There are many cases of rescue and confiscation of various turtle species by police from poachers and merchants. There may be presence of non-native species and the release of seized turtle species to natural habitats without proper protocols can be a threat to native turtles.

There is a lack of targeted studies and documentation  on the introduced faunal species, their impacts and invasive nature in Nepal. Likewise, there hasn’t been any documentation of red-eared slider turtles being established as invasive species in Nepal. However, they can be seen widely in captivity and occasionally being released into the wild. Being one of the worst invasive species in the world, the potentiality of red-eared slider turtles to become established in Nepalese freshwater ecosystems cannot be denied. Their high reproductive rate, adaptability to various habitats, and potential competition with native species for resources could lead to local extinction and ecological disruptions. When invasive species cause harm, it can be challenging and costly to manage and control. Preventing the introduction and spread of invasive species through careful monitoring and regulations is crucial for protecting native biodiversity and maintaining healthy ecosystems.