Submit your Article

Nepal suffered a 76-run defeat at the hands of West Indies ‘A’ in the third match of five matches held at the TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur on Wednesday.

Chasing the target of 288 runs, Nepal were bowled out for 151 in 19.2 overs, losing all the wickets.

For Nepal, Karan KC scored 28 of 17 balls hitting three fours and one six, Lokesh Bam 28 off 29 balls with one boundary and two sixes in 29 balls, Kushal Malla 20, Binod Bhandari 19 and. Anil Shah, 14. However, other batters failed to score in double digits.

Earlier, West Indies won the toss and decided to bat first and scored 227 runs in allotted 20 overs at the cost of three wickets.

For the team, Johnson Charles hit beyond the century as he recorded 119 off 61 balls with 13 boundaries and seven sixes.  Andre Fletcher scored 53 off 33 balls with four boundaries and three sixes. Fabian Allen made 19, Alick Athanaze 17 and Keemo Paul was not out with 13.

Nepal's Karan KC and Sagar Dhakal took one wicket each. 

In the ongoing T20 series comprising five matches in total, Nepal lost two matches and won one.  

Nepal won the opening match by four wickets while lost the second with 10 runs and third with 76 runs. The fourth match will take place tomorrow, Thursday.

Nepal currently has 20 protected areas (PAs) stretching from the lowland Tarai to high mountains comprising 12 national parks, six conservation areas, one wildlife reserve, one hunting reserve, and 13 buffer zones—the PAs cover about 23.39 percent of the country. Despite covering only 0.1 percent of the global area, Nepal contributes to 3.2 percent and 1.1 percent of the world’s flora and fauna. Undoubtedly, the PAs significantly support floral and faunal biodiversity and cultural and religious heritages within the areas. But is it enough?

A study by the National Proceedings of the Academy of Sciences revealed that many of the world's mammal species are at risk of extinction due to inadequate protection within the existing global network of PAs. Researchers examined nearly 4,000 land-based and non-flying mammal species residing in PAs and discovered that many of them are situated in habitats too small or poorly connected for the animals to flourish. The highest concentration of underprotected species was observed in regions known for their rich biodiversity, such as South, Southeast, and East Asia; Latin America and the Caribbean; Africa; and Oceania. To effectively conserve biodiversity, the suggestion of essential expansion of both the size and quantity of PAs while enhancing their connectivity. The expansion of Bardia National Park (BNP) in the 1980s has contributed significantly to increasing the number of Royal Bengal Tigers to 125 (Tiger Census 2022) in Nepal. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of locating PAs strategically and managing them with a comprehensive understanding of the habitat requirements of the animals. Amidst conflicting land use policies, limited financial resources, and pressures for resource extraction is the expansion of PAs in Nepal possible though?

Even though the establishment of PAs in Nepal seems right from a conservation point of view, it does come with a hefty amount of issues; especially indigenous rights. In the past, local communities had unrestricted access to areas that are now designated as PAs, resulting in their loss of access to resources essential for their livelihoods. As these areas became subject to legal regulations, people found themselves excluded from their traditional use of natural resources. This exclusion has led to increased illegal activities within protected areas, such as poaching and unauthorized logging. Furthermore, local communities often lacked access to compensation for damages caused by wildlife or protected animals.

Due to various movements and negotiations, some indigenous communities have been successful in claiming their rights back from the PAs. Fisherfolks residing on the banks of the Narayani River gained fishing rights in 1999 after years of protest against Chitwan National Park (CNP) whereas poor local women of the Sardar community gained access to harvesting Pater—a thick grass used in making handmade mattresses on a seasonal basis from Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve (KTWLR) are few of the instances. So, does this mean the expansion of the number of PAs is possible as long as the rights are provided?

Although the recent policies and practices of PAs have provided some recognition of indigenous rights and roles, there are still huge gaps in proper policy implementation. Not all indigenous communities are on the receiving end of the fishing licenses; but rather at the mouth of harassment, discrimination, and death especially in the lowlands. The regulation of the CNP eliminates Majhis from the traditional fishing communities, the 1996 Bardia National Park (BNP) Regulation allows Bote, Darai, Kumal, and Tharu communities to obtain fishing licenses for a fee of Rs 100 under the condition of using only fishhooks and in 2018–2019, CNP halted new fishing licenses for the Bote community to protect aquatic life. Regulations in Nepal lack meaningful participation and respect for Indigenous Peoples' rights, including free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC). Government efforts to include marginalized groups often face skepticism, perpetuating a cycle of discrimination and hindering equitable development for Indigenous Peoples, particularly women and girls. Between 1 Jan 2020, and 24 June 2021, CNP documented 22 cases of harassment, abuse, and torture, affecting 139 indigenous men, and 397 indigenous women. Notably, all incidents involving women occurred while gathering vegetables and ghongi, a traditional Tharu dish, within the park. In KTWLR, a woman who had delivered a baby just 13 days earlier was instructed to perform Uth-Bas (sitting down and rising) 100 times upon entering the protected area to gather fodder for her goats.

The present scenario of discrimination, harassment, and even death of indigenous communities in and around PAs demotivates the expansion of PAs. Because it seems as if the PAs in Nepal are just about floral, faunal, and not people. Rather, the efforts to rehabilitate indigenous rights, if not reinstate them completely, should be pursued and new mechanisms of collaboration in terms of policy making should be implemented. In the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), Gurung and Thakali communities collaborate with conservation authorities to manage resources sustainably, preserving biodiversity while promoting community-based tourism initiatives that benefit local livelihoods. Instead of focusing on the expansion of PAs, shifting the focus to indigenous rights within PAs is important as findings suggest that PAs with the active involvement of Indigenous peoples in management and decision-making show better outcomes in conservation and human rights protection.

Currently, we stand at the crossroads of shifting global alliances, new forms of global power competition, polarity among the traditional and emerging power centers, and the rise of multi-polar world order. The Indo-Pacific region is increasingly becoming the hotspot of the global power contest. South Asia, as one of the growing economic centers, with one-fourth of world population, and the unprecedented rise of China and India, has become the epicenter of global power rivalry.

In this broader geopolitical landscape, Nepal, situated between these two major rivals, is dragged into the power contest of its neighbors. Nepal should carefully navigate the interest of foreign powers and should be able to leverage its geo-political position to realize its agenda of prosperity. Although it is a challenging task, it provides us with ample opportunities.

Formulating proactive foreign policy and smart diplomatic dealing is essential to maximize our national interests. We are clear on isolating ourselves from any strategic, security or military alliances, but we welcome development partnerships that do not undermine our national interests. Now coming to the topic of today’s discussion, we see BRI as an opportunity to materialize our developmental goals, but there are specific issues of concern with the BRI.

China is a long-standing bilateral partner, and one of the countries with strong historic trade, commerce and people-to-people ties. We envision deepening ties with China on mutually beneficial terms. Nepal became a part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative in 2017.

The initial motivation for joining BRI was the prospect of trade and connectivity diversification. However, seven years after signing the MoU, there has been no significant progress on BRI. As the chairman of the International Relations and Tourism Committee of the parliament, I advocate partnerships with any countries to realize our investment needs, but the partnership should be transparent and it should not undermine our sovereignty and should be a win-win situation. With the growing pressure for the BRI implementation plan agreement, we should first have a comprehensive discussion on the provisions of the BRI MoU signed in 2017, which is not yet disclosed by both the governments. The MoU should be brought and discussed in the parliament. And then, we can move onward with the discussion on implementation modality of the projects under the BRI. For this there is a need for national consensus and wider discussion on the modality of partnership under BRI. We have a lot to learn from the global experience of the BRI.

We should be clear on the stance of the financial modality to fund the BRI projects. We cannot simply accept the commercial loans with high interest rates from China with shorter payback periods. Our negotiation with China should focus on grants and concessional loans with interest rates at par with other multilateral financial institutions and should not have any strings attached. The selection of projects under the BRI should be based on comprehensive feasibility study and cost benefit analysis. We should refrain from any projects without economic viability.

There are also concerns on procurement process, financial audit of the investments and construction modality of projects. The projects should be open for bidding to all interested companies globally, Nepal should have the right to conduct financial audits of the projects under BRI. Meanwhile, projects should also procure local resources, manpower and should be able to transfer technology to ensure sustainability of the projects. At the same time, we should consider the environmental and social sustainability of the projects. To ensure this, there should be wider consultations with the multiple stakeholders and detailed study to ensure projects are environmentally, socially viable and do not underestimate the rights of local ethnic communities. I am hopeful Nepal could benefit from the partnership under BRI if China is willing to accommodate our concerns and negotiate on mutually favorable terms. I also urge the Nepal government to clarify the current status of negotiation on BRI and developments in the process. 

The author is head of parliament’s international affairs committee

Invasive species are non-native species that spread or expand their range, potentially harming  the aspects of the environment including the ecosystem and human health. They are one of the five major threats to the biodiversity in Nepal. Lantana Camara is one of such invasive species, which needs to be seriously researched and managed to keep the implication of the species to  biodiversity and food security within the manageable threshold.  

The native range of Lantana Camara is tropical America that ranges the countries of central  and South America as well as Mexico and the Caribbean. Today, the shrub has spread over  to nearly sixty countries and naturalized, causing a negative influence on the forest, grassland  and agricultural field and was listed as one of the world’s 100 worst alien species in 2013. They  were initially brought to India by the British around 200 years ago as an ornamental plant at the National Botanical Garden, which then spread and became invasive. From there, the species  spread widely in Asia including Nepal.  

Lantana Camara is one the worst invasive species in Nepal. The species is known as Ban Fanda or Banmara (Ban-Forest; mara-killer) in Nepali. It can withstand a range of climatic conditions  and is frequently observed in many sections of Nepal, with elevations ranging from 100 to 1950 meters in diverse arrays of habitats including boundaries of fields, grasslands, and forests.  

This plant reproduces vegetatively or by seeds, which are readily dispersed by birds, other  animals that eat the fruit, its branches take root after coming into contact with soil, it is fire tolerant and it has a high phenotypic plasticity. They can grow up to six feet, the branches contain small thorns, stems are square and may have tiny prickles, leaves are simple, hairy, and have a  strong unpleasant odor when crushed. The plant produces green berry-like drupe seeds which  after maturity turn to dark purple and are eaten by birds and animals. It`s extensive seed  production favors rat populations. Flowers are multicolored that may be white to pink, yellow  to orange to red, or may change colors over time. 

This invasive species thrives in jungle areas with no natural predators even if there are no herbivores or insects to be attacking them which means that unless this plant is physically  uprooted or cut away there is no way to control it. Its widespread distribution is causing a global  rise in numbers, limiting the growth of native plants. Its capability for rapid reproduction and  allelopathic exclusion of other plant species allows it to develop dense monospecific stands,  which can drastically lower soil fertility, and allelopathic alteration of soil properties which 

decline the agricultural system productivity and have a detrimental effect on the biodiversity  of the invaded areas. 

It has the potential to block succession and cause the displacement of native species. It can  cause striking changes in the structural and floristic composition of natural communities by  interrupting the regeneration processes of other native species thus reducing species richness.  In light of potential global change scenarios, various authors have projected the present and  future distributions of L. camara. 

Uses  

Lantana camara, despite being an invasive species, have some benefits as well. Owing to their  attractive color, they are highly used as ornamental plants. Furthermore, many communities  across the globe use them as a medicine for various diseases including ringworm, headache, aerodontalgia, malaria, fever, rheumatoid arthritis, cuts, wounds, cough, and cold. Lantana  camara is proven to have a range of medicinal properties including antimicrobial, antioxidant,  antipyretic, larvicidal, and antifungal effects. The chemical makeup of the entire L-plant and its potential medical uses have been extensively researched and investigated by scientists and  researchers worldwide during the past few decades. It is also recognized as a plant that yields  essential oils, which are sold in stores under the name ‘lantana oil’.

There have been efforts to engage local communities of Tamil Nadu, India to make the furniture  from the species through a Lantana Project. The program can be replicated in Nepal as well.  Stems of Lantana can be used to make particleboard, dusted wood, toys, artisanal products such  as carrying cages for chickens and other items.  

Control measures 

To control Lantana Camara different stakeholders have implemented diverse control measures  including the public awareness about the adverse effects of invasive species in forest and  physical control through continuous uprooting and cutting until the clear cut out. Mechanized  equipment like tractors or electric saws may be employed in such high-density zones. Promoting conservation and natural regeneration involves early detection of invasive species  like L. camara and immediate removal at the initial stage. This proactive approach aims to  prevent the spread of the species and encourage the growth of native vegetation. The control  efforts are not limited to forested areas alone; they also extend to roadsides and private lands.  

Way forward

The invasion of Lantana camara in Nepal poses significant ecological and economic  challenges, but concerted efforts are underway to mitigate its impact. Through collaborative  initiatives and innovative management strategies, stakeholders are striving to raise public  awareness, prevent further spread, and restore native ecosystems. While the threat of invasive  species remains daunting, there is reason for optimism. The resilience and ingenuity of local  communities, coupled with advancements in research and technology, offer-promising avenues  for addressing this pressing issue. By harnessing the potential of Lantana camara for medicinal  and economic purposes, we can turn a problem into an opportunity, empowering livelihoods  and promoting sustainable practices. As we navigate the complex interplay between human  activities and ecological systems, let us remember that our actions today will shape the world  of tomorrow and let us remain steadfast in our commitment to conservation and embrace a  future where biodiversity thrives and ecosystems flourish. 

The Embassy of the Republic of Korea and Nepal Tourism Board jointly organized an event to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and Nepal on April 28, 2024.

The joint team of Nepal and the Republic of Korea successfully climbed the Jugal Himal in Sindhupalchowk district.

A renowned Korean mountaineer and honorary Nepali citizen Um Hong Gil led the South Korean team and record-setter climber Dawa Yangzum Sherpa led the Nepali team in the expedition from April 5 to April 27, 2024.

The successful expedition of the joint team is a shining example of tourism collaboration between the Republic of Korea and Nepal is .

This historic achievement strengthened our bond of friendship and showcased the beauty of Nepal’s natural landscapes and the spirit of adventure. This journey highlighted the potential for collaboration in the field of tourism to create unforgettable experiences for travelers and promote cross-cultural understanding, reads a statement issued by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea.

Minister Hit Bahadur Tamang attended the Korea- Nepal Friendship Expedition ceremony 2024 in Kathmandu on 28 April 2024.

Minister Tamang exchanged a congratulatory message on the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Republic of Korea.

He also pointed out that over the past 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, both countries have always respected and trusted each other, setting a good example of friendly coexistence and mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields have yielded fruitful results.

Park Tae-Young, ambassador of the Republic of Korea in Nepal, emphasized the 50-year journey as a tale of shared values and mutual respect, contributing to personal and economic development. “I have shared that the Korean government has designated Nepal as a priority cooperation country for 15 consecutive years in development cooperation focusing on vocational education, health, agriculture and ICT.”

The program was attended by the Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, lawmakers, diplomats, high level officials from Ministry of Foreign Affairs, media persons, businessmen from tourism sectors and all expedition team members.

Nepal lost to West Indies 'A' by 10 runs in their second match of the T20 series on Sunday.

Earlier on Saturday, Nepal had defeated West Indies ‘A’ by four wickets in the opening match.

A total of five matches are to be played in the series.

In the second match held at Kirtipur-based Tribhuvan University (TU) Cricket Ground today, Nepal, who were chasing the target of 161 runs, were restricted to 150 at the loss of nine wickets in the allotted 20 0vers.

Nepal's Captain Rohit Kumar Poudel scored unbeaten 71 runs while other batsmen except Gulsan Jha (26) and Lokesh Bam (17) could perform strongly.

In the victory of West Indies 'A', Obed McCoy and Gudakesh Motie took two wickets each while Roston Chase and Oshane Thomas took one wicket each.

Choosing to bat first by winning the toss, the West Indies scored 160 at the loss of seven wickets in 20 overs.  Andre Fletcher was the top scorer with 43 off 36 balls including three sixes while Gudakesh Motie contributed 33 and Roston Chase 23.

Similarly, Kushal Bhurtel and Sagar Dhakal for Nepal took two wickets while Sompal Kami and Dipendra Singh Airee took one wicket each.

The third match in the tournament will take place on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said Nepal is a suitable destination for investment, calling upon the investors from across the globe to seize the opportunity and be benefitted from this.

The Prime Minister said this while inaugurating the Nepal Investment Summit 2024 here today.

On the occasion, the PM asserted that there are immense opportunities for investment in Nepal and it is a potential country for investment from legal, geographical and strategic perspective as well.

Stating that Nepal is fully committed to a liberal economic policy, he reassured that an investment-friendly environment has been created in the country.

The Prime Minister said Nepal is continuously moving ahead towards creating a friendly environment for the investors, industrialists, entrepreneurs and innovators. In this connection, he added, eight various laws related to business and investment have been reformed.

President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Chandra Prasad Dhakal has urged investors from around the world to seize the opportunity and invest in Nepal's burgeoning economy.

Addressing the Third Nepal Investment Summit 2024, he emphasized the country's colossal untapped sectors and its potential as an investment destination.

Dhakal highlighted Nepal's strategic location between the economic powerhouses of China and India, underscoring its significance as a gateway to vast markets.

He emphasized the abundant opportunities across various sectors, including tourism, infrastructure, energy, agriculture, technology, and ICT.

The FNCCI President particularly spotlighted the immense potential in renewable energy, citing recent agreements for power trade with India and Bangladesh as indicators of Nepal's capability in hydropower generation and regional trade.

He also underscored the need for modern infrastructure in tourism, agriculture, and technology sectors to harness Nepal's rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and young, dynamic workforce.

Moreover, Dhakal emphasized the importance of investing in technical education to bridge the gap between demand and supply of skilled human resources, thereby boosting both domestic employment and remittance inflows.

He commended the government's efforts in implementing business-friendly policies and initiatives to facilitate foreign investment, including recent amendments and bilateral investment agreements.

Highlighting FNCCI's role in boosting investor confidence through international business summits in New Delhi, Beijing, and Dubai, Dhakal assured continuous support and commitment from the Nepali private sector for joint ventures in all potential sectors.

He shared his belief in Nepal's emerging growth story and encouraged forging partnerships to chart a path towards sustainable development and prosperity.

India, the world's largest democracy, is busy holding the 18th Lok Sabha elections which will conclude on June 1. The global community is closely watching the outcomes of these elections. With its burgeoning population having surpassed China's, India is on track to claim the mantle of the world's third-largest economy by 2030. As a key player in the Indo-Pacific region and a torchbearer for the Global South, India's policies, both domestic and foreign, resonate far beyond its borders.

The significance of India's elections reverberates throughout the region. While there are widespread projections that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will win a third consecutive term, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi continuing in office, opposition parties are expected to strengthen their position compared to the 2019 elections.

The election outcomes in India are of particular significance for South Asian nations including Nepal, where India wields deep political, economic and military influence. In 2014, upon assuming power with a resounding victory, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reinvigorated the 'Neighborhood First' policy, although he failed to achieve the expected outcomes. 

To demonstrate the BJP government's priority for neighbors, he invited the heads of state and government from South Asian countries to attend his swearing-in ceremony. When re-elected in 2019, Modi continued the 'Neighborhood First' policy by inviting BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Pectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) member countries to his swearing-in ceremony. If re-elected for a third term, the BJP government is likely to maintain the 'Neighborhood First' policy, although India has been focusing more on regions beyond South Asia in recent years. 

Despite occasional highs and lows, the trajectory of Nepal-India relations points toward a positive outlook, poised to weather the complexities of shared history and future aspirations.

Over the past decade, under Modi's leadership, Nepal-India relations have witnessed many highs and lows. However, the relationship is moving in a positive direction, which should continue even after the elections.

Crucial issues such as the 1950 Peace and Friendship Treaty and boundary disputes remain on the diplomatic agenda, albeit the two countries approach them with varying degrees of emphasis. Nevertheless, the two neighbors recognize the imperative of fostering trust and stability to navigate these challenges successfully. A notable shift in India's approach to the internal affairs of its neighbors signals a promising era of cooperation built on mutual respect and understanding.

The BJP government has changed its approach on how to view the internal political affairs of South Asian countries which has helped to build an environment trust.

One encouraging signal is that economic collaboration has emerged as a cornerstone of bilateral relations, with a growing focus on development partnerships and infrastructure projects. Despite changes in political leadership, the momentum in bilateral engagements remains steady, underpinning a commitment to sustained progress and prosperity.

Over the past three decades, India has faced charges of not completing development projects for extended periods. However, several bilateral projects are now making progress, ultimately helping to build an environment of trust. Recent visits by Nepali leaders to New Delhi and Indian leaders to Kathmandu have focused on enhancing economic and development partnerships. The energy cooperation agreement between Nepal and India has paved the way for regional energy cooperation, with Nepal positioned as a clean energy provider to the region. 

As India's economy continues to rise and rise, and major multinational companies shift their industries to India, Nepal, which shares an open border, should get the opportunities. India could become a destination not only for unskilled Nepali workforce but also for highly skilled professionals in sectors such as education, health, IT, banking, and others, which have not received much discussion. Both Nepal and India should seriously consider these issues and clearly outline their plans to derive economic benefits from India's rising economy. These matters should be taken seriously regardless of which party comes to power.

Amid robust economic collaboration between two countries, over the past few years, Nepal is witnessing a debate about the growing ideological influence of BJP in Nepal. In recent years, there has been a perception among Nepali leaders and the public that the BJP and its affiliates are pushing for a Hindu agenda in Nepal. It is often said that they are suggesting (sometimes pressuring) Nepali leaders to scrap secularism and go for the Hindu state. There are also reports that various organizations linked with the BJP are active in Nepal with their Hindu agenda. 

While Nepal's top leaders are aware of those issues, they have not spoken publicly. However, they want to discuss those issues with Indian leaders. BJP leaders should be mindful that such efforts could again strain the bilateral relationship, which has reached a new level after sustained efforts from both sides. It would be worthwhile to recall India's approach to the demands of Madhes-based parties, mainly after 2017, which helped enhance the bilateral relations.

Many Nepali politicians and analysts view the growing activities of Hindu organizations as an attempt to overturn the 2015 constitution. This suspicion among Nepali politicians obviously does not help enhance the bilateral relationship. There should be frank and open discussions between the two sides, not only on these issues but also on other issues of mutual concern. 

India's relationship with global powers also affects its South Asia policy. The India-US strategic partnership is likely to be enhanced, but there are divergent views on several bilateral and global issues, including the Russia-Ukraine war. The India-China relationship is unlikely to improve for at least the next few years. As I have highlighted in my previous columns, Nepal's approach should be not to engage in the big-power rivalry but to focus on economic development.

The future of Nepal-India relations hinges not on fleeting political interests but on a shared commitment to long-term prosperity and mutual respect. By prioritizing economic and developmental collaboration, both nations can chart a course toward a brighter, more interconnected future.

In 2023, Nepal experienced its second-warmest year on record. Previously, the hottest year on record for Nepal was 1981. The average maximum temperature for 2023 was 27.9 degrees Celsius, an increase of 0.6 degrees Celsius from the previous normal annual maximum temperature.

Global trends indicate that worldwide temperatures have surpassed the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold across an entire year for the first time, with March 2024 breaking new temperature records. 

Nepal is not exempt from this trend. Several meteorological stations recorded unprecedented high temperatures, reflecting the severity of the heat waves experienced in 2023.

Experts suggest that 2024 could become the hottest year on record, with heat waves already occurring early in the year. 

Weather expert Ngamindra Dahal notes that the record could be broken because intense heat waves have already started. “If a place experiences a temperature of 40 degrees Celsius for an hour, it’s manageable, but the concern arises when such high temperatures persist throughout the day,” he explains.

March 2024 was the warmest March ever recorded globally. It was also the 10th month in a row that was the hottest on record, itself an ongoing record-breaking streak.

The primary cause of the exceptional heat was human-caused greenhouse gas emissions. Other factors pushing up temperatures include El Niño, the natural climate pattern that warms the surface waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean.

The European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) said that March averaged 14.14 degrees Celsius, exceeding the previous record from 2016 by a 10th of a degree. The month was also 1.68 degrees Celsius hotter than an average March between the years 1850-1900, the reference period for the pre-industrial era.

The Ministry of Health and Population has urged the public to take preventive measures against the heat wave. The effects of heat waves include fast heartbeat, breathing complications, low blood pressure level, sweating, severe headache, and dizziness. 

Nepal and Qatar have reached to an agreement and understanding to collaborate in the art and culture, education, communication, youth and sports, legal assistance, and the industry and commerce sectors.

These agreements and MoUs were signed today on the occasion of the state visit of Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, said Amrit Bahadur Rai, spokesperson at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The two countries signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on collaboration in the area of art and culture, exchange of news between the official news agencies of Nepal and Qatar, and exchange of cooperation in the education sector.

The agreements and MoUs were signed in the presence of the Qatari Emir and Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal following bilateral talks between them at the Soaltee Hotel today.

The Agreement signed today is on Cooperation and Exchange of News between National News Agency, Nepal (RSS) and Qatar News Agency (QNA).

The MoUs signed include: the Memorandum of Understanding  for cooperation in the fields of culture and arts between the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation of Nepal and the Ministry of Culture of the State of Qatar; the Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation in the field of education, higher education and scientific research between the Government of Nepal and the Government of  the State of Qatar; the Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of youth and sports between the Government of Nepal and the Government of the State of Qatar; the Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation between the Office of the Attorney General of Nepal and the Public Prosecution of the State of Qatar and the Memorandum of Understanding  on cooperation in the field of diplomatic training and education between the Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) of the Government of Nepal and The Diplomatic Institute of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has stressed the need to remain alert with the new challenges emerging in the health sector.

In his address to the first convocation ceremony of the Patan Academy of Health Sciences today, PM Dahal instructed the agencies concerned to pay special attention to resolve the problems seen in the health sector.

"The Academy should develop more infrastructure to overcome and manage any challenges that may arise in the health sector", he said, laying special emphasis on making the hospital services more quality and effective.

On the occasion, the Prime Minister underlined the need to produce skilled and socially responsible doctors for quality health care in rural areas, according to the PM's personal secretariat.

Underscoring the need to expand access to health services to the rural areas, PM Dahal cited COVID-19 pandemic situation to note the general public of Nepal can get universal health care services only if the public health institutions are effective and efficient.

The government has placed high priority on developing the capacity of all public hospitals, the PM said, instructing the Academy to take further initiative to provide specialized health services, including access to health services to all, quality of service as well as identifying social, cultural and environmental factors affecting public health in the community.

PM Dahal also took the opportunity to appreciate the Academy's recent initiatives of launching health insurance and community-based service delivery in collaboration with local governments.

The Prime Minister highlighted the urgency for establishing an integrated institute of health sciences and removal of duplication in medical education and health services for the management, operation and regulation of all medical and health sciences related institutions in the country.

"Attention should be paid to enhancing capacity of all health institutions to provide basic and quality health services to all citizens", he said, informing the government was making necessary ground works towards developing Nepal as a hub of medical education. 

Following the recent general elections, minor political parties entered the arena with the aim of securing a role in governance, capitalizing on the current electoral framework where no single party can secure a parliamentary majority. Despite initial anticipation of an ideological shift when the Maoist party engaged in the peace process and formed an alliance with the CPN-UML, the coalition fell short of such expectations. Nepali politics is viewed by analysts as being at a critical juncture due to governmental instability, rampant corruption and policy dilemmas. While Nepali people hoped for a lean and efficient administration under democracy, political entities in Nepal failed to deliver on this promise. Instead, the existing governmental structure appeared more bureaucratic and financially burdensome to Nepali taxpayers. Nepal witnessed one of its weakest coalition governments in recent memory, with governing partnerships shifting thrice within a year, reminiscent of past ruthless practices and corrupt leadership.

Even purportedly new political entities became entangled, directly or indirectly, in this murky landscape. Nepali people must understand that a new political party does not inherently equate to moral or ethical integrity. Without ethical leadership, genuine renewal cannot occur. The proliferation of new political parties poses a challenge to Nepal’s democracy and the establishment of a stable governance framework. Hence, analysts must scrutinize emerging trends, including the involvement of Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) in Nepal’s current government.

Analysts assert that RSP emerged from popular sentiments and crowd-driven notions rather than a coherent political ideology. When a political entity originates from populism, it may lack a clear political agenda, principles and policies. Parties’ lack of principles can undermine democracy, as voters may struggle to access accurate information to make informed choices. Furthermore, in the absence of political principles, a party risks becoming the personal domain of its leader, sidelining the interests and agendas of others. Populist ideas have the potential to conceal decision-making processes and mislead the public. Without a solid political ideology, populist agendas may clash with the nation's established plans and policies, resulting in misguided policy decisions. Populist leaders often adhere strictly to their scripted agendas, sidelining other parties from meaningful discussions.

Under CPN (Maoist Center) Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal-led ruling alliance, RSP has emerged as a significant political force, bearing substantial responsibility and accountability to the Nepali people. However, numerous uncertainties linger regarding the RSP and its leadership. Establishing a political party necessitates several key components: a clear political ideology, organizational structure, committed party members and integrity. Regrettably, RSP lacks all four elements. A robust political ideology serves as the cornerstone of a democratic political party, providing the framework for policy formulation. The absence of such an ideology and principles has downgraded RSP to a populist entity born from popular sentiment rather than sound political doctrine. In a democracy, people reserve the right to inspect their political leaders, and governments and political parties must remain answerable to the people. However, RSP has been quick to silence dissent and avoid pertinent inquiries, raising concerns about its commitment to transparency and accountability.

RSP lacks a robust political infrastructure, functioning more as a non-profit organization where social activists deflect blame onto others without assuming responsibility themselves. Examination of their core leadership reveals a predominance of individuals from elite backgrounds or higher economic layers, primarily residing in urban centers. RSP primarily focuses its activities on urban politics, capitalizing on the ability to amass crowds. The party’s president, Rabi Lamichhane, signals from a media background, using his platform to criticize the government and spread misinformation rather than addressing genuine issues. Lamichhane has adopted a quasi-superhero persona, presenting himself as capable of resolving all challenges through seemingly magical means. Despite his involvement in numerous controversies and disputes within Nepali media and politics, no conclusive resolution has been reached under legal frameworks. Major political parties have exploited Lamichhane for their gains, not bothering to address controversies surrounding him.

Nepal’s major political parties have diligently instructed their members on political ideology and beliefs, yet RSP has faltered in establishing a coherent political ideology and grassroots organization. Instead, RSP relies on amassing followers from the masses without implementing any effective control mechanism. It’s common knowledge that unguided crowds can turn toward chaos and pose a threat to democracy by disregarding laws and regulations. Therefore, RSP must evolve into a responsible democratic political entity, addressing unanswered questions and being accountable to the public. The rise of populism and crowd-driven politics worldwide over the past decade, exemplified by movements like the Mega Republicans in America and radical Hindu nationalists in India, poses a significant risk to democratic institutions and norms. Any embrace of nationalist radicalism could jeopardize Nepal’s overall development and its democratic foundation.

Integrity stands as a crucial pillar for the advancement of democracy. Unfortunately, all political parties in Nepal have fallen short of maintaining integrity to some extent, leading to results of large-scale corruption and conflicts of interest. Despite positioning itself as a viable political alternative, RSP cannot afford to emulate the shortcomings of established parties. Instead, it must exemplify honesty, moral integrity and ethical standards. Regrettably, RSP’s president, Lamichhane, has repeatedly failed to demonstrate honesty and ethical conduct, particularly in relation to an illegal passport case and a cooperative fraud. Moreover, his selection of ministries directly linked to these controversies highlights a clear conflict of interest, further underscoring his lack of integrity. Various incidents involving RSP leaders in controversial situations have been concealed by the party, weakening trust among the people and worsening damage to Nepal’s democratic fabric. When those claiming to offer an alternative view regard themselves as above scrutiny and disregard pertinent questions, public trust is undermined, leading to further harm to Nepal’s democracy.

The prevailing challenges to democracy around the world encompass populism, crowd-centric politics and leaders who undermine established institutions while advocating against traditional governance. Populist figures prioritize personal interests and political gains, deflecting blame onto others for every issue. In the Nepali context, most populist leaders prioritize attaining power rather than fostering long-term economic agendas and developmental strategies. The surge of crowd-centric politics stems from the failures of conventional political parties, which have either failed to address or neglected the people’s priorities. Regardless of the underlying reasons, populism presents a significant danger to democracy and governance, underscoring the importance of responsible political entities and leadership dedicated to nurturing liberal democratic values and fostering trust within society. Crowd-centric organizations can’t serve as a sustainable solution for Nepal’s long-term development. Instead, there is an urgent need to establish a streamlined government alongside an effective electoral system.

The opinions expressed in this article are the author's sole responsibility and do not reflect the views of any organization with which the author is professionally affiliated

The government has decided to endorse various memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to be signed between the Government of Nepal and the Government of Qatar.

The MoUs are going to be signed during the two-day state visit of the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, 

At the invitation of President Ram  Chandra Paudel, the Emir of Qatar, Al Thani, is visiting Nepal on April 23 and 24. Accordingly, the council of ministers meeting today decided to give a public holiday on April 23.

According to Minister for Communications and Information Technology Rekha Sharma, the Cabinet also decided to approve the state visit program of the Emir of Qatar and for the Prime Minister to lead the talks with the Qatari side.

The memorandum of understanding is being signed on cooperation between Nepal and Qatar in the field of youth and sports, and in the field of education and scientific research.

Government Spokesperson Sharma informed that the Cabinet meeting decided to accept 9.91 million Swiss francs from the Swiss government for the implementation of the trekking-based tourism development project in Koshi Province and 9.8 million US dollars from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) for Pokhara Metropolitan City.

Similarly, the meeting approved the preliminary agenda of the 12th meeting of the Nepal-China Tibet Trade Facilitation Committee to be held in Kathmandu on April 27 and 28 and decided to form a talks team under the coordination of the joint secretary of Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies to participate in the meeting.

Sharing the decisions of the April 18 Cabinet meeting, Government Spokesperson Sharma said that the government decided that the Central Post Office, Postal Directorate and District Post Offices will operate on public holidays as well. Likewise, Assistant Auditor General Baikuntha Bahadur Adhikari has been promoted to the post of Deputy Auditor General and Murari Prasad Kharel has been appointed as the Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission.

In my previous column, I discussed how chronic political instability is affecting the conduct of our foreign policy. Here, I delve into how foreign powers, big and small alike, influence Nepal’s foreign policy. We often criticize our politicians for their lack of maturity and consistency. In most foreign policy discourses, I often hear this question: Who will believe us (read our politicians)? It is a reality that our politicians are neither serious nor have they realized their weaknesses. But it would be unjust to solely blame our politicians without considering other aspects like how foreign powers are behaving with us. Nepal’s key priorities are economic prosperity and social development. For a long time, we have been mobilizing our foreign policy to achieve these goals.

From Prithivi Narayan Shah to the current set of leaders, all have realized that Nepal is situated between India and China, understanding the difficulties of being caught between two global powerhouses. For a long time, our Rana rulers tried to live in isolation out of fear that opening up could threaten their regime. Nevertheless, they still endeavored to serve both their personal interests and national interests. After the 1950s, Nepal began diversifying its economic, security, development and trade policies or looking beyond its immediate neighbors. Let’s consider the current situation. We are conducting our foreign policy in accordance with the 2015 constitution.

Article 51 of the constitution states: “Safeguarding the freedom, sovereignty, territorial integrity, nationality, independence, and dignity of Nepal, the rights of the Nepalis, border security, economic well-being, and prosperity shall be the basic elements of the national interests of Nepal.” Nepal places economic diplomacy at the forefront of its engagement with the wider international community. We need money and technology to accelerate social development and economic prosperity. Lately, we have been vocal about our reluctance to take on significant loans, preferring grants for infrastructure development. Our stated position is that we will not align with any strategic or military blocs.

Nepal takes a neutral position in regional and international conflicts, consistently advocating for their resolution through peaceful means, with some exceptions resulting from adventurous policies of our politicians. Nepal believes in non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, non-aggression, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. For instance, Nepal opposed the Russian attack on Ukraine while maintaining a neutral stance on other issues. Many argue that this stance contradicts Nepal’s non-alignment policy, but it aligns with our stated policy. If one sovereign country attacks another, Nepal cannot remain neutral and opposes such actions but avoids taking sides.

Our message is clear: we do not wish to be embroiled in big power rivalries, and we urge major powers not to involve us in their geopolitical games. Currently, amid the Middle East crisis, we maintain the same policy. If not a zone of peace, we aspire to become a zone of investment. We have a straightforward message for major powers: we understand and protect your security and other legitimate concerns, but only a prosperous and strong Nepal can effectively address those issues, so invest in our country. Of course, challenges such as corruption and bureaucratic red tape exist, but the investment climate in Nepal is comparatively favorable, and we have big markets like India and China in close proximity. Despite getting huge support from major countries in Nepal’s social and economic development, the country is starting to feel the heat of geopolitical tensions. As these tensions escalate, there is a fear among our politicians that major powers may pull Nepal into their orbit through economic assistance. As major powers roll out strategic initiatives one after another, there are concerns that Nepal may become ensnared in a geopolitical ambush. Not only politicians, but senior bureaucrats also find themselves in awkward positions as they consolidate all bilateral issues under one strategic basket. And, there is a lack of understanding among politicians and bureaucrats about these issues, and there have been no efforts to educate them.

By closely monitoring negotiations between our leaders and major powers, we can see that our leaders are facing pressure. Whenever they engage in talks with their counterparts, they struggle to avoid committing to strategic projects outright. Since they cannot outright reject them out of fear for their regime’s stability, they attempt to reassure that Nepal could consider such initiatives after thorough study and consensus at home. Due to such apprehensions, our politicians are even hesitant to accept pure development projects without strings attached. Similarly, diplomats in Kathmandu bypass the due process in dealing with Nepal. Instead of going through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, foreign countries tend to approach political leaders and certain ministries directly seeking their consent. For example, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs may be unaware of a host of initiatives proposed by major powers. If there is institutional memory, foreign countries cannot complain about policy inconsistency or lack of ownership across governments. If all proposals go through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which remains unaffected by changes in government, it ensures policy continuity to some extent.

Our stance remains that, due to our geopolitical location and other factors, we cannot align with major powers. Whether termed neutral, non-aligned or otherwise, our bottom line is clear: we seek engagement solely on economic terms. If major powers engage with Nepal in this manner, frequent changes in government may not pose significant difficulties. Therefore, support and invest in Nepal, so that we can safeguard the security and other legitimate interests of our friends. If major powers attempt to turn Nepal into a battleground for their conflicts, it will be detrimental not only to the Nepali people but also to the major powers. We understand that our neighboring countries, both near and distant, desire to see a stable and prosperous Nepal, as it serves their interests. My request to all: we aspire to grow with you as a sovereign and peaceful country. As I mentioned in my previous opinion piece, major countries should not favor one party over another or play them against each other. Instead, they should adopt a Nepal-centric policy with the economy at the forefront. Moreover, major parties should collaborate to formulate a common position on the issues mentioned above. We want to declare Nepal as a Zone of Investment.

The third Round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) between Nepal and Bangladesh was held in Kathmandu on Wednesday. Foreign Secretary Sewa Lamsal led the Nepali delegation while Foreign Secretary (Senior Secretary) Masud Bin Momen led the Bangladeshi delegation.   

The two sides discussed regional issues of mutual interest, underscoring the need to revitalize SAARC and strengthen BIMSTEC for the promotion of regional cooperation. They agreed to cooperate at various multilateral forums, especially at the UN, for pursuing common interests, especially in the areas of LDC graduation, poverty alleviation, climate change, and safety and security of migrant workers.

They discussed all major issues of mutual interest and agreed to promote cooperation encompassing all sectors, especially trade and commerce, transit and connectivity, power and energy, tourism, culture and education, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a press release.

Both foreign secretaries emphasized the operationalization of the BBIN MVA framework to contribute to the individual country’s economy not only by expanding trade and connectivity, but also by creating more opportunities to promote people-to-people contacts.

Foreign Secretary Lamsal highlighted the need to tap full potential in economic, cultural and educational sectors through a meaningful collaborative partnership between the two neighbors by involving their private sectors. 

Nepal would like to enhance trade and investment cooperation with Bangladesh, Lamsal said and asked Bangladesh to explore investment opportunities in Nepal, including in the hydropower sector. Furthermore, she requested the Government of Bangladesh to eliminate the Other Duties and Charges (ODCs) levied on Nepali products being exported to Bangladesh. Lamsal also emphasized the exchange of visits at different levels.

Foreign Secretary Momen stressed the need for an early conclusion of a power agreement between Bangladesh, India and Nepal to enable his country to import power from Nepal. He thanked the Government of Nepal for allocating land for the construction of a monastery in Lumbini, expressing hope that it would turn out to be a milestone in bilateral relations.