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Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Devendra Dahal has urged South Korean investors to invest in Nepal's rail service development and expansion with full confidence.

At a meeting with the representatives of South Korea Railroad Corporation (KORAIL) on Tuesday, Minister Dahal asked the South Korean delegation for their investment in Nepal's rail service adding that development of railway was also a key priority of the Nepal government.

Dahal asked the South Korean team to carry out study and research to expand rail service considering the religious, cultural and tourist destinations in Nepal. 

He argued that Nepal was creating an investment climate for rail service expansion and stated that the modalities for investment could be discussed too. 

Ministry's Secretary Keshab Kumar Sharma said that e-rail expansion could be useful in Nepal given immense potential for hydropower production. 

Likewise, CEO of Investment Board Sushil Gyawali said a task force comprising experts from both countries would be formed within some days and different modalities for the development and expansion of railway would be studied.

CEO of Korea Railroad Corporation (KORAIL) Han Moon Hee shared about his company's 126-year-long history and experiences in railway development and expressed readiness to execute assignments for the same in Nepal too. 

Nepal is stuck in a dangerous cycle. Corruption is increasing, and the gap between the rich and the poor is getting wider every day. Many people have lost trust in the government because they feel ignored, cheated and left behind. Even though Nepal has become a democracy and given more power to local governments, real control still lies with a small group of wealthy and powerful people. Most citizens, especially the poor and those living in rural areas, continue to struggle just to survive.

Corruption is present at every level—national, provincial, and local. Money meant for important services like schools, hospitals and roads often disappears due to theft, misuse or waste. Politicians and officials make big promises, but many development projects are only started to make money for themselves and their friends. Budgets are often made larger than needed, so that extra money can be secretly siphoned off. Contracts for construction are not always given to the most qualified companies, but to those with political connections. This leads to weak, unsafe buildings or projects that are never finished.

Even when work begins, a large amount of money is lost before it reaches the people. It is believed that only about 35 percent of the capital budget is used properly. Corrupt politicians, dishonest contractors and some government employees devour the rest. Because of this, roads break apart within months, schools lack basic furniture and qualified teachers, and hospitals do not have enough doctors, medicine or even potable water.

This situation hurts poor people the most. Many laborers working on these projects are paid very low wages—and sometimes, they are not paid at all. Their problems are ignored, and they have no real way to raise their demands or seek justice. Meanwhile, rich people keep gaining more power by using their money to influence politics and business. This unfair system keeps poor people stuck in poverty and gives the rich even more control over the country’s future.

Another big problem is how government jobs are given. Instead of hiring people based on education, skills or experience, jobs often go to relatives, friends or political supporters. This means that many important offices are run by people who are not qualified for the jobs at hand. As a result, government services become slow, unfair and ineffective. Honest and capable people are often pushed aside, which creates frustration among the youth. Many young people lose hope in the system and choose to leave the country to find better opportunities abroad. This “brain drain” is a big loss for Nepal, as it loses skilled and educated workers, who could have helped develop the country.

Even the institutions that are supposed to fight corruption are failing. Organizations like the anti-corruption commission and other watchdogs are often under the grip of powerful leaders. They are not truly independent, and they rarely investigate or punish those in high positions. When corrupt leaders go unpunished, it sends a message that stealing public money is acceptable. This creates a culture where corruption becomes normal and expected.

The seriousness of this problem can be seen in the numbers. According to OXFAM, Nepal’s Gini coefficient—which measures income inequality—rose from 0.49 in 2010-11 to 0.58 in 2019. This shows that the gap between the rich and the poor is growing quickly. Another number, the Palma Ratio, shows that the top 10 percent of the population earns three times more income than the bottom 40 percent. This level of inequality is dangerous for any country.

Inequality is not just about income. It also affects access to good education, healthcare, housing, justice and job opportunities. Poor families cannot afford to send their children to private schools or pay for treatment at private hospitals. The legal system is slow and expensive, and poor people often cannot afford lawyers or do not have the connections needed to get justice. Over time, this creates anger, hopelessness and frustration, especially among young people, who feel their future has been stolen.

When people believe that the system is unfair and corrupt, they stop trusting democracy. They stop voting, stop getting involved and stop believing that change is possible. This weakens society as a whole.

Corruption also hurts Nepal’s economy. Investors, both local and foreign, are unwilling to put their money into a country where bribes are expected and laws are not enforced. Small businesses—which create most of the jobs—cannot survive if they are constantly blocked through unfair rules, heavy taxes or competition from companies that enjoy political protection. As a result, unemployment increases, and more and more young people leave the country to find work abroad.

If this situation continues, Nepal is most likely to face serious problems in the future. Poverty may rise, social unrest could grow and public services may collapse. Protests and instability could become more common, and more people could lose hope in the idea of a better future.

Solving this problem is not easy. Passing new laws alone is not enough. Real change needs to happen in how the system works and how leaders think. Government offices must be honest and open about how they spend money. Public jobs should be given to people based on their skills, not their political connections. More importantly, citizens need to be able to ask questions, demand answers and take part in decision-making.

The media, civil society and youth movements can play an important role in the fight against corruption. Educating young people about honesty, fairness and responsibility can help build a new generation that refuses to accept corruption as normal. Technology can also help by making government systems digital and easy to track, so that money is not stolen as easily.

In conclusion, corruption in Nepal is not just one problem. It is the root cause of many other problems, including poverty, poor public services, slow development and a weak democracy. If we don’t take it seriously, the rich will keep getting richer, the poor will suffer more and Nepal will fall even further behind. The country needs honest leaders, strong institutions and active citizens who work together to build a fairer and more hopeful future.

An international conference on snow leopard conservation, convened in Nepal recently, brought together experts, academicians, researchers, and policymakers from the 12 snow leopard range countries to strengthen scientific collaboration and conservation efforts. The conference focused on cross-border coordination and knowledge exchange to ensure the long-term survival of the snow leopard.

Current population estimation by Global Snow Leopard & Ecosystem Protection Program (GSLEP) shows there are 4,000 to 6,500 snow leopards globally. China has the highest number of snow leopard population with an estimate of 2,000-2,500. There are between 100–200 individuals in Afghanistan and Bhutan, 718 in India, 100–110 in Kazakhstan, 150–500 in Kyrgyzstan, 127 in Mongolia, 200–420 in Pakistan, 70–90 in Russia, 180–220 in Tajikistan and 20–50 in Uzbekistan. The species is currently listed as ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List category.

However, habitat fragmentation, climate change, human-wildlife conflict, illegal trade and linear infrastructure development have emerged as growing threats to the survival of these species in the range countries. During the three-day conference—jointly organized by Peking University, National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), Tencent Foundation and the Shan Shui Conservation Center—participants shared national efforts, scientific findings and regional challenges. The conference concluded with the adoption of the six-points ‘Kathmandu resolution on collaboration for snow leopard conservation’ that focuses on community-based conservation, transboundary cooperation, climate change mitigation, conflict resolution, feral dog threats, disease control and technology transfer.

GSLEP has aimed to secure at least 24 snow leopard landscapes across its range. The Snow leopard landscape is defined as an area with at least 100 breeding age snow leopards supported by connectivity and adequate prey populations. Nepal has three out of the 24 snow leopard landscapes- Eastern, Central and the Western landscape.

There are many actions that can be taken in snow leopard conservation on a regional scale. By strengthening trans boundary collaboration and habitat connectivity can secure the snow leopard habitat. It will also help to know the behavior and moment status of this range species. Sharing the data and creating a common data sharing platform will help to know more about this species in the high mountain. During the conference, participants urged to develop a policy recommendation for wildlife friendly border management practices and trans boundary peace parks. If the range countries’ governments agree on it, this will be a giant leap not only in snow leopard conservation with the whole wildlife species.

Engaging local people in conservation can help to secure the wildlife habitat. For example, Other effective area based conservation measures (OECMs) declaration can be a way to engage the local people in conservation thereby engaging locals in wildlife monitoring, citizen scientists methods, partnership and regular patrolling activities. Creating OECMs can be a new practice. As we are in the brink of a climate crisis, vulnerability assessment is a key indicator to know the habitat status so that resilient habitat can be protected. One of the best measures is to promote the use of technologies. Technology advancement and data sharing will help to manage the population and ecosystem habitats.  Creating a foraging habitat for prey species and rangeland management can increase the prey species’ ungulates population which can help to reduce the livestock predation.

As discussed in the snow leopard conference, we need to address the issue of habitat fragmentation due to climate change, illegal trade, human-wildlife conflict, and infrastructure development. Cross-border cooperation is also another factor to be addressed as many snow leopard habitats span national boundaries.

Nepal's recent snow leopard survey has estimated 397 snow leopards which is about 10 percent of the global population. The survey is based on using the camera trapping, genetic analysis, spatial monitoring, use of citizen scientists and other advanced technologies and modelling. The population density is estimated at 1.56 individuals per 100 sq. km.

However there are still challenges as 42 percent of snow leopard habitats lie outside of protected areas where habitat fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching. Around 60 percent of Nepal’s snow leopard population is found in the western region. However, due to climate change and habitat degradation, approximately 40 percent of its habitat has been lost. To address these issues, Nepal has made a six year Snow Leopard Conservation Action Plan 2024–2030 to strengthen conservation efforts and ensure long-term survival. The action plan envisions a budget of $14.24m but securing the fund is challenging in the present context.

Lastly, Snow leopards do not have their borders and their habitat should be protected beyond the political habitat to ensure their survival. Science must remain neutral and collaborative in the midst of political tensions between the range countries these days. Conservation is a result of long-term commitment so, saving the snow leopard is not only about conservation, it is about saving the souls of the Himalaya and High Mountain.

Tilak Bahadur Rana Magar of Udayapur, who spent 30 years carrying heavy loads for a living, is now busy cultivating cardamom. Poverty forced him into labor work from the age of 15, but with the expansion of road networks and the arrival of tractors and mules in villages, his profession became obsolete. As traditional load-carrying work disappeared, Tilak Bahadur transitioned to cardamom farming.

He began by converting around 15 ropanis of land—once overgrown with wild plants like banmara and titepati, where not even maize or millet could grow—into a cardamom farm. With no other source of income, he turned to this crop after learning about it from television programs and friends. Today, Magar is a leading cardamom farmer in his area, and his economic transformation stands as a testament to the power of hard work and persistence. He proudly says that he no longer needs to go abroad to fund his children’s education.

Magar is just one example. Across eastern Nepal, many farmers are now cultivating cardamom as their main crop, turning it into a reliable source of income. What began as a means to cover household expenses has evolved into large-scale commercial farming for many.

The Cardamom Development Center, located in Pandam, Suryodaya Municipality-9 of Ilam district, has played a key role in this transformation. Established on 31 Oct 1976, on 345 ropanis of land, the center began the Cardamom Research and Development Program. In 1982, the districts of Ilam, Panchthar, and Terhathum were officially declared Cardamom Development Zones, and both government and private sectors began promoting its cultivation at scale.

Cardamom has become a major export commodity. It is estimated that cardamom accounts for 17 to 25 percent of Nepal’s agricultural export income. Nepal reportedly contributes more than 50 percent to the global large cardamom market. India is the primary export destination, but Nepal also exports cardamom to countries like Singapore, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the UAE. In fact, 98 percent of Nepal’s cardamom is exported, with only two percent consumed domestically. Government figures estimate that annual cardamom exports are worth Rs 4bn to Rs 5bn.

This high export value has significantly benefited Nepal’s agricultural sector, helping to reduce the trade deficit and strengthen the national economy. While the eastern region remains the heart of production, cardamom farming is gradually spreading to western districts as well. Taplejung, Panchthar, Ilam, and Sankhuwasabha in Koshi Province are recognized as key production hubs.

The growing demand has led to a steady rise in the area under cardamom cultivation. Initially confined to a few eastern districts, the crop is now grown in around 42 districts, involving some 67,000 farming households. For many, cardamom is the main source of cash income, improving livelihoods through better employment, education, and healthcare.

One hectare of cardamom farmland can yield between 300 and 600 kilograms of dried pods annually, with market prices ranging from Rs 2,000 to Rs 4,000 per kilogram—making it a highly profitable crop even for smallholders.

Cardamom is Nepal’s top agricultural export and a significant contributor to foreign exchange earnings. The value chain—from cultivation to processing, packaging, and export—has created jobs at various levels. Local laborers involved in harvesting and drying can earn over Rs 30,000 per month in wages.

As a high-value cash crop, cardamom has become a beacon of hope for farmers in Nepal’s mid-hills and eastern regions. What once began as a subsistence activity has now matured into a fully commercial enterprise, offering not just economic opportunities but also contributing to rural development and national revenue.

With less than two months remaining in the current fiscal year, the government has managed to spend only 32.78 percent of its allocated capital budget. This chronic underperformance in capital expenditure is not new. Rather, it is part of a concerning pattern that has plagued the national development trajectory for years.

The failure to effectively utilize the capital budget affects Nepal’s economic prospects. In the last fiscal year, only 63.47 percent of the Rs 302bn capital allocation was spent. Worse still, capital spending has averaged around 60 percent over the past four years, a steep decline from the pre-covid average of 70 percent and a sharp fall from highs of over 80 percent in 2017-18. These figures reflect a system that struggles with efficiency, planning and execution.

The consequences of low spending are multifaceted. On the surface, infrastructure development is delayed or left incomplete. More deeply, low capital spending restricts job creation, depresses local economic activities and drives a surge in labor migration. The country’s inability to create sufficient employment opportunities has forced millions to seek work abroad. This clearly shows that the domestic economy is not growing fast or inclusively enough.

The root causes of this underperformance are well known. Bureaucratic delays, poor project readiness and ineffective implementation continue to hit development projects. Moreover, a recurring trend of accelerated spending in the final months of the fiscal year leads to rushed projects and compromised quality, which affects project outcomes and diminishes the long-term value of public investments. While recurrent expenditures are being met at a higher rate, capital spending has remained dismal. This imbalance not only undermines developmental aspirations but also affects fiscal credibility and the government’s ability to deliver on its promises at a time when some sections of society are questioning the relevance of the federal republican system. 

The government must prioritize structural reforms to speed up spending. Streamlining bureaucratic procedures, strengthening project planning and financial oversight and directing funds toward shovel-ready projects are critical steps that it must take. Moreover, enhancing accountability mechanisms will ensure that public resources are used effectively and transparently. Persistent underutilization of capital budgets is not just a fiscal statistic, it is a roadblock to progress. Until this foundational flaw in public expenditure stays, long-term growth will remain elusive, and the dream of a self-reliant, prosperous Nepal will continue to drift further away.

Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Ramnath Adhikari has said that Nepal was at high risk of disaster.  

Addressing the regional ministerial-level meeting on 'Integrated Early Warning and Early Action System' in Colombo of Sri Lanka on Thursday, Nepal was at high risk of different types of disasters given its geographic location.    

He mentioned that Nepal has recorded huge loss of infrastructures and has suffered economically due to flooding, drought, cold wave, lightning and glacial outbursts every year. 

On the occasion, Minister Adhikari said that Nepal has stressed the need for common understanding and cooperation among different nations for climate resilience and developing effective pre-warning systems, the Minister's Secretariat shared.  

Jointly organized by the Sri Lankan government and the Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES), the meeting held discussions on risk, early warning systems, and coordinated efforts related to risk preparedness in African and Asian countries.

The National Security Council reviewed the current international situation, various security challenges and implications that may arise in Nepal due to the recent developments between India and Pakistan.

Secretary at the Ministry of Defence and Member Secretary of the Council, Rameshwor Dangal, said that a meeting of the Council held on Wednesday discussed the situation arising out of the development and adopting appropriate strategy to deal with the situation in the coming days.

The 38th meeting of the Council chaired by Prime Minister and Council Chairman KP Sharma Oli was attended by members of the Council, the Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, the Home Minister, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Defence Minister, the Chief Secretary, the Chief of the Army Staff and the Defence Secretary.

The meeting was held at the Council Secretariat in Singha Durbar.

Hydropower generation in Nepal began over a century ago with the 500-kilowatt Pharping Hydropower Project, the country’s first. Initially, the government held a monopoly on hydropower, and only a limited number of projects were developed. By 1989, Nepal had generated just 167 megawatts of electricity. After the first People’s Movement in 1989, the country transitioned to a multi-party democracy. The 1990 Constitution embraced a policy of liberalization, opening the door to private sector involvement in industry and business, which significantly increased the demand for electricity. Former Energy Secretary Devendra Karki notes that hydropower development has since seen visible progress.

The government alone could not meet the rising electricity demand. The Electricity Act of 1989 paved the way for private investment in hydropower. In 1995, the first private sector project, Himal Hydro, signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for the 60-megawatt Khimti Hydropower Project, which was connected to the national transmission grid in 2000.

According to the Independent Power Producers Association of Nepal (IPPAN), private developers have added 2,740 megawatts to the national grid over the past 24 years. The private sector now accounts for about 80 percent of Nepal’s hydropower generation, says IPPAN General Secretary Balram Khatiwada. In contrast, government projects contribute about 700 megawatts. In recent years, Nepal has made notable strides in hydropower generation, electricity export, green energy promotion, and private sector engagement—moving the country closer to energy self-reliance and economic growth.

Nepal has vast potential for hydropower generation. Government data suggest that approximately 72,000 megawatts can be generated economically and technically. However, current production stands at around 3,400 megawatts, with PPAs signed for an additional 11,000 megawatts.

To address chronic load-shedding, the government declared an energy crisis in 2015 and ramped up hydropower development. At one point, Nepal was importing electricity worth Rs 22bn annually from India to meet demand. Since then, domestic electricity production has surged. Today, surplus electricity during the monsoon season is exported to India, and in Nov 2024, Nepal began exporting 40 megawatts to Bangladesh.

In April 2023, Nepal and India signed a long-term agreement to export 10,000 megawatts of electricity, setting the stage for Nepal to become an energy-exporting nation within the next decade. The private sector has invested approximately Rs 600bn in hydropower, with an additional 4,200 megawatts currently under construction. IPPAN estimates that total investment could reach Rs 1,500bn when ongoing projects are included.

Total investment in completed and ongoing projects stands at around Rs 1,300bn, which includes bank loans, equity capital, and contributions from around 400,000 individual investors. While hydropower development initially occurred in a handful of districts, it has now spread to 70 of Nepal’s 77 districts. Energy projects are underway in nearly all districts except Bara, Bardiya, Bhaktapur, Dang, Dhankuta, Salyan, and Saptari.

According to preliminary IPPAN data, hydropower development has contributed not only to electricity generation but also to socio-economic development in remote areas. These projects have built 3,300 kilometers of roads, 350 kilometers of tunnels, 140 health centers, 153 schools, 95 drinking water systems, and 45 irrigation systems.

To address local needs, the sector has also supported the hiring of 200 teachers and the provision of 30 ambulances. A one-megawatt project under construction can employ about 300 people, while operational projects employ around 10 people each.

To build on this progress, the government has introduced the Energy Development Roadmap and Action Plan 2024, aiming to expand production, consumption, and export of electricity. The goal is to generate 28,500 megawatts of electricity within the next decade. Former Secretary Karki emphasizes the importance of public-private collaboration to implement the roadmap effectively. “The roadmap has been prepared, but to ensure it is not derailed, we must revise laws and create an investment-friendly environment on time,” he says.

Nepal is facing a growing crisis of trust in government. Recent protests by teachers demanding reform in education law and doctors calling for enforcement of prior agreements have disrupted essential services. High-profile resignations—including the Education Minister, state minister and the Vice Chancellor of Tribhuvan University—reflect a political culture marred by interference and disillusionment. Statements by former Governor Vijayanath Bhattarai, who criticized the influence of middlemen in public appointments, underline a widening gap between citizens and institutions.

This disillusionment is not exclusive to Nepal. As Chris Eccles explains in his essay Restoring Trust in Government, public confidence in democratic institutions has declined across many countries over the past several decades. His insights are especially timely for Nepal as it navigates its own democratic transition and seeks to restore public legitimacy.

Eccles begins by highlighting how trust in government has eroded steadily since the 1960s, citing surveys in countries like the United States and New Zealand. This decline cannot be attributed to isolated events or leadership failures. It reflects a deeper, structural shift in how citizens perceive and interact with democratic institutions.

In Nepal, trust remains low despite constitutional reforms and federal restructuring. Political institutions are often viewed as self-serving and unresponsive. Eccles argues that declining trust is not just a result of poor performance but of a changing political culture where citizens demand more than material benefits—they seek fairness, dignity, and voice.

For decades, governments believed that delivering roads, schools, and jobs would be enough to earn public support. Eccles refers to this belief as “performance legitimacy.” However, his research shows that service delivery alone is no longer sufficient to maintain trust. Citizens increasingly judge governments by how decisions are made, who is included, and whether processes are fair.

In Nepal, development initiatives often fail to improve legitimacy when implemented without transparency or local participation. Even when services are delivered, communities may feel excluded or manipulated. Eccles’ insight is clear: trust is not just about output, but about justice and accountability.

Eccles draws on Ronald Inglehart’s theory of social modernization to explain how rising education and global exposure have changed citizen behavior. As societies modernize, people expect governments to respect their rights, engage in dialogue, and share decision-making. They no longer accept top-down rules without explanation or consultation.

Nepal is experiencing this shift. Civic protests, youth-led campaigns, and digital activism reflect a political environment where citizens—especially young people—demand transparency, equality, and ethical conduct. Trust must now be earned through relationships and engagement, not merely promised in speeches.

A defining feature of Eccles’ argument is the idea of a new civic culture. Citizens want more than services—they want institutions to act with honesty, competence, and respect. Trust today is not an automatic result of governance; it is a public value that must be cultivated.

Nepal’s participatory frameworks provide an opportunity to build this culture. Local governments hold public hearings and consultations, but these often fail to influence actual decisions. To restore credibility, these mechanisms must go beyond ritual and become meaningful platforms for collaboration.

Eccles notes that repeated political scandals deepen public cynicism. While the media plays a vital role in uncovering wrongdoing, constant negativity without resolution can damage morale and weaken democratic engagement. In Nepal, headlines about corruption, impunity, and political manipulation are common, yet few are followed by accountability.

Citizens begin to believe that change is impossible. Eccles calls for a shift in narrative—one that includes not only critique but also examples of reform, ethical leadership, and citizen participation that rebuild hope and confidence.

Eccles presents several reforms introduced in New South Wales, including a Public Service Commission, a Customer Service Commissioner, and Infrastructure NSW. These bodies aimed to strengthen professionalism, prioritize public needs, and insulate planning from political interference.

Nepal can adopt similar reforms. Independent commissions, long-term planning authorities, and citizen feedback mechanisms can improve integrity and transparency. These changes must be supported by a public service culture that values competence and service over patronage.

To guide institutional behavior, Eccles introduces the ITARI framework: Integrity, Transparency, Accountability, Responsiveness, and Inclusiveness. Each principle addresses a key dimension of democratic trust.

Nepal’s constitution and laws already reference these values, but implementation is inconsistent. Merit is often compromised by political interests. Public data is not always accessible. Marginalized communities are still underrepresented in key decisions. Restoring trust means turning these values from ideals into lived practice at every level of governance.

Eccles outlines an “engagement continuum” with five levels: networking, coordination, cooperation, collaboration, and partnering. Many governments promise partnership but deliver only limited consultation. This gap between promise and practice damages trust.

Nepal’s experience reflects this challenge. Community members may be invited to meetings, but decisions often remain top-down. True engagement requires that citizens help define problems, shape solutions, and share responsibility for implementation. Community forestry and school management models offer practical examples of deeper participation already at work in Nepal.

Eccles critiques overly strict administrative rules—called probity frameworks—that were meant to prevent corruption but often block innovation. In many systems, civil servants become afraid to take initiative, slowing progress and avoiding responsibility.

This is a serious issue in Nepal. Delays and inaction are often driven by fear of audits or political retribution. Eccles proposes a fit-for-purpose approach, where rules are tailored to the size and risk of each project. Such flexibility can encourage problem-solving while maintaining integrity.

A vital solution offered by Eccles is co-production. This means that the government does not act alone but works with citizens to design and deliver public services. Trust grows when people see themselves as contributors, not just recipients.

Nepal has strong traditions of cooperative action, from community-managed forests to disaster response. These approaches show that when citizens are trusted, they help solve complex problems. Expanding co-production can make governance more inclusive and more effective.

Eccles ends his essay with a powerful revision of a common phrase: instead of saying, “I’m from the government and I’m here to help,” public servants should say, “I’m from the government and I need—and want—your help.” This simple change reflects a deeper transformation—one that centers humility, partnership, and mutual respect.

In Nepal, this message is more urgent than ever. Trust cannot be rebuilt with slogans or plans alone. It requires institutional courage, ethical leadership, and daily practices that honor the voice and dignity of every citizen. 

For centuries, marijuana has been part of Nepal’s cultural landscape. However, the 1976 ban on its production and consumption has deprived the country of a significant opportunity—not only in tourism and the economy but, more importantly, in accessing its medical benefits. In earlier times, sadhus and yogis used marijuana for religious and medicinal purposes. Nepal was once renowned for its legendary Himalayan cannabis, and Kathmandu’s streets were a haven for tourists and hippies from around the world.

Legalizing cannabis is complex, particularly due to the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding its use. Research shows that its medical benefits emerge not from smoking but from refined and processed forms. Despite growing evidence, it remains illegal and widely misunderstood. Medicinal cannabis can aid in pain relief, reduce inflammation, manage anxiety and depression, treat epilepsy and seizures, improve sleep, and help with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

As scientific studies increasingly confirm marijuana’s therapeutic value, Nepal should reconsider its stance—not to encourage unregulated use, but to harness its vast medical and economic potential.

Globally, perceptions of marijuana are shifting. Over 40 countries, including Germany, Thailand, and several US states, have decriminalized or legalized cannabis for medical use. From chronic pain to neurological disorders, its therapeutic applications are driving reform. Studies highlight cannabis’s effectiveness in easing symptoms of multiple sclerosis and controlling seizures in epilepsy.

A major breakthrough came when research confirmed the medical potential of cannabinoids, particularly CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). These compounds have proven effective in managing chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy. CBD, which lacks the psychoactive effects of THC, has shown promise in treating conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

Nepal’s unique geography and climate make it ideal for cultivating high-quality cannabis. Reintroducing marijuana into the formal economy—strictly for medical use—could offer a valuable economic edge. Legal cultivation could empower farmers, generate export revenue, and create jobs. Despite calls for legalization, the government has yet to take concrete steps, largely due to the outdated 1976 Narcotic Drugs (Control) Act, which still classifies cannabis as illegal. This legislation remains a significant barrier to reform.

Ironically, during Shivaratri—a major Hindu festival—marijuana use is normalized, highlighting a contradiction where illegality exists only on paper. So how can we normalize it in law?

In regions like Rolpa, Rukum, and remote parts of Karnali Province, wild cannabis already grows in abundance. With proper cultivation practices, Nepal could supply high-grade medical marijuana for domestic and global markets. The global legal cannabis market was valued at $21bn in 2023 and is projected to grow by 25.7 percent annually through 2030. For a developing country like Nepal, in search of sustainable revenue sources amid economic uncertainty, marijuana may very well be the “green gold” waiting to be refined.

The benefits of medical marijuana span multiple sectors—from farmers, vendors, and logistics providers to healthcare systems, patients, and the government. Legalization could empower local communities and drive job creation. A regulated cannabis economy could open new revenue streams through taxation, exports, and pharmaceutical partnerships, significantly contributing to GDP growth.

Beyond boosting state revenues, legalization could generate employment across the entire supply chain—from cultivation and processing to research, transportation, and retail. Medical cannabis also offers the public a sense of reassurance. As disillusionment grows with the side effects of chemical-based medications, many are turning toward plant-based, herbal alternatives.

Medical cannabis provides natural and, in many cases, more effective treatment for a range of physical and mental health conditions. This shift not only supports public health and economic gains but also fosters innovation in Nepal’s herbal and pharmaceutical industries.

A proposed bill remains stalled, largely due to the outdated 1976 Act and fears of international backlash. Nonetheless, within Nepal, researchers, experts, and policymakers increasingly advocate for legalization. In fact, whichever political party champions and executes the bill may gain a competitive political advantage. Public support—especially among the youth—is growing rapidly. However, misconceptions persist. Many still confuse the medical benefits of cannabis with recreational smoking, which is misleading. Medical cannabis involves administering refined compounds like CBD and THC in precise, controlled doses—not raw or smoked forms.

We all want our food to be delicious and, if possible, we wouldn’t mind gourmet meals every single time. That is probably why restaurants thrive in Nepal. We love eating good food but we don’t want to put in the effort it takes to bring that meal to our tables. We mean, what wouldn’t we give to be able to hire a chef at home, as many celebrities tend to do, and not have to do all the prepping and cooking? But it’s not possible for various reasons and we have to live with that. But does that mean we have to eat boring food whenever we want a quick snack? The answer is a resounding no. We bring to you some tried and tested ideas that are super easy to make, take less than 30 minutes, and are mouth-wateringly delicious.

Cheese potato bites

India’s celebrity chef Ranveer Brar said in an interview that the one thing you should always have in your fridge is boiled potatoes. You can make so many things with it in just a few minutes whenever you want something quick to eat. For these simple cheese potato bites, that is one of our favorites, all you have to do is peel some boiled potatoes and slice them thinly. Grease a pan with olive oil, put a layer of potatoes on top, sprinkle some salt, pepper, and oregano(and/or chili flakes if you prefer), grate some cheese over it and repeat the process a few times and then bake this in the oven for 20 minutes at medium heat. Have this hot out of the oven with some barbecue sauce or as it is. It’s yummy and filling.

Cucumber on crackers

The good news is this involves zero cooking. All you need are three things: crackers, cucumbers, and cheese. Lay the crackers on a plate and top them with sliced cucumbers. Make sure you have thoroughly washed the cucumbers and peeled them beforehand. Cut cheese into small thin slices if you are using a block of cheese or simply strip sliced cheese into small bits and put them over the cucumber slices. Your final product should have three layers: crackers at the bottom, cucumber slices in the middle, and cheese on top. If you use cream cheese instead of cheese, then the cucumber goes on top of the cream cheese which goes on top of the cracker. You can put an olive on top of the cheese if you have some on hand or skip this and it will taste just as good. This simple snack that just needs some minor assembling is quick to make and refreshing. The crunch of the cracker and the softness of the cheese balance out the texture and flavor making it a fun food to munch on.

Carrot sticks and hummus

Hummus is a simple dish made of chickpeas, lemon, garlic, tahini, and some basic spices. You can buy it at different stores but homemade hummus is fresh and tastes a whole lot better than packaged ones. It’s simple to make as well. You can use soaked and boiled chickpeas or use canned chickpeas depending on how much time you have. First mix lemon and tahini (you can get good quality tahini at most department stores) in a food processor and blend it until you get a smooth paste. Then add garlic, olive oil, and chickpeas and blend until smooth again. You can peel the chickpeas for a smoother hummus but not peeling them works as well. Add a little bit of cold water or ice cubes if you have them and blend for a minute and your hummus is ready. Peel and cut carrots into sticks and you can use these as spoons to eat the hummus. This rich in protein and fiber snack is great when you are feeling hungry and need something to tide you over till dinner.

Easy garlic bread

This is a revamped version of the classic cheese on toast idea but it’s a 100 times better than regular toast with cheese. Melt some butter and add crushed garlic, sliced green chili. Add salt if you are using unsalted butter or else skip it. You can also add some chili flakes to give it a bit of color. Slather this on top of bread slices and then top it with grated cheese. If you like onion, then finely chop one and sprinkle it on top of the cheese. Lightly grease a tray and put the bread slices on it and let it bake in the oven for 15 minutes on medium heat. The result is a crunchy garlic bread that you can have with tea or some cold coffee. If you want this snack to be a bit on the heavier side, you can choose to add toppings like sausages or sweet corn and other veggies according to your preference. Use brown bread for a healthier, filling version of this snack or use white bread for a pizza-like appeal.

Peri peri makhana 

Makhana or fox nuts make for an excellent snack. It’s quite popular in India and Nepal too as it’s delicious and nutritious. You can enjoy this guilt free and as it can be quite filling, you won’t feel the need to reach for chocolates or biscuits in between meals. Simply dry roast makhana on a pan on medium heat until it looks crisp and crunchy. Transfer to a large tray and allow it to cool. Avoid adding ghee to it while roasting if you are trying to lose weight or else you can add a teaspoon of ghee to the pan. Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from going stale. You can also wrap them in tissue paper or kitchen paper and store them in a ziplock bag. When you want a quick snack, transfer makhana into a container with a lid, only filling half of it. Add salt, pepper, and peri peri spice to it and give it a good shake and indulge in some guilt-free snacking.

Black gram salad

This is a popular Indian street food that you can enjoy hot or cold and it’s nutritious, filling, and delicious. You need some pre-prepping for it though. Soak a cup of black gram in water overnight and cook it for about four to five whistles in the pressure cooker the next morning. You can store this in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and use it while assembling a low effort salad. The salad is vegan and gluten free and can be served alongside lunch or dinner or eaten as a snack. Take some boiled black gram in a bowl, add chopped tomatoes, onion and coriander to it and give it a good mix. Add salt, pepper, chili, and some lemon juice and mix well. Serve with some crunchy bhujiya on the side and this balances out the texture of the dish. But it also works well on its own.

Strawberry smoothie

Smoothies have become quite popular in recent times. Almost every other restaurant has some version of this healthy drink on their menu. But smoothies can serve as a great snack as, depending on what goes in them, they can be quite filling. The one we are presenting here is a simple recipe for our all-time favorite, especially when strawberries are in season. You can also freeze strawberries to enjoy this all year round. In a blender, add three tablespoons of curd, five to six medium sized strawberries, half a banana, a teaspoon of chia seeds, and half a cup of water and blend till you get a smooth mixture. Transfer this to a bowl, top with nuts and seeds and serve. You can use ice instead of water if you want a slightly slushier version of this smoothie. We guarantee you will be making this smoothie over and over again.

Instant energy bars

You can buy all sorts of energy and protein bars today. The market is saturated with different brands offering all kinds of flavors. But we like to make ours at home. It’s simple, cost-effective, and filled with ingredients that we like. For a simple energy bar or ball, depending on which shape you mold it into, mix oats, some nuts like almonds or pistachio, and salt. Transfer this into a food processor and blend it and then add maple syrup and olive oil to it and blend it again. Remove and transfer to a tray lined with parchment paper. Press the dough evenly onto the paper. Top with coconut flakes or powder. Roughly chop some more of the same nuts that have gone into the batter and sprinkle them on top of the dough. Bake this for about 10 minutes on medium heat. Make sure you don’t over bake it and that the batter is still a little soft when done. Cut it into small squares when it cools down. You can store this in a sealed container for up to a week.

The best brownies

Who wouldn’t like dessert for a snack? And these brownies that we are about to teach you to make is the most delicious dessert you will have had. They are gooey and melt in your mouth and you can use store bought premixes for it too, thus shortening your time in the kitchen. Preheat the oven to 200 degree Celsius and add an egg, oil, and water as directed to a store bought cake mix. Fold this batter with a spatula but don’t over mix it either. Take seven to eight Oreo biscuits and roughly crush them. Add this to the cake batter. Then transfer the batter to a greased cake pan and bake for 30 to 40 minutes or till a toothpick inserted at the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool and then cut into slices and indulge in this yummy goodness.

Peanut butter goodness

Craving a yummy snack but have only five minutes to prepare something? This is when a jar of peanut butter in your pantry can come in handy. Peanut butter is rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Thinly slice some apples and plate it along with a large dollop of peanut butter. Apple and peanut butter taste great together. Next, remove the pits of some soft dates, fill it with peanut butter and have a few the next time you are hungry. It is simple, filling, and dessert-like. Slather some peanut butter on some saltine crackers and you are good to go. Mix oats and peanut butter and make small balls out of them and bake in the oven for 10 minutes on medium heat. You can add a mashed ripe banana to the mix for some extra sweetness or if the peanut butter you are using doesn’t have added sugar in it already.

Tea worth Rs 3.57 billion has been exported till April 13 of the current fiscal year 2024/25, starting July 16, 2024.

Tea exports are expected to reach Rs 4.5 billion this year, according to the National Tea and Coffee Development Board.

Board official Chandra Puri said Nepal's tea sector has created around 60,000 jobs and there are 171 tea estates and 120 small and medium tea processing centres.

According to him, tea was grown on a total of 20,760 hectares of land across the country in the fiscal year 2023/24. During this period, 27 million kilograms of processed tea was produced. There are 15,203 tea farmers in the country.

Puri informed that 16.5 million kilograms of tea worth Rs 3.63 billion was exported in the previous fiscal year.

Meanwhile, the Board has decided to organize a tea exhibition at Harihar Bhawan in Pulchowk today on the occasion of the 29th National Tea Day. The exhibition has been organized with the objective of promoting Nepali tea in the international market.

Puri said that discussions would be held among the representatives of tea farmers, workers, cooperatives, entrepreneurs, business persons and concerned organizations amidst the exhibition of tea produced in different districts of the country at one place.

The theme of the National Tea Day this year is 'Healthy Tea, Sustainable Market, Foundation of Prosperous Nepal'.

April 25 marks the 10th anniversary of the deadly earthquake that struck Nepal killing nearly 9,000 people, injuring 22,000 and making more than a half million people homeless. It was the most powerful earthquake ever recorded to have hit the Himalayan country.

On April 25, 2015, when a 7.8 magnitude earthquake shook Nepal’s ground at 11:56 AM, the epicenter in Barpak village of Gorkha district suffered the most immediately. At least 72 people lost their lives from the village alone, while all the houses were damaged in the disaster except a few.

10 years later, Barpak doesn’t look like a village anymore. With completion of reconstruction, Barpak looks like a bustling town in recent times as all traditional stone roofed houses are replaced by tall concrete symmetrical buildings and a good flow of tourists.

In contrast, the neighboring village Laprak which housed the largest integrated settlement looks deserted even after a decade of the disaster. Initially, though Barpak was chosen for the site of the new settlement, the plan couldn’t be executed due to several reasons which provided Laprak a chance to shine and be the “model village.”  

However, the settlement built by the Non-Resident Nepali Association consisting of 604 houses (including additionally built) in Gupsi Pakha are in sorry state, with many locals themselves regarding it as a ghost village. Its difficult to spot people in the surrounding which was actually expected to be a vibrant and exemplary village of more than 2000 people.

The new settlement, located at around 2700 meters from the sea level, was chosen considering the geological studies and accessibility. Unfortunately, it failed to address the needs and expectations of indigenous communities of the mountain region. As a result, there are locks in doors and grasses at the entrance, holes on roofs, fading colors in two-storey buildings and deep silence around the settlement.

 According to Kishan Gurung, Ward-4 Chairman of Dharche Rural Municipality, out of the total houses, only 50 are filled with families who run homestays and hotels, while 50 other families keep migrating between the old village and the new settlement. “We are preparing to connect electricity from the national line, manage supply of drinking water and construct a gravelled road linking Barpak to Laprak. I am hopeful that villagers will move to the new settlement someday and Laprak will be known as a model village again.”

Nepal imported 7,967 units of electric cars, jeeps and vans worth Rs 18.62bn over the first nine months of fiscal year 2024/25. This surge, generating Rs 11.47bn in government revenue, underscores EVs’ rising popularity in the country, driven by favorable policies, environmental goals and economic incentives.

Foreign trade data for the first nine months of 2024/25, unveiled recently by the Department of Customs (DoC) shows, over 50 percent of imports, or 4,414 units, fell in the 51-100 kW motor capacity range which is ideal for Nepal’s urban and semi-rural roads. Smaller EVs (up to 50 kW) accounted for 2,783 units, while 742 units were in the 101-200 kW capacity range. Likewise, 17 units were in 201-300 kW motor capacity range and tow had capacity in excess of 300 kW.

China dominated Nepal’s EV market, supplying 74.08 percent of total imports of the country in the review period. EVs worth of Rs 14.49bn were imported form the northern neighbor in the review period, with brands like BYD and Dongfeng leading due to competitive pricing and advanced features. India follows with 2,023 units, or a market share of 25.39 percent, bolstered by Tata’s strong presence, as seen with models like the Punch EV. Imports from Germany (31 units), the US (5 units), South Korea (3 units) and Indonesia (3 units) were minimal, underscoring the China-India duopoly in the Nepali EV market.

In 2023/24, Nepal imported a total of 11,701 electric vehicles (EVs) - a growth of a whopping 188.91 percent compared to 2022/23 when 4,050 units of electric cars, jeeps, and vans entered the country. More than a third of total EV imports in 2023/24 came from China. A total of 8,938 EVs units came from China and remaining 2,763 from other countries. The total import value of these EVs was Rs 29.48bn.

The EV boom in Nepal aligns with Nepal’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) which targets to increase the share of EVs in private passenger vehicles to 25 percent by 2025 and 90 percent by 2030. Lower import duties, which are 15-80 percent for EVs and over 240 percent for those powered by fossil fuel, and the availability of affordable cars loaded with advanced technologies have fueled demand for EV in Nepal. 

The growing EV adoption is gradually reducing reliance on costly oil imports. Data shows Nepal saved Rs 11.07bn in 2023/24 due to a decline in the import of petroleum products.

Over the past few months, Nepal and India have intensified bilateral engagement, yielding tangible progress in economic and development partnerships. Although Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s visit to New Delhi remains uncertain, a series of ministerial meetings and bilateral mechanism discussions have taken place. Within two weeks, two senior ministers from Narendra Modi’s cabinet visited Nepal and met with Prime Minister Oli.

The past month witnessed a flurry of diplomatic activity, with three Nepali ministers traveling to India for meetings with their Indian counterparts. Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba engaged in comprehensive bilateral talks with India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, focusing on enhancing political and economic collaboration. Meanwhile, Forest Minister Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri met with India’s Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, to discuss transboundary environmental conservation and sustainable forestry initiatives.

Another significant development occurred during Water Supply Minister Pradeep Yadav’s visit to New Delhi, where he met India’s Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil. The two leaders signed a landmark agreement to expand cooperation in water resource management, sanitation and hygiene—an area of critical importance for both nations. This agreement is expected to facilitate knowledge-sharing, infrastructure development and joint projects to address water scarcity and improve public health outcomes.

Indian Minister for Power and Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar is currently in Nepal for a two-day official visit. According to Indian officials, the trip aimed to advance discussions on key power projects of mutual interest, including cross-border electricity trade and hydropower development. 

Over the past few years, energy cooperation between Nepal and India has seen remarkable progress, with Nepal exporting surplus hydropower to India and Indian firms investing in Nepal’s hydroelectric projects. This growing synergy in the power sector is expected to bolster Nepal’s energy independence while supporting India’s renewable energy goals.

Early this month, Nepal and India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in agricultural science and technology. The agreement, which replaces a 1991 pact, covers a wide range of areas, including agricultural production, crop management, trade and marketing. Nepal’s Agriculture Minister Ramnath Adhikari and India’s Agriculture Minister, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, formalized the deal, which is expected to enhance food security, boost farmer incomes and promote sustainable farming practices through joint research and technology transfer.

In late March, the Nepal-India Joint Working Group convened to address critical border management issues. The discussions centered on curbing cross-border crime, improving border infrastructure—such as Integrated Check Posts (ICPs), roads and railway networks—and enhancing the operational capacity of security agencies. Both sides also explored collaborative measures for disaster risk reduction and management, recognizing the shared vulnerabilities to natural calamities like floods and earthquakes.

Further reinforcing security and trade ties, the two countries held the 21st Director General-level talks this month, focusing on measures to streamline cross-border commerce and combat smuggling. These discussions are crucial for ensuring smooth trade flows, particularly given Nepal’s reliance on Indian ports for third-country trade.

Despite the positive trajectory in bilateral relations, certain contentious issues remain unresolved. Nepal has persistently raised concerns over the delayed implementation of the Eminent Persons’ Group (EPG) report and lingering border disputes, particularly in regions like Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura. India, however, maintains that these matters should be resolved through established bilateral mechanisms rather than public posturing.

Recently, India’s Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated this stance during a weekly press briefing, stating, “We have a bilateral mechanism with Nepal to discuss these issues. Unilateral actions do not alter ground realities.”

While Prime Minister Oli’s visit to New Delhi remains uncertain, he has met with his Indian counterpart Modi on two occasions—first on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in September 2024 and again during the BIMSTEC summit early this month. These interactions suggest a willingness to maintain dialogue despite political sensitivities.

However, a new point of friction emerged last month when reports surfaced alleging India’s tacit support for Nepal’s pro-monarchy movement. India swiftly denied these claims, but the episode highlights the delicate nature of Nepal’s domestic politics and its implications for bilateral relations. Additionally, some analysts speculate that India may view Nepal’s growing engagement with China—particularly its participation in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)—with caution.

Foreign policy experts say that despite occasional political tensions, India has adopted a pragmatic approach by prioritizing economic and developmental partnerships with Nepal. This strategy aims to insulate mutually beneficial projects from geopolitical fluctuations while gradually addressing contentious issues through diplomatic channels.

The Constitution of Nepal has stipulated the right against child marriage as a fundamental right. Nepal is also a party to various international treaties against child marriage. In this sense, it falls within the theoretical scope of human rights. According to the existing laws of Nepal, marriage under the age of 20 is defined as child marriage. There is also a provision for imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of up to Rs 30,000 for those who commit marriage-related offenses, including child marriage. These provisions notwithstanding, instances of child marriage are not hard to find in Nepal.

An alarming picture

According to the statistics of the Nepal Police, in 2022, 52 complaints related to child marriage were registered in Koshi province, 10 in Madhes province, 10 in Bagmati province, five in Lumbini province, 10 in Sudurpaschim province, two in Gandaki province and nine in Karnali province.

These figures are merely representative records. Whether it is the parents who get their children married off to avoid responsibility or the children themselves opting to tie the nuptial knot, there is a widespread practice of covering up child marriages in families or societies by not filing complaints.

Therefore, it’s no surprise that Nepal still has a sizable population that disregards the minimum marriageable age and sees marriage only as a matter of obligation, maybe because of illiteracy also.

According to the 2011 census, child marriage, which stood at 27 percent, came down to 21 percent (per the 2021 census). One can take a little bit of solace in these data. Still, child marriage remains a matter of concern with rural and marginalized communities still opting for it in the name of tradition and culture.

I myself had the pathetic experience of child marriage, so I am committed to playing a concrete role in reducing child marriage by empathizing with the overall development of girls from ordinary families. A resolution registered in the House of Representatives aims to initiate a concrete and diagnostic debate on the abolition of child marriage in Nepal. It is necessary to debate whether the abolition of child marriage is possible, not its reduction.

In our society, child marriage is not limited to any specific community or geography; it has spread throughout the country, depriving the children, first and foremost, of their right to education.

No matter how strict the law is, traditional thinking and socio-economic environment encourage child marriage with factors like poverty, inequality, lack of education and gender discrimination all playing their respective parts.

Various researches show that child marriage increases the risk of early pregnancy, maternal mortality, malnutrition, school dropout rates and violence. It is also a subtle and distorted form of gender violence. Child marriage is both a cause and a consequence of poverty.

In terms of the right to education, child marriage effectively ends the formal education of children. Child marriage in lower and middle-class families leads to the compulsion to have children and shoulder the responsibility of parenthood. Not only this, most of the men and women, who marry at an early age, have their decision-making capacity diminished, which impacts their participation in the ‘economic cycle’ necessary to sustain the life cycle.

On account of factors like these, 193 countries expressed commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and set various goals with 17 indicators to set global development priorities by 2030, in 2015. ‘Target 5.3’ under the SDGs talks about ending child marriage within the deadline.

We have enacted laws against child marriage but our campaigns and programs aimed at ending this scourge do not seem to have reached sections of the society that are lagging behind in terms of human development indexes like literacy. We need to be more serious vis-a-vis child marriage, also to achieve SDGs by aligning our efforts with the United Nations and various donor agencies working to end child marriage. 

With all three tiers of the government—central, provincial and local levels—lacking a clear vision, will we be able to achieve these goals within the deadline for SDGs? 

The way out

Let’s make it mandatory for every youth to obtain an ‘adult registration certificate’ from the ward office of the concerned municipality for marriage upon completing 20 years of age. This kind of arrangement can bring about desired positive changes. Just as the state provides birth certificates, citizenship or other official documents, our policy initiative should be toward making it mandatory to obtain an adult registration certificate from the ward before marriage after attaining the minimum marriageable age. Some local levels appear to have implemented this system, which is quite commendable. A legal system governing this throughout the country will make way for its integrated implementation and a measurable impact. 

The author is a lawmaker