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Nepal’s vibrant Dashain market, once characterized by bustling streets full of shoppers and a palpable sense of excitement in the air, is largely subdued as a result of ongoing economic crisis. 

Nepal’s economic downturn has cast a shadow over the traditional fervor, leaving many to ponder on the impacts on sales, transactions, and the overall excitement of the festival season. Recession has brought us to a point where we need to reconsider and reevaluate the dynamics of the Dashain market. It is imperative to delve deeper into the nuanced effects of recession on the Dashain market, assessing whether the economic constraints have dampened the customary zeal and prompted a more restrained approach to spending.

In recent years, the Dashain market has experienced a visible shift in sales and transactions that serve as a barometer of economic health. While the demand for essentials and customary festive items remains steady, the extravagant purchases and splurges seem to have taken a back seat. Consumers are exhibiting a heightened sensitivity towards their financial resources. 

The Fashion Hub, nestled in the heart of New Baneshwor, is the brainchild of Juna Giri. In previous years, the lively echoes of footsteps in her store bore witness to the exuberant spirit of the season, with sales soaring from the auspicious day of Ghatasthapana. However, in the wake of the global pandemic, a subtle transformation has taken place. It’s like a big shift in how people do their Dashain shopping, and Juna’s shop is feeling it too. 

“Before Covid-19 struck, our sales were flourishing. We had about 15 daily visitors, and during Dashain, that number would swell to around 50, starting from Ghatasthapana. However, in the aftermath of the pandemic, customers have shifted to online shopping. But there aren’t as many sales as before,” says Giri. “After Covid-19, walk-in customers have slashed. The same familiar clothes hang on our racks, with few to no new arrivals.”

The hallmark of Dashain market, the hustle and bustle, has been somewhat tempered. The once hectic shoppers, darting from stall to stall, now move with a measured determination. The cacophony of haggling and bargaining, while still present, has taken on a more subdued tone. This recalibration of the shopping experience mirrors a broader societal shift towards a more mindful consumption pattern, in regards to recession. 

There has also been a noticeable surge in online shopping preferences among Dashain celebrants. Instead of rushing from stall to stall, more and more people are choosing to scroll through virtual storefronts from the comfort of their homes. This shift towards e-commerce reflects a broader societal transition towards convenience and accessibility in the shopping experience.

“We opened a TikTok account for our store, and in just a year, we’ve surpassed 38,000 followers. Many of the customers who visit us now say they discovered our store through TikTok,” says Giri.

Much like The Fashion Hub, numerous clothing stores have undergone this transformation. The tradition of haggling and bargaining, while still prevalent in the traditional market, has also been influenced by this digital evolution. Online platforms introduce a different method of negotiation, often involving the use of digital coupons, promotional codes, and comparative shopping, ultimately reshaping how consumers interact with sellers.

Market saturation has intensified the impact of the recession. Consumers now prefer unique, trendy clothing over mass-produced options found in every other store. Rose Pahari, owner of Bellevogue_np, a platform enabling customers to pre-order desired items from the USA, reflects on this shift in consumption patterns. 

“We receive substantial pre-orders for ethnic wear because individuals are inclined towards exclusivity. However, this year has witnessed a decline in consumption. We observe a surge in online bargaining as people become more discerning and prudent with their spending,” says Pahari.

Limiting the uncontrollable spending

Recession has acted as a reality check, prompting consumers to reevaluate their spending habits. While the allure of extravagant purchases remains, a newfound restraint prevails. The Dashain market, once a playground for unrestrained spending, is now a space where thoughtful choices are celebrated.

In a recent report from the Ministry of Finance, concerns arise as government expenditures, including salaries and Dashain allowances, have surpassed income, leading to a negative account balance.

Dhaniram Sharma, joint secretary of the ministry, urges against misconstruing this situation as a sign of distress, explaining that while first-quarter revenue collection fell short of targets, overall revenue is on par with last year’s. This fiscal situation prompts reflection on the age-old tradition of celebrating Dashain with lavishness, sometimes surpassing one’s financial capacity. The government’s provision of Dashain allowances, while well-intentioned, can inadvertently encourage this trend. It’s important to recognize that an extravagant Dashain celebration should not be equated with genuine tradition, but may, at times, stem from a desire to imitate unsustainable practices.

The Dashain market in Nepal stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Nepali culture in the face of economic challenges. While the recession has ushered in a more measured approach to spending, it has not extinguished the fervor of the festival. Instead, it has prompted a reevaluation of priorities, emphasizing the true essence of Dashain—family, togetherness, and the celebration of traditions. As the market evolves, it continues to serve as a reflection of the ever-evolving economic landscape of Nepal.

A joint meeting of the ministers for foreign affairs of Nepal and Sri Lanka is to take place in Kathmandu on December 21-22.

The earlier round of this meeting had to be hosted by Sri Lanka last year. Nepal is hosting the meeting in Kathmandu on the intent of the Sri Lankan government.

Matters related to multi-dimensional aspects of Nepal-Sri Lanka bilateral relations will be discussed in the meeting, informed Ambassador of Nepal to Sri Lanka, Basudev Mishra.

The meeting will widely discuss the measures to expand diplomatic and commercial as well as cultural and educational relations, he said.

Inflow of tourists from Nepal to Sri Lanka and vice-versa has increased in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, he said, adding Sri Lanka can be a major destination for Nepali tourists.

Nepal and Sri Lanka had established diplomatic ties on July 1, 1957.

Ambassador Mishra expressed his belief that Nepal and Sri Lanka will see a new chapter in the bilateral relations in the coming year.

He further said that bilateral discussions among the vice-chancellors, professors of the universities, high-level government officials and representatives of other non-government agencies have been intensified for the expansion of relationships.

Last week, the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) came up with their respective reports highlighting the state of Nepal’s economy. 

Both reports state that Nepali economy, which is currently going through a recession, will grow in the coming days mainly due to the positive indications in agriculture, tourism and remittances.
For the first time, the government has acknowledged that the nation is in a recession, which is primarily caused by a decline in industrial production, low investment, liquidity crisis, high-interest rates, widening trade deficit, low capital spending, and decrease in tax revenue.

The IMF’s prediction is that Nepal’s economy will grow by 3.5 percent in the current fiscal year. Similarly, the World Bank has projected that Nepal’s economy is poised to achieve a growth rate of 3.9 percent.

In September, the Asian Development Bank had anticipated Nepal’s economy to grow by 4.3 percent in 2024, up from the estimated growth of 1.9 in the fiscal year 2023.  

Nepal’s external situation has improved because of responsible fiscal and monetary policies, robust remittances, and rising tourism. After slowing down in 2018, growth is anticipated to pick up in the fiscal year 2023/24 to 3.5 percent, although it will still be below potential due to weak domestic demand and high inflation.

The Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement’s third review calls for a disbursement of about $51.3m, and the Nepali government and IMF team have agreed at the staff level.

Despite monetary easing, necessary balance sheet repairs have been preventing credit expansion. The ECF’s reforms seek to increase credit stability and promote economic growth while preserving external and price stability. In order to increase demand, the budget calls for accelerating the planned increase in capital spending.

Senior economist at the IMF Tidiane Kinda stated in a statement that regardless of monetary easing, loan growth has been constrained by the need to restore balance sheets following the credit boom and a downturn in the real estate market. In August, Nepal’s inflation maintained its high at 7.5 percent, according to the IMF, but it is anticipated to decline. The forecast for Nepal over the medium term is still positive, as planned investments in infrastructure, particularly in the energy sector, are anticipated to help sustain potential growth.

The Nepali government is working to strengthen Anti-Money Laundering/Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT), notably by amending existing AML regulations to conform to global norms. On the country’s side, however, growth is projected to have slowed in the most recent financial year due to import restrictions from the previous year, regulatory uncertainty regarding land markets and construction licensing, lower credit flows, and weaker domestic demand in the context of significant post-Covid emigration outflows.

The resulting revenue shortfall caused the fiscal deficit to increase in the most recent fiscal year, but it did so at a level that still fits with a manageable level of public debt, demonstrating budgetary restraint. However, there seems to be a contradiction in the IMF, World Bank, and Nepal government’s perceptions.

The expansion of Nepal’s economic growth is predicted by the World Bank for the upcoming fiscal year. The World Bank claimed that it anticipates Nepal’s economy will rebound to a 3.9 percent growth rate in the fiscal year 2024. It also indicated that Nepal's Gross Domestic Growth Rate will stay at 1.9 percent this year.

According to the update, Nepal can revive its economy by fostering tourism as well as export and remittances. Even while Nepal’s economy currently benefits greatly from tourism, there are still chances for more investments to increase returns, particularly for local communities. This is significant since Nepal is one of many nations attempting to solve the Covid-19 pandemic-related development setbacks while attempting to limit massive biodiversity losses.

Within the next three years, Nepal hopes to become a middle-income country, and the government has been painting a picture of a thriving economy based on data showing rising remittances and improvements in the tourism industry. However, the general state of the nation’s economy is getting worse by the day.

Chiranjibi Nepal, former governor of Nepal Rastra Bank and a senior economist, points out that the World Bank's optimistic outlook is in contrast to the challenging reality on the ground. He emphasizes that to truly understand a country's financial condition, we must observe local financial developments. He argues that international reports tend to highlight the positive aspects and may not accurately reflect the true economic situation. Nepal's government should focus on policies that stimulate local financial markets instead of relying solely on external reports.

“These reports are made by financial backers which demonstrates the positive side. How could a financial backer focus his/her interest into destruction?” he says. 

Senior economist Dr. Chandra Mani Adhikari says Nepal’s economy is distinct from other nations. This is the busiest time of year for Nepal’s economy, but it appears to be stagnating this year due to limited expansion, low wages, inflation, inadequate investment, corruption, lack of private sector confidence, youth migration, and sudden radical shifts in policy.

These are just a few of the economic features that Nepal is experiencing, Adhikari says, The Nepali economy has become stuck in a downward spiral of high inflation and sluggish growth.

“The banks have money deposited by particular persons that is fixed, and people are also cautious about spending because of the financial crisis, thus money movements in marketplaces are minimal these days. The government is unable to invest money on the market and reassure its citizens that everything is alright,” he says. “To stimulate the economy, the government should increase its development expenditure, which injects money into the market.”

The 16th conference of the World Social Forum is taking place in Nepal for the first time with the slogan 'Another world is possible'.

The organizing committee of the World Social Forum Nepal has organized a global announcement program about the event taking place in the open theater from February 15 to 19, 2024. 

On the occasion, an intercontinental youth forum and a parliamentary forum will be organized, said Sushil BK, coordinator of Media and Communication Group, the World Social Forum Nepal.

The forum is free and open for exchanging ideas and experiences on an alternative to neoliberalism. It started from Porte Alegre in Brazil in 2001 in the course of discussing an alternative to the impact of neoliberal globalization in the world two decades ago. 

The platform represents the collective power of the global movements and the civil society organizations that have united against neoliberalism, globalized capitalism, climate crisis, patriarchy, caste, discrimination based on color, racial discrimination and violence, discrimination and hatred against gender and sexual minority communities.

Non-governmental organizations including the NGO Federation of Nepal are coordinating the conference that runs parallelly.

Various 13 contemporary subjects have been selected for the session. The subjects to be discussed include: economic inequality and economic justice, labor, immigration, slavery and human trafficking; discrimination based on caste, work and descent, caste, ethnicity, indigenous nationalities, untouchability and all forms of discrimination, gender, sexuality, gender-based violence and identity, land, agriculture, food sovereignty, agricultural ecosystem, energy and natural resources;  peace, conflict, war, acquisition, displacement and security; education, art and culture, communication, social networks and media, digital equality; democracy, human rights, authoritarianism, law and justice; health, social protection and equality; climate, environment, equitable transformation, habitat and sustainable development; women, children, youth, the elderly and persons with disabilities and social movements, the place of citizens and the future of the world social platform.

Expressing their solidarity, representatives including Prof Aananda Kumar from India and Dr Uddhav Pyakurel from Nepal have extended their best wishes for the success of the event.

World Investor Week is being celebrated in Nepal by organizing various awareness programs throughout the country. The Securities Board of Nepal (Sebon), the securities market regulator, is leading the World Investor Week in Nepal from Oct 2-8 at the call of the International Organization of Securities Regulators (IOSCO).

Nepal is actively participating by organizing a series of events during these dates with the goal of empowering investors through increased education and awareness. Throughout this week, investors engaged in the securities market will receive education and awareness on various aspects of market development and improvement.

The Nepal Stock Exchange, CDS and Clearing Ltd, and stockbrokers are actively involved in these celebrations. Ramesh Hamal, chairman of Sebon, stated that the World Investor Week is observed in more than 100 countries as part of the IOSCO’s program. The primary objective of this program is to safeguard investors and promote financial literacy. This year’s celebration mainly focuses on Investor Resilience, Crypto Assets, and Sustainable Finance. “The World Investor Week celebrations commenced in Nepal and across the world on Monday, with different countries tailoring their programs to their financial literacy levels,” Hamal added.

Sebon has introduced various protocols for investor protection. During World Investor Week, Sebon is set to sign an agreement with the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), which will significantly enhance financial literacy at the business level through the federation’s network. “We will provide the resources, and FNCCI will organize the program,” he explained.

During the inauguration of World Investor Week on Monday, Minister for Finance Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat launched an artificial intelligence-based chatbot designed for investor education and grievance resolution. This chatbot offers a convenient platform for immediate responses to queries, information requests, and complaints related to the securities market, according to Sebon.

IOSCO has been celebrating World Investor Week since 2017, with the aim of empowering investors. In addition to Sebon, organizations such as Nepse, CDSC, Merchant Bankers Association, Stock Brokers Association, Credit Rating Institutions, Stock Dealers, and PE/VC Fund Managers are actively participating in the World Investor Week celebrations.

Nepse is informing investors about considerations while investing, CDSC is providing insights into share trading, and stockbrokers are conducting widespread activities during World Investor Week. The Stock Brokers Association of Nepal, an organization of stock brokers, co-organized the opening ceremony of World Investor Week on Monday. On Tuesday, members of the association disseminated awareness messages through their website, social media, and online platforms.

Dharmaraj Sapkota, the association’s president, said they would conduct over a dozen investor education and awareness programs across all provinces of the country during the week. These programs will take place in Birtamod, Banepa, Bardibas, Bharatpur, Kathmandu, Birgunj, Baglung, Syangja, Bhairahawa, Mahendranagar, and Jumla.

Additionally, the Securities Brokers Association Nepal, a new organization of stockbrokers, has initiated a week-long program for World Investors Week. The association organized a share awareness and training program at Reliance College in Saraswatinagar, Kathmandu. Sagar Dhakal, the association's president, stated that the awareness program will continue until Oct 8.

The association intends to conduct awareness and training programs at Kathford International College in Balkumari, Central Department of Management of Tribhuvan University in Kirtipur and Panauti Municipality in Panauti, Kavre. On Saturday, a rally will be taken out from Bhrikuti Mandap to Basantapur to raise awareness about investment. Participants will placards and banners related to investment education and literacy. Sebon Chairman Hamal will lead the profession. Likewise, the formal closing ceremony of the World Investor Week will be held on Oct 8.

Chock-a-block traffic has pushed many countries to prioritize the development and operation of mass transit systems, but Nepal is an exception with the metropolis of Kathmandu offering a glaring example.

There’s a great scope for transit systems like underground train, monorail, the cable car and trolley bus/bus rapid transit (BRT) in Kathmandu as they can ease congestion to a great extent.

But developing and operating such a mass transit system in Kathmandu is easier said than done as several rounds of discussions conducted on the topic in the past have shown. 

First and foremost, developing such a system requires a long time and huge investment. The metro and rail systems are not the only alternative, though. Ropeway/cable car can also be used for urban transport at a lower cost compared to other modes of mass transit.  

In reality, BRT has a few fundamental differences compared to the existing system. BRT buses use the existing road facility, but such buses have a higher passenger carrying capacity, use a dedicated lane and have fewer stops. 

In many countries, the public sector operates BRT, which requires huge investments, with subsidies from the government to fulfill social obligations. However, there’s an absence of a public sector entity willing to shoulder this responsibility in Kathmandu, a city of almost 4m people, thanks to an influx of people from hilly and Tarai regions, who come here looking for jobs, for medical treatment and study opportunities. A large number of people move on motorcycles and scooters, while a huge number also shuttles through buses, cars, taxis, three-wheelers and on the recently-introduced BRT system along the Kathmandu-Suryavinayak stretch. 

While the operation of BRT is highly appreciable, it should have less stoppage and the buses in use should be a bit larger with more passengers carrying capacity. As such, 1.74m vehicles (including two-wheelers) in operation along the total road stretch of 247.7 km in and around Kathmandu do not appear to be sufficient to cater to an ever-increasing demand for mobility. 

Kathmandu witnesses massive congestions along its arteries during peak hours: 9-11 am and 5.00-6.30 pm. In the absence of a mass transit system, it is a daily struggle for commuters to report to duty on time and return home on time by getting onboard any means of transport available.  

Also, the availability of soft credit facilities for the purchase of vehicles and absence of long-term import restrictions mean a geometrical surge in the number of vehicles in the city, which only worsens congestion.

There’s no doubt that the existing public transport system does not offer a hassles-free bus/microbus ride to a multitude, especially during peak hours. Traffic Police deserve credit for introducing a relatively good traffic management system by designating stoppages at lay-byes and other suitable sites with necessary segregation.  

In addition, a queuing system in place for potential riders in Ratna Park and other crowded areas of Kathmandu where more than 1,700 buses arrive and depart for different destinations daily has a vital role to play in traffic management. 

Despite its effectiveness, this queuing system is yet to be replicated in several other locations. 

In some cases, the pickup system has been chaotic due to the absence of a specified bus terminal where the bus originates and terminates. 

At present, all buses around some of the important locations, in the absence of designated bus terminals, are starting or terminating their journeys from available lay-byes or other areas. 

In such a chaotic situation, Kathmandu Metropolis has designated Kathmandu Bus Park (terminal) at Gongabu as the origin and destination for all buses to and from Kathmandu. This is a commendable act as it has also helped ease congestion. 

The author is a former Executive Director, Nepal Intermodal Transport Development Board. He can be reached at [email protected]

The article is Part I of a two-part series

As a nation with various religions, cultures, ethnicities and languages, Nepal allows every Nepali to practice their religion and culture. This fundamental right is enshrined in our Constitution. 

Despite different religious texts and beliefs, our core values unify us—humanitarianism, peace and respect for diverse religions and cultures. From Nepal, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, a global symbol of peace, we have spread the message of peace, tolerance, harmony and coexistence around the world. It is vital that we preserve this heritage. 

I earnestly ask all religious, cultural and ethnic groups to promote peace, tolerance and coexistence while staying vigilant against divisive actions that threaten national unity and our heritage. I urge the government to swiftly restore law and order by upholding religious, social and cultural unity, tolerance and coexistence. 

I request social media users to refrain from sharing content that could disrupt religious, social and cultural harmony, tolerance and coexistence. 

The author is a lawmaker and secretary general of Nepali Congress

The World Bank (WB) has projected an improvement in Nepal's economic growth in the years ahead as the growth is expected to rebound to 3.9 percent in 2024 and 5 percent in the following year.

In the WB's Nepal Development Update report launched today, the rise in the growth is expected due to the impact of lifting import restrictions and the gradual loosening of monetary policy and so on.

However, inflation is expected to remain high, weighing on people’s real disposable incomes and private consumption.

Shedding light on the recent economic developments in Nepal, the WB states that real GDP growth decreased to an estimated 1.9 percent in 2023, the lowest rate since 2020 and substantially below the 10-year average growth rate. Likewise, monetary tightening and the effects of import restrictions contributed to the slowdown. Economic activity was particularly subdued in the industry and services sectors, while agricultural output remained more resilient.

Stating that slow credit growth and import restrictions contributed to a reduction in private investment on the demand side, it said lower capital expenditure and revenue underperformance drove lower public investment. "As a result, total investment decreased by more than 10 percent, a sharper reduction than in 2020. Private consumption remained robust, owing to strong remittance inflows."

It is said that inflation increased for the third successive year in 2023, and the increase was broad-based. Food prices rose due to supply side shocks and domestic policy changes. Non-food prices were pushed by higher housing and utility prices. The persistence of high inflation impedes an effective policy mix to stimulate growth while containing external imbalances.

Domestic policies and India’s trade restriction measures invoked a steep reduction of goods imports.

Remittance inflows increased in 2023, following high outward migration in the previous year.

Exports stagnated below their pre-pandemic level, caused also by a real appreciation due to Nepal’s persistently high inflation. Overall, the current account deficit decreased significantly, and the level of foreign currency reserves increased above its policy floor, according to the WB updates on Nepal development. 

The contraction of imports caused a sharp decline in fiscal revenues, as more than half of total revenues are trade related. Because expenditures contracted at a much slower pace than revenues, the fiscal deficit nearly doubled to 6.1 percent of GDP, the highest deficit recorded in more than two decades. Overall, public debt increased due to the weaker fiscal performance to 41.3 percent of GDP, it is said.

Amid challenges, Nepal is leading the way towards operationalizing its green, resilient, and inclusive development vision to shape the country’s long-term economic recovery.

Improved external competitiveness is key to driving this recovery and enabling Nepal to compete in export markets, in terms of both prices and quality.

This requires emphasis on reforms to help increase domestic productivity and reduce the inflation differential with Nepal’s trading partners, the WB assessed.

Nepal have faced a 23-run defeat at the hands of India in the quarter finals match of the T20 Cricket Tournament held under the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China today.

Nepal, who were chasing a massive 203 run target set by India, scored 179 runs losing all the wickets. However, Nepal's performance was worth appreciating.

Dipendra Singh Airee scored highest 32 runs for Nepal.

Similarly, Kushal Bhurtel made 28 runs, Aasif Shekh 10, Kushal Malla 29, captain Rohit Poudel three and Sandip Jora 29 runs.

Likewise, Sompal Kami contributed seven, Gulshan Jha six, Karan KC 18 (not out) and Sandip Lamichhane five runs.

Ravi Bishnoi and Abhesh Khan took three wickets each for India. Likewise, Arshadeep Singh took two wickets and Sai Kishor one wicket.

Electing to bat first after winning the toss, India scored 202 runs.

Yashashwi Jaiswal scored a century. He made 100 runs off 49 balls, putting Nepal under pressure. Rituraj Gayakwad collected 25 runs, Shivan Dubey 25 and Rinku Singh an aggressive 37 runs.

Nepali bowlers Dipendra Singh Airee took two wickets and Sandip Lamichhane and Sompal Kami one each.

With this defeat, Nepal have been exited from this tournament while India have entered into semifinals.

Nepal defeated Maldives by 138 runs to reach quarter-finals of the Asian Games underway in Hangzhou, China.

In the match played on Sunday, Maldives scored 74 runs losing all with the wickets with two balls to spare.

Abinash Bohara of Nepal took a record six wickets.

Similarly, Gulsan Jha, Sompal Kami, Sandeep Lamichhane and Kushal Burtel claimed one wicket each.

Earlier, Nepal had set a target of 213 runs against Maldives.

Captain Rohit Paudel scored a half-century off 27 balls hitting three sixes and three fours while Kushal Malla made unbeaten 47 runs off 20 balls with two sixes and three fours.

Likewise, Kushal Bhurtel and Gulsan Jha scored 35 runs each and Binod Bhandari added 13 runs to the scoreboard. Other batsmen failed to score in double figures.

Nawaj Islam took the highest three wickets for Maldives.

The government is preparing to enter into bilateral air services agreements with three nations, including Switzerland, with the aim of expanding Nepal's international flight connectivity.

According to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Nepal has already signed bilateral air services agreements with 40 countries, with Australia being the latest addition. The government has already completed the paperwork to add Switzerland, Indonesia, and Rwanda to this list.

Civil Aviation Division Chief and Joint Secretary at the Ministry, Buddhi Sagar Lamichhane, said they anticipate the draft of the agreement to be endorsed by the Council of Ministers soon. Afterward, they will determine the location and timing for the formal signing of the agreements.

It may be noted that Nepal and Switzerland principally agreed for a bilateral air connectivity during the 41st Session of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Assembly held in September 27 – October 7, 2022 in Montreal, Canada. Both countries observed the signing of the MoU to this regard, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CANN).

Nepal is also exploring the possibility of MoUs for air connectivity with various other nations, including Indonesia.

Bilateral aviation agreements are considered vital instruments of a nation's foreign diplomacy, and the government is promoting such agreements. Nepal's international flight service system already includes over 20 destinations.

These agreements not only enhance structural relations with respective countries but also strengthen bilateral ties. Furthermore, it's important to note that these agreements are based on the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Lamichhane added.

Likewise, the government is in the process of reviewing agreements with Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This review has been proposed by Kuwait and the UAE themselves.

As part of its policies and programs for the current fiscal year, the government has announced its commitment to establishing new aviation relationships and expanding international air services.

The 44th World Tourism Day is being observed in Nepal by organizing several programs today.

On the occasion, the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Nepal Tourism Board, Department of Tourism and leading organizations of the tourism sector are celebrating the day with several activities.

With the slogan 'Tourism and Green Investment', the World Tourism Day is being observed in Nepal, the ministry said.

In order to mark the day in a fanfare, the 44th World Tourism Day Main Function Committee has been formed under the premiership of Minister for Tourism Sudan Kiranti.

According to the Ministry Spokesperson Rajendra Kumar KC, the tourism minister will welcome foreign tourists arriving at the Tribhuvan International Airport through the first flight at 6 am today.

Likewise, a morning rally will be held from Patan Dhoka, Lalitpur to Mangalbazaar at 7.30 am.

A formal program will be organized in the Patan Durbar area.

At the program jointly organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Lalitpur Metropolis, organizations earning higher foreign currency and individuals and institutions making contributions to the tourism sector will be honored today.

The World Tourism Day is being marked on September 27 every year with a slogan 'Promoting Accessible Tourism for All'.  

After forty-two years, Nepal and China have agreed to amend the bilateral trade agreement that has been guiding the bilateral trade between the two countries. The two neighbors, on Monday, agreed to form a joint technical working committee to review and amend the Nepal-China Trade and Payment Agreement signed in 1981. 

The Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supply of Nepal and the Chinese Ministry of Commerce signed an agreement to this effect in Beijing during the bilateral meeting held at the Great Hall of the People between Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal and his Chinese counterpart Li Qiang. Prime Minister Dahal is on a week-long visit to the northern neighbor.

The Trade and Payments Agreement between Nepal and China has been in operation since 1981. The agreement allowed the use of a number of trading points for the transport of goods between the two countries. 

With a paradigm shift taking place in the international trade regime, trade experts have been insisting on an amendment to the bilateral trade agreement with China. According to them, there are several gaps in the current bilateral agreement and it has also turned obsolete in the current scenario as Nepal faces a huge trade deficit with China. 

After three years of border closures and transportation disturbances, bilateral trade with China is coming back to normalcy with the opening of the Rasuwagadhi and Tatopani border points. 

Over the last several years, imports from China have grown steadily except for occasional hiccups such as in the fiscal year 2019/20 when the government in Nepal imposed a lockdown in March 2020 to curb coronavirus transmission that went on for nearly four months.

On the other hand, Nepal’s exports to its northern neighbor have dwindled leading to a massive trade deficit in the trade between the two countries. Nepal’s exports to China in the last FY 2022/23 stood at just Rs 2.34 billion whereas imports from China reached Rs 231.5 billion in FY 2022/23.

Despite being a next-door neighbor, Nepal has failed to boost its exports to China. China has also been providing duty-free and quota-free market access to thousands of Nepali products which are available to Nepal for being a least developed country. According to the Nepal Trade Information Portal of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, China has been providing zero tariff facilities for about 8,000 goods originating in Nepal. These goods make up 95 percent of the total exports of Nepal to China. 

To receive the Chinese zero-tariff facilities, exporters are required to fulfill certain rules of origin conditions for their goods. Despite such a facility, Nepal has been failing to utilize the duty-free facility and boost exports. One of the reasons, according to officials and experts, is the strict documentation requirements to get export clearances from the Chinese authorities. 

The World Bank in its Nepal Development Update Report in April 2021 pointed out that Nepal has the potential of exporting 12 times higher than its existing annual exports with the highest potential of boosting exports to China. The multilateral agency has termed the untapped export potential as ‘missing exports’. From the perspective of destinations, Nepal’s largest ‘missing exports’ are with China (by $2.2bn), followed by India ($1.2bn), the United States ($800m), and Japan ($700m), according to the report. According to GAN President Pandey, the thin population in the bordering Tibet region also limits Nepal’s export potential to China.

The environment in Chitwan National Park is considered suitable for rhinoceros. Similarly, Koshi Tappu Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for wild water buffalo, locally known as Arna. Likewise, Shuklaphanta has a suitable environment for swamp deer. These wildlife species thrive in these natural habitats. Of late, there have been efforts to translocate them to new locations, but these efforts have failed to deliver desired results.

In the past 36 years, 120 rhinos have been translocated from Chitwan National Park to Bardiya National Park. Of these 120 rhinos, only 38 remain. Similarly, four rhinoceroses were translocated to Shuklaphanta National Park in 20021 and another 10 in 2016. Shuklaphanta's rhino population has reached 17. In Bardiya, the number has decreased significantly.

Likewise, of the 15 Arna brought to Chitwan National Park (three from Central Zoo, Kathmandu, and 12 from Koshi Tappu), none survived. Four swamp deer brought from Shuklaphanta to Chitwan also couldn’t survive. 

At a time when translocation efforts are not delivering desired results, efforts are underway to take two rhinoceroses from Chitwan to Koshi Tappu. While preparations are underway to relocate two rhinoceroses rescued and raised by the park officials after they got separated from their mothers, conservation activists have been saying that wildlife relocation efforts have not been successful in Nepal. 

Rampreet Yadav, the former Chief Conservation Officer of Chitwan National Park, said translocations were being carried out without proper study and discussion. He said that is not in favor of translocation. “Rhinoceros population didn’t increase in Bardiya and Shuklaphanta. Likewise, swamp deer and Arna brought to Chitwan didn’t survive. This shows translocation efforts were not delivering desired results,” he added. “Proper consideration should be given to habitat, environment, and grazing grounds before translocation.”

Nepal had sent rhinoceroses to Dudhwa National Park in India after being denied relocation by Kaziranga National Park in Assam. But in Nepal, rhino translocations have been ongoing without assessing their success.

Nepal first translocated rhinoceroses to Bardiya in 1986. More rhinoceroses were moved to Bardiya in 2003 and 2017. In 2005, Bardiya had 67 rhinoceroses. The number dropped to 22 in 2008. As per the 2021 count, Bardiya has 38 rhinoceroses. National park officials say rhinos move from Bardiya to Katarniyaghat Wildlife Sanctuary in India.

Ten rhinoceroses were translocated to Shuklaphanta in March 2017. The number has grown to 17. Conservation activists say the population didn’t increase as expected because the habitat there, mainly composed of large grasslands, is not suitable for rhinoceroses. “Translocation would have made sense had there been a huge population of, say, 2,000-3,000 rhinos. Translocation is not a good move given the small size of the rhino population. It has not yielded any success,” Ram Kumar Aryal, former chief of National Trust for Nature Conservation, Sauraha, said. “The rhino population increased significantly in Chitwan, but it is decreasing in Bardiya.”

According to Aryal, more translocations will only invite more challenges for conservation. The two rhinos being prepared for translocation, Pushpa (four years) and Anjali (2.5 years), were rescued by conservation workers when they got separated from their mothers. These two calves were raised in NTNC Sauraha Office and released in the Lamital area of the national park. Pushpa and Anjali are being translocated to Koshi Tappu on Wednesday.

Tourism entrepreneurs in Sauraha have expressed dissatisfaction with rhino translocation. “Who will be responsible for the loss in rhino population due to translocations in the past?” Suman Ghimire, former president of the Regional Hotel Association of Nepal, Sauraha, said. “We are not against translocation. But a proper study and discussions should be held before relocation.”

Nepal and China have signed a 12-point agreement and a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Monday.

The agreement was signed in the presence of Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, who is on a week-long official visit to China, and his Chinese counterpart Li Qiang, the Prime Minister’s Secretariat said.

According to the Secretariat, Nepali and Chinese officials signed the agreements on human resources, Hilasa Simikot road, road infrastructure with China, support for improving digital economy, agriculture, livestock and herbal medicines among other issues.

An agreement has also been reached to form a joint technical working group to study trade and payments between Nepal and China.

One of the recommendations made by the Nepal-India Eminent Persons’ Group (EPG) report prepared in 2018 is regulation of existing open borders between the two countries. While the report has not been made public, some of its drafters say they have suggested regulating the porous border between Nepal and India with a string of approaches, such as use of identity cards, installation of cutting-edge technology and strategic control of border crossings.

The previous leadership of the Nepal Army had also suggested the government to regulate the borders with India, albeit without offering any specifics. Besides several communist parties and left-leaning experts have long been advocating for controlling the Nepal-India border  

Yet, amidst these discussions, the corridors of power have remained eerily silent. The government and major political parties of Nepal are yet to give the border regulation issue a serious consideration. Some communist parties have touched upon the topic in their election manifestos, but they have not ventured beyond this electoral commitment in the form of proper deliberation.  

The debate on Nepal-India border regulation does not stop there. Even the Supreme Court has waded in with its order to the government to regulate the open border. 

A few years ago, advocates Chandra Kanta Gyawali, Bimal Gyawali, Liladhar Upadhaya, and border expert Budhi Narayan Shrestha had filed a case demanding a court order to regulate the border between Nepal and India—their primary concern being the surge in cross-border crimes.

It took almost two years for the top court to come up with the full-text of its order which directs the government to take essential actions based on existing national and international laws for the management and regulation of the Nepal-India border.  

The 25-page  document has explained in detail about the border management system, shedding light on some international experiences as well. According to the court’s order, there are three types of border management systems in the world: open border, regulated border, and closed border.  

Advocate Gyawali, one of the petitioners, proclaims that this ruling has turned a political quagmire into a legally binding obligation. The Supreme Court has unequivocally called upon the government to take the reins in hand, directing them to manage and regulate the cross-border movement, citing national and international laws as their guide.

To control criminal activities, protect Nepali territory, facilitate smooth transit process, and uphold Nepal’s independence, sovereignty and national integrity, the court has directed the government to manage and regulate the open border on the basis of past treaties and agreement. It has also ordered the government to sign additional treaties and agreements with India, if needed, on the basis of mutual equality, respect, and cooperation.

To meet this challenge head-on, the court encourages the adoption of technology – drones and CCTV cameras – for a secure, seamless border. Language training for border personnel and the issuance of identification cards for travelers are also recommended.

Moreover, diplomatic overtures to India are prescribed to clarify disputed border areas, ensuring that future disputes do not disrupt the harmony between the two neighboring nations. 

The court has directed the government to give continuity to the tasks related to the installation of new border pillars and restoration of missing ones, as well as evacuation of settlers from the no-man’s land areas.

Arguing that criminal activities, unchecked human trafficking, drug trade, and counterfeiting were thriving in the border areas, the petitioners had demanded for a robust border security and monitoring mechanism. They had argued that the absence of record-keeping had further compounded these challenges. 

Their plea? Revision of treaties, mandatory ID cards for border crossers, and meticulous record-keeping by the government.

In response to the petition, the Office of the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers had said that border management falls within the purview of the executive branch.

“In its previous rulings, the Supreme Court has explicitly stated that decisions regarding the nature and type of relationships to maintain with other countries rest with the sovereign country. Such matters fall under the jurisdiction of the state's executive branch,” it said. “The government is actively and earnestly addressing these concerns to ensure the security and interests of the nation and its citizens through diplomatic channels and other appropriate means.”

It added: “People of both countries have traversed this border without hindrance for centuries. EPG formed by the two countries are studying treaties and agreements. Likewise, officials of both countries are holding regular meetings on border management.”

At the time, the Ministry of Home Affairs also issued its own rebuttal.  “Six immigration offices have been opened along the Nepal-India border for management of movement of people and goods between the two countries. Likewise, the Eminent Persons’ Group having experts from both countries are holding discussion on different treaties between the two countries including the 1950 Treaty,” it said. 

“The two countries have been holding meetings under minister, secretary and high-ranking official level on a regular basis to address border management and control crimes, smuggling, human trafficking, use of counterfeit currency, movement of drugs and narcotics.”

Aadvocate Liladhar Upadhyay says: "Now, government has responsibility to implement the mandamus of the Supreme Court. Regulating border is equally important for India to control various kinds of crimes by taking benefit of open cross border between the two neighbouring countries."

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Defence had also joined the chorus for the dismissal of the petition. They too cited cooperative initiatives, joint measurements, and border pillar deployment, and the EPG initiative, asserting that unilateral decisions are not the answer.

However, the report prepared by EPG is gathering dust and chances of its acceptance by India appears slim. 

Nepal-India border management issue has been overshadowed by the map row that erupted in 2020. There was no official response from the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the latest court order.