Submit your Article

The ICC T20 World Cup is currently being held in the United States and the West Indies. Although Nepal was eliminated in the group stage, their games drew immense support from thousands of enthusiastic Nepali fans at the stadium. Logan Van Beek from the Netherlands praised the Nepali fans for their overwhelming presence and fervor, stating, “I am not sure whether we are in Nepal or Dallas. These fans for Nepal were amazing. It was so loud. I am struggling to think half the time.” The strong support from Nepali fans has garnered praise from various cricket pages, experts, and enthusiasts, emphasizing the substantial influence of the Nepali diaspora. This article explores the significance of the Nepali diaspora and its potential as Nepal’s soft power.

What is diaspora and why is it important?

Diaspora refers to individuals who have left their home country to live abroad for an extended period. Kevin Kenny, in his book ‘Diaspora: A Very Short Introduction,’ describes diaspora as a concept that illuminates a world influenced by migration, especially relevant to groups that have migrated involuntarily, maintain connections to their homeland, and are dispersed globally.

The Ministry of External Affairs of India reports that the global Indian diaspora is the largest, comprising 13.6 million Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), 18.6 million Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and nearly 32.3 million overseas citizens of India. Additionally, 2.5 million Indians move abroad every year. Similarly, Nepal has a sizable diaspora, with over 4.5 million Nepalis living outside the country. Since passports were first issued on November 26, 2010, over 10 million have been issued.

Every day, around 1,500 to 3,000 Nepali people leave Nepal for work, study, or travel. In 2023, more than 1.6 million people went abroad for various purposes including employment, tourism, training, sports, residence, and study. According to the Department of Immigration, 70,915 people left to settle permanently and 808,415 left for employment in 2023, excluding those working in India.

The economic survey data shows that 102,504 students left to study abroad in 2078-079, 110,217 in 2079-80, and 90,179 NOCs were issued until Falgun 2080-81. Most students aim to settle in economically secure countries such as Japan, Canada, Australia, the UK, the USA, South Korea, India, the UAE, France, and Denmark. As more Nepali students move to these countries, the Nepali diaspora will grow.

Currently, Nepali citizens can enter 111 countries with an institutional permit and 178 countries with an individual work permit. In the financial year 2079-80, 771,327 young people went abroad, primarily to Malaysia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman.

The importance of the diaspora is increasing. The contributions made by the diaspora play a fundamental role in the relationship between countries and contribute significantly to their home country's international presence, economy, and people-to-people relations.

Foreign policy and the Nepali diaspora

Nepal’s diplomatic outreach extends to 182 countries, reflecting its global relations, with the Nepali expatriate community playing a significant role. Known for their friendly and hospitable nature, as well as pride in their culture, traditions, religion, and language, Nepalis bolster the country’s reputation worldwide. Nepal’s ‘Foreign Policy 2077’ aims to harness the knowledge, expertise, financial resources, and networking capabilities of the Nepali diaspora to further national development.

This foreign policy vision strives to position Nepal as a robust, progressive, peaceful, and esteemed nation. It acknowledges the pivotal role of the Nepali diaspora in economic diplomacy and emphasizes mobilizing Nepali expatriates to safeguard and propagate Nepalese art, culture, language, and heritage.

The policy also stresses fostering positive attitudes toward Nepal, garnering support for its progress, and enhancing Nepal’s global reputation by tapping into the potential of the Nepali diaspora. It calls for unity, cooperation, and collaboration among Nepali expatriates, urging them to participate actively in the political and economic arenas of their host countries.

Additionally, the policy commits to providing legal aid to Nepalis in need and promoting efficient consular services for Nepalis living abroad. It advocates for establishing and operating Nepali language schools and training centers in countries with significant Nepali populations to preserve the Nepali language, culture, and traditions.

Despite these ambitious goals, practical implementation is often hampered by the limited budget allocated to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This budget primarily covers embassy rent and staff salaries, constraining the scope of operational activities. Bharat Raj Poudel, former Foreign Secretary and Nepal’s current Ambassador to Canada, highlights these resource constraints, noting that embassies operate with very limited budgets and small staff, focusing mainly on urgent issues such as rescuing Nepalis in need, leaving little capacity for economic and public diplomacy.

What can be done?

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his ministers prioritize interacting with the Indian diaspora during their foreign visits, encouraging Indians abroad to visit India with friends who are not Indian. This approach has strengthened India’s ties with other countries. Similarly, Nepal’s Prime Minister and other ministers should prioritize building and nurturing relationships with Nepalis residing overseas.

It is crucial to hold diplomats accountable and bolster the capabilities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). Restructuring MOFA and expanding Nepal’s diplomatic presence is necessary to enhance the country’s global image. Frequent diplomatic recalls driven by political motivations negatively affect Nepal’s reputation.

Creating adaptable legislation and policies to incentivize investments from the growing Nepali diaspora is important. Non-resident Nepalis (NRNs) can unite Nepalis in their respective countries. The government can support returning Nepali immigrants’ contributions to the Brain Gain Center (BGC) to aid in national progress. All political factions in Nepal should work towards unifying the Nepali people and promoting their contributions to national development.

The participation of Nepalis in Nepal Day Parades worldwide, including in the USA, Canada, the UK, Europe, Japan, Australia, and other regions, is crucial for celebrating Nepal’s diversity and culture. The government and political parties need to acknowledge and harness the potential of the Nepali diaspora for the country's advancement.

The Maoist insurgency in Nepal, also known as the People’s War, led to widespread human rights abuses by both the Maoist rebels and the government forces. Enforced disappearances were a common tactic used during this period, with numerous individuals abducted and never seen again. According to reports from various human rights organizations, including the United Nations, hundreds of cases of enforced disappearances occurred during the conflict. The families of the disappeared have been left in a state of perpetual uncertainty and grief, without any information about the fate or whereabouts of their loved ones.

The Comprehensive Peace Accord (CPA) of 2006 was an agreement that ended the civil war and laid the foundation for peace and reconciliation in Nepal. Among its various provisions, the CPA emphasized the need to address human rights violations committed during the conflict, including enforced disappearances. It pledged to establish mechanisms for truth-seeking, reconciliation, and justice, including the formation of Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and Commission on Investigation of Enforced Disappeared Persons (CIEDP).

Despite these commitments, the progress in addressing the issue of enforced disappearances has been slow and inadequate. The TRC and CIEDP were only established in 2015, nearly a decade after the signing of the CPA, and have faced numerous challenges, including political interference, lack of resources, and limited mandates. As of now, many families of the disappeared are still awaiting answers and justice.

The Supreme Court of Nepal has played a crucial role in addressing the issue of enforced disappearances. In a landmark decision in 2007, the Court ordered the government to criminalize enforced disappearances and establish a commission to investigate such cases. This decision underscored the need for legal reforms and accountability mechanisms to address enforced disappearances in accordance with international standards.

Subsequent Supreme Court rulings have reiterated the importance of ensuring justice for victims of enforced disappearances. For instance, in 2015, the Court struck down several provisions of the TRC and CIEDP Act, which were deemed inconsistent with international human rights norms, particularly concerning amnesty provisions for serious human rights violations. The Court emphasized the necessity of prosecuting perpetrators of enforced disappearances and providing truth and reparations to victims’ families.

Nepal’s 2018 penal code made enforced disappearance a criminal offense under domestic law for the first time. Nepal has taken some steps towards addressing enforced disappearances through national laws and commissions. The Enforced Disappearances Enquiry, Truth and Reconciliation Commission Act of 2014 established the TRC and CIEDP with the mandate to investigate conflict-era human rights violations and recommend actions for reparations, prosecutions, and institutional reforms. However, these commissions have been criticized for their inefficacy and lack of independence.

The CIEDP, in particular, has struggled to fulfill its mandate. As of 2024, A total of 3,288 complaints have been submitted to the Commission of Investigation on Enforced Disappeared Persons. It has yet to complete its investigations into the thousands of cases submitted by victims' families. The slow pace of investigations and the lack of concrete outcomes have undermined public confidence in the commission. It also highlighted the need for stronger legal and institutional frameworks to address enforced disappearances effectively.

ICPPED: A path forward

The International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (ICPPED), adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2006, is a comprehensive international treaty aimed at preventing enforced disappearances, ensuring accountability, and providing justice and reparations to victims and their families. It establishes the right of individuals not to be subjected to enforced disappearance and the right of victims and their families to know the truth about the circumstances of enforced disappearances and the fate of the disappeared persons.  

Why should Nepal ratify ICPPED?

Enhancing accountability and justice: The ICPPED requires state parties to ensure that enforced disappearances are investigated thoroughly and perpetrators are brought to justice. Ratifying the convention would impose a legal obligation on Nepal to prosecute those responsible for enforced disappearances, regardless of their political affiliation.

Improving institutional capacity: Compliance with the ICPPED would likely lead to increased international support and cooperation, including technical assistance and capacity-building initiatives. Such support could enhance the operational capacity of the TRC and CIEDP. 

Providing a framework for reparations: The ICPPED outlines the rights of victims and their families to receive reparations, including restitution, compensation, rehabilitation, and guarantees of non-repetition. Ratifying the convention would reinforce Nepal’s commitment to addressing the needs of victims comprehensively. This would include not only financial compensation but also measures for psychological and social rehabilitation, which are crucial for the healing process.

Promoting transparency and public trust: Ratification of the ICPPED would require Nepal to adopt measures ensuring transparency in the handling of enforced disappearance cases. This includes maintaining accurate records, providing information to families, and making investigation findings public. Greater transparency would help restore public trust in the TRC and CIEDP, as well as in the broader justice system. 

Aligning with international standards: By ratifying the ICPPED, Nepal would align its domestic policies with international human rights standards. This alignment would enhance Nepal’s international standing and demonstrate its commitment to upholding human rights. It would also facilitate cooperation with international bodies and other countries in addressing enforced disappearances, including in the areas of extradition, mutual legal assistance, and sharing of best practices.

Ratifying the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance is not merely a symbolic gesture for Nepal; it is a necessary step towards addressing a painful chapter in its history, ensuring justice for victims, and upholding the rule of law. Given the historical context of enforced disappearances during the conflict, the commitments made under the Comprehensive Peace Accord, the existing national laws and commissions, and the directives of the Supreme Court, Nepal has both the moral and legal imperative to ratify the ICPPED. Doing so would strengthen its legal frameworks, enhance accountability, provide closure to victims’ families, uphold international human rights obligations, and fulfill its commitments to peace and justice.

Nepal are scheduled to play the 'Group D' final match against Bangladesh in the ICC T20 World Cup on Monday.

The match will begin at 5:15 am (Nepali time) in the Ornos Vale stadium of St Vincent, the West Indies.

As Nepal failed to advance to the quarter finals, the match did not count for the score. It is, however, considered significant for Bangladesh.

South Africa clinched top position with eight points from Group ‘D’, thereby entering the second round of the World Cup. The second group to reach super eight from Group ‘D’ is yet to be finalized.

Bangladesh will secure second position and enter into the Super Eight if they defeat Nepal.

Bangladesh have four points.

Dear Readers,

Greetings from Kathmandu!

This week, Nepal’s media focused on the Indian Lok Sabha elections and their regional implications. Following Narendra Modi’s historic re-election as India’s Prime Minister for a third term, ApEx published two analytical pieces. The first covered the election outcomes and Nepal-India relations, while the second examined the challenges Modi might face with his neighborhood policy during his third term. The diplomatic and strategy communities in Kathmandu are still analyzing these developments, but India’s policy toward Nepal is expected to see both continuity and change. There are also rumors that Modi may soon visit Nepal.

Another major story this week involved the arrest of two Nepali nationals by Tibetan officials in Gorkha. Neither the Nepali nor Chinese governments have provided information on the matter. Some media outlets suggested the arrests were related to support for Tibetan refugees fleeing Nepal, but this has not been independently verified. We have called on the government to address this issue immediately.

President Ram Chandra Poudel is currently touring Switzerland and Germany. In Switzerland, he delivered a keynote address at the high-level event of the Forum of Global Coalition for Social Justice in Geneva.  Additionally, Bangladesh’s Cabinet Committee on Government Purchase approved a proposal to import 40 MW of electricity from Nepal, with India agreeing to facilitate the sale.

On the domestic front, Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane remains in the spotlight due to allegations of embezzling cooperative funds. The Supreme Court is currently reviewing a case to dismiss Lamichhane, and all eyes are on the court as it demands evidence regarding his involvement. Lamichhane, who was outspoken just a few weeks ago, is now cautious in his public statements.

Temperatures across Nepal continue to rise, affecting daily life. Some schools have closed to protect students from heat waves. But with the arrival of monsoon three days ahead of schedule, meteorologists expect cooler conditions in the days to come.

Gandaki Province Chief Minister Surendra Pandey from the Nepali Congress secured a vote of confidence after lawmaker Phanindra Devkota defied his party’s orders and supported Pandey. The Supreme Court is also hearing cases related to government formation in Koshi Province. In the Sudurpaschim Province, intra-party disputes within the Maoist party are disrupting the government’s functioning. Overall, provincial governments are nearly defunct, with the Supreme Court holding significant power over their formation and dismissal. It is clear that provincial governments are even more unstable than the federal government.

The controversy over Giri Bandhu Tea Estate continues to make headlines. The Nepali Congress and other parties are criticizing CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli, whose government in 2021 amended the Land Act enabling the tea estate to exchange around 280 bighas of land, situated at prime location in Birtamod, Jhapa. Oli has defended the controversial amendment that has been overturned by the Supreme Court. This week, the UML chair also defended his 2020 decision to dissolve the parliament, stating that there was nothing unconstitutional or undemocratic about seeking a fresh mandate when the leaders from within the governing party were refusing to work in favor of the people.   

The Janata Samajbadi Party led by Upendra Yadav held its first-ever general convention but failed to elect office-bearers due to internal controversies. Recently, Yadav’s party split, with seven members forming a separate party. Yadav has sought the court’s intervention to deem the split illegitimate. Meanwhile, the main opposition CPN-UML is holding district conventions, having completed them in more than 64 districts. This week, Oli stated that his decision to dissolve the parliament in 2020 was to protect the UML.

If you want to publish your stories, articles and columns, or offer feedback and suggestions, mail me @[email protected] or [email protected]. I have started this informal and conversational-style column to provide your updates on national and international events. Happy weekend! 

Kamal Dev Bhattarai 

Editor, The Annapurna Express

Nepal’s second match against Sri Lanka in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup was washed out at the Lauderhill Field in Florida, USA on Wednesday.

The match scheduled to start at 5:15 am Nepali time had to be abandoned without a ball bowled because of the incessant downpour, forcing the teams to share a point each before the toss was held.

This was the first time that Nepal and Sri Lanka were facing each other in the senior cricket team but the match had to be called off due to incessant rainfall.

Nepal are at fourth position in the group ‘D’ followed by Sri Lanka.

Nepal lost to their first match at the hands of  Netherlands by six wickets in the group stage while Sri Lanka suffered a defeat to South Africa by six wickets in the first match and Bangladesh by two wickets in the second match.

South Africa have already secured their berth in Super Eight from Group ‘D’.

Nepal will have to win the remaining two games to book a place in Super Eight.

Now, the Nepali team will go to the West Indies to play the remaining two matches of the group stage.

Nepal will play against South Africa on June 14 and Bangladesh on June 16 in St. Vincent, West Indies.

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

How has your experience been so far in Nepal?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Understanding geological hazards

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

Disaster awareness and preparedness  

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

Resources management 

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

Career opportunities

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

Long term impact

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

Conclusion

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

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

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

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

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

When did politics start infiltrating the judiciary?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

International practice of judge appointment 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Policy for judicial appointments in Nepal 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nepal are playing in the World Cup after a decade.

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

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

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

Nepali team

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fair enough, I would say.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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