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Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel has said that an investment-friendly environment has been created in the country. 

Speaking in a news conference held today, he mentioned that after Nepal got a BB score in the sovereign credit rating, Nepal has become a suitable environment for investment. He said that the rating indicates that Nepal's economic structure, public finance mobilization and macroeconomic and financial conditions are investment-friendly and advanced.

He said, "The result of the credit rating has created a situation where Nepal's credit capacity is high, its financial and economic capacity is good, which means that it can get loans at low interest rates from the international market."

 Minister Paudel expressed his belief that this condition will help to increase the confidence of the private sector and attract foreign investment. In the sovereign credit rating, there is the rating of basically four sectors of the economy: structural aspects of the economy, macroeconomic performance, and public and external sector economic indicators, it is learnt.

While rating the country's sovereign credit, these aspects are evaluated independently from various sovereign rating models and qualitative measurement methods, and the score obtained is given a rating from minimum to maximum.

In the rating, the economic structure of Nepal, the state of public finance, the status of internal and external debt, the state of the indicators of the monetary and financial sector, the economic index of the external sector, the medium-term and long-term blueprint of the economic growth reflected in the Sixteenth Plan and other details and statistics were analyzed.

In addition to that, as part of the qualitative evaluation phase, the researchers carried out on-site visit to Nepal, and consulted and discussed with high officials of government agencies such as the Office of the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers, the Ministry of Finance, the National Planning Commission, the Nepal Rastra Bank, etc. Also, the officials of the private sector and bilateral and multilateral development partner agencies in Nepal were consulted during the study. The Nagadhunga tunnel was observed as a model to evaluate the implementation of the mid-term and long-term plans of infrastructure development presented by Nepal.

Joint Secretary at the Ministry Narayan Prasad Risal, informed that the sovereign credit rating is used by the world's investors and financial service providers as a basis for evaluating the investment environment of any country.

According to him, it will evaluate the structure and condition of the country's economy from the eyes of independent experts and bring the real situation to investors around the world.

As Nepal’s media landscape undergoes a digital revolution, citizen journalism has emerged as an undeniable force, empowering ordinary people to take the reins in reporting news and sharing stories. With smartphones and social media at their fingertips, citizens are no longer passive consumers of information rather they are active contributors, reshaping how news is produced and consumed. But this shift has also raised critical questions: How is this new wave of journalism impacting traditional media? And what does it mean for public discourse and the accuracy of information?

Giving a voice to the marginalized

Citizen journalism is helping bring the stories of Nepal’s underrepresented communities into the public eye. Through platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, citizens have become storytellers for indigenous groups, linguistic minorities, and those in remote regions. It has become a voice that might have been overlooked by mainstream media. This access to the media and journalistic tools is changing the face of Nepali media, putting the power of information into the hands of those who, until recently, were considered mere viewers.

If we take into account and try to figure out when it all started then the 2015 Gorkha earthquake was a turning point. As the disaster struck, traditional media outlets were overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the disaster, limiting their reach to affected areas. Citizen journalists quickly filled this gap by sharing firsthand accounts, photos, and videos from the affected regions via social media. This real-time reporting not only provided critical information to aid organizations and government agencies but also galvanized public support and mobilized resources for relief efforts. Additionally, the citizen-led narrative shaped public opinion on disaster preparedness, pushing for stronger government response and policy reforms related to disaster management. Their updates provided vital information for rescue operations and connected people to help. This grassroots coverage filled critical gaps, delivering on-the-ground updates to a world eager to help. From that moment onwards, citizen journalism was not just a novelty but has become a lifeline.

Challenges to traditional media

The rise of citizen journalism has put traditional news outlets in a challenging position. With audiences now turning to social media for faster, more personal updates, legacy media outlets are facing a decline in readers and revenue. Some have even integrated user-generated content into their platforms to stay relevant, recognizing that these local news collectors who are just interested in filling their feeds are no longer competition but allies in a world that values immediacy.

But the shift is not without its risks. One of the biggest concerns is accuracy. Without the rigorous editorial checks and balances of traditional media, there’s always a chance that misinformation can spread unchecked. News isn’t just news anymore—it’s personal and, at times, unverified, leading to blurred lines between fact and opinion. If left unchecked, this misinformation can shape public opinion and discourse in troubling ways. Even with all the fact-checking and gatekeeping by many platforms misinformation finds its way towards the public who are more prone to the misinformation rather than the actual factual news.

Ethical questions and the need for guidelines

Citizen journalists also face unique ethical questions. Reporting live from the ground, especially during disasters or conflicts, can sometimes infringe on individuals’ privacy or unintentionally cause harm. The absence of training and clear ethical guidelines can mean that citizen journalists sometimes violate standards unknowingly, further complicating the situation. Being untrained but hungry for views and likes on social media platforms has raised more questions in citizen journalism, the viral videos have helped the mainstream media for news but more than that they have raised questions about the untrained and unprofessional news collection and dissemination methods. 

Furthermore, there’s the financial side. While social media makes it possible to reach vast audiences without the costs of traditional journalism, finding sustainable revenue streams remains difficult. Independent citizen journalists lack the advertising revenues that keep traditional media afloat, limiting their ability to pursue stories in depth or over the long term.

A new era for public discourse?

Despite the challenges, citizen journalism in Nepal has undoubtedly brought diversity and democratization to the nation’s media. From holding government officials accountable to giving voice to grassroots movements, citizen journalists have shown that they are willing and able to shape the news themselves.

For citizen journalism to thrive responsibly in Nepal, developing ethical guidelines and providing training in media literacy is essential. A strong foundation can help these citizen journalists cover stories with the integrity and professionalism that audiences deserve. Funding models, too, need innovation—partnerships, crowdfunding, or nonprofit support could ensure that citizen journalism doesn’t fizzle out due to a lack of resources.

As citizen journalism continues to grow, it’s clear that both the challenges and the promise it holds are immense. But at its heart, it signals an exciting new direction for Nepali media: one where every individual has the potential to tell the stories that matter most to them, redefining not only who tells the news but what news truly is. In this evolving media ecosystem, it is the responsibility of both traditional and citizen journalists to work together to build a well-informed, engaged society that values truth, diversity, and inclusivity.

The Emperor’s New Clothes, one of the most enduring and insightful fairy tales by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen, continues to resonate deeply with readers across generations. Originally published in 1837, the story is a sharp critique of vanity, deception, and the susceptibility of those in power to flattery and self-delusion. Despite its fairy-tale origins, its themes remain startlingly relevant in the context of contemporary political systems, especially in developing countries like Nepal.

This article draws a parallel between the allegorical tale of the emperor, who is deceived into believing he is wearing invisible clothes, and the current political climate in Nepal. The emperor’s blindness to reality, his vanity, and the fear of appearing foolish that paralyzes those around him mirror the behavior of many political leaders today. Much like the emperor’s advisers, who fail to speak the truth out of fear, Nepali citizens and officials often find themselves complicit in a system where hollow promises, corruption, and the illusion of progress prevail over tangible change. Through this comparison, this article explores how the lessons from Andersen’s story illuminate the challenges facing Nepal’s political landscape, offering a critique of both leadership and governance in the country.

Once upon a time, there was a foolish emperor who was very fond of fashion. He spent a lot of money on the finest clothes and always wanted to look more beautiful than others. The people of the city were often amazed by his elaborate attire.

One day, two clever swindlers arrived in the empire. They presented themselves as weavers of extraordinary fabrics and convinced the emperor that the clothes they made were not only beautiful but also had a unique quality. They told him that only wise and competent people could see these fabrics, while fools would see nothing at all.

Surprised by this idea, the emperor invited the swindlers to his palace. They presented themselves with grand gestures, and the emperor, eager to see these magical clothes, immediately hired them, giving them as much gold and silk as they requested to weave the garments.

However, the weavers were doing nothing but pretending to weave. Every day, the emperor sent his trusted advisers to check on the progress. Even though none of them saw any clothes being made, each of them, afraid of appearing foolish, reported to the emperor that the clothes were magnificent.

One day, the emperor himself went to see the weavers at work. He too saw them working on empty looms, but fearful of being thought of as a fool or incompetent, he praised the clothes, even though there was nothing to see.

Finally, the day of the grand parade arrived. The entire city gathered to see the emperor in his new clothes. The emperor, completely naked, proudly walked through the streets, confident that he looked magnificent. The people, too, afraid of being thought fools, began praising the invisible clothes.

But then a small child shouted, “The emperor is not wearing anything! The emperor is naked!” A hush fell over the crowd, and the emperor suddenly felt exposed. By then, the swindlers had long since disappeared with their sacks of gold.

In Nepal today, the emperor is no longer an individual; the country itself walks naked. The leaders, like the weavers, are weaving empty promises and walking away with sacks of gold, just like the Rajapaksas in Sri Lanka.

The story of The Emperor’s New Clothes resonates deeply in Nepal’s current political context, reflecting the widespread disillusionment and frustration many citizens feel toward their leaders. It serves as a powerful metaphor for the current situation, where many leaders, much like the swindlers in the tale, are focused only on their own personal gain and power.

In recent years, Nepal has faced significant political turmoil. Leaders often make grand promises about development, infrastructure, and social welfare. But these promises frequently remain unfulfilled, leaving citizens with unmet expectations. Many leaders are preoccupied with staying in power and engaging in corruption, while failing to address the problems of poverty, education, and healthcare. Like the emperor in the story, many of these leaders are disconnected from the reality of ordinary citizens. Political campaigns are often presented through catchy slogans and flashy rallies. These spectacles create an illusion of progress. However, beneath the surface, the daily struggles of the people continue: rising inflation, inadequate public services, and a lack of opportunities. Citizens, like the emperor’s advisers, hesitate to tell the truth, unsure of how to challenge the narrative being presented. Awareness is beginning to rise. Recent protests and waves of civic engagement reflect an increasing demand for reality and accountability. Citizens are no longer willing to accept the status quo. They are beginning to challenge the hypocrisy of their leaders. The innocent child in the story symbolizes this awareness, encouraging the public to see through the illusion and to challenge the ongoing deception.

Building a new society

This is a crucial moment for the citizens of Nepal to become actively involved in the political process. They must demand transparency from their leaders and advocate for policies that prioritize social welfare and real development, rather than hollow promises. Grassroots movements and civil society organizations are key to this struggle, as they can force leaders to be accountable. This will help cultivate a culture of civic engagement and participation. The final lesson is clear: true leadership is about service, integrity, and accountability. It calls for leaders who are ready to face the challenges of governance and put aside their personal ambitions for the well-being of the people. By adhering to core values, civil society can build an honest political environment that addresses the needs of the public. The story of The Emperor’s New Clothes serves as a cautionary tale of foolishness, but it also carries an important message for the citizens of Nepal. It underscores the importance of vigilance, participation, and the constant pursuit of truth. Citizens are waking up to the illusions spun by their leaders. They are raising their voices for a cleaner political character and demanding standards based on higher values. By rejecting deception and embracing reality, we can build a political system that is accountable to the people. A collective effort can ultimately lead Nepal toward a stronger, more responsive system that listens to the voice of the people.

Nepal is fighting a surge in dengue cases, a potentially deadly disease once unheard of in the country's high-altitude Himalayan regions, as climate change and urbanisation nurture fever-bringing mosquitoes in new zones.

Only a single case of dengue was recorded in Nepal in 2004. Two decades later, thousands of cases are being reported across the country.

Once confined to tropical regions in the country's plains, dengue-carrying mosquitoes have begun breeding in the valleys and even cool mountainous areas, reaching elevations where its bite was once unknown.

Twelve people have died and more than 28,000 people have been infected this year, including 18 cases in Solukhumbu district, home to Mount Everest.

Doctors say the real number might be higher, as not everyone is tested.

"It should not be seen here at all," Suman Tiwari, district health chief for Solukhumbu, which sits at an altitude of some 2,500 metres (8,202 feet).

"What is surprising is that some people with no travel history have also tested positive for dengue".

In the worst cases, dengue causes intense viral fevers that trigger bleeding, internally or from the mouth and nose.

The capital Kathmandu, at an elevation of approximately 1,400 metres (4,600 feet), has seen over 4,000 cases.

"Unfortunately, it is expanding itself geographically," said Sher Bahadur Pun, a doctor at Kathmandu's Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital.

"Once upon a time, it was just seen in a certain area, but it is moving up towards mountainous regions, even up to the Himalayan foothills."

In some districts, hospitals have been overwhelmed with dengue patients suffering from crippling fevers, body aches and rashes.

"In the last decade, it has grown exponentially," Pun said.

"After every outbreak, the number of infected people has increased... and my experience is that after every outbreak, it has become more deadly."

In October, the UN health agency said the number of reported dengue cases worldwide has approximately doubled each year since 2021, with over 12.3 million cases, including more than 7,900 deaths, reported in just the first eight months of 2024.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called the global spread an "alarming trend".

Experts say changes in temperature and rainfall patterns driven by climate change and urbanisation are creating favourable conditions for Aedes aegypti, the mosquito responsible for transmitting dengue.

That means it can survive and breed at higher elevations.

Narayan Gyawali, a virologist who specialises in zoonotic diseases, said that urbanisation and increased mobility of people were also driving the dengue surge.

"When microclimates are established with urbanisation in new areas, internal temperatures become warm and there is humidity," Gyawali said.

"A favourable environment is created for breeding and survival."

This is the third consecutive year that Nepal has seen a dengue outbreak -- an apparent shift from cyclical patterns where outbreaks are expected every two to three years.

The country's worst outbreak was in 2022, with 88 deaths and nearly 55,000 cases, according to government figures.

Last year, 20 people died, with more than 50,000 cases.

"Dengue used to be reported in a cyclical trend, but in the last few years, it has been seen every year," said Gokarna Dahal of the Health Ministry's Epidemiology and Disease Control Division.

"Our preparation now is to fight with it every year".

Dahal said it was an "injustice" that a developing country like Nepal -- which makes a minimal contribution towards the burning of fossil fuels driving the planet's warming -- should shoulder greater impacts of climate change.

Meenakshi Ganguly, from Human Rights Watch, said that while the primary responsibility to protect its public's health lies with Nepal, countries most responsible for global emissions also have an obligation.

"Those countries which are primarily responsible for global emissions need to do a lot more to protect people in countries like Nepal from the consequences of global warming," Ganguly said.

"Combatting mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, which are spreading fast to new areas, needs to be part of that." AFP

Joseph Nye Jr defines “soft power,” as a country’s ability to influence others without resorting to coercion. This process involves countries projecting their values, ideals, and culture across borders to foster goodwill and strengthen partnerships, deriving attractiveness from their cultural, political, and foreign policy initiatives. During the Cold War, the United States and the Soviet Union, as two superpowers, effectively employed soft power as a nonviolent method to promote their cultural, economic, and political values. In international politics, soft power is understood as the capacity to attract and co-opt rather than coerce, playing a crucial role in the context of multilateralism. It encompasses much more than just image-building, public relations, or temporary popularity; it constitutes a form of real power that enables countries to achieve their political objectives.

Nepal and its soft power

Nepal harnesses its soft power to maintain sovereignty and foster prosperity. Recognized for contributing large numbers of UN peacekeepers, Nepal garners global respect for its professionalism and integrity. Another significant soft power asset is the recruitment of Gurkha soldiers into the British and Indian Army. Beyond peacekeeping, Nepal’s rich cultural heritage, mystic mountains, featuring diverse ethnic, tribal, and social influences, enhances its global image. Key soft power resources include tourism, religious harmony, hydroelectric potential, and cultural expressions like music, art, and festivals. Nepal, the birthplace of Lord Buddha and Goddess Sita, can further elevate its soft power through religious diplomacy, promoting Buddhist heritage, Hindu shrines and unique traditions such as the Dog Festival (Kukur Tihar).

Kukur Tihar: Dog’s day

Kukur Tihar is the second day of the Nepalese Hindu Festival of Tihar, also known as the “Day of Dogs”. According to Vedic Sanatan Dharma, dogs are given special importance as they are considered as the guardian, security guard, and messenger of Yamaraj and it is said that the dog also guards the gate of salvation after death. Dogs have been very close to human beings since human civilization. The dog is also the wagon of the fearless Lord Bhairav, the seeker of Tantra and the path of righteousness. On this Kukur Tihar day, the dogs are worshiped and offered delicious food with garlands and tika.

Enhancing soft power through international festival

Many world leaders, celebrities and business tycoons have kept dogs as their pets. The US’s Presidential pets have long captured public interest. For instance, Roosevelt’s dog Fala, Nixon’s Checkers, and Clinton’s Buddy highlighted the pets’ role in political narratives. Johnson’s beagles, Bush’s Springer Spaniel Spot, and the Obama’s Bo and Sunny continued the tradition. Biden brought Champ, Major (the first shelter dog), Commander to the White House. Celebrities like Rihanna’s Oliver, billionaire Bill Gates’ Biko, Tata’s Tuffy, and several others have often been in the limelight.

Not only does keeping dogs as pets hold significance but representing dogs as diplomatic gifts have played a contemporary feature in world politics. Khrushchev’s gift of Pushinka, a dog from the Soviet space program to John F. Kennedy in 1961 symbolized Soviet achievements. The Russian President Vladimir Putin has received four dogs as diplomatic gifts, all residing with him in Moscow. The latest, Pasha, a Yugoslavian shepherd, was gifted by Serbia in 2019, Verni, a shepherd from Turkmenistan given in 2017, Yume, a Japanese Akita received after Putin supported Japan’s 2011 disaster recovery, and Buffy, his first gift dog, from Bulgaria in 2010.

Many world leaders who share a love for dogs often bring their pets along to official events and sometimes even on the campaign trail. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s rescue terrier Dilyn travels with his partner, while Finnish President Sauli Niinistö's Boston Terrier Lennu has become a national sensation. Irish President Michael D. Higgins is regularly seen with his Bernese Mountain Dogs, Bród and Síoda while Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has a Portuguese Water Dog, Kenzie. French President Emmanuel Macron’s dog, Nemo, is a Labrador-Griffon mix, chosen from a shelter. Also, Queen Elizabeth’s royal corgis to beautiful actress Audrey Hepburn’s fluffy Mr. Famous and many others.

This love and friendship between leaders and dogs reflect their capacity for compassion—a key trait, especially for one who has as much power as the president. Dogs have long been used as symbols of strength. In paintings and statues, leaders are often shown with a loyal dog by their side, underscoring how animals can represent power in various forms.

The love for dogs as pets is growing globally, not only among the public but also among political leaders, celebrities and business leaders as a dog diplomacy. This trend makes festivals like Nepal’s Kukur Tihar an increasingly relevant tool for soft power diplomacy. This tradition has begun to inspire celebrations abroad as well. For example, since 2016, Puerto Vallarta and Mexico City have hosted their own Kukur Tihar, with Mexican animal rights groups and communities participating by garlanding and adorning dogs with vermilion, just as in Nepal. This adaptation was inspired by Nepal's festival to raise awareness about the respect humans owe to animals, particularly dogs, and has since gained popularity, highlighting dogs in a unique cultural celebration.

The Kukur Tihar, can serve as a form of soft power for Nepal by drawing international attention as a celebration of respect for dogs—a sentiment that resonates globally, even among prominent leaders. Thus, this festival not only strengthens Nepal’s cultural diplomacy by attracting tourists but also connects with animal lovers and advocates worldwide, fostering a positive image that transcends geographic borders. Through Kukur Tihar, Nepal showcases the soft power potential of its festivals and traditions, conveying values of respect, harmony, and humane treatment of animals that appeal to a diverse global audience.

Way forward

As Kukur Tihar gains national and international significance, it holds substantial potential as a diplomatic and soft power tool in Nepal’s foreign policy. The government could undertake several strategic steps and open avenues for collaboration with private stakeholders and various interest groups. For example, hosting Dog Festivals, Dog’s Cultural Show, Dog’s Fashion Show, Dog’s Olympics, etc during Tihar by inviting foreign diplomats, influencers, and journalists to experience the festival firsthand would promote Nepal’s culture and traditions, fostering cultural diplomacy between Nepal and other countries.

Nepal can easily generate necessary revenue required for promotion of such events because in 2023 alone, the pet care market was estimated to be worth over $260bn, with the dog food sector alone contributing a substantial portion, reaching around $95bn globally. The market includes food, grooming, veterinary care, pet insurance, toys, and accessories. Americans alone are spending nearly $60bn on dogs in 2022.

In Europe, the dog food market is estimated at $22.88bn in 2024, with Germany leading the EU’s pet industry, generating approximately $6.81bn in 2023 and projected to reach $1.62bn in 2024. Even, Nepal’s pet care market is rapidly expanding, exporting 1,646 tons of dog chews worth Rs 3.18bn in the last fiscal year, primarily to the US and Canada. These data clearly project that Nepal can probably start from the US and enter into Europe from Germany, countries that Nepal enjoys special ties with. Additionally, partnering with animal rights organizations could elevate Kukur Tihar’s profile through events and social campaigns that highlight animal rights. Thus, promoting Kukur Tihar would not only boost tourism and strengthen the national economy but also serve as an impeccable means of dog diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, and soft power for Nepal.

The authors are associated with Nepal Institute for International Cooperation and Engagement

Bangladesh defeated host Nepal to retain the title of the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Women's Championship.

In the match played under lights at Dashrath Stadium in Tripureshwor, Bangladesh defeated Nepal by 2-1 goals. Two years ago, Bangladesh had defeated Nepal by 3-1 goals to win the championship for the first time.

All the three goals were scored in the second half, after the first half ended in a goalless draw. Bangladesh took the lead in the 52nd minute, with Monica Chakma opening the scoresheet. However, the lead did not last long, as Nepal's Amisha Karki made it 1-1 in the 56th minute.

Ritu Porna Chokma scored in the 81st minute, as her cross into the box from the left flank beat Nepali goalkeeper to make it 2-1 for the visitors. The scoreline did not change, as Nepal failed to exert any pressure in the remaining nine minutes and added five minutes.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who watched the final, also gave away the championship trophy and medals to the winners and runner-up.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Urban Development Prakashman Singh, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Minister for Youth and Sports Minister Tejulal Chaudhary, ANFA President Pankaj Nembang, were among the dignitaries present at the full-house stadium to watch the final match.

Nepal lost in the final for the sixth time, four times to India and two times, including this one, to Bangladesh. India have won the championship five times while Bangladesh made it two in a row, after winning in 2022.

Host Nepal had made it to the final after defeating five-time champions India 4-2 in a penalty shootout in the semi-final. Bangladesh eased to the finals following a 7-1 win against Bhutan.

Around 200,000 garlands of makhamali flowers are to be exported for Tihar festival this year.

According to the Floriculture Association of Nepal, 150,000 garlands of makhamali flower were exported last year.

Association Chairperson Dilip Bade said there is a demand for garlands of makhamali flowers especially in the US, Japan, Australia, Korea and some countries in Europe as well as in the gulf. 

Demand for such garlands has been increasing in other countries with an increasing number of Nepalis residing.

Floriculture has expanded in 52 districts including Kathmandu Valley, Kaski, Chitwan, Makawanpur, Kavrepalanchowk, Gulmi, Palpa, Dhading and Morang. However, the country has not become self-dependent on Sayapatri or marigold flowers used during Tihar festival.

Around four million garlands of marigold have been estimated for this year's Tihar festival. However, only 2.5 million garlands are produced in the country. The insufficient number of marigold flower garlands have to be imported from India, added the Association.

Chair Bade mentioned that demand for marigold flowers is increasing by 15 to 20 percent every year. There is a demand of 700,000 more garlands this year as compared to previous year.  Around 3.3 million garlands were demanded in Tihar last year.

The floriculture sector suffered a loss of Rs 150 million this year due to incessant rainfall that occurred in the last week of September.

A total of 450 species of flowers are being produced commercially in Nepal and more than 44,000 people have benefitted from this business, according to the Association.  Floriculture is carried out on 221 hectares of land in Nepal.

Nepal's swashbuckling performance in the ongoing SAFF Women Championship secured their entry to the final.

Nepal defeated India in the semifinal, securing the berth to the final on Sunday.

Nepal won 4-2 in the tiebreaker.

In the match played at Dasharath Stadium, Tripureshwor, none of the team made a goal in the first half, while they had 1-1 in the second half.

Sabitra Bhandari 'Samba' scored a goal for Nepal as soon as the second half began.

Nepal will lock their horns with Bangladesh in the final.

Bangladesh had entered the final by defeating Bhutan on Sunday itself. Bangladesh defeated Bhutan 7-1 in the semifinal.

Newly amended laws in Nepal to tackle crimes committed during its decade-long bitter civil war could instead deprive victims of justice and grant amnesty to those culpable, rights lawyers warned Thursday.

Both government forces and former rebels are accused of carrying out torture, killings, rapes and forced disappearances during Nepal's Maoist insurgency.

The conflict ended in 2006 with a peace deal that brought the rebels into government and promised justice for the victims, whick included more than 16,000 dead and around 1,000 missing.

Nepal's two transitional justice commissions began operating in 2015, but failed to resolve a single case, despite receiving over 60,000 complaints of murders, torture and unexplained disappearances.

In August, parliament passed long-delayed amendments to the transitional justice act aiming to address this.

But a team of international rights lawyers, in a report released Thursday and based on a research mission to Nepal, warned the changes could do the opposite and exclude "swathes of victims" from justice.

The lawyers added that the new law "permits amnesties which would prevent criminal accountability for gross violations of human rights".

The lawyers said that until addressed, the "doors to the regular justice system should not be closed".

The group was supported by rights organisation Peace Brigades International (PBI).

Kishali Pinto-Jayawardena, a constitutional lawyer from Sri Lanka, and part of the team, said effective justice was not possible so long as the law "excludes certain gross violations, opens the door for amnesties and allows for the exclusion of certain victims".

Just two convictions related to crimes committed during the civil war crimes have been handed down in civilian courts. One was linked to the murder of a teenage girl. The other was related to the killing of a journalist.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Bishnu Prasad Paudel has urged international investors to invest in Nepal's information technology (IT) sector with confidence adding that there is immense potential for investment and high returns in this sector.

At an interaction program organized by the American Chamber of Commerce and Industries today, Minister Paudel urged the investors to invest in Nepal's physical infrastructure, tourism, agriculture, energy and other sectors, and take benefits from the investment.

Likewise, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Chandra Dhakal shared that there are good investment opportunities in Nepal's hydropower and tourism sectors while asking American investors to invest in those areas.

Representatives from multinational companies including Google, Meta, Coca-Cola and others were present on the occasion.

Various programs were organized to observe World Polio Day on Thursday.

In his video message on this occasion, Minister for Health and Population, Pradeep Paudel, has urged one and all to contribute to the global campaign to eradicate poliomyelitis (polio).

Through the message, he has called on all parents/guardians to ensure a full-course of polio vaccination for their children within a year of the birth, supporting make the campaign successful.

Expressing his concerns over the detection of sporadic cases of polio in the country, the minister said this suggests the polio risk in the country.  He added that some countries in the world have also reported the presence of poliovirus, highlighting its global risk. He insisted on its eradication across from the world.

The poliovirus is spread person-to-person through a fecal-oral route and by the consumption of polluted food and water.

The oral polio vaccine is administered to a child at six, 10 and14 weeks and the inactivated polio vaccine is given twice: at 14 weeks and nine months.

Chief of Child Health and Immunization Section, Department of Health Services, Dr Abhiyan Gautam, said though people of all age groups may get polio, it mainly affects children under five.

This devastating disease is highly contagious and its symptoms include fever, diarrhea, vomiting, body ache and fatigue and the severity can lead to irreversible paralysis and even death.

It can be prevented through vaccination and the maintenance of personal hygiene; intake of purified water and hygienic food are recommended for minimizing its risk.

It may be  noted that with the detection of poliovirus in sewage samples collected from Teku, the confluence of Tukucha and Bagamti rivers last July, the government had launched a special polio vaccination drive, targeting children under five in the three districts of Kathmandu  Valley. 

The rise of populism and a crowded political culture threaten Nepal’s democracy. Although this perspective may be controversial, I believe in the need for a transparent and democratic political system that allows Nepalis to thrive in diverse ways. Nepali voters are understandably frustrated with current governance and political instability. However, it is alarming when educated and influential figures fuel political division, spread populist ideas, and engage in conspiracy theories—actions that undermine Nepali democracy. Nepal is still on its path to becoming a fully democratic state, and this journey may take generations. This does not mean Nepal’s democracy has failed; rather, it is evolving. Several factors, however, have weakened Nepal's democratic system, including the rise of populist trends, radical political groups, and the constant shifts in agendas since the 1990s reforms. Traditional political ideas have also struggled to uphold democratic values, causing a rift between voters and political parties.

In recent years, populism has gained momentum in Nepal’s political landscape. Notable figures like Rabindra Mishra, a former journalist, entered politics with strong anti-corruption rhetoric, earning public trust. Yet, his shift from democratic to authoritarian ideologies exposed him as a deceptive leader. TV journalist Rabi Lamichhane entered politics with vague and false promises, using his media influence to gain power without offering clear policies. He quickly became one of the most controversial figures, embroiled in scandals involving passport fraud, citizenship issues and financial misconduct. Lamichhane founded the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), which performed well in the 2081 general election and attracted educated candidates. However, the RSP remains a populist party without a solid ideology, relying on blame tactics and controversial leadership. Lamichhane's involvement in coalition politics appears to be a strategy to shield himself from legal consequences, and his negative populist rhetoric continues to endanger Nepal’s democratic and legal system.

Recently, authorities arrested Lamichhane for his alleged involvement in a credit union fraud scheme, based on evidence collected by a parliamentary investigative committee and the police. Although the investigative process may lack full transparency, his arrest was properly carried out by government authorities and investigative bodies. Unfortunately, many of his political supporters, including some self-proclaimed intellectuals from his party, took to the streets and engaged in violent protests. This behavior presents a serious threat to Nepali democracy and the rule of law.

As a journalist, Lamichhane loudly criticized other political parties for violent or unethical actions. Now that he faces similar accusations, it raises questions about his integrity. It is crucial to remember that other high-profile political leaders are currently in jail, and their party members have not interfered with police investigations or the judicial process. Nepali leaders and the public must recognize that Lamichhane is not above the law and must cooperate with government and legal institutions like anyone else.

Nepal’s democracy has faced challenges from both radical left- and right-wing ideologies. Some leaders cling to outdated beliefs in socialism or communism, despite these systems failing in countries like China, Russia, Israel, India and the UK. Others advocate for a return to monarchy, an idea that has been tried and failed. These are merely opportunistic attempts to gain power. 

Meanwhile, democratic leaders have struggled to meet the Nepali people’s expectations. The bureaucracy remains inefficient, and successive governments have failed to address the country’s social, economic and foreign policy challenges. Since the 1990s, Nepal has dealt with crises like the Maoist insurgency and regional conflicts, yet political leaders have not been able to offer a unified, long-term vision for the country’s progress.

The rise of populism and divisive political culture poses a significant threat to Nepal’s fragile democracy. While frustration over current political instability is understandable, influential figures fueling populist sentiments and spreading conspiracies undermine the democratic process. Figures like Mishra and Lamichhane have introduced dangerous populist trends that distract from the real progress Nepal needs. Lamichhane's recent legal troubles and the violent protests from his supporters demonstrate how populist leaders can destabilize the rule of law. No one, including prominent leaders, should be above the law. Both the public and political figures must prioritize the integrity of democratic institutions over personal ambitions. For Nepal to move forward, leaders must provide transparent governance and long-term visions, while the public must stay vigilant against populist movements that offer no real solutions. True progress lies in a unified commitment to democratic values and accountability.

Views are personal

China has sought Nepal’s support in its bid to maintain peace by ending the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and growing crisis in the Middle East. 

Chen Gang, a member of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made such a statement during talks with top leaders of major political parties. Chen, who is also secretary of the CPC Qinghai provincial committee, led a delegation that visited Nepal Oct 19 to 20.

The Chinese delegation discussed the current global crisis, including the ongoing wars, and informed us about Beijing’s attempts to end the war, said a Nepali leader requesting anonymity, asking Nepal for support in its peace bid and hailing Nepal as a land of peace where Gautam Budha was born.

Both in the Russia-Ukraine war and in the Mideast, China is playing the peacemaker by leveraging its clout. Both Russia and Ukraine recognize the importance of including Beijing in their negotiations. The Chinese delegation, during the interaction with Nepal’s communist parties, discussed a range of bilateral issues, including Xi Jinping’s short visit to Nepal in 2019. 

According to Xinhua, during the stay in the Himalayan country, the CPC delegation had exchanges with leaders of Nepal’s political parties and attended a briefing on the spirit of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Committee, which was focused on sharing the opportunities brought by the Chinese-style modernization and deepening the trans-Himalayan cooperation.

In meetings and exchanges with the CPC delegation, the Nepali side reaffirmed commitment to the one-China policy and expressed the willingness to further strengthen inter-party exchanges with the Chinese side, and to deepen cooperation in various fields, promoting the continuous development of relations between the two countries, Xinhua reports. 

According to Nepali leaders, the Chinese side focused on enhancing ties on multiple fronts, including in the agriculture sector. Of late, the Chinese side is expressing readiness to support Nepal's agriculture sector but Nepal has not come up with any concrete proposal. A few weeks ago, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Cheng Song had said that his country was ready to lend support to Nepal for establishing a fertilizer plant. Unlike the previous delegation, this delegation did not raise the Belt and Road Initiative, according to a leader. 

Of late, CPC has stepped up engagement with Nepal’s political parties and the government.

Nepal has established legal frameworks to combat corruption, yet it remains deeply embedded within political and institutional frameworks. This entrenchment is particularly evident when high-ranking elected leaders openly defend corrupt actors.

Policy corruption refers to manipulation of public policies for private gains. It has surged in Nepal because of several interrelated factors: parliamentary affairs buckling down to party whips and whims, the increasing dependency of civil society groups on international assistance at the expense of their autonomy and the loss of credibility within Nepal’s highly politicized judiciary. Institutions that are supposed to check executive powers are either failing to do their jobs or have become part of the kleptocratic network. As a result, budget (policy) caters to a significant number of new projects rather than offering directions to complete the existing ones. Funds are mostly directed to projects that are susceptible to theft, rather than those that genuinely serve the public interest. This leads to a decline in investments in essential social sectors such as education and health. For instance, Nepal’s federal education budget decreased from 15.66 percent of total expenditure in fiscal year 2013-14 to just 11.27 percent in 2023-24, reaching the lowest 5.18 percent in 2017-18. While the health sector budget rose from three percent in 2017-18 to 8.6 percent in 2021-22—likely due to the pressing need to respond to Covid pandemic—it subsequently dropped to 5.8 percent in 2023-24. These allocations fall significantly short of comparable international benchmarks for investment in essential social sectors.

Public procurement is one of the important government functions. It is also one of the most vulnerable public functions because it receives a substantial portion of public funds, accounting for nearly 25 percent of the total public expenditure. According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), if principal debt payments are excluded, this figure can go as high as 50 percent. Regardless, the share of procurement in public expenditure is significant and it is likely to grow. However, the credibility of public procurement has declined, and the process has become cumbersome and expensive, increasing incentives to bypass established protocols by offering favors to public officials. This trend has been amplified by a growing nexus between government and the private sector, exemplified by the increasing number of lawmakers representing the business community. Many elected officials have openly promoted their personal businesses while serving in public office, further blurring the lines between private gain and public responsibility.

According to a study conducted by the Federation of Contractors’ Associations of Nepal (FCAN), eight construction entrepreneurs won seats in the House of Representatives in the 2022 general election. Eleven others secured provincial assembly seats. Additionally, in the local body elections held in May 2022, 247 contractors got elected, including 104 as mayors or chairpersons. Furthermore, 129 contractors were elected as ward chairpersons, 14 as ward members and two as district coordination committee members. Recently, the chairperson of a prominent construction company was appointed Minister for Urban Development. The minister continued to run his business and made decisions that benefited his company

Both the Public Procurement Act, 2007 and its associated regulations brought a year later grant significant discretionary authority to public officials. As a result, decisions regarding the types and locations of projects—airports and view towers come to mind—often lack a scientific basis. This discretionary authority arises primarily from deliberately ambiguous language within the laws. The procurement laws, for example, are filled with terms that can be manipulated for personal gain, such as “as prescribed” (‘tokiye bamojim’) and “maybe” (garina sakine cha). Notably, the term “as prescribed” appears 62 times, while "maybe” is mentioned 67 times in the procurement regulations.

It is striking that, in a country where policymaking tends to be slow, the procurement regulations have been amended 13 times since their introduction in 2008. Notably, six of these amendments (from the 6th to the 11th) occurred within just one year. Among these changes, the most controversial pertained to the criteria for assessing the financial qualifications of bidders, which have been altered multiple times. Other amendments permitted businesses to extend project timelines and raised the upper threshold for domestic-only competition. One particular amendment restricted competition by only allowing a select few businesses to bid for projects up to Rs 5bn. It is evident many of these amendments were not implemented to serve the national interest but rather to favor one or two particular companies.

While many scholars agree that the primary objectives of public procurement should be to support the acquisition of quality goods and services at competitive costs in a timely manner, the prevailing focus in Nepal tends to be on low-cost bidding. Technical evaluation is part of the process, but it is often discarded after preliminary screening. Although the law does not explicitly require a need to prioritize the lowest cost, this approach is how oversight institutions typically evaluate procurement activities. As a result, contractors are incentivized to underbid, only to seek contract extensions at higher costs later on.

Public procurement is indeed a daunting task. For public officials, fear of punitive measures sometimes works as a deterrent. The incumbent Minister for Health and Population has noted that some existing legal provisions can frustrate good intentions. He explained how the ministry was unable to use life-saving equipment due to an ongoing investigation into the procurement process.

The minister’s call for safeguarding good intentions and developing a clear understanding of how to make procurement transparent makes sense. One effective way to begin this process is by facilitating dialogues around bills both before and after they are tabled in the parliament. We must find innovative ways to bring good people to policymaking at all levels. This approach can also help ensure that these bills do not become overly centered on individual or party interests.

The author is the executive director of Niti Foundation

Nepal defeated the USA in the Super Over in the second match of the T20I Series held in Dallas on Sunday.

With this, Nepal have won the series against the USA with one match left.  

After winning the toss, Nepal chose to bat first and scored 170 runs by losing six wickets in the allotted 20 overs.

Kusham Bhurtel scored highest 92 runs hitting seven fours and six sixes for Nepal.

Similarly, Anil Shah made 25 runs and Gulsan Jha and Rohit Paudel contributed 11 and 18 runs respectively.

The match was tied after the USA scored 170 runs by losing eight wickets in the allotted overs.

Andries Gous scored the highest 62 runs for the USA.

Likewise, Saiteja Mukkamalla, Milinda Kumar and Shayan Jahangir made 47, 15 and 14 runs respectively.

In the first match, Nepal thrashed the USA by 17 runs.

Meanwhile, in the Super Over, Sompal Kami managed to take two wickets in four balls.

The USA had challenged three runs in four balls in the Super Over.

Chasing the target of three runs in the Super Over, Nepal won by playing four balls.

Along with this, Nepal won the series.

Captain Rohit Kumar Paudel and Kushal Bhurtel batted in the Super Over.

Nepal defeated the USA in the first T20 Series by 17 runs.

In the match played at Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas, the USA scored 147 runs by losing seven wickets in the allotted 20 overs against the target of 165 runs posted by Nepal.

Nepal's Dipendra Singh Airee took three wickets while Karan KC, Rijan Dhakal and Gulsan Jha took one each.

Batting first, Nepal posted 164 runs by losing nine wickets in 20 overs. Nepal's captain Rohit Poudel contributed the highest 49 runs for Nepal's victory while Dipendra made 28 runs.

Likewise, Asif Sheikh and Anil Shah contributed 27 runs.

For the USA, Shayan Jahangir made the highest score for the team by contributing 60 runs. 

Nepal and the USA are scheduled to play three T20 matches. After that, both Nepal and the USA would participate in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup League-2.