37 Nepalis rescued from Myanmar, repatriated to Nepal

Kathmandu, Nov. 19

The Embassy of Nepal in Bangkok of Thailand, in coordination and cooperation with the Thai authorities, has rescued 37 Nepali nationals from Myanmar and repatriated them to Nepal on Wednesday.

They were lured with promises of attractive employment opportunities and taken to Myanmar through various channels, and were forced to work in illegal online scamming centres involving online dating frauds, online casinos, gaming and phishing operations, crypto scams, and other illicit activities.

After Myanmar security forces raided one of these scamming centres on 19 October 2025, the individuals fled and entered Thailand, the Embassy informed in a statement.

Similarly, arrangements are being made to repatriate an additional 23 Nepalis stranded in Myawaddy of Myanmar, two in Mae Sot of Thailand, and four in Cambodia at the earliest.

According to the Embassy, it has coordinating with the concerned authorities in Myanmar, Cambodia and Thailand for the same.

The Embassy has urged all concerned to go abroad for employment only after obtaining labour approval in accordance with the criteria set by the government. It has also suggested not to travel to countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand under the pretext of tourism with the intention of engaging in foreign employment through risky and illegal channels in pursuit of quick and high earnings.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 20 November 2025.

Govt not in a state to alter tax rates: FM Khanal

Kathmandu, Nov. 19

Finance Minister Rameshore Prasad Khanal has said that the government is not in a position to make changes in tax and tariff rates as it wouldn't be an appropriate move for the transitional election government.

"The government might need to implement long-term initiatives to make effective reforms in the revenue but in absence of the legislative body, the current government is unable to take up such actions," he said at a public-private dialogue on 'Reform in Revenue System' organised by the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (C) in Kathmandu on Wednesday.

The dialogue was focused on the Economic Reform Implementation Workplan 2025 as suggested by the High-Level Economic Reform Recommendation Commission (HLERC).

According to FM Khanal, adjusting tax rates at this time could result in inviting opposition to the government moves which he didn't want.

However, he said that the government is serious about reducing cost of doing business and promoting exports. He informed that the government is reviewing the provisions of full audits demanded from the private businesses as they tend to increase costs of doing business.

"We are implementing IT-related reforms in revenue and facilitating various sectors. Such reforms are being undertaken to ensure that full audits are conducted only on a risk basis," he maintained.

Stating that the government is aware of the contributions the private sector has made to the revenue and other sectors of the economy, FM Khanal said that a single business house has contributed 2.3 per cent to the total national revenue.

Nepal has highest revenue to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio (18 per cent) in the South Asian region.

Speaking at the programme, President of the CNI, expressed concerns over the poor implementations of the suggestions on issues related to the economy and governance reform made by various commissions and high-level committees formed in the past.

He said that there are investable funs in banks and interest rates are in single digits but market demand has not increased while industries are operating at low capacity. "It is difficult to improve the situation unless investment can be increased. In our context, reform in the tax system is necessary to increase investment," he said while adding that not only domestic investors, but foreign investors also invest only after observing the stability of tax-related policies.

Shesh Mani Dahal, chartered accountant and vice-chair of the Revenue Committee of the CNI, said that while the government said to implement the suggestions made by the HLERC, many of the provisions are yet to be implemented.

The government formed the HLERC about one-and-a-half years ago which found that there were duplications in tax implementation across the different levels of governments, about 40 per cent of the economy is operating informally and there were multiple complexities in tax administration.

"Besides traditional taxes like income tax, customs duty, excise duty, and VAT, there is an imposition of various miscellaneous taxes," said Dahal while adding that there is a practice of delayed tax assessment, yet interest is charged from the beginning.

According to him, a high tax burden discourages economic activities and results in lower revenue mobilisation.

Dahal said that maintaining stable tax rates, except in cases of extreme necessity, would establish certainty for investment.

Participants of the dialogue demanded loosening the stress on income tax, provide tax holiday to businesses especially the manufacturing industries, and implement the recommendations of the HLERC. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 20 November 2025.

Entrepreneurship orientation held

Kathmandu, Nov. 19

The Women’s Chamber under the Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) organised a Startup Entrepreneurship Orientation Programme in Kathmandu on Wednesday. The event, held in collaboration with the Industrial Enterprise Development Institute (IEDI), benefited more than 100 emerging entrepreneurs.

The orientation provided aspiring entrepreneurs—interested in applying for the government’s startup loan—with guidance on the loan application process, the nature of enterprises eligible for the scheme, and other key requirements, the NCC said in a statement.

The IEDI has announced that proposals for the startup loan can be submitted until November 25. It's Executive Director, Umesh Gupta, briefed participants on matters such as loan proposal requirements, the evaluation process, priority sectors, and loan accessibility.

Addressing the orientation, President of the NCC, Kamlesh Kumar Agrawal, emphasised the need to expand the Startup Loan Programme across all seven provinces to foster entrepreneurial development.

He said that the budget for the scheme should be increased in the forthcoming fiscal year so that the startup loan can be extended nationwide.

Agrawal also highlighted the importance of showcasing the success stories of entrepreneurs who have utilised the startup loan, adding that they should receive support for production and marketing. He said that the Chamber would assist in further study and research related to the Startup Loan scheme.

Urmila Shrestha, chairperson of the Women’s Chamber, stressed the need to make proper use of the startup loan to promote entrepreneurship. She stated that the NCC would continue providing orientation programmes focused on women’s entrepreneurship.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 20 November 2025.

Task force recommends overhaul of salary, service benefits in state-owned enterprises

Kathmandu, Nov. 18

A government-appointed task force has suggested an immediate and comprehensive overhaul of the salary and service benefits structure across Nepal’s state-owned enterprises, regulatory bodies, and academies.

The report of the task force formed to provide suggestions on establishing uniformity in the remuneration and service benefits of officials and employees of an expansive network of public institutions recommended grouping the institutions into eight separate groups and developing a package of perks and benefits for them.

The report, published on Tuesday by the Ministry of Finance (MoF), made an assessment of the regulatory bodies, academies, boards, committees, and public enterprises, and other entities financed by the state treasury.

According to it, the eight packages can include - regulatory bodies, institutions operating competitively and for profit, monopoly organisations, public finance institutions, institutions majority-owned by public entities, institutions operating at a loss, institutions fully dependent on government grants, and institutions operating from self-earned revenue in addition to grants.

The findings of the task force expose widespread financial indiscipline and a profound lack of uniformity, highlighting a system riddled with disparity and excessive discretionary power that is creating an enormous fiscal liability for the state treasury.

The task force was commissioned to address the escalating administrative costs and continuous financial burden placed on the public exchequer by these institutions, which are officially considered the ‘Extended Arms of the Government’.

According to the report, the task force analysed over 60 public institutions and found several pervasive weaknesses.

 

Disparity in benefits

The most pressing issue identified is the extensive benefit disparity and the resulting legal chaos. The current regime sees 39 institutions setting salary and allowances solely through their governing boards, with employee benefits being managed under a complicated patchwork of 20 different legal provisions.

“This has resulted in striking differences in remuneration for similar roles across the public sector,” read the report. For instance, allowances for board meetings can vary, ranging from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 9,000. The Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) and the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) provide Rs. 9000 as meeting allowance.

Similarly, the monthly salary for an officer-level (sixth-level) employee can differ significantly. The NRB currently pays the highest amount of salary to the officers at Rs. 115,410, while top executives of the Rastriya Banijya Bank can get their monthly remuneration up to Rs. 450,000.

Furthermore, the task force cited instances of opaque benefits being provided, including free services, telephone and fuel allowances, and excessive leave accumulation provisions for officials.

The task force found a massive unfunded retirement liability exceeding Rs. 78.5 billion across several key corporations, including major entities like the NEA and Nepal Telecom.

Meanwhile, many institutions are reporting substantial profits on their financial statements without setting aside mandatory funds via proper actuarial valuation, which the report terms ‘a dangerous financial practice’ that might risk future insolvency.

This mirrors past failures, such as those at Hetauda Cement, which could not settle billions in long-term liabilities due to the lack of dedicated funds, according to the report.

 

Poor link to performance and reward

The task force stated that the poor linkage between performance and reward is another challenge. Despite the high benefits offered, public sector performance is not consistently improving, with 36 out of 52 institutions showing fluctuating annual income.

According to it, incentive allowances and productivity are not related in public institutions, and many bodies provide a uniform percentage allowance to all staff rather than a genuine performance-based incentive system. Public institutions have ignored the directives on financial discipline from the Auditor General and the Public Accounts Committee of the Parliament.

To address these maladies, the task force has offered a set of sweeping, radical reforms aimed at establishing uniformity, transparency, and fiscal discipline.

It has called for centralised financial control, mandating that the Finance Ministry be granted mandatory approval authority over all financial liabilities, including salaries and retirement benefits, for every regulatory body and public corporation.

 

‘Scrap 41-type of allowances’

It suggested scrapping the existing 41 types of allowances and replacing them with a single, transparent, and capped performance-based incentive allowance, varying by institutional category, for example, up to 100 per cent of the annual salary for a Category A institution, declining to 25 per cent for a Category D body.

“Only a single, transparent Employee Welfare Fund should be retained, with all others abolished,” noted the report.

The task force urged the government to establish an Institutional Transition Management Fund to address the staggering Rs. 78.5 billion unfunded liability through asset monetisation and phased budget allocation, ensuring all future retirement funds are established after proper actuarial valuation.

Similarly, for the ‘sick’ corporations that are perpetually dependent on government grants and running losses for three consecutive years, benefits must not exceed those offered to the civil servants. The task force also recommended a voluntary retirement scheme and transferring operational responsibility to the private sector for specific bodies to stem further losses.

The implementation of these suggestions, which centre on integrated law, scientific classification, performance-linked remuneration, and full transparency, is positioned as essential to safeguard the state treasury, ensure justice among employees, and enhance the overall efficiency of Nepal’s public sector.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 November 2025.          

Two-thirds of industrial bank loans in Madhes mobilised in Parsa district

Kathmandu, Nov. 13

Almost two-thirds of the total industrial loan channelled by the banks and financial institutions has been mobilised to Parsa district alone.

According to a report of the annual economic activities of the province of Fiscal Year 2024/24 published by the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), of the Rs. 128.09 billion loan mobilised by the banks and financial institutions to the industries of the province, Rs. 81.7 billion (63.79 per cent) is invested in Parsa.

Dhanusha comes second with 10.31 per cent (Rs. 13.2 billion) share in the industrial loan mobilised in the province, followed by Bara with 5.83 per cent (Rs. 7.46 billion), Sarlahi with 5.26 per cent (Rs. 6.73 billion), and Siraha with 4.86 per cent (Rs. 6.22 billion).

Saptari has the smallest share of industrial loans with 2.12 per cent (Rs. 2.71 billion).

The total loans disbursed by banks and financial institutions to the industrial sector increased by 5.11 per cent in the FY 2024/25, reaching Rs. 128.09 billion. This loan amount was Rs. 121.87 billion in FY 2023/24.

Sector-wise, 51.76 per cent bank loan was mobilised to non-food product manufacturing industries, and 37.39 per cent in agriculture-forestry and beverage production industries. Construction industry received 5.26 per cent, and metal production, machinery, electronics and metal goods manufacturing 4.13 per cent.

Meanwhile, in the FY 2023/24, the area occupied by vegetables and horticulture in the province increased by 10.27 per cent. Conversely, the area occupied by food and other crops decreased by 1.49 per cent, and the area occupied by fruits and spice crops decreased by 25.20 per cent and 7.94 per cent, respectively.

Similarly, production of food and other crops increased by 14.01 per cent in the fiscal year 2081/082. While the production of vegetables and horticulture increased by 9.79 per cent, the production of fruits decreased by 9.07 per cent, and spice production decreased by 10.53 per cent.

In the last FY, the average production capacity utilisation of major industries included in the sample selection for the study was 46.47 per cent.

The report has noted that, as Madhes is located in the border region of India, it has potential for expanding trade and industry in the large Indian market.

Similarly, the cost of transporting industrial raw materials from India is likely to be low, making it possible to produce and export goods at a lower cost.

“As the province has the largest population density and the second-largest population in the country, ensuring easy labour supply, there is potential to establish industries in Madhes Province, increase production, enhance the competitiveness of manufactured goods, and increase the contribution of the industrial sector to the total Gross Domestic Product of the province,” read the report.

According to it, there is potential to develop areas with favourable geographical and industrial development prospects, such as market access and labour supply, into industrial zones,” read the report.

Likewise, abundant production of agricultural goods offers a good prospect for establishing agriculture-based industries (such as sugar, food processing, and oil industries).

According to the National Statistics Office, GDP of Madhes last year was Rs. 804 billion against the national GDP of Rs. 6107 billion. Madhes’ GDP is estimated to grow by 3.88 per cent in FY 2024/25.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 14 November 2025.          

Government’s austerity measures expected to improve expenditure pattern

Kathmandu, Nov. 15

Within a couple of weeks of his assumption of the post of Finance Minister, Rameshore Prasad Khanal initiated a drive to apply austerity measures in all forms of public expenditure – development, operational and financing.

While this is a practice announced by various governments in the past but implemented very poorly, this transition government seems determined curbing the expenses that are adding burden to the state coffers.

"The Ministry is earnestly implementing the newly announced budget control measures to improve fiscal responsibility and ensure efficiency in public fund mobilisation," said Tanka Prasad Pandey, Spokesperson of the MoF.

According to him, scrapping of small-scale, redundant and scattered projects will help in generating Rs. 120 billion. However, it will take a while to estimate the actual financial savings made through the control measures applied in recurrent expenditure.

Speaking at a programme in Kathmandu on Thursday, FM Khanal said that more than 1,000 security personnel and 30 vehicles were returned by the pervious office holders who were availing of the facilities beyond legal provisions. He expressed his commitment to implementing fiscal discipline and supporting the private sector through various incentives.

Through a directive, the Ministry of Finance (MoF) decided to suspend projects without preparatory works, that have duplicate entries, and that are outside the core objectives of the respective agency. Through the scrapping of more than 1,200 piecemeal projects, the government said to had saved about Rs. 120 billion. The Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport is leading this drive.

All small and low-priority projects will be transferred to provincial or local governments while no multi-year funding approval will be granted for newly listed projects or procurement purposes entered in the current Fiscal Year 2025/26. The Finance Ministry also made a move not to implement projects costing above Rs. 1 million through consumer committees, while also checking the practice of splitting projects into small units with an aim to implement them through such committees.

In terms of recurrent expenditure, allocated funds were suspended from the programmes with unclear operational modality and unguaranteed outcomes and comprising unproductive activities. There will be no meeting allowances for regular work, except for committees formed in accordance with the law. The directive also barred the government agencies from outsourcing consultants for the tasks that can be performed internally, and also from buying new equipment and materials as far as possible.

It scrapped the practice of appointing advisors and personal secretaries except for big-five ministers. Most of the foreign visits were also suspended.

The Finance Ministry said that need and justification for advisors and personal secretaries, while the availability of the latter has discouraged the office-bearers from studying and understanding matters themselves. "Some personal secretaries have emerged as intermediaries as well," it said.

Suman Dahal, Joint Secretary and Chief of Budget Division at the MoF, had earlier said that the provisions were implemented to ensure that ongoing, nationally significant and strategic projects—initiated with prior approval of funding sources—do not face budget shortages.

According to him, since the present government has a mandate until the next election, slated for March 5 next year – it doesn't want to create long-term liabilities. "With the scrapping of sick projects and contracts, a large amount of funds has now been at the disposal of the government," he had said following the announcement of the directive.

The MoF said that the scrapped projects and programmes were incorporated in the budget based on political influence, pressure and connections rather than clear identification. They were also identified without maintaining regional balance.

The directive has also eliminated the trend of holding unnecessary meetings simply to claim allowances even for regular work, and hiring consultants for routine tasks. Allowances can still be given for meetings held outside of office hours for legally established committees.

 

A requisite reform

As a former Secretary of Finance who resigned from the post in March 2011, on the pretext of impunity to about 450 business firms that did not pay the Value Added Tax (VAT) or that fraudulently claimed excess VAT refund, FM Khanal's move was expected.

He was also critical of the supplementary budget that then Finance Minister Bharat Mohan Adhikari wanted to bring about. Khanal’s reason was: cheating on VAT and moving to announce a supplementary budget were against fiscal discipline and counterproductive to the national economy.

Khanal has the advantage of not being among the political leaders from various levels and under the pressure to allocate budgets to politically-motivated projects and programmes, many of which were used as an instrument to win an election. Finance ministers like Dr. Yuba Raj Khatiwada, Dr. Prakash Sharan Mahat and Surendra Pandey couldn't fully implement their visions on economic reforms.

FM Bishnu Prasad Paudel had announced the control measures three years ago but it was limited to rhetoric only. It could bring no change.

The very political reasons and the finance ministers’ lack of desire hindered them from implementing the recommendations made by the Public Expenditure Review Commission, led by economist Dr. Dilli Raj Khanal.

Then Minister for Urban Development Ram Kumari Jhakri had barred consumer committees from construction projects, saying that the construction work implemented by them was of low standard. But consumer committees prevailed even though the Commission for Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) questioned the quality of their work multiple times.

 

Positive but inadequate

Economist Dr. Khanal termed the government's move 'a positive initiative' but maintained that it’s inadequate and more should be done to maintain fiscal discipline.

"Nepal needs reforms in public expenditure as its public capital stock is in a downward trend since 1990, while government expenditure size is in a higher proportion in South Asia except India," he said.

He pointed to the need for project-level restructuring, stating that only strategic and urgent projects should be announced and implemented with calculation of input, output, outcome and impact, he said.

Dr. Khanal is particularly critical of various committees formed by the government and the mismanagement of funds and low productivity in public enterprises. "Without these actions, you can't make real reform sought by the youth through the Gen Z movement," he said.

 

'Provinces' autonomy is infringed'

Meanwhile, provinces have expressed their concerns that the federal government's directive shouldn't be forcefully implemented there. The provincial ministers for economic affairs have been arguing that provinces have the autonomy to make their own decisions, and if changes are needed in provincial laws, they must be amended accordingly.

Rewati Raman Bhandari and Prabhat Kumar Tamang, economic affairs ministers of Koshi and Bagmati, are particularly vocal about it. "Forcing the provincial governments to follow the federal decisions is unconstitutional and against the essence of federalism. This is an encroachment of our jurisdiction," said Minister Tamang, pointing to the need to scrap unnecessary federal agencies and structures.

The Bagmati government has recently formed a committee to look into administrative restructuring and is considering scrapping the councils that are irrelevant.

While FM Khanal said, during his visit to Biratnagar in September, that the federal government's decision did not nullify provincial laws, it could impose restrictions on how federal grants are used.

According to Dr. Khanal, on the pretext of rights to design and implement programmes, misconduct is on the rise at the subnational levels. It should be immediately checked.

But Minister Tamang remarked that the grants were set by the National Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission, and the provinces were receiving a small portion of the annual budget. "Seven provinces receive only about 10 per cent of the annual budget while 69 per cent is mobilised by the federal government," he said.

Earlier, in September, the Finance Ministry had said that the federal government can set standards and procedures for public expenditures. The Financial Procedures and Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2019, has authorised it to make necessary arrangements for regulating and systematising the economic procedures of the federal, provincial and local levels.

Section 24 of the Act authorises the MoF to prescribe expenditure standards to ensure uniformity and promote austerity, and all officials of government bodies are obliged to comply.

Likewise, Section 34 of the Intergovernmental Fiscal Arrangement Act, 2017 also authorises the federal government to issue directives to provincial and local levels on financial matters in order to regulate budgets, expenditure and maintain fiscal discipline.

 

Exporters want incentives to continue

The private sector has registered its strong objections to scrapping the incentives to businesses and exports, and expressed concerns about the implementation of the relief measures announced for the businesses affected by the Gen Z movement.

"Relief has been announced, but it’s yet to be implemented even after more than two months. Entrepreneurs should be provided with the support to boost their confidence," said Chandra Prasad Dhakal, President of the Federation of Nepal Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI).

Although the government has formally announced the scrapping of incentives on exports, entrepreneurs are hopeful of its resumption. "Actually, the subsidies on exports were brought to nominal by the previous government. However, since the finance minister, chief secretary and other ministers are positive, we are hopeful of availing the facility," said Pashupati Dev Pandey, President of Garment Association of Nepal.

According to him, if the government feels that the subsidies were misused, parameters should be revised to discourage such practice but products having above 30 per cent value addition should be entitled to export subsidies.

Pandey also suggested that if the government is short of funds, cash incentives can only be given to third-country exports.

Especially, in the wake of the reciprocal tariff promoted by the United States, producers should be incentivised since the production and transportation costs in Nepal is significantly high compared to other South Asian peers, according to the entrepreneurs. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 16 November 2025.          

Pak Embassy holds alumni get-together

Kathmandu, Nov. 15

The Embassy of Pakistan held its Annual Alumni Get-Together Programme, upholding the tradition of celebrating Nepali Alumni educated in Pakistan.

The graduates included recipients of scholarships under different schemes offered by Pakistan, as well as those on self-finance schemes.

The embassy informed in a statement that around 450 alumni, dignitaries and friends of Pakistan attended the event, which provided an opportunity to reconnect, relive memories, and strengthen the bonds.

Speaking on the occasion, the Ambassador of Pakistan to Nepal
Abrar H. Hashmi highlighted that such gatherings are an invaluable platform for alumni to reinforce mutual understanding between the two countries. The Ambassador recalled that most alumni had experienced Pakistan’s culture, cuisine, and hospitality, which created lasting memories and mutual respect.

He further noted that over 4,000 Nepali graduates of Pakistani institutions were contributing to Nepal’s development and diaspora worldwide.

"The Alumni appreciated expanded gathering of alumni by the Embassy and expressed commitment to strengthening cultural, educational and people-to-people ties between Pakistan and Nepal," read the statement.

Pakistan-Nepal Alumni Network was also launched at the event. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 16 November 2025.          

Govt informs DTAA partners about scrapping 'treaty shopping'

Kathmandu, Nov. 12

The government has informed its partners in the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) that it has introduced a material anti-abuse provision specifically targeting 'treaty shopping'

In a statement, the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) informed that the new provision is made to prevent the exploitation of treaty concessions by third-country residents or entities that solely seek tax advantages—a practice commonly referred to as 'treaty shopping'.

In international law, 'tax shopping' means a practice where an individual or a company, who is not a legal resident of a country which is party to a DTAA, indirectly gain from the agreement.

The IRD has formally notified seven countries that are key partners in Nepal's DTAA concerning the amendment to its domestic tax legislation. Nepal has signed DTAA with Norway, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Austria, Pakistan, China and South Korea,

According to the IRD, formal communication was sent to the authorities of the seven partner countries with whom Nepal concluded DTAAs prior to the enactment of the Income Tax Act (ITA) 2002.

"The central focus of the notification is the introduction of material anti-abuse provision which is designed to safeguard the integrity of DTAAs," read a statement issued by the IRD on Wednesday. It said that this anti-treaty shopping rule denies treaty entitlements, such as tax exemptions or reduced tax rates, to the entities where 50 per cent or more of the vested ownership is held by individuals or entities who are not resident of Nepal, or residents of both Nepal and the other contracting state for the purposes of the agreement.

The government said that the rationale behind this new provision is to reinforce the primary purpose of the DTAAs – to promote legitimate trade and investment between the contracting states. "The provision acts as a vital domestic mechanism to provent the unintended exploitation of treaty benefits and concessions by third-country residents of entities solely seeking tax advantages," read the statement.

It will maintain the integrity of bilateral tax agreements and ensure that they benefit only bonafide investors and taxpayers.

The government awaits acknowledgement from the respective treaty partners and remains open to collaborative engagement for any required clarifications.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 13 November 2025.          

GIBL to distribute 8% dividend

Kathmandu, Nov. 12

The 19^th Annual General Meeting of the Global IME Bank Limited has unanimously approved the bank’s proposal to distribute an 8 per cent cash dividend (including tax) to its shareholders.

The AGM held in Kathmandu on Wednesday approved to distribute 8 per cent dividend from the profit, including the retained earnings of the fiscal year 2024/25.

In the las FY, the bank earned an operating profit of Rs 7.23 billion and a net profit after tax of Rs 5.07 billion.

Addressing the general meeting, Chairman of the bank, Chandra Prasad Dhakal said that the bank remains committed to providing reasonable returns to its shareholders while fully complying with the policies and regulations of the government and the Nepal Rastra Bank.

He also mentioned that, as part of its business strategy, the bank plans to continue the balanced expansion into new business areas.

GIBL has been honoured in various categories by several renowned national and international institutions. It is the first commercial bank in the private sector with a branch network in all 77 districts of Nepal.

The bank has been providing services to customers through more than 1,000 service outlets, including 352 branch offices, 384 ATMs, 150 branchless banking services, 68 extension and revenue collection counters, and three international representative offices.

The bank also operates a remittance service from countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, India, and Jordan. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 13 November 2025.         

NIA, Nabil sign accord on API integration

Kathmandu, Nov. 12

The Nepal Insurance Authority (NIA) and Nabil Bank Limited signed an agreement on Tuesday for API integration to automate the earmark system.

API (Application Programming Interface) integration is the process of connecting different software systems or applications so they can communicate, share data, and perform functions automatically without manual input.

The agreement was signed by Executive Director of the NIA, Sushil Dev Subedi, and Chief Marketing Officer of Nabil Bank, Niraj Sharma, on Tuesday, informed the Authority in a statement.

According to Subedi, the agreement will make a significant contribution towards fully automating the earmark system in the insurance sector. He added that this initiative will help make the investment process of insurers faster, more efficient, and error-free, thereby enhancing the effectiveness and transparency of insurance regulation and supervision.

Under the API integration, the management of earmarked investments made by insurers in fixed deposits will be made easier, safer, and more reliable through the use of technology.

The new system will automatically authenticate block and unblock requests sent from the NIA to the bank, approving only those requests with accurate details. In case of incorrect information, the system will automatically return the request to the insurer through the earmark platform.

For this integration, a special middleware has been developed by Nabil Bank, which provides direct access to the bank’s core banking system for fixed deposit details received from insurers via the Authority.

The system will automatically implement a process that accepts only correct information and rejects erroneous entries.

“This agreement marks another significant step in the NIA's journey towards digital transformation and technology-friendly regulation. It is expected to make a notable contribution to improving efficiency, transparency, and timely service delivery in the insurance sector,” read the statement.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 13 November 2025.         

NIA to establish Insurance Information Centre

Kathmandu, Nov. 11

The Nepal Insurance Authority (NIA) is making preparations to establish Insurance Information Centre (IIC).

Chairman of the NIA Janak Raj Sharma, said that as the insurance sector continues to expand significantly, there is a growing need for a centralised system to integrate scattered insurance-related data and identify and control fraudulent activities.

Speaking at an interaction on the establishment and operation of the Centre, he said that the establishment of the IIC would benefit insurers, policyholders, and all stakeholders. He added that the Authority would soon move forward with the legal process to establish the centre, incorporating suggestions from all concerned to ensure a safer and more reliable insurance sector, the NIA informed in a statement.

He also urged insurance companies to provide practical feedback on the structure, modality, and operational dimensions of the proposed centre.

The discussion was organised by the NIA on Tuesday was attended by Chief Executive Officers of insurance companies, micro-insurance companies, and reinsurance companies regarding the establishment and operation of the Insurance Information Centre.

Presenting a preliminary draft for the establishment and management of the IIC, Former Chief Secretary Dr. Baikuntha Aryal, highlighted the necessity of such a centre to provide accurate data, information, and analysis related to the insurance sector.

Similarly, President of the Nepal Insurers’ Association, Birendra Baidwar, and President of the Nepal Life Insurers’ Association, Pravin Raman Parajuli, expressed their commitment to providing full support for the establishment of the centre.

 

Insurance Claim Payments
Meanwhile, in relation to damages caused during the recent Gen-Z movement, around Rs. 3.68 billion, including advance payments, has already been paid to the insured.

Non-life insurance companies have received total insurance claims amounting to approximately Rs. 23.46 billion.

According to the latest data from the Authority, out of the total claim payments made by non-life insurers, property insurance accounted for 693 claims worth approximately Rs. 19.04 billion, of which around Rs. 2.93 billion has been paid. Likewise, motor insurance covered 2,290 claims worth about Rs. 3.47 billion, with Rs. 686.1 million paid.

Similarly, under engineering and contract risk insurance, 209 claims worth Rs. 547.5 million were filed, of which Rs. 62.3 million has been paid. Under transport insurance, 12 claims worth Rs. 16.8 million were filed, with Rs. 4.7 million paid, and under other insurance categories, 42 claims worth Rs. 393 million were filed, of which around Rs. 2.3 million (including advance payments) have been settled.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 12 November 2025.         

Godrej launches AI washing machine

Kathmandu, Nov. 11

Godrej Appliances, in partnership with its authorised distributor CG Electronics, has launched the EON Regalis 8 kg front load washing machine in Nepal.

“This model is designed to meet the needs of households during the winter months, specifically addressing the challenges of cleaning heavily soiled garments and maintaining hygiene in cold, humid conditions,” said the company in a statement on Tuesday.

The washing machine is equipped with an AI-powered Turbidity Sensor that automatically detects the level of soil in the water and adjusts the wash cycle accordingly. This ensures optimal water usage, adds extra rinse cycles when necessary, and guarantees hygienic cleaning, making it suitable for sensitive skin, read the statement.

The EON Regalis also offers a 95°C hot wash with an inbuilt heater, a feature that eliminates tough stains and germs, providing a high level of hygiene that is particularly beneficial for winter laundry.

The machine is powered by a Digital Inverter BLDC Motor (1400 RPM), and comes with a 10-year warranty on the motor and a 2-year comprehensive product warranty. It also has features like a Delay Start, Child Lock, Auto Restart, Add Clothes function, and Memory Interruption. The washing machine is designed with a touch-control LCD panel and a metallic-black finish, bringing a sleek look to modern homes.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 12 November 2025.         

President stresses media’s role in strengthening democracy

 NTV World launched                            

Content of PSB should strong: Minister Kharel    

Kathmandu, Nov. 9

President Ramchandra Paudel has said that the media has a crucial role in strengthening democracy and creating an environment where the people can benefit from it.

Addressing the first anniversary of Public Service Broadcasting (PSB) Nepal and the formal launch of Public Service Broadcasting and NTV World today, President Paudel expressed this view.

"Democracy was established through the great sacrifices of the Nepali people. Strengthening it and creating an environment where the people can reap benefits is a task where the media plays a significant role," he said.

The government had announced plans for the NTV World, an English language television channel, in 2020 with an objective to broadcast information to international audiences and enhance global presence.

President Paudel emphasised the need to make the March 5 elections successful to advance good governance and democracy. "Considering the aspirations of the youth for good governance and development, the media must play a more effective role in making the upcoming elections for the House of Representatives a success to further strengthen and advance the constitution and democracy," he said.

The President urged the media and journalists to wholeheartedly commit themselves to the important responsibility of informing citizens about the positive changes, development initiatives, potential opportunities, and challenges in the country. "PSB is not a tool for governmental or commercial interests, it is an institution for the people. It must rise above governmental interference and commercial pressures, working in the national interest and for the benefit of citizens," he added.

President Paudel pointed out that public broadcasting has developed as an independent and autonomous institution. "In line with democratic values and the principles of independent, professional journalism, I believe you will embrace the basic principles recognised globally in the PSB, ensuring transparency, fairness, and responsibility towards the citizens," he remarked.  

He emphasised that access to truthful, factual, and reliable information is a fundamental right of the citizens, and that the media has a duty to provide information based on truth and facts. He also expressed concern about the increasing spread of misinformation, misleading news, and rumours. "In this context, all media under public service broadcasting must focus on serving the public and the nation by maintaining journalistic integrity and delivering information in a responsible and impartial manner," said President Paudel.

The President further noted that the development of the internet and information technology has brought significant changes in news content, communication, and information dissemination. He acknowledged the rise of social media and the development of various broadcasting technologies, which have also strengthened citizen journalism. "In such an environment, it is the responsibility of the media to prevent the misuse of easily available technologies that could mislead the public by spreading false, confusing, and deceptive information," he stressed.

President Paudel praised the efforts and initiatives to transform Radio Nepal and Nepal Television into public service broadcasters.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Jagdish Kharel, said that public broadcasting must be of high quality, reliable, and effective.

He emphasised that the content provided by PSB should be strong, impactful, and sustainable.

"The slogan of the PSB must be justified. The content it provides must be strong, innovative, and creative, and its presentation must be refined. PSB’s reach should be accessible and straightforward for the public," he said.

He also noted the positive start of PSB despite challenges, stressing the need for its sustainability and diversity in content. He mentioned that it is essential to include content that highlights Nepal's identity and pride, especially for Nepali citizens living abroad, as well as for foreign audiences.

Minister Kharel pointed out that not only in Nepal but across the world, the media is facing challenging circumstances, and PSB should increase its viewership and listenership through mobile and digital platforms for radio and TV.

"Television cannot just be placed on a wall like in the past. With changing times, technology, and equipment, improvements must be made. We must figure out how to gain the trust of the people through all five channels of NTV and increase likes and viewership. PSB should also be competitive with the private sector," Minister Kharel added.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 10 November 2025.        

Government assures private sector of investment security

FNCCI proposes Private Sector Protection and Promotion Programme

 

Kathmandu, Nov. 8

The government has assured the private sector, which experienced a severe attack and damage to business and private properties during the Gen Z movement in September, that investments and investors will be protected.

Speaking at the National Economic Dialogue 2.0 organised by the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) in the Capital on Saturday, Prime Minister Sushila Karki, Finance Minister Rameshore Prasad Khanal, Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal and Industry Minister Anil Sinha uniformly appreciated the role of the private sector in the aftermath of the movement. They assured that policies would be enacted to facilitate and protect the businesses and industries.

Prime Minister Karki assured the private sector that their contribution to the economy and society would be aptly valued and utmost security would be provided to the investment.

"The government and the private sector are the engine and fuel in a vehicle, so one compliments the other. Without one, the vehicle cannot move ahead," she said

According to her, persecution of honest entrepreneurs and the protection of those who manipulate policies must not continue.

"We strongly condemn the damage caused to the industrial and business sectors by a few unruly groups taking advantage of a temporary state of power vacuum," she said while adding, "I would like to once again assure you that the government will leave no stone unturned in providing immediate relief and support to the private sector — just as it has done for the injured youths of the Gen Z movement — and in restoring their confidence."

The government is aware of the structural shortcomings in the economy, lack of job creation and capital flight. Upcoming policies will be built on these factors, she said.

Stating that the Gen Z movement clearly articulated that the youth will not tolerate corruption, bad governance, and looting in the name of democracy, PM Karki stated that the government would take every possible step to boost the confidence of the private sector. "For this, all the culprits that were involved in the vandalisation of private property and business on September 24 will be brought to the book. We are aware of the looting in the guise of politics," she said.

Likewise, she informed that the government is formulating strategy to harness the opportunities in hydroelectricity, agriculture and tourism sector and attract investment in these priority sectors.

She also took the opportunity to call one and all to support in creating conducive environment for the upcoming election to the House of Representatives slated for March 5.

 

MoF to make swift decisions

Speaking on the occasion, Finance Minister Rameshore Prasad Khanal said that government's basic priority is private sector facilitation which has been initiated with the concessions and facilities announced in the aftermath of the September movement. "Revolutionary reforms at the customs administration are in the offing. Tax centres are being expanded to the local levels and, within a year, tax service will be available at every local body," he stated.

According to him, the Ministry of Finance wouldn't hesitate to make quick decisions on the matters related to the business, investment and economic growth.

"Wealth created by the private sector is also the property of the country. There is a need to educate people that the damage caused to the private property and business establishment is the damage made to the country," said Minister Khanal.

Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal said that the current priority is strict implementation of the rule of law and sending message to the people that they are safe. He stated that many of those attacking the business and private property have been arrested and the remaining ones will be booked soon.

"The government is in continuous contact with the stakeholders of the politics and economy and will devise better path and system for the future," he said.

 

Need to inspire future investors

Minister For Industry Commerce and Supplies Anil Kumar Sinha said that the government and ministries need to set the priorities to move ahead in order to achieve the desired results.

"My first priority as a minister is to extend service delivery to inspire the future generations that is joining the business. Decision making process should be swift and pragmatic," he said. "But the very next day I assumed the position of Industry Minister, few entrepreneurs called me to offer their support, especially job to the families of those killed during the protest and other possible means. It has motivated me that we can have a collective effort in rebuilding the economy."

Chief Secretary Eak Narayan Aryal said that the government is yet to fully internalize the fact that the private sector is the major contributor to the economic growth and employment. "High government officials talk about the importance of private sector in public events but forget it while formulating policies and strategies," he said.

But still the business community has left the issues of damage during the protest in September and begun to talk about the positive aspects which will contribute positively to credit rating of the country, said Aryal.

The chief secretary also said that poor coordination among the three levels of the government has created hurdles and troubles for the investors and entrepreneurs.

Governor of the Nepal Rastra Bank Dr. Bishwo Poudel urged businesspeople and all to have a positive mindset and talk about positive aspects of the economy and financial markets. "If we continuously say the stock market will go down, it might actually go down. Let's not make self-fulfilling prophecies to actually happen," he said.

He also said that in the first phase the country needs to finalise the growth drivers, then develop strategies to work on them.

 

Need for special initiative

FNCCI President Chandra Prasad Dhakal said that the private sector expected a special initiative from the government to raise the dwindling confidence of the private sector. Security of investment and investors and speedy service delivery from all concerned authorities should be the primary step towards it.

"Even the bedrooms of businesspeople have been vandalised and looted during the Gen Z demonstrations in September, which has badly shaken their confidence," he said. He suggested the establishment of Private Sector Protection and Promotion Programme (PSPPP) to ensure that no form of attack is carried out against the private sector, and that swift services and facilities are provided in an integrated manner by all relevant agencies with the necessary security arrangements.

Dhakal also expressed ire that the private sector has long been portrayed as a profit-monger sector while they provide service to earn the profits. The private sector has more than 81 per cent contribution to the national economy and 86 per cent in the total employment. They conduct the export trade and earn foreign currency.

"I would like to remind you that in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, revenue collection had exceeded budget estimates. We have been fulfilling our duties," said Dhakal.

However, according to him, the government has listened to the concerns and demands of the private sector regarding the trunk line and dedicated feeder dispute. The FNCCI wants to settle the dispute amicably.

He suggested that business renewal shouldn't be made mandatory for an enterprise that is regularly paying the taxes.

 

Need for long-term protection plan

President of Confederation of Nepalese Industries Birendra Raj Pandey said that investment should be taken seriously because an investor has calculated multiple risks before putting in the money in any business.

According to him, long-term industrial protection plan should be formulated at the earliest, attackers on private property should be brought to book, public services should be fully digitalised. "Nepali private sector has high resilience and has sprung back from many disasters. So, we will rise again. The government must facilitate in the process," he said.

Vice President of Nepal Chamber of Commerce Surendra Sharestha said that the private sector's decreasing confidence has resulted in growing liquidity in the financial system, and decreasing investment, production and exports.

The government should promote secure environment, concessional finance and technical facilitation to the businesses, he said. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 9 November 2025.        

Printing driving licenses begins from Banepa-based Security Printing Press

Kathmandu, Nov. 7

The government has started printing vehicle driving licences in home, marking a significant step toward bolstering administrative efficiency and national security.

The Security Printing Press under the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology has started printing the driving documents since Friday.

Minister for Communication and Information Technology Jagdish Kharel inaugurated the printing by pressing the start button on the press machinery at Banepa of Kavrepalanchok district on Friday.  

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Kharel highlighted that despite numerous legal entanglements and operational challenges, essential arrangements were made to resume licence printing work.

“The machinery and components at the Security Printing Press were lying idle for years, gathering dust,” he said. “The facility was almost in a state of ruin. After thorough cleaning and preparation, we have finally resume printing operations.”

Minister Kharel said that the security press is capable of producing a wide array of secure documents, including national identity cards, passports, land ownership certificates, stickers, and postage stamps. However, printing operations had remained idle for an extended period. “Through significant effort, we have now commenced licence printing at the government press itself,” he added.

“There is an immediate requirement to print 2.8 million driving licences. By initiating printing in-house rather than relying on foreign contractors, we aim to provide citizens with tangible proof of good governance,” said Minister Kharel, who is also the government spokesperson.

Printing licences, passports, and national identity cards had been outsourced to foreign firms, raising concerns over both costs and security. Minister Kharel said that with proper policy reforms, the government can now utilise existing infrastructure and resources to undertake the work internally.

“We have overcome policy issues, structural deficiencies, budgetary constraints, and manpower shortages to resume licence printing. Previously, there were court cases and complaints to the anti-corruption authority regarding secure printing. By establishing new guidelines and ensuring resources and workforce management, we have restarted printing licences,” he added.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Radhika Aryal, Communication Secretary and Chairperson of the Security Printing Centre, reminded everyone of the Centre's commitment to work in accordance with the mandate provided by the law, she directed the Executive Director to move forward with printing all types of security documents domestically.

Narhari Tiwari, Acting Director-General of the Department of Transport Management (DoTM), said that with the commencement of licence printing, service users will receive relief. According to him, around 3 million cards, for which revenue has already been collected, are still pending distribution to the public.

Executive Director of the Security Printing Press, Devraj Dhungana, said that printing has resumed after resolving multiple legal and technical complexities. In the first phase, printing will follow an agreement to produce 1.2 million licences, with production gradually increasing in line with daily requirements, he said.  

Initially, the press is operating on card-based printing, with paper-based printing to begin within six months in the under-construction facility. From Friday, the press has also been capable of producing national identity cards, postage and revenue stickers, land ownership certificates, and visa stickers.

The Security Printing Press was established, spending approximately Rs. 3 billion to date, underscoring the government’s commitment to secure and self-reliant printing operations.

According to the Centre, while the new licences will not have a ‘chip’ like the previous versions, they will feature an advanced security system. The Centre has agreed to print around 1.2 million new licences within the next six months. new cards will feature a QR code and will utilise six layers of security technology.

The new card will have 34 different security features, some visible and some hidden. Traffic police will be able to scan the QR code offline to verify the details.

In May of this year, the DoTM and the Security Printing Centre signed an MoU to print approximately 2.8 million remaining licences. The implementation agreement was signed just a week ago after the technical evaluation of the project, informed Dhungana. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 November 2025.        

PM Karki urges citizens to have voter identity card

Kathmandu, Nov. 7

Prime Minister Sushila Karki has urged all citizens to obtain their voter identity cards.

Issuing a video statement on Friday, she said, “To make proper use of your voting rights, visit your nearest election office today and get your voter identity card made.”

According to her, in a democratic society, there are two fundamental means to realise the dreams of citizens. First, the individual conscience of citizens. That conscience which chooses what is right, does not do wrong, and does not allow wrongdoing. Second, the official tool to exercise that conscience — the voter identity card.

“To realise Nepal as dreamt by Gen-Z youth and all Nepalis, the first thing we must do is obtain our voter identity cards. Then, by using them wisely, we must choose the right representatives,” said PM Karki.

She said that one should either be the right representative or choose the right one through an election.

“Let every eligible citizen make good use of their voting rights to stand against existing injustices and move forward together in the nation’s development,” she urged. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 November 2025.        

Trans-Himalayan Forum kicks off in Kathmandu

Kathmandu, Nov. 7

The third Trans-Himalayan Forum on Communication and Social Development opened in Kathmandu on Friday, organised by the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Kangba TV (China), Tribhuvan University (Nepal), and Himalaya Television (Nepal).

The event, held under the theme ‘Peripheral Digital Communication and Regional Public Governance’, aims to address common challenges through digital innovation and regional collaboration.

The forum draws attention to the increasing importance of strengthening cooperation among Trans-Himalayan nations in light of complex global dynamics. These countries, sharing geographical and cultural ties, face challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, water security, and sustainable development, the organisers said in a statement.

The forum seeks to use digital tools and academic dialogue to develop practical solutions and promote regional stability.

Over 150 scholars and practitioners from nine countries, including China, Nepal, the USA, India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Japan, are participating in the forum. The event, which received more than 60 academic papers, coincides with the 70th anniversary of China-Nepal diplomatic relations and the 75th anniversary of China-India ties, adding historical context to the discussions.

A key highlight of the forum was the awarding of the ‘Research Centre for Digital and Intelligent Public Governance in the Pan-Himalaya Region’, a collaborative academic institution established by UESTC and TU.

The forum featured keynote addresses on regional issues. Professor Manukonda Rabindranath from Jawaharlal Nehru University (India) discussed AI-driven fact-checking tools, while Dawa Penjor from Bhutan presented the ‘Gelephu Mindfulness City’ model.

Likewise, Professor Chen Changfeng from Tsinghua University explored the impact of algorithms on societal cognition. Women’s empowerment also emerged as a key theme, with speakers such as Deepika Pant from India and Qimi Wengmu from Kangba TV highlighting the role of women in regional resilience and media.

Experts called for greater regional integration as well as the role of the media in bridging cultures. The Vice-Chancellor of the TU Prof. Dr. Deepak Kharel emphasised the importance of evidence-based academic exchanges in light of shifting geopolitical dynamics.

The programme also featured book exhibition on China’s development practices and photo exhibition documenting the region’s customs and landscapes, contributing to cultural exchange. The forum marks the third in a series of Trans-Himalayan Forums, continuing efforts to strengthen academic and people-to-people connections across the region.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 November 2025.        

President returns home from Doha

Kathmandu, Nov. 6

President Ramchandra Paudel returned home on Thursday after taking part in the Second World Summit for Social Development, which concluded in Doha of Qatar.

He was received by Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav, Prime Minister Sushila Karki, Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal, Ambassador of Qatar to Nepal Mishal M. Al Ansari, Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, and heads of the security agencies at the Tribhuvan International Airport.

At the invitation of the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, President Paudel left for Doha on Monday, leading the Nepali delegation, including First Lady Sabita Paudel, to attend the Summit.

He addressed the main session of the Summit on Tuesday and delivered remarks at a high-level roundtable discussion on strengthening the three pillars of social development — poverty eradication, full and productive employment and decent work for all, and social inclusion, the same evening.

On Tuesday, President Paudel met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres. On Wednesday, he   visited the Qatar National Museum, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed in a statement.

The first World Summit for Social Development was held in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1995. The summit discussed issues such as inequalities in development, demographic imbalances, and the impact of technology on society.

Since becoming a member of the United Nations, Nepal has remained an active and committed member working for peace and stability. Nepal currently chairs the UN Economic and Social Council.

Earlier, President Paudel and the Nepali delegation were seen off by Nepal’s Ambassador to Qatar, Ramesh Chandra Paudel, along with senior officials from Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of Nepal, at the Hamad International Airport in Doha.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 7 November 2025.        

Nepal, Thailand to hold BCM soon

Kathmandu, Nov. 6

Nepal’s Ambassador to Thailand Dhan Bahadur Oli, and Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Thailand Eksiri Pintaruchi have expressed their commitment to hold the meeting of Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) at the earliest.

“They discussed the possibility of concluding bilateral agreements on Agricultural Cooperation and expressed their commitment to hold the meeting of the BCM at the earliest possible in convenience for both sides,” the Embassy of Nepal informed in a statement on Thursday.

The Ambassador and the Permanent Secretary also discussed the ongoing bilateral issues of mutual interest, including the effective implementation of various bilateral Agreements signed between Nepal and Thailand.

Ambassador Oli updated Pintaruchi that the current situation in Nepal has returned to normal and tourism, trade, and other day-to-day businesses have resumed in their regular operations.

He appreciated the Thai government for its valuable support in facilitating the safe repatriation of Nepali nationals rescued from various locations in Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos through Thai territory. He also expressed hope for continued cooperation of Thailand in combating human trafficking, smuggling, and online scamming issues, in which several Nepali nationals have been victimised.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Embassy facilitated, in cooperation with Thai authorities, the repatriation of 14 Nepalis rescued from Myanmar, while an additional 38 are in the process of repatriation.

The meeting was attended by Urasa Mongkolnavin, Director-General of the Department of South Asian, Middle East and African Affairs, and other senior officials of the MoFA of Thailand and Moti Bahadur Shrees, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 7 November 2025.        

Bangladesh envoy to help in promoting Nepali exports

Kathmandu, Nov. 6

Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Nepal, Mohammad Shafiqur Rahman, expressed his commitment to making every possible effort to reduce the trade deficit by promoting Nepal’s exports.

During discussions with the officials of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC), Ambassador Rahman also noted Nepal’s immense potential in the tourism sector and highlighted that cultural and educational ties between the two countries remain strong, even at the people-to-people level.

Speaking on the occasion, President of the NCC, Kamlesh Kumar Agrawal, emphasised that Nepal and Bangladesh need to work together and create a conducive trading environment in order to reduce the trade imbalance between the two countries.

He pointed out that Nepal imports goods worth approximately USD 30.88 million from Bangladesh annually, while exporting only around USD 3.33 million worth of goods, reflecting a significant trade imbalance.

According to Agrawal, the lack of a direct trade route and dependence on Indian transit routes have increased transportation costs, causing delays and complications in trade. He stressed that both sides should prioritise expanding direct road and rail connectivity between Nepal and Bangladesh. 

“Nepali products such as lentils, spices, fruits, and dairy items have good market potential in Bangladesh, but these opportunities have yet to be fully utilised,” Agrawal added.

He further stated that the regional cooperation framework among Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal (BBIN) could be effectively used to enhance collaboration in trade, energy, and transport.

Likewise, Agrawal urged both countries to elevate their economic relations through direct cooperation between the private sectors, trade exhibitions, investment conferences, and policy facilitation.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 7 November 2025.        

ADB, IDA, SDC to support in disaster risk management

Kathmandu, Nov. 5

The Asian Development Bank (ADB), the World Bank Group’s International Development Association (IDA), and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) have signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) reaffirming their shared commitment to support the Government of Nepal in strengthening disaster risk reduction and management and building climate-resilient infrastructure.

“Nepal faces increasing threats from climate-induced hazards such as floods, droughts, landslides, and glacier melt, which continue to cause severe human and economic losses and displace communities,” they said in a joint statement on Wednesday.

Nature-dependent sectors, including hydropower—vital to the country’s economic growth—are particularly vulnerable to these impacts.

“Investing in climate-resilient infrastructure and disaster risk management has never been more critical. These investments will not only strengthen communities and safeguard essential assets but also create jobs and foster long-term economic growth,” said Arnaud Cauchois, ADB Country Director for Nepal. He added that through strengthened coordination and technical cooperation, ADB, IDA, and SDC aim to support Nepal in building resilience to climate impacts and ensuring that investments bring lasting benefits to people across the country.

The partner agencies have expressed their intention to collaborate in supporting the Government of Nepal in developing resilient infrastructure and advancing planned and existing investments, including in the hydropower sector, within the Dudh Koshi River Basin in Koshi Province.

“As one of the world’s most vulnerable countries to climate shocks and natural disasters, building resilience is an imperative for Nepal. By joining forces, the ADB, World Bank, and SDC intend to leverage our collective expertise, resources, and commitment to support Nepal’s sustainable development,” said David Sislen, World Bank Division Director for Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. 

According to the development agencies involved in the initiative, the partnership aims to strengthen Nepal’s disaster resilience by enhancing multi-hazard risk assessment models, establishing comprehensive early warning systems, advancing climate risk management and financial services for climate-resilient infrastructure, and promoting knowledge sharing and awareness.

It will also emphasise joint analytical work, capacity building, institutional strengthening, and close technical collaboration with the Government of Nepal and local stakeholders.

“Switzerland is strongly committed to fostering resilience and sustainable development in Nepal. Through this partnership, a dedicated Swiss team of experts from academia and the private sector will be mobilised to engage with Nepali counterparts, ADB, and IDA to co-develop innovative solutions for disaster risk reduction and climate-resilient infrastructure,” said Ambassador Arno Wicki, SDC Assistant Director General and Head of the Division for Asia – Americas.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 6 November 2025.