Five Nepalies released from Iran prison arrive home

 Kathmandu, July 25

Five Nepali nationals, imprisoned in Iran and released following a court order, have been brought back to Kathmandu, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed in a statement on Friday.

According to it, with the support of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Nepali Honorary Consul in Tehran, the group was flown back to Kathmandu.

Earlier, in response to Nepal’s diplomatic request, the Indian government facilitated the safe evacuation of nine Nepalis from Iran. They were rescued in three separate flights operated by Indian airlines and returned safely to their respective homes in Nepal via land routes through India.

“As calm gradually returns following the ceasefire between Israel and Iran on 23 June 2025, Nepal has successfully repatriated its nationals caught in the conflict zone, including five Nepali citizens who were recently released from an Iranian prison,” read the statement.

It further said that through its embassies in Tel Aviv, Doha and its Honorary Consulate in Tehran, the government had been actively monitoring the situation and issuing travel advisories and safety notices to safeguard Nepali citizens residing in both countries.

Emergency evacuation plans had also been drawn up in case of escalation, said the MoFA.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 26 July 2025.

Thai investors urged to explore opportunities in tourism

 Kathmandu, July 25

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has urged Thai investors to explore opportunities in Nepal’s growing tourism and hospitality sectors, citing the country’s immense potential in this field.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 'Thai Flavours in the Himalayas' trade fair jointly organised by the Thai Embassy in Kathmandu and Bhat Bhateni Supermarket in Kathmandu on Friday, she said that tourism could serve as a common platform for shared prosperity and cooperation.

Stating that Nepal is making strides in entrepreneurship and that many of its products, such as handicrafts, have gained attention in the global market, FM Dr. Rana encouraged Thai entrepreneurs and investors to consider Nepal as a favourable investment destination.

She also highlighted that Nepal and Thailand have many cultural similarities.

She noted the longstanding historical ties between the two nations and emphasised the shared cultural values across various sectors.

FM Dr. Rana highlighted on mutual traditions of hospitality, respect for multi-religious and multicultural values, tolerance, and the potential for prosperity through tourism.

She also recalled that both Nepal and Thailand are independent and sovereign nations that have never been colonised. Referring to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s recent visit to Thailand, she said, “Several agreements were reached at both government and private sector levels during the visit. I hope that such high-level exchanges would continue in the future to strengthen bilateral relations.”

Meanwhile, the Government of Nepal has expressed condolences to the government and the people of Russia, and especially to the bereaved families who have lost their loved ones in this devastating plane crash.

“The GoN is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic plane crash that occurred in the far-eastern Amur region of the Russian Federation on July 25. Our thoughts and prayers are with them in this time of grief,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Friday. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 26 July 2025.

IOE Secretary-General in Nepal

Kathmandu, July 24

Roberto Suárez Santos, Secretary-General of the International Organisation of Employers (IOE), has appreciated the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) for its efforts in fostering harmonious industrial relations in Nepal.

He is in Nepal on a three-day visit at the invitation of FNCCI President Chandra Prasad Dhakal.

Speaking at a meeting with the FNCCI officials on Thursday, he praised the federation’s contributions to minimum wage negotiations, social security reforms, and formalisation of the labour sector, calling them exemplary.

Likewise, Dhakal highlighted the importance of IOE's support as Nepal prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2026. “We face both opportunities and challenges. We look to the IOE for global advocacy, knowledge sharing, and continued collaboration,” he said.

Santos reaffirmed IOE’s commitment to supporting Nepal during its economic transition and noted that FNCCI’s efforts in employer-worker relations serve as a model for others.

FNCCI Vice Presidents Hem Raj Dhakal and Jyotsna Shrestha, along with other officials, shared views on strengthening Nepal’s industrial environment. Founded in 1920, the IOE represents over 150 employer organisations globally, with FNCCI as its member in Nepal.

MSEs hesitate to join SSF scheme

Kathmandu, July 24

Seven years since Nepal implemented the contribution-based social security scheme for the employees, the question remains on how to better attract Nepali businesses to the Social Security Fund (SSF).

In particular, micro and small enterprises (MSEs), which according to the Economic Census of 2018 constitute 99.5 per cent of total 923,356 in operation then, are lagging in this regard.

While the law has mandatory provisions for formal schemes, MSEs remain apprehensive whether they could continue with SSF in a sustainable manner. The take-up across informal sector schemes, and the self-employed schemes also remain sluggish.

MSEs contribute about 22 per cent to the national economy and employ about 1.8 million people.

Chairperson of Cottage and Small Industry Committee at the Federation of Nepalese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Narendra Kumar Khadka, said that in the current economic situation and stringent policies, it is not easy for the employers to ensure the sustainability of contribution-based social security.

"The micro and small enterprises are between compulsion and understanding in terms of executing the social security provisions. We need to find a middle ground to support the employers and facilitate the employees," he said.

According to him, the FNCCI is working on it through a committee led by the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security, Social Security Fund (MoLESS) to implement the National Action Plan on Formalization with technical assistance from the International Labour Organization (ILO) which is promoting the registration of MSEs into SSF.

The Contribution-Based Social Security Act 2017 envisions all business establishments – both in formal and informal sectors – as well as non-profit sector institutions, and individuals including those in foreign employment to be included in the system.

According to the law, the employee contributes 11 per cent and the employer puts up 20 percent making it 31 per cent of the basic salary for formal schemes. The informal sector worker schemes have 11 per cent of the workers and 9.37 per cent from the local government while self-employed schemes see the full 31 per cent contributed from income.

The benefits on offer include medical treatment and health benefit, and various protections like maternity, accident, incapacity, old age, dependent family and unemployment. Such schemes ensure protection for both employers and workers, enhancing productivity and promoting employment security.

However, in case of failure to deposit the contribution within 15 days after the end of each month may result in a 10 per cent interest charge on the overdue amount. However, there is a clause in the law whereby the employer can register an application to the SSF to deposit the money within 30 days if there are plausible reasons that the situation was beyond their control.

If the non-compliance continued beyond the period agreed by the SSF, it can write to the concerned authorities to freeze the bank account, moveable and immoveable assets of the concerned individuals or institutions, suspend or stop the rebate facility entitled by law and suspend their permit or license, and freeze the passport of the persons concerned.

These provisions have forced the MSMEs, many of which lack business sustainability plan, think twice before joining the SSF.

The SSF has estimates that out of 21,031 economic establishments registered with the Fund, 3,000 (about 14 per cent) are MSEs. Its collections had reached Rs. 86.93 billion in contribution till Wednesday 23 July 2025 and paid Rs. 15.79 billion against the claims for medical and health treatment, accident and disability, dependent family protection and retirement facility.

 

MSEs' possibility of joining SSF

A sample survey on micro and small enterprise contribution capacity has now completed by the MoLESS led the committee in charge of implementing the national action plan on formalization.

On the demand side, it was found that nearly half of the non-contributing enterprises demonstrated good financial health, suggesting the potential to participate in SSF. Also, many MSEs lacked proper bookkeeping, with some even lacking bank accounts in the name of the enterprise, which calls for financial literacy and business management support. Interestingly, it was found that there was a segment of unregistered businesses that could join SSF, and in cases unaware of the different formal, informal sector and self-employed schemes on offer.

On the supply side, a need to consider subsidies, financed through tax mechanisms or redistribution though carefully designed to ensure sustainability and avoid creating disincentives for MSE formalisation or business growth was found.

Spokesperson for the SSF, Krishna Adhikari, has made a primary assessment that there is a possibility to include all the MCSEs in the social security scheme.

"We found that joining the SSF may not be a financial burden to the enterprises since it entails other various benefits, relieves the employers from the potential extra expenses on health and other areas while employees could be more motivated," he said.

Yet, there is a need for intensive campaign for information, awareness and education to micro, and small entrepreneurs to attract them to the scheme.

Meanwhile, the FNCCI together with MoLESS, SSF and other members of the committee with technical assistance from the ILO, and the European Union United Nations Empowered Women Prosperous Nepal programme has begun implementing a targeted awareness programme based on the findings.

In Nepal, micro enterprises are businesses with fixed assets of up to Rs. 2 million and employ up to nine persons with direct involvement of the investor. Small enterprises are the businesses with fixed assets ranging between Rs. 2 million and Rs. 50 million employing between 10 and 49 persons. Similarly, medium enterprises have fixed assets between Rs. 50 million and Rs. 150 million and employ between 50 and 249 persons. These investments are excluding the land and buildings. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 25 July 2025.

FM Rana lauds role of honorary consuls

 Kathmandu, July 23

Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has appreciated the growing role of honorary consuls in promoting Nepal’s economic diplomacy and said honorary consuls can serve as important bridges between Nepal and the international community, particularly in attracting trade, tourism, and investment.

"You have been playing a crucial role in introducing the world to Nepal and Nepal to the world," she said while addressing the 18^th Annual General Meeting and Charter Day of Honorary Consular Corps – Nepal (HCC-N) in Kathmandu on Wednesday.

She said the role of honorary consuls is extremely important in strengthening Nepal’s relations with the countries they represent, as well as in expanding economic, educational, cultural, and people-to-people ties with those nations.

“In today’s world, there is a growing need to advance bilateral cooperation and partnerships for shared prosperity. Your contributions are essential and significant in areas such as trade promotion, attracting foreign investment, ensuring market access, enhancing Nepal’s image internationally, and advancing matters of mutual interest and benefit,” she said.

FM Dr. Rana said that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) would find ways to enhance engagements with the honorary consuls to devise a more effective policy for the country's foreign affairs.

Former UN Under Secretary General and former Nepal's Ambassador to the United Kingdom Gyan Chandra Acharya emphasised the need to integrate diplomacy with development through coordinated efforts.

"Economic growth has transformed the nations and societies. However, there are persistent challenges of poverty and inequality and conflicts and terrorism. So, we need to have a good strategy to approach the international community," he said.

According to him, Nepal should expand and diversify its relations with the neighbours and other friendly countries as well as the multilateral agencies. In particular, he suggested  promoting Sagarmatha Sambaad globally and use it as a platform for country's major engagement with the international stakeholders.

Chandra Prasad Dhakal, outgoing Dean of HCC-N, said that honorary consuls are active agents of Nepal’s economic diplomacy.

 “We are not just ceremonial figures. We are active, capable, and committed contributors to Nepal’s diplomacy and development,” he said while stressing the importance of economic diplomacy is growing rapidly in today’s interconnected world.

Dhakal formally handed over the Deanship to Bhola Bikram Thapa, Honorary Consul of Bulgaria.

Speaking on the occasion, Thapa said that since economic diplomacy has become a necessity, role of honorary consuls is ever-growing. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 July 2025.   

Hotel Siraichuli in Chitwan to issue IPO

Kathmandu, July 23

Hotel Siraichuli Limited of Bharatpur in Chitwan is all set to issue shares to the general public.

The company announced that it has initiated the process to obtain the necessary approvals from regulatory bodies in accordance with the prevailing Securities Registration and Issue Regulations, as well as the Securities Issuance and Allotment Guidelines.

For the purpose of managing the share issuance and sales, the company has appointed Nabil Investment Banking Limited as the issue and sales manager.

Located in Bharatpur Metropolitan City–10, Hotel Siraichuli is a modern four-star hotel, built with contemporary architecture, the company informed in a statement on Wednesday.

It features modern accommodation, a multi-cuisine restaurant, three banquet halls, five boardrooms, an infinity swimming pool, rooftop restaurant, poolside bar, gym, and spa.

Situated in the heart of Chitwan’s bustling urban centre, the hotel provides scenic views of the Himalayan mountain range. According to the company, its elegantly decorated rooms and suites offer a luxurious stay, allowing guests to unwind and rejuvenate during their travels.

Chudamani Khanal, Chairperson of Hotel Siraichuli, and Manish Narayan Joshi, CEO of Nabil Investment, signed the agreement in the presence of the issuing company's Managing Director Bishnu Kunwar and board member Baburam Upadhyaya.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 July 2025.   

Pakistani Embassy hosts poetry symposium

Kathmandu, July 23

The Embassy of Pakistan in Kathmandu, in collaboration with Sahitya Academy Nepal, hosted an international poetry symposium titled "Aalmi Mushaira: Urdu, Shaairi Ki Zubaan" in Kathmandu on Tuesday.

The event aimed at highlighting the literary ties between Pakistan and Nepal while fostering deeper cultural relations, informed the Embassy in a statement.

Distinguished guests included Members of Parliament Siraj Ahmed Farooqi (CPN-UML) and Kalpana Miya (CPN-Maoist Centre). The gathering attracted a diverse audience of Urdu enthusiasts, including politicians, academics, social activists, and officials from the Pakistan Embassy.

Renowned Urdu poets Dr.. Zafar Eleeg, Dr.. Saqib Harooni (President of Sahitya Academy Nepal), Dr. Afzal Manglori, Furqan Faizi, Musharaf Ali Khan, Zahid Azad Jhanda Nagri, Ghalib Dareeb, Altaf Farifta, and Sapna Ahsaas captivated the audience with their evocative poetic recitations, earning widespread appreciation.

Speakers at the event praised the Pakistan’s commitment to cultural promotion and commended the Embassy’s efforts in fostering Urdu literature in Nepal.

Celebrated Nepali filmmaker and author Prakash Sayami underlined the universal appeal and profound expressiveness of Urdu poetry in his remarks. According to him, Urdu poets and singers were welcomed in Nepal since 1960s.

Ambassador of Pakistan to Nepal Abrar H. Hashmi emphasised the need for enhanced collaboration between the literary communities of Nepal and Pakistan, particularly through literary exchange and the mutual promotion of languages such as Urdu and Nepali.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 July 2025.   

NICCI urges Adani Group to invest in Nepal

Kathmandu, July 23

Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) has urged Shishir Priyadarshi, Global Relations Head of the Adani Group of India, to explore investment opportunities in Nepal’s energy and infrastructure sectors. Priyadarshi was on a two-day visit to Kathmandu.

During his visit, NICCI facilitated a meeting between Priyadarshi and Dipak Khadka, Minister for Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, Government of Nepal.

Minister Khadka also urged Adani Group—one of India’s leading industrial conglomerates—to invest in Nepal’s hydropower and infrastructure projects, emphasizing the country’s vast potential in these sectors. NICCI informed in a statement.

Priyadarshi, in discussions with the Minister and representatives from Nepal’s private sector, recommended that Nepal should proactively invite Indian private sector players to invest in hydropower and infrastructure.

He emphasised that such partnerships will help harness Nepal’s energy potential.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 July 2025.   

NEFFA to hold 31st Cargo Day on July 29

Kathmandu, July 23

The Nepal Freight Forwarders Association (NEFFA) is set to organise 31^st annual Cargo Day on July 29 with programmes to promote the overall transportation industry.

This year's Cargo Day, organised in collaboration with the Nepal Intermodal Transport Development Board, will focus on logistics development and BBIN (Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal) connectivity, NEFFA informed in a press meet organised in Kathmandu on Tuesday.

Naresh Kumar Agrawal, Senior Vice President of NEFFA and coordinator of the 31^st Cargo Day Organising Committee, highlighted the event's evolution from a family gathering to a crucial platform for discussing industry challenges and opportunities. He emphasised that Cargo Day facilitates discussions on making the national supply chain more efficient and robust.

The event will feature an inauguration ceremony, the NEFFA Annual Awards 2025 which recognises significant contributions to the Nepali logistics sector, including awards for online and offline airlines, and dry port operators.

An interaction programme on 'Logistics Development of Nepal & BBIN Connectivity' with national and international speakers will also be a highlight of the event which will be followed by a fellowship and trade meet. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 July 2025.   

CIDCA delegation calls on PM Oli

 Kathmandu, July 22

A delegation led by Chen Xiaodong, Chairman of the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Tuesday.

During the meeting held at the Prime Minister’s residence in Baluwatar, the two sides discussed bilateral relations, four bilateral agreements signed on Monday at the Ministry of Finance, and the implementation of development cooperation agreements reached during past high-level visits between Nepal and China, PM Oli's secretariat informed in a statement.

Prime Minister Oli reiterated Nepal's commitment to the One-China Policy and highlighted the longstanding friendly ties between the two countries.

"He expressed appreciation for China’s prompt support in reconstructing infrastructure at the Rasuwagadhi border point, which was damaged by recent flash floods. He also stated that the Nepali side has responded with urgency in this regard," read the statement.

PM Oli also stressed the importance of operationalising other border points, including Kimathanka, and moving forward with projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) framework without interruption, in order to transform Nepal from a landlocked to a land-linked country.

The meeting was attended by Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister Bishnu Prasad Rimal, Economic Advisor Dr. Yuba Raj Khatiwada, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song, and senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Earlier on Monday, the CIDCA delegation held discussions with Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel regarding ongoing and future development projects under Chinese assistance. On that occasion, both sides signed MoUs related to four projects.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 23 July 2025.   

New online labour system nears its launch

ILMIS to digitise labour permits, occupational safety records, and trade union activities

 

Kathmandu, July 20

With an aim of digitizing services offered by labour inspectorate in Nepal, the Department of Labour and Occupational Safety (DoLOS) has developed an Integrated Labour Management Information System (ILMIS) – a web portal that allows digital submission of labour audits, occupational accidents and disease reports, and case management system for labour disputes.

According to Director (Technical) and Spokesperson of the DoLOS, Engineer Maninath Gope, the system is in the final phase and would be officially rolled out in a month or so.

After the implementation of the new online-system, work and data related to foreign citizens to work in Nepal, labour suppliers, trade unions, and labour dispute resolution can be handled digitally without physically going into the existing eleven labour and employment offices.

Labour Act 2017 requires submission of a self labour audit each year by enterprises, which according to DoLOS is a complex task that involves 38 indicators addressing the major legal provisions of the labour laws. This was especially difficult for micro and small enterprises who had to physically travel to a different district where labour and employment office was based to submit the labour audit report. ILMIS by allowing digital submission democratizes the process, and facilitates the compliance process.

Likewise, it handles trade union registration and renewal, name changes, cancellations and amendments to trade union statutes.

"It will facilitate and simplify the registration of the details regarding occupational accidents and diseases. It also facilitates performance of the activities related to collective bargaining online," said Gope.

One of the most required functions in the business establishments has been managing rights and interest-based disputes in a systematic manner.

The ILMIS not only enables the online registration of applications related to labour disputes, including minimum wage, individual claims, and collective claims but also provides applicants with information on the processing status of their applications.

Similarly, new improvements to ILMIS include developing case management and messaging systems for grievance handling and occupational accident reporting.

The new system will support paperless work and technology-friendly service delivery, promote fast and transparent work process, and eliminate the need for repeated visits to the concerned offices. It will provide updated statistics of the establishments and workers.

 

Implementing transformation

Engineer Gope informed that the DoLOS had initiated the software development work about two years ago with Rs. 4.2 million. "With a vision of transforming the labour department to a technology-efficient and technology-friendly, we had launched a drive to develop a comprehensive software. But lack of budget limited the progress," he said.

The software has been used for issuing the labour permits to the industries, labour permits to the foreign citizens in Nepal, and recording trade union activities.

However, the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MoLESS) under the National Action Plan on Formalization, worked together with the International Labour Organization (ILO) to provide technical and financial support in upgrading the software to include a full case management system for rights disputes, collective bargaining, industrial accident and disease reporting, and enterprise audits.

Following the launch of the new system, respective companies and trade unions can digitally feed the data into it saving their time and resources. Likewise, it will facilitate the DoLOS in collecting information even from the rural areas in a quick and reliable manner.

Currently, the DoLOS and ILO have conducted orientation trainings to the stakeholders of the ILMIS on the updated system. Such trainings have been organised in Dhangadhi, Surkhet, Birgunj and Biratnagar and will be conducted in Kathmandu soon.

"In about a month, the developer will officially handle the system to the DoLOS. Currently, we are testing the software from every aspect," said Engineer Gope and added that the system would be implemented gradually.

Since the labour is considered a tripartite issue in Nepal, the Department is collaborating with the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) from the employer's side and Joint Trade Union Coordination Center (JTUCC) from the employee's side. The committee implementing the national action plan on formalization also has representation from FNCCI and JTUCC.

Women Committee Coordinator at the JTUCC, Sita Lama, appreciated the ILMIS stating that it has given priority to grievance handling and occupational safety and paved the way to manage them digitally.

"Although we have good laws, their implementation has remained poor. But with the implementation of online system, it would be easy to keep records of grievance and monitor the implementation of the facilities provided to the workers," she said.

However, Lama said that all workers must have easy and timely access to the system. For it, they should be enabled with information and skills, she stated.

Co-Chair of the Employers Council of the FNCCI, Babu Kaji Karki, said that the new system would facilitate all the stakeholders of the labour market. According to him, the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) should be provided with support so that they can implement it better.

 

A model project

The ILMIS functions as a web application with a front-end for user interaction and a back-end containing business logic, a web server, file system, and database.

The system flow for service seekers involves user registration via email and OTP, profile and document setup, application submission, payment verification, and the generation of a license certificate upon approval. For administrators, the system includes processes for reviewing, approving, and rejecting applications, as well as setting fees/fines and forwarding for further approval.

The DoLOS informed API integration with the Social Security Fund (SSF) to verify labour information has been initiated, with an MoU signed supported by the ILO. Efforts are also underway to improve usability through streamlined navigation, clear instructions, optimised interface design, responsiveness across devices, role-based access control, and mobile-friendliness.

Engineer Gope informed that the ILMIS being updated is a unique system in the South Asian Region. "Neighbouring countries like Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have shown interest in our system and want to replicate the model in their respective countries," he said. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 21 July 2025.   

NICCI and Lumbini Buddhist University ink MoU

Kathmandu, July 20

Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) and Lumbini Buddhist University (LBU) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen academic-industry collaboration and support the promotion of Lumbini as a centre for peace and tourism.

The agreement was signed by NICCI President Sunil KC and LBU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Subarna Lal Bajracharya on Sunday.

"The MoU outlines areas of cooperation including academia-industry partnerships, facilitation of internships and job placements, joint research and publications, knowledge sharing, and coordinated efforts to promote Lumbini internationally," NICCI informed in a statement.

Prof. Bajracharya said that LBU was working to attract 22,000 international students and is preparing a master plan for academic programme development and infrastructure expansion. He said the partnership with NICCI would support engagement with Indian diplomats, academics, and the business community.

Likewise, KC said that the Chamber remains focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation between Nepal and India. He said NICCI looks forward to working with LBU on research, innovation, entrepreneurship, tourism promotion, and other joint programmes.

The partnership seeks to connect academic and industry efforts in support of broader national goals and to contribute to positioning Lumbini more prominently in international academic and tourism sectors, read the statement.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 21 July 2025.   

Ghimire elected new NYEF president

Kathmandu, July 19

The Nepalese Young Entrepreneurs’ Forum (NYEF) has elected a new National Executive Committee for Fiscal Year 2025/26 under the leadership of Sudip Ghimire.

The newly elected Executive Committee includes Immediate Past President Kushal Sundar Shrestha, first Vice President Abhushan Jyoti Kansakar, second Vice President Nivita Pradhan, female Vice President Richa Shrestha, and members Krish Sapkota, Pabitra Bahadur Gautam, Subilasha Shrestha, Yunesh Raj Shrestha, Subin Shrestha and Abhimanyu Golchha.

The announcement was made during the organisation’s 21st Annual General Assembly held on Friday in Kathmandu.

Sudip Ghimire is an Executive Director of SG Group. The group operates in energy. He had begun his journey with NYEF in 2019 as the founding president of its Sunsari chapter and served on the national council since 2020.

In a statement issued on Friday, the NYEF – youth wing of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) – said that the Forum will focus on promoting innovation, inclusion, and impact in Nepal’s youth entrepreneurship landscape. It has also committed to building international partnerships with young entrepreneurs from neighbouring countries and fostering leadership and entrepreneurial thinking at the grassroots level by collaborating with schools, colleges, and youth communities nationwide.

The forum also pledged to identify challenges faced by youth-led businesses and advocate policy reforms in coordination with relevant authorities to create a more business-friendly environment in Nepal.

Speaking at the AGM, FNCCI, Chandra Prasad Dhakal, has called on young people to create opportunities within the country rather than seeking them abroad.

“There are plenty of opportunities in Nepal. One can do a great deal while staying here. Jobs can be created here itself. I urge the youth to generate opportunities within the country,” he said.

Dhakal reiterated FNCCI’s continued commitment to promoting youth entrepreneurship and innovation and said that NYEF now holds ex-officio membership in the central committee of the federation under its recently amended statute.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 20 July 2025.   

PM stresses expanding Nepal-China friendship

Kathmandu, July 18

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has stressed the need to expand the longstanding friendship between Nepal and China to future generations. He affirmed that the Government of Nepal would leave no stone unturned to advance the bilateral relations and deepening cooperation between Nepal and China.

Addressing the Nepal–China Cultural Summit 2025 organised by Phoenix Inspiration on the occasion of the 70^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China in Kathmandu on Friday, Prime Minister Oli said the event carried a powerful message in promoting cultural ties between the two ancient and historically rich nations.

“This summit will help strengthen our mutual friendship for generations to come. It will contribute to the growth of our multidimensional relationship. Relations are not only about exchange; they are also built on mutual sentiment and cultural diversity,” he said.

According to him, the Government of Nepal will spare no effort in enhancing this friendship. True friendship doesn’t require wealth, it grows in accordance with mutual capacity and will be made even broader.

He also said that performances of children from both the countries finely demonstrated the type of relations both the neighbours have, and pointed to the need for such initiatives in the years to come.

During the event, Prime Minister Oli presented awards to individuals in recognition of their contributions.

Deputy Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, Sunita Dangol, was honoured with the Youth Empowerment Award; business leaders – former President of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce Rajesh Kazi Shrestha and President of Confederation of Nepalese Indsutries Birendra Raj Pandey – received the Business Leadership Award; and Anuradha Sharma was recognised with the Excellence in Education Award.

Speaking on the occasion, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, said that engaging young students in cultural exchange programmes was a good initiative.

"It will further solidify the knowledge and awareness about each other's culture, education and other relevant issues. Frequency of such programmes should be increased," he said.

He also expresses commitment of China to cultural and development initiatives in Nepal and urged the students to get updates with the technological advancement of China and learn them.

Likewise, President of Phoenix Inspiration, Binod Blon, said that there is a need to intensify the people-to-people relations between Nepal and China. He also said that, a team of Nepali students will also present Nepali cultural performances in China next year.

The conference featured 70 students from China and Nepal who performed songs, dances, and poetry reflecting both cultures. Earlier this month, a group of 70 Nepali teachers and students had visited China.

Phoenix Inspiration has been teaching Chinese in schools, dubbing Chinese films into Nepali, and translating literature to enhance cultural understanding.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 July 2025.   

RBB promotes energy-efficient technology

Kathmandu, July 18

In a move to promote sustainable industrial practices, Rastriya Banijya Bank Limited (RBBL) has disbursed Rs. 29 million in financial grants to 10 Nepali industries adopting energy-efficient technologies.

The disbursement ceremony was held on July 17 at the bank’s Kathmandu office, marking the official rollout of the REEEP-GREEN grant facility.

The grant scheme falls under the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Programme – Green Recovery and Empowerment with Energy in Nepal (REEEP-GREEN), co-financed by the European Union and Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). It provides partial grant coverage for industries with strong energy-saving potential, helping them adopt cleaner and more efficient technologies.

The supported industries implemented key energy-saving measures identified through certified energy audits, resulting in projected lifetime savings of approximately 36,788 MWh, the bank informed in a statement.

"These efforts directly contribute to Nepal’s climate commitments and the country’s broader vision for sustainable industrial growth," it said.

CEO of RBBL Devendra Raman Khanal reaffirmed the bank’s dedication to green finance and environmental stewardship, and said that the programme aligned with national sustainability goals. The event also featured remarks from Rudra Khanal, Director of the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre, and representatives from the EU, German Embassy, and GIZ Nepal.

The initiative prioritises energy efficiency, environmental compliance, and decent work conditions, and aims to foster a circular economy in Nepal. "The lessons from this first round of funding are expected to inform future business cases for loan and blended finance models, encouraging wider industry participation and supporting long-term sustainable development across the country," read the statement. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 July 2025.   

NTB to open its office in India, Nepal's provinces

Kathmandu, July 18

The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has approved a budget of Rs. 1.59 billion for the Fiscal Year 2025/26.

According to Rishiram Bhandari, Coordinator of the Budget Formulation Sub-Committee, the budget and programmes have been designed with the objective of establishing Nepal’s image within the international tourism community by developing safe, reliable, and attractive destinations.

CEO of the Board, Deepak Raj Joshi, said that this year’s budget has focused on enhancing national production, foreign currency earnings, and employment opportunities through the development, expansion, and promotion of tourism, ensuring sustainable growth of the sector.

This year’s plan also includes promoting Nepal as the ASEAN Tourism Year 2026. Similarly, the NTB aims to increase overall income from tourism by at least 15 per cent by prioritising the arrival of quality tourists.

Promotional activities will be conducted in at least 50 source markets, while 5,000 additional tourism professionals will be trained. There are also plans to preserve at least 25 new tourism infrastructures to support expansion.

Likewise, 70 per cent of the total budget will be spent on international marketing, and NTB will open a new office in India - Nepal’s largest tourist source market.

 In 2024 alone, more than 400,000 Indian tourists visited Nepal. The Board is in the final stages of opening a permanent office in New Delhi or another major Indian city to enhance its outreach. Regional offices will also be established as outlined in this year’s budget.

The NTB has allocated Rs. 436.1 million for tourism market management and promotion, Rs. 129.5 million for public relations and publicity, and Rs. 116.6 million for establishing and operating new regional offices. Likewise, Rs. 46.2 million has been allocated for special promotional events such as the Buddhist Travel Mart, Himalayan Travel Mart, Adventure Travel Mart, Everest Honour Programme, and Safari Tourism Mart.

The Board also plans to conduct promotional activities in the USA, China, Japan, Korea, Australia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Thailand, and various European countries. Additionally, cultural and adventure destinations such as Mithila art, paragliding competitions, Elephant Festival, mountain, and jungle safaris will be promoted through this budget.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 July 2025.   

Registration empowers women's business

 Procedural hurdles still hinder wider transformation

 

Kathmandu, July 17

Anita Basaula, a woman entrepreneur from Birgunj, has been running beauty parlour business informally. Nobody told her about the need and benefits of registering the business. Meanwhile, after attending a two-day Formalize your Business training under the 'Empowered Women and Prosperous Nepal' programme organised at the Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industry, she realised the avenues could be opened with the registration of her business.

"I will register my beauty parlour this month (mid-July to mid-August). Now I know that formalisation opens doors to cooperation with banks, government bodies, non-government organisations and other partners," she said.

According to Anita, training provided her with clear and practical knowledge on how, why and where to register a business. "All entrepreneurs who are yet to register their businesses should be provided such training. It will provide them legal knowledge and ensuring business sustainability."

Likewise, Sunaina Thakur, owner of Mithila art-based enterprise Sunaina Arts in Janakpur, has transformed her artistic skills and cultural identity into a business venture and created jobs for local women. While she was in this business for the last two-and-a-half decades, her business was running informally without being registered at the concerned authorities.

Registering her business was not 'all-pleasant' activity. "I encountered a few challenges in the beginning. But when my business is registered, I could participate in government projects, access loan from the banks and financial institutions and collaborate with other companies and agencies," she said  adding that it supported in expanding her network and growing business.

Sunaina shared that running a business formally, getting it registered at the local or federal agencies, allows entrepreneurs to have better and transparent engagement with local producers. According to her, renewal process is easy and it is mandatory to renew if you want to continue with your business.

Business formalization has brought multitudes of benefits to entrepreneurs and supported in their growth and networking.

"It does wonders in creating an environment of trust and can have direct positive impacts on business and related activities," said Niru Rayamajhi Khatri, Immediate Past President of the Federation of Women Entrepreneurs' Associations of Nepal (FWEAN).

 

Opening doors of opportunities

Many entrepreneurs, especially micro, cottage and small (MCSEs), faced challenges in obtaining the financing facilities from the banks and financial institutions (BFIs), government incentives and other support in the wake  of the COVID-19 because they were not registered with the concerned government agency at any level.

However, with the implementation of the federalism and local bodies beginning the business registration, the scenario has improved significantly, said Khatri. Although actual numbers are not available, the estimates from the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) tell that the numbers are encouraging.

For example, about 85 per cent of the businesses in Tilottama Municipality of Rupandehi district are registered. According to the Economic Census of 2018, about half of the businesses in operation across the country were running without being registered.

"We have been calling on the entrepreneurs for the registration of their businesses and timely renewal. Agricultural businesses get 50 per cent discount in the registration fee while businesses run by women's group are  entitled to  75 per cent discount," Krishna Prasad Pandey, an officer of Tilottama Municipality Office said to The Rising Nepal.

Tilottama launched business formalisation as a campaign since 2017.

Capital city Kathmandu Metropolis and Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolitan City have also launched business registration drive in their respective areas. Krishna Kumari Bista from Dhangadhi said that following her business registration and quality products, she has been awarded as the 'best entrepreneur' for multiple times.

 

Poor policy implementation

Meanwhile, Juna Mathema, Chairperson of the FNCCI's Start-Ups and Innovation Forum, pointed to the need for further facilitation in the registration process and timely implementation of the government-announced policies.

"It's not that our policies are bad. Problem is with their implementation. Although the government announces various incentives and discounts to the entrepreneurs, their implementation is most often delayed," she said.

For example, the government announced registration fee waiver for entrepreneurs in the budget of the current Fiscal Year 2025/26, it hasn't formulated a procedure for it. As a result, concerned authorities will not be able to implement the provision.

"Entrepreneurs ask the FNCCI when will they get the announced benefits and incentives. But it takes months for their implementation," said Mathema.

Likewise, lack of procedure to recognise the startup business has deprived the entrepreneurs from the benefits. According to Mathema, most often, poor inter-agency coordination is behind these shortcomings .

 

Complexities observed

These perspectives reflect growing calls from employers to address existing bottlenecks, in particular for women entrepreneurs. They include lack of coordination between departments and agencies, reliance on intermediaries, requirement of rental document and inconsistencies in defining industries has created problems in enterprise registration process.

FNCCI is working with the ILO and local governments in awareness and facilitation support with priority in supporting women entrepreneurs. It is conducting training to women entrepreneurs to educate them in business formalisation, through Women Entrepreneurship Helpdesks in select districts.

Issues in obtaining incentives for business registration and renewal are lack of policy clarity, multiple taxation, need for physical visits, and ineffective operationalisation of incentives. FNCCI has renewed calls for single digital registration and renewal system for enterprises, building on recommendations from enterprise formalisation paper developed by ILO under the national action plan on formalisation.

Likewise, issues relating to compliance are emerging due to lack of monitoring, perceived excessive and disproportionate punitive measures for non-compliance, lack of awareness of regulation and requirements, and lack of digital data management.

 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 18 July 2025.   

IME Pay and Khalti merge

Kathmandu, July 17

Nepal’s digital wallets, IME Pay and Khalti, have officially begun joint operations under the new name ‘Khalti by IME’ from Thursday (July 17).

The merger was announced at a programme in Kathmandu and was attended by Deputy Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), Bam Bahadur Mishra.

It is the country’s first-ever digital wallet consolidation.

The two platforms, each with distinct user bases, have now unified under IME Khalti Ltd. while the app will operate as ‘Khalti by IME’.

IME Pay, known for remittance services, inDrive payments, and interest-bearing wallets, joins forces with Khalti, a favourite among youth for movie bookings, event ticketing, and digital innovations. "The merger aims to deliver a more seamless, secure, and feature-rich digital payment experience for Nepali users," said the company in a statement.

According to it, existing IME Pay users can migrate effortlessly to the new platform, with all balances, rewards, and account details automatically transferred. Khalti users, meanwhile, will enjoy upgraded features by simply updating their app.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Governor Mishra stressed the importance of digital payments in boosting transparency and financial inclusion. He expressed optimism that the merger would create a more accessible and user-friendly platform for all Nepalis.

Krishna Prasad Sharma, Chairman of IME Pay, said that this merger with Khalti strengthens their commitment to financial inclusion.

Likewise, Manoj Kumar Agrawal, Chairman of Khalti, added, “This union bridges innovation and legacy, setting a new benchmark for Nepal’s fintech sector.”

Binaya Khadka, CEO of IME Khalti Ltd., outlined the company’s vision to expand digital accessibility, enhance financial literacy, and introduce innovative services to drive greater inclusion.

With 7 million Khalti users and 5.7 million IME Pay users, the merged entity now serves 12.7 million customers, making it Nepal’s largest digital wallet. Both brands boast accolades, including the NRB Digital Transaction Award (Khalti, 2024) and the Digital Services ICT Award (IME Pay, 2024).

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 18 July 2025.   

Nepal-China Cultural Conference today

Kathmandu, July 17

Phoenix Inspiration is all set to organise the ‘Nepal-China Cultural Conference 2025’ in Nepal, marking 70 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

According to Chairman of the company Binod Blon, the event aims to foster cultural and linguistic exchange, promoting stronger people-to-people ties between the two neighbours.

This is the third such event in Nepal, and will be held on in Kathmandu on Friday. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will inaugurate the event while Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, and National Assembly Member Anjana Shakya will also attend the event.

The conference will feature 70 Chinese students who will perform songs, dances, and poetry reflecting both cultures. Earlier this month, a group of 70 Nepali teachers and students visited China, informed the organiser at a press meet organised in the Capital on Wednesday.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice President of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce, Santosh Kumar Pandey, said that such initiatives will deepen bilateral relations between the two neighbours and highlighted the need for Nepali entrepreneurs to learn Mandarin to strengthen the trade ties.

Phoenix Inspiration has been teaching Chinese in schools, dubbing Chinese films into Nepali, and translating literature to enhance cultural understanding.

Blon also informed that the Nepali film 'Hairaan' has been dubbed in Chinese language. The organisation has created employment opportunities for translators and performers with or without Chinese fluency, he said.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 18 July 2025.   

Government awards CIPs to 21 firms, 9 associations

Kathmandu, July 16

The government has honoured 30 commercial companies and organisations with the Commercially Important Person (CIP) awards.

At a programme organised by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies (MoICS) in collaboration with the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies Damodar Bhandari conferred the CIP honours on Wednesday.

Among the recipients, 21 are business firms and companies and nine are the representative organisations from the private sector.

From representative organisations, FNCCI President Chandra Prasad Dhakal, President of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) Kamlesh Kumar Agrawal, and former President of the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) Rajesh Kumar Agrawal were presented with honorary CIP recognition.

These honours were conferred in recognition of their notable contributions to the promotion of exports and the commercial sector, thus supporting national economic development.

Similarly, presidents of the Federation of Handicraft Associations of Nepal (FHAN) and the Federation of Export Entrepreneurs of Nepal (FEEN) were also presented honorary CIP status.

In addition, commodity-specific organisations such as the Nepal Chhurpi Entrepreneurs’ Association, Jhapa; Nepal Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association; Nepal Readymade Garment Industry Association; and Nepal Woollen Felt Producers and Exporters Association were honoured. These organisations were recognised on the basis of exporting goods worth more than Rs. 5 billion to third countries during fiscal years 2022/23 and 2023/24.

 

Top exporters recognised

Furthermore, one entrepreneur each from the top five export commodities to third countries were also awarded the CIP title. These include Third Eye International for woollen carpets, Nepal Fashion Pvt. Ltd. for garments, National Exporters Pvt. Ltd. for felt products, Manram Himalayan Handicrafts Pvt. Ltd. for Chhurpi, and Tricot Industries for pashmina products.

Based on export volumes to India, Dabur Nepal Pvt. Ltd., Aarti Strips, and Reliance Spinning Mills Ltd. received CIP awards. From China-bound exports, Chhomen Traders, Finjo Sonam Enterprises, and Astamangal Kathmandu were honoured.

Likewise, Gift Land Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. was awarded for being the highest earner of foreign currency through exports of handicraft goods that reflect Nepal’s indigenous skills, arts, and culture.

From high-priority potential exports, Nepal Everest Cardamom Production, Jhapa, and AB Herbal Traders and Suppliers, Darchula, were honoured in the categories of agricultural and herbal product exports, respectively. In the category of women exporters, Janakpur Refineries, Kathmandu, received the award for highest export volume.

Industries and companies that exported more than Rs. 1 billion to third countries over the past two fiscal years, including The Shangrila Carpet and Handicraft, Everest Fashion, Triveni Spinning Mills Ltd., and Mindful Craft Pvt. Ltd. (as a startup), were also recognised with CIP status.

IME Limited was honoured as the company bringing in the highest foreign currency through remittance transactions via the banking system, and Everest Hospitality Hotel Limited received the award in the tourism sector for earning the highest amount of foreign currency.

 

Govt to strengthen cooperation with private sector

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Bhandari said that the government would further strengthen cooperation with the private sector for the country’s prosperity. He said that the CIP honour would boost the morale of industrialists and entrepreneurs and play a more effective role in export promotion.

"Unless the private sector is empowered, economic growth and prosperity are not possible. Therefore, we want to move forward in partnership with the private sector," he stated.

He emphasised that as Nepal is set to graduate from the LDC category in 2026, the government and private sector must together formulate a strategy for the future.

Likewise, FNCCI President Dhakal said that Nepal’s exports could reach up to Rs. 1 trillion annually. He believed that with proper efforts, foreign direct investment could be increased to 10 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product within a few years. Currently, it is just 0.2 per cent.

According to him, the CIP recognition would encourage entrepreneurs to engage in dignified business and highlighted that internationally, individuals who receive such honours are held in high regard by the government and society. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 17 July 2025.   

Foreign aid commitment exceeds budget estimates

ADB and World Bank lead support in roads, climate, and electricity transmission projects

 

Kathmandu, July 16

Nepal has received foreign aid commitment of Rs. 273.04 billion in the Fiscal Year 2024/25 which is above the annual estimates announced by the budget of the same year.

Statistics from the Ministry of Finance (MoF) showed that the country received the commitments of Rs. 215.54 billion for loan and Rs. 57.50 billion for grants. In the budget of 2024/25, the government had anticipated to secure Rs. 270 billion in foreign aid – Rs. 217.67 billion in foreign loans and Rs. 52.33 billion in foreign grants.

The commitments Nepal received were in infrastructure, transport, environment and climate, governance, disaster management, agriculture and irrigation, water and education. Among these, transport sector received the commitment of Rs. 63.94 billion in projects like provincial and local roads improvement, bridge improvement and maintenance, and strategic road connectivity and trade improvement.

Energy sector witnessed a commitment of Rs. 56.41 billion in the projects like power distribution consolidation, and SASEC Electricity Transmission and Distribution. Most of the aid is to be mobilised in the SASEC project.

Likewise, aid commitment in environment, forest and climate change sector stood at Rs. 55.87 billion where priority projects are Green, Resilient and Inclusive Development (GRID), climate resilient landscapes and livelihood, managing watersheds, and forests and prosperity.

Other major sectors receiving the foreign aid in loans and grants are irrigation Rs. 28.47 billion, water Rs. 25.53 billion, disaster management Rs. 20.13 billion, social Rs. 9.6 billion and agriculture Rs. 9.4 billion. Smaller cooperation commitments were made in governance, and education as well.

Nepal's development partners (DPs) in the year are the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) of the UK, Germany, the European Union, China, Norway, International Fund for Agricultural Development, Switzerland, World Vision International, Japan and Strategic Climate Fund. 

With commitments of above Rs. 118 billion, ADB has emerged as the largest development partner for Nepal. It is supporting irrigation, climate resilient livelihood, water supply, SASEC electricity transmission and distribution, GRID and floods and landslide emergency response.

Similarly, with about Rs. 100 billion (including Rs. 1.6 billion in grants) aid commitment, the World Bank remains the second largest DP for Nepal. It is supporting road improvements, disaster resilience, GRID, bridge improvement and trade improvement.

Although complete data for the FY 2023/24 is not available, the country received foreign aid commitments of Rs. 120.59 billion by May 22, 2024 – about seven weeks remaining for the FY to conclude. Commitments included Rs. 74.24 billion in loans and Rs. 46.34 billion in grants.

That year, major sectors receiving foreign aid were health, road, urban development, education, public finance management, industry and climate, governance, social, agriculture, waste management and tourism.

The ADB was the largest donor in 2023/24 as well followed by the WB, EU, UK, Germany, Japan, Switzerland and Finland.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 17 July 2025.   

Govt to mobilise alternative finance to infrastructure

 Kathmandu, July 15

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel said that the government will mobilise alternative development finance for the construction of major infrastructure projects such as airports and railways.

Responding to questions raised by Members of Parliament in the House of Representatives regarding the mobilisation of alternative development finance on Tuesday, Minister Paudel said that the Alternative Development Fund would be utilised for energy development, electricity generation, transmission, and distribution.

He also informed that the fund would be used for road construction, tunnel construction and expansion, and the development of industrial infrastructure.

DPM Paudel also mentioned that the fund would also be channelled into urban development infrastructure, the establishment and operation of data centres, as well as the construction and operation of cable cars and podways.

He expressed confidence that investment from both domestic and foreign sources in large-scale, high-return projects would help resolve the resource constraints facing infrastructure development.

The government has presented a bill on the mobilisation of alternative development finance in the Parliament with the aim of securing resources for projects of national priority, bridging the investment gap in public infrastructure, and covering the financing shortfall in projects that traditional financial sources cannot support.

Amid rising public debt, the objectives of the new policy include attracting private capital into the infrastructure sector, reducing pressure on public borrowing, promoting employment, ensuring long-term investment in infrastructure, and supporting sustainable development.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 16 July 2025.   

FM Rana unveils her achievements

Kathmandu, July 15

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has said that her achievements in the past one year included restructuring the ministry, participating in high-level bilateral and multilateral meetings, and launching economic diplomacy and climate-focused initiatives.

In the year since she assumed office as Foreign Minister in July 2024, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has introduced new dimensions to Nepal’s diplomatic engagement, the Minister's secretariat informed in a statement on Tuesday.

Within a month of her appointment, Dr. Rana visited India at the invitation of her counterpart Dr. S. Jaishankar and met Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Their discussions covered trade, transit, connectivity, energy, floods, and infrastructure. Diplomatic engagements continued with meetings in Oman, and New Delhi.

"Dr. Rana also held talks with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi and leaders from countries including Japan, Germany, and Canada. She participated in international platforms such as the UN General Assembly, G77, G20, NAM, and the BIMSTEC Summit," read the statement.

The ministry initiated structural reforms under the Organisational Needs Mapping (ONM), opening new consulates in Dallas, San Francisco, and Dubai to serve the growing Nepali diaspora. A dedicated Economic Diplomacy Division was established, while the Sagarmatha Dialogue was launched as a platform for climate discussions.

Likewise, a mobile app, Shram Sansar, was introduced to collect data on Nepali migrant workers and provide targeted consular services.

FM Dr. Rana advocated for climate justice at the International Court of Justice and launched efforts for Nepal’s candidacy to UN bodies, including the Human Rights Council. She prioritised the safe repatriation of Nepalis from conflict zones and campaigned for the release of Bipin Joshi, a Nepali national.

According to her, the ministry faced resource constraints in serving a globally dispersed diaspora and operating missions abroad. Despite these challenges, its efforts in diplomacy, restructuring, and citizen service delivery mark a notable year of foreign policy execution under Minister Rana’s leadership, read the statement.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 16 July 2025.   

Campa soft drinks enters Nepali market

Kathmandu, July 15

Reliance Consumer Products Limited (RCPL), the fast-moving consumer goods subsidiary of Reliance Industries Ltd., has launched its Campa soft drink brand in Nepal through a partnership with Chaudhary Group (CG).

This marks RCPL’s entry into the Nepali market and expands its international operations, CG said in a statement.

RCPL acquired the Campa brand in 2022 and reintroduced it to the Indian market in 2023. Since then, Campa has re-established its presence in the Indian soft drink sector and is currently a sponsor of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Ketan Mody, Executive Director of RCPL, said that the company aims to invest in the region with a focus on long-term growth. Nirvana Chaudhary, Managing Director of CG, said the collaboration with RCPL will expand CG’s beverage portfolio and enhance distribution in Nepal.

The Campa product line in Nepal will include Campa Cola, Campa Lemon, Campa Orange, Campa Energy Gold Boost and Campa Energy Berry Kick. CG will oversee local manufacturing and distribution.

Retail prices in Nepal are set at Rs. 30 for 250ml bottles of Campa Cola, Lemon, and Orange, and Rs. 40 for Campa Energy Berry Kick 250ml PET bottles.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 16 July 2025.   

Avsar Fund to invest Rs. 380 million in MIL

Kathmandu, July 15 

Mangalam Industries Limited (MIL) has secured an investment of approximately Rs. 380 million from Avasar Equity Diversified Fund, a leading private equity fund committed to backing high-growth enterprises in Nepal.

Issuing a press statement on Tuesday, MIL said that this strategic investment marked a significant milestone in the growth journey and reflected strong investor confidence in the company’s vision, capabilities, and long-term potential.

"The infusion of capital is believed to empower MIL to strengthen operations, enhance product innovation, and expand its market presence across Nepal and beyond," read the statement.  

According to the company, the Investment will primarily be utilised to strengthen the balance sheet of the company, improve operational efficiencies, and further its commitment to sustainability and excellence, reads the press release.

“We are delighted to welcome Avasar as a strategic partner in our journey of transformation,” says Abhinav Churiwal, CEO of MIL.

He further said that this partnership reaffirms Mangalam Industries’ commitment to delivering long-term value while creating a positive impact in the communities it serves.

MIL is a leading manufacturing company in Nepal producing CPVC pipes and fittings and the only exporter of a complete range of CPVC products from the country.

Its product portfolio includes solutions for plumbing, drainage, sewage and rainwater management, water supply, electrical conduit systems, and borewell applications.

Avasar Equity Diversified Fund is Nepal’s first domestic Private Equity Fund registered with the Securities Board of Nepal under the Specialised Investment Fund Regulation, 2019.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 16 July 2025.   

Insurers directed to focus beyond first premiums to improve coverage, quality

Kathmandu, July 14

The Nepal Insurance Authority (NIA) has directed life insurance and micro-life insurance companies to mandatorily include renewal premiums and term life insurance premiums in their business targets for the upcoming fiscal year 2025/26.

In a circular issued to all life and micro-life insurers, the authority instructed that all employees, departments, regional, branch, and sub-branch offices must set business goals (monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, and annually) that include not only the first premium collection but also renewal and term life insurance premiums.

The authority has issued this directive following complaints that insurers were giving priority only to life insurance policies that involve large premium payments, either regular or single, when assigning business targets to their employees and departments, it said in a statement on Monday.

Sushil Dev Subedi, Executive Director of the NIA, said in the statement that due to the insurers’ focus on collecting high-value premiums, they have failed to expand insurance coverage to low-income groups, leading to issues such as policy lapses and surrenders before maturity, and posing challenges to the delivery of quality and reliable insurance services.

In this context, the authority has made it compulsory for insurance companies to consider all types of premium contributions, not just the initial ones, in their business planning, with the aim of expanding insurance access and improving service delivery across different income segments, read the statement. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 15 July 2025.   

Nepali business delegation visits Germany

Kathmandu, July 13

The Nepali Embassy in Germany, in collaboration with the OAV – German Asia Pacific Business Association, and the Nepal-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NGCCI), jointly hosted a high-level business visit and B2B meetings in Hamburg to enhance bilateral trade and investment.

The visit featured a special tour of the Airbus facility where delegates learned about German aviation excellence and Nepal’s use of Airbus helicopters in high-altitude areas like the Everest Base Camp. Airbus officials praised Nepali engineers involved in their production, noting their technical skills and reliability, NGCCI informed in a statement on Sunday.

Nepal’s Ambassador to Germany Dr. Sail Rupakheti, who played a leading role in bringing together business leaders from both countries, urged the NGCCI to facilitate more B2B meetings to attract investment and streamline business travel.

Likewise, NGCCI President Santosh C. Kunwar – leader of the Nepali delegation – had addressed concerns raised by German businesses regarding Nepal’s procurement process.

More than 150 participants from countries including Germany, Nepal, India, China, Japan, and Singapore attended the event. Nepal’s Barasinghe Beer, represented by Muskan Shrestha and Ravi KC, was a highlight of the event. "It became the most consumed beverage at the event and demonstrated growing global curiosity for Nepali products," read the statement.

The programme underlined the mutual commitment to improving trade relations. Dr. Rupakheti emphasised that NGCCI must now take the lead in coordinating future business exchanges and fostering a more favourable investment climate in Nepal.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 14 July 2025.