Govt. taking measures to boost domestic demand of electricity: Minister Ghising

Kathmandu, Nov. 4

Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Kul Man Ghising, has said that the government is prioritising measures to boost electricity demand within the country and ensure that domestically generated power is effectively utilised.

Speaking at the 29th anniversary function of the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC) in Kathmandu on Tuesday, Minister Ghising said that efforts are being made to promote the use of electric vehicles, install charging stations, and encourage the adoption of induction cooktops to increase electricity consumption.

He noted that while surplus electricity generated during the monsoon season is currently being exported to India and Bangladesh, the government’s primary focus is on expanding domestic consumption.

“Expanding charging infrastructure and replacing firewood and gas with electric stoves will help increase internal electricity demand,” he said, adding that plans are being implemented to improve energy efficiency and promote energy transition.

Minister Ghising stated that the government is ready to sign Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with companies interested in investing in wind energy and that policies are in place to integrate and store solar energy in the national grid.

According to him, the last-mile electrification programme to extend electricity to unserved areas has reached its final stage, with AEPC continuing to play a crucial role, particularly in remote regions lacking access to clean energy.

Addressing private sector concerns, Ghising said that the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) board will soon make a decision regarding net metering and that the 10 per cent cap on solar energy in the total energy mix will be removed.

Speaking on the occasion, German Ambassador to Nepal Udo Eugen Volz highlighted Germany’s three-decade-long partnership with Nepal in the renewable energy sector and reaffirmed continued cooperation in promoting sustainable and low-carbon energy solutions.

AEPC Executive Director Navaraj Dhakal said the centre has provided clean renewable energy technologies to around 3.7 million households, contributing about 8.5 per cent to total electricity access.

More than 500 companies are active in the renewable energy sector, generating over 40,000 jobs directly and indirectly, he added. Dhakal stressed the need for increased investment through viability gap funding and adequate budget allocation guided by ministerial support.

Kushal Gurung, President of the Renewable Energy Confederation of Nepal, called for the swift approval of policies related to renewable energy, energy efficiency, and carbon trading.

He urged the government to create a favourable environment to attract private sector investment in the sector.

Since its establishment, AEPC has installed 40,655 kilowatts of micro and small hydropower projects along with 11,104 improved water mills. Likewise, 1,000,789 household solar power systems and 4,540 institutional solar systems have been installed.

The Centre has also facilitated the installation of 3,475 kilowatts (peak) of solar mini-grids and solar-wind hybrid mini-grids, 30,939 kilowatts (peak) of solar rooftop systems, 2,464 solar dryers and cookers, and 4,280 solar-powered drinking water and irrigation pumps.

Likewise, 156,531 improved iron stoves, 82,485 electric cookstoves, 456,766 household biogas plants, and 1,423,242 improved mud stoves have been installed.

To promote productive use of energy, 1,766 energy-based enterprises have been supported, while 3,309 solar street lights and 4,865 solar energy systems have been installed in monasteries, temples, and homestays across the country, informed the AEPC.

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 5 November 2025.      

Developing countries in need of financial, technical assistance: President Paudel

Kathmandu, Nov. 4

President Ramchandra Paudel has said that developing countries, in particular, require not only financial resources but also technical knowledge and skills, and that advanced-level support based on unity, justice, and shared responsibility is essential for their progress.

Addressing the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar, on Tuesday, he said, "Particularly developing countries need not only resources but also technological know-how. We need enhanced level of support grounded in solidarity, fairness, and shared responsibility."

President Paudel is leading the Nepali delegation to the Summit, which began in the Qatari capital on Tuesday, at the invitation of the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

He also added that a just global trading system, fulfilled ODA commitments, climate finance, technology transfer, and increased investment are also vital, according to his statement shared to media by his Media Advisor Kiran Pokharel.

President Paudel emphasised that ensuring access to quality education, healthcare, and social security for all remains a top priority for Nepal. He noted that inclusiveness, justice, and social protection have been regarded as the fundamental pillars of social development in Nepal.

He stated that since 1995, poverty has been reduced by half, Nepal’s progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has surpassed the global average, and more than 95 per cent of Nepalis now have access to clean energy. “Gender equality has improved across in all sectors, maternal and child mortality rates have declined significantly, and around 90 social security programmes currently benefit our elderly, women, children, and persons with disabilities. Our Constitution ensures representation of women, Dalits, indigenous peoples, and other marginalised groups,” he added.

Referring to the youth-led movements for good governance seen in many countries, President Paudel said that Nepal had also witnessed a Gen Z movement in September this year. Stating that the current government had guided the country towards stability by announcing general elections for March 5 next year.

 "By ensuring the safe landing of the country and safeguarding the Constitution and democratic system, we have announced the election of members of the House of Representatives on 5 March 2026. We believe that this election will provide political solutions for Nepal and pave the way for good governance, development and prosperity," he said.

President Paudel remarked that what is done today will shape the future. “History has taught us that inclusivity and shared prosperity are the foundations of lasting peace, progress, and human dignity. What we do today will determine the future; therefore, let us design a future that ensures social and economic development for all,” he stated.

Although Nepal’s contribution to global carbon emissions is minimal, the President said the country is suffering from the worst impacts of climate change. “We are in no way responsible for this, yet the disproportionate effects of climate change have hindered Nepal’s socio-economic development journey. In this context, global solidarity, support, and cooperation play a vital role in advancing the development efforts of nations,” he said.

Similarly, President Paudel stressed that the summit would be meaningful only when the international community takes concrete action to support developing countries, particularly Least Developed Countries (LDCs), in their development endeavours.

Guterres pays courtesy callEarlier, on Tuesday, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres paid a courtesy call on President Paudel.

During the meeting, President Paudel commended the Secretary-General’s efforts in implementing the Copenhagen Commitments and accelerating social development. He reiterated Nepal’s readiness to work closely with the United Nations to achieve shared goals of peace, social justice, and sustainable development, the Office of the President informed in a statement.

Referring to Secretary-General Guterres’s visit to the Everest Base Camp in 2023 October, he said that Nepal's white mountains are turning black which is a warning that rapid glacial melting threatens the ecosystem and the livelihoods of millions in downstream regions.

President Paudel also acknowledged Nepal’s ongoing contribution to UN peacekeeping missions, noting that this reflects Nepal’s strong commitment to global peace and security, read the statement.

Secretary-General Guterres said the United Nations was working to mobilise support from developed countries to assist vulnerable nations like Nepal in climate adaptation and was committed to reducing global carbon emissions.

He praised Nepal’s progress in promoting human rights and expressed confidence that Nepal’s institutions were capable of addressing their internal challenges independently.

The President is accompanied by his spouse, Sabita Paudel. The delegation also includes his Communication Expert, Kiran Kumar Pokharel, the Secretary of the Office of the President, and other senior government officials.

President Paudel and his delegation will return to Nepal on Thursday, November 6. 

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 5 November 2025.     

No one should harbour doubts about polls: Minister Kharel

Kathmandu, Nov. 4

Minister for Communications and Information Technology Jagdish Kharel has said that no one should doubt about elections happening on the stipulated date on March 5, 2026.

"The government is prepared to hold the elections on the scheduled date and to transfer power to a political party-led government. We are in regular and rigorous discussion with the political parties to create a conducive environment for the election," he said with the editors and news chiefs of the state-run media outlets.

The meeting was represented by editors and senior journalists from Radio Nepal, Nepal Television, Gorkhapatra daily, The Rising Nepal daily and Rastriya Samachar Samiti (RSS).

Minister Kharel said that failure to conduct the elections on the fixed date could push the country into further crisis. He emphasised that the government is committed to creating necessary environment to ensure the election takes place as planned and sought the support from media and general people in conducting it in free and fair manner. 

"The government is working to establish a reliable security environment for the polls and called on all political parties to extend their cooperation in this regard," he said.

Minister Kharel reiterated that maintaining good governance and addressing the demands of the Gen Z expressed through the movements in September have also been the on the high-priority list of the government.

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 5 November 2025.     

NLIC and NLG donate to Reconstruction Fund

Kathmandu, Nov. 4

National Life Insurance Company Limited has donated Rs. 10 million to the Physical Infrastructure Reconstruction Fund established by the Government of Nepal.

Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Suresh Prasad Khatri, handed over a cheque bearing the amount to Minister of Finance Rameshore Prasad Khanal at the Ministry of Finance on Tuesday.

Likewise, NLG Insurance Company Limited donated Rs. 2.5 million to the fund.

Company's CEO, Sunil Ballabh Pant, handed over a cheque of the said amount to the finance minister.

With the inclusion of these contributions, the total amount collected in the Fund has reached Rs. 75.16 million. 

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 5 November 2025.     

NAS-IT Expo from Thursday

Kathmandu, Nov. 3

The Nepal Association for Software and IT Services Companies (NAS-IT) has announced that the NAS-IT Expo 2025 will be held on 7–8 November at Heritage Garden, Lalitpur.

The event aims to strengthen Nepal’s technology landscape by promoting local IT solutions and encouraging collaboration between the private sector and technology providers. The Expo will focus on showcasing domestic capabilities to support entrepreneurship, enhance competitiveness, and contribute to the growth of Nepal’s digital ecosystem, said Deepen Chapagain, vice-president of NAS-IT.

Tigg, Nepal’s first business-centric technology marketplace, has been announced as the title sponsor of the event. The platform connects IT solution providers with decision-makers from various industries, fostering business and technology integration.

According to NAS-IT, the Expo will act as a platform for IT companies, entrepreneurs, and investors to explore opportunities and partnerships that can drive digital transformation across sectors. The event is also expected to highlight the role of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in shaping the future of business in Nepal.

Key features of the Expo include exhibitions by more than 30 technology companies, exclusive business offers, product launches, and live pitch sessions. A dedicated networking space will be available for corporates, investors, and financial institutions to engage directly with IT companies, read a statement issued by the NAS-IT on Monday.

The two-day event is open to all interested participants and is expected to attract corporate leaders, policymakers, investors, and entrepreneurs.

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 4 November 2025.     

Prime Minister reaffirms commitment to timely polls

Chief Ministers pledge support for House elections

Kathmandu, Nov. 2

Chief Ministers of all seven provinces expressed their readiness to cooperate with the federal government in creating a conducive environment to hold elections to the House of Representatives on March 5, 2026

During a meeting with Prime Minister Sushila Karki in Baluwatar on Sunday, they appreciated Prime Minister Karki’s efforts to advance dialogue and consultations with political parties and all concerned stakeholders to create an election-friendly environment in the country.

The chief ministers voiced their belief that such initiatives would be fruitful in building a positive atmosphere for the elections, according to a statement issued by the PM's Office Sunday evening.

They noted that maintaining peace and security remains the major challenge for the elections and stressed the need for serious commitment in this regard. They further remarked that, with mutual cooperation, coordination, and a spirit of coexistence among the federal, provincial, and local governments, elections could be successfully held on the scheduled date.

“I represent the CPN-UML. We are not against elections. However, the federal government should take the lead in creating a conducive environment for the polls and must not forget our role in it. The only way forward now is through elections,” said Yam Lal Kandel, Chief Minister of Karnali.

The chief ministers suggested that the federal government should introduce a special package for the reconstruction of structures damaged during the Gen-Z movement.

"They also expressed concern that the federal government’s recent circular on expenditure reduction appeared to interfere with the jurisdiction of the provincial governments," read the statement.

The circular has directed that no ministry may appoint more assistants or advisers than permitted by law and that all projects worth over Rs. 1 million must go through a mandatory competitive bidding process.

Some chief ministers also voiced suspicion that, while the government formed after the Gen-Z movement had failed to undertake judicial and administrative reforms, the circular seemed targeted mainly at limiting the facilities of provincial political office holders.

Chief Minister of Madhes Province, Jitendra Prasad Sonar, called for the announcement of relief measures for farmers affected by droughts and excessive rainfall.

Likewise, the chief ministers also drew attention to the federal government’s decision to disconnect electricity lines of industries failing to clear their dues for dedicated feeders, noting that such a move would negatively impact industries, workers, and government revenue.

Prime Minister Karki said that as political parties are the custodians of the current system, the government is eager to hold elections at the earliest and transfer power to a party-based government.

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 3 November 2025.     

Crowne Plaza makes a comeback in Lumbini

Kathmandu, Nov. 2

The Lumbini Heritage Hotel in Lumbini will be rebranded as Crowne Plaza Lumbini, marking its transformation under an international hotel chain IHG Hotels and Resorts.

The two companies signed an agreement in New Delhi, India, recently to bring the IHG in Lumbini. Subhash Amatya, Chairman of Lumbini Heritage, and Sudip Jain, Managing Director for South West Asia at IHG, signed the agreement.
"Through this partnership, IHG will expand its presence outside Kathmandu for the first time, bringing world-class hospitality to Lumbini," they said in a statement on Sunday.

Previously operating as Pawan Palace Lumbini, the hotel was upgraded to meet international hospitality standards. It features 147 rooms, including seven suites, multi-purpose halls, restaurants, a fitness centre, a swimming pool, and premium services.

A casino facility is also planned within the next eight months, positioning Lumbini as a premier hospitality and entertainment destination.
Located at a distance of 1.9 km from the birthplace of Lord Buddha and 9 km from Gautam Buddha International Airport, Bhairahawa, the hotel offers a convenient destination for religious, cultural, and business travellers.

Lumbini Heritage also plans an Initial Public Offering (IPO) in 2026, allowing public investment in the company.
Amatya said the partnership would elevate hospitality standards in Lumbini and attract both business and leisure travellers. Likewise, Jain added that Crowne Plaza Lumbini will offer modern facilities and exceptional services, making it the top choice for domestic and international visitors.
IHG’s Crowne Plaza brand had earlier managed The Soaltee Hotel, Kathmandu till May 2021. 

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 3 November 2025.     

IN-SPAN calls application from Nepali startups

Kathmandu, Nov. 2

India-Nepal Startup Partnership Network (IN-SPAN) has called for applications from Nepali startups and entrepreneurs to participate in cross-border startup ecosystem.

"IN-SPAN, a new startup platform, invites applications from Nepali entrepreneurs with transformative ideas to participate in an innovative cross-border initiative connecting the vibrant startup ecosystems of Nepal and India," the Embassy of India in Kathmandu said in a statement on Saturday.

IN-SPAN features an 8-week, fully-funded training and innovation programme at IIT Madras, delivered in collaboration with IIT Madras Pravartak - a leading incubator which has incubated 46 startups with 14 successfully commercialising their technologies.

According to the Embassy, participants will benefit from hands-on learning, expert mentorship, and internship opportunities designed to take their ideas from concept to creation.

The upcoming event will be built on the success of previous India-Nepal startup initiatives, including the 1st India-Nepal Startup Connect in 2023 and the 2nd India-Nepal Startup Connect: Curtain Raiser for Startup Mahakumbh in February 2025 organised by the Embassy of India, Kathmandu.

"IN-SPAN provides a unique opportunity for Nepali startups to gain mentorship, training, and industry exposure at one of India’s top innovation hubs," read the statement.

The Embassy also said that selection for the programme will be competitive based on the applications and interviews.

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 3 November 2025.     

Govt assures protecting investment and investors

Kathmandu, Oct. 31

A high-level public–private dialogue was held in Kathmandu on Friday to discuss the economic impact of the nationwide Gen-Z Movement in September, which caused widespread damage to property and disrupted private sector activities across the country.

The dialogue focused on assessing the movement’s consequences for investors, sharing private sector experiences, and identifying necessary policy and institutional measures to restore business confidence and move the economy forward, informed the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) that organised the dialogue jointly with the Investment Board of Nepal (IBN).

Finance Minister Rameshore Prasad Khanal said the government had placed policy reforms at the top of its economic agenda, adding that several initiatives were already being felt by the private sector. He urged both domestic and foreign investors to remain confident about the government’s commitment to protecting investments and ensuring security.

Home Minister Om Prasad Aryal assured that the Home Ministry had taken the private sector’s security concerns seriously and emphasised that good governance was vital not only in government institutions but also within private enterprises. Similarly, Industry Minister Anil Sinha said efforts were under way to resolve pending issues in different government bodies, giving top priority to procedural reforms apart from those requiring legal amendments.

Governor of the Nepal Rastra Bank Dr. Bishwonath Paudel noted that banks and financial institutions currently hold sufficient investable funds, making Nepal’s investment environment favourable, particularly in infrastructure development.

CNI President Birendra Raj Pandey expressed concern over the destruction of public and private property during the protests, urging the government to expedite the digitalisation of public services to make them faceless, paperless, and contactless — essential steps to enhance transparency and curb corruption.

Likewise, FNCCI President Chandra Prasad Dhakal warned that repeated attacks on industries had exposed Nepal’s weak industrial security framework and dampened investor confidence.

IBN's CEO Sushil Gyawali announced that the Board would soon introduce a single-window service system to streamline project registration and approval, ensuring a more efficient and investor-friendly environment in Nepal.

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 1 November 2025.     

DoIB begins online media registration

Kathmandu, Oct. 31

The government has started the registration and renewal of online media outlets through the Department of Information and Broadcasting (DoIB).

By approving the Second Amendment to the Printing and Publication Regulations, the government has arranged for the registration and renewal of online news portals to continue under the DoIB, following the same previous procedures.

The regulation was approved by the Cabinet on Wednesday and was published on Friday in the Nepal Gazette. Following its publication, the Department announced that the process of registration and renewal for online media has officially begun.

According to Uday Bahadur Rana Magar, the Director-General of the Department, the law had previously designated local authorities to handle these tasks through the Chief District Officer (CDO). Under the new provision, however, the Director-General of the DoIB has now been designated as the local authority.

This decision has made the process easier for many online media outlets whose registration and renewal had been pending for a long time. Applications can now be submitted online, while those requiring physical certificates must visit the DoIB in person.

With the active efforts of Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Jagadish Kharel, the government has streamlined the process so that registration and renewal of online media can be completed directly through the Department. To register or renew, applicants can log into the DoIB’s Information Management System and submit their application online.

Institutions wishing to operate an online media outlet must submit an application to the local authority with a fee of Rs. 5,000. Similarly, those seeking to renew their certificate must submit the renewal application with all required documents and a fee of Rs. 2,500 before the certificate’s expiry date.

As per existing laws, newspapers, television channels, radio stations, and FM stations that are already registered and operating may also register their online media, but only under a domain name that matches their existing outlet’s name.

Institutions operating online media must employ at least three staff members, including an editor. However, online media outlets already registered and operating before the enforcement of this new regulation will not be required to re-register under the new provisions.

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 1 November 2025.     

President Paudel to leave for Doha for Social Development Summit

Kathmandu, Oct. 31

President Ramchandra Paudel is leaving for Qatar on November 3 to attend the Second World Summit for Social Development. The summit is due to be held in Doha from November 4-6.

The President was invited by Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. The first summit on this theme was held in 1995 in Copenhagen, which was attended by the then Prime Minister Manmohan Adhikari.

During the visit, the President will address the Plenary Meetings and the High-level Roundtable of the summit on November 4, Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) Amrit Bahadur Rai said at a press conference organised at the Ministry on Friday.

President Paudel is scheduled to hold a meeting with Amir Al-Thani. On the sidelines of the Summit, he will also meet some world leaders attending the event, including the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres.

The United Nations said that the summit aims to address the gaps and recommit to the Copenhagen Declaration on Social Development and the Programme of Action and its implementation, and give momentum towards the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

According to the UN, building on the 10 Commitments of the 1995 Summit and the Copenhagen Declaration, the Second Summit will accelerate action on poverty eradication, the promotion of full employment and decent work, and social inclusion, ensuring that no one is left behind in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. “It aims to address persistent gaps, reaffirm global commitment to social development, and give new momentum to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,” read a statement on UN’s website.

In Doha, world leaders will come together to redefine strategies for social progress, strengthen global partnerships, and promote inclusive policies that foster equitable opportunities for all. The goal of the summit is to build societies that are more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable.

“These issues are crucial for Nepal’s development and progress as well while also being a part of the national policy. As the chair of the group of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and set to graduate to the ‘developing status’ next year, this summit holds importance for Nepal,” said Secretary Rai.

According to him, issues of economic inequality and changed demographic structure and ways to address them will be the priority of the summit.

Nepal is also a member of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UNECOSOC).

President Paudel will be accompanied by his spouse Sabita Paudel, Communication Expert to the President, Kiran Kumar Pokharel, Secretary of the Office of the President and other senior government officials. The delegation will include 12 members.

The President and the delegation will return to Kathmandu on November 6.

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 1 November 2025.     

GM of NAC to be selected through open competition

Kathmandu, Oct. 31

The general manager of Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) is to be selected through an open competition.
A committee has been formed under the coordination of Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA), Hari Prasad Mainali, to recommend a qualified candidate selected through open competition.

Prime Minister Sushila Karki, in her capacity as the minister in charge of the MoCTCA, made the decision to form the committee on Friday.

Captain Kul Bahadur Limbu has been appointed as an expert member of the committee. The Head of the Planning and Administration Division of the Ministry, who is a Joint Secretary, will serve as the Member-Secretary. The committee must recommend a qualified candidate selected through open competition within one month.

Until a new general manager is appointed through open competition, Deputy Director-General Janak Raj Kalakheti, the most senior employee of the Corporation, will serve as Acting General Manager.

Likewise, the Vice-Chairman Bikram Rai will perform the duties of Chairman of the Board of Directors until further arrangements are made, according to Ministry Spokesperson Ram Krishna Lamichhane.

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 1 November 2025.