Energy Minister Shrestha directs agencies to expedite projects

Kathmandu, Mar. 8

Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Biraj Bhakta Shrestha has directed the  agencies under his ministry to prepare a checklist of immediate tasks and to expedite plans and programmes that can be completed within the remaining period of the current fiscal year 2025/26.

He issued the instruction during discussions with the leadership of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), the Water and Energy Commission Secretariat (WECS) and the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC).

According to his secretariat, Minister Shrestha said that while he does not favour budget reallocation, he is willing to facilitate in cases where funds allocated under certain headings remain unspent while other programmes face shortages and cannot be completed.

Likewise, he stressed that future planning must ensure past state investments are not wasted and called for policy stability. "Policies should be designed to facilitate development and must not become obstacles to it," he said.

Minister Shreatha directed officials to formulate programmes in the spirit of federalism, emphasising the need to achieve energy self-reliance and to develop an action plan in consultation and coordination with local governments.

He also underlined the importance of classifying electricity consumption at industrial and household levels and advancing strategic plans to increase domestic electricity use. He instructed that such plans be prepared in coordination among relevant agencies.

The minister further directed officials to develop a model for energy development in collaboration with universities and to begin preparations for it. He added that greater attention should be given to energy start-up projects in the coming days.

Similarly, Minister Shrestha also said that pilot projects could be developed in coordination with local levels to generate energy from waste and establish successful models.

According to the Ministry, Water Resources Secretary Sarita Dawadi, Energy Secretary Chiranjibi Chataut, Commission Secretary Dinanath Mishra, NEA Executive Director Hitendra Dev Shakya, and AEPC Executive Director Nawa Raj Dhakal had briefed the minister on existing challenges and future strategies in the energy and water resources sectors.

FM Khanal, Jaishankar pledeg to extend cooperation

 Kathmandu, Apr. 10

Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal has held a bilateral meeting with his Indian counterpart Dr. S. Jaishankar on Friday at the sidelines of the 9^th Indian Ocean Conference ongoing in Port Louis in Mauritius.

Dr Jaishankar congratulated him on assuming office. The two leaders reviewed the longstanding, multifaceted Nepal–India relationship, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) Nepal informed in its post on X.

"Both sides held constructive and forward-looking discussions on matters of mutual interest, reaffirming their shared commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two nations," read the post.

External Affairs Minister of India, Dr. Jaishankar said in his post on X that the two leaders discussed realising the full potential of the partnership by deeper collaboration in different sectors.

Likewise, FM Khanal said in his post that he is looking forward to working closely together to expand cooperation across all sectors for the mutual benefit of people in both the countries.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 11 April 2026.       

Uncertainty persists for work permits for West Asian nations

Kathmandu, Apr. 10

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said on Friday that the government is still evaluating the situation in West Asia to decide whether to issue new labour permits.

The Department of Foreign Employment, an agency under the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MoLESS) has begun to issue labour permits for those seeking re-entry to the countries in the West Asian region, including the Gulf, after a brief halt.

But issuing new permits is still under consideration, said Ram Kaji Khadka, Joint Secretary and Head of the Central Asia, West Asia and Africa Division at the MoFA, informed at a press conference organised on Friday afternoon.

“However, we are hopeful of an improved situation following the ceasefire and expect a positive move in terms of opening labour permits for the new migrant workers,” he said while adding that the Ministry is evaluating the situation.

The MoFA is getting updates from the Nepali missions in ten West Asian locations — Tel Aviv, Doha, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, Manama, Kuwait City, Muscat, Cairo and Jeddah, along with the Consulate General in Dubai.

They are regularly updating the Foreign Ministry with 'situation analysis reports'.

Likewise, Spokesperson of the MoFA, Lok Bahadur Poudel Kshetri, said that the Emergency Control Room is functioning round the clock. The room becomes operational during the day, while at night, designated officials manage the communication on the move through cell phones and other communication devices.

Nepalis in West Asia and their families in Nepal can register their complaint or suggestions even during night.

The MoFA also informed that 11 Nepali citizens in Nepal are safe. One Nepali, Amrit Jha is in custody on a smuggling case. A persecutor is meeting him on Saturday to get the updates.

Similarly, the government has formed an organising committee to organise the Wellness Day on April 15. On Nepal’s proposal, the United Nations has decided to celebrate April 15 every year as Wellness Day. The government has also directed Nepali mission abroad to celebrate the day grandly.

A Wellness Walk will be organised on April 18, where the foreign missions in Kathmandu will participate.

Earlier on Thursday, Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal left for Port Louis, Mauritius, to address the 9^th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) 2026 at the invitation of his Indian counterpart Dr. S. Jaishankar.

FM Khanal is scheduled to hold meetings with his Indian, Mauritian, and Bangladeshi counterparts on the margins of the Conference, said Kshetri.

The Conference, which began on Friday, will run till Sunday, and is being organised by the India Foundation in association with the Government of Mauritius.

During the Conference, FM Khanal will deliver Nepal's national statement articulating Nepal's perspectives on Indian Ocean governance, the mountain-ocean ecological nexus, and the importance of maritime connectivity for economic development, the MoFA said in a statement.

He is scheduled to return to Nepal on Monday, April 13.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 11 April 2026.      

World Bank cuts this year’s growth projection to 2.3%

Kathmandu, Apr. 8

The World Bank has projected that Nepal's economic growth in the current Fiscal Year 2025/26 will drop down to 2.3 per cent from 4.6 per cent of the FY 2024/25.

The impact of the ongoing conflict in West Asia and the lingering effects of the September 2025 unrest are the reasons behind this slowdown, according to the World Bank’s latest economic update.

Looking ahead, reconstruction activities, continued hydropower expansion, and consumption linked to the 2027 subnational elections are expected to support a pickup in growth to an average of 4.4 per cent over the next two fiscal years, it said in its report published on Wednesday.

The Nepal Development Update, titled 'Growth Under Pressure: Navigating Domestic and Global Shocks', said that the services sector is expected to be most affected in 2025/26, due to slower tourism activity, higher transport costs, and potential supply chain disruptions.

"The outlook remains highly uncertain. A prolonged conflict in the Middle East could dampen tourist arrivals, reduce remittance inflows, weaken consumption, and slow overall economic activity," read the report.

On the upside, improved political stability following the elections in March, sound macroeconomic management, the availability of ample buffers, and continued structural reforms could strengthen investor confidence, boosting private investment and growth.

“Boosting private sector-led growth will be critical to strengthening economic resilience and creating more jobs in Nepal,” said David Sislen, World Bank Division Director for Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. “To achieve this, Nepal must improve the business environment, develop foundational infrastructure, mobilize private finance, and support priority sectors such as tourism, the IT sector, and agribusiness.”

Sislen suggested that in order to attract more Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to Nepal, the country should improve its transport infrastructure and implement reforms in information technology sector.

Talking about the recent concessional loan the multilateral donor recently approved, he said that the WB only provides financial supports and the country designs projects as per its development priority.

The Nepal Development Update is a companion piece to the World Bank Group’s South Asia Economic Update, a twice-a-year report that examines economic developments and prospects in the South Asia region.

Likewise, the latest South Asia Economic Update, Working with Industrial Policy, projects growth in South Asia to slow to 6.3 per cent in 2026—from 7 per cent in 2025—due to disruptions in global energy markets.

Despite the near-term slowdown, South Asia continues to grow faster than other emerging-market and developing economies. Growth is expected to recover to 6.9 per cent in 2027.

“South Asia's mixed success on industrial policy in part reflects the region’s limited implementation capacity, fiscal space, and market size in some countries,” said Franziska Ohnsorge, World Bank Group Chief Economist for South Asia. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 9 April 2026.      

Nepal keen to strengthen relations with friendly nations: PM Shah

Kathmandu, Apr. 8

Prime Minister Balendra Shah has said that his government is keen to further strengthen Nepal’s relations with the friendly nations represented by ambassadors and heads of diplomatic missions based in the country.

Speaking at a collective courtesy meeting held at the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on Wednesday, he said that the government accords high importance to its relations with all countries, places trust in them, and remains committed to strengthening partnerships based on mutual benefit.

“Nepal has been pursuing a balanced and pragmatic foreign policy. Our external relations are guided by the goal of shared prosperity,” a PMO statement said. “We express our sincere gratitude to all partners and friends for their continued goodwill and support towards Nepal’s development and prosperity.”

Prime Minister Shah stressed that ongoing conflicts around the world have the greatest impact on ordinary citizens and that peace should be a shared priority.

“As ongoing conflicts affect ordinary people the most, peace must remain our common priority. I believe we all agree on this and expect collective efforts in this direction,” he said, thanking all partners for their continued friendship and cooperation.

PM Shah said the government is committed to creating an investment-friendly environment, promoting entrepreneurship, and supporting sustainable development. He also noted that Nepal aims to integrate more strongly into regional and global economic frameworks in line with its national interests.

“A new government does not mean a break from continuity. We are firmly committed to maintaining political stability and ensuring that policy direction remains stable and predictable,” he said.

He also added that the government is willing to advance cooperation in areas such as development, trade, investment, climate action and people-to-people relations, while emphasising that the safety and welfare of Nepali citizens abroad remain a priority. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 9 April 2026.      

PM Shah relieves Labour Minister Sah

Kathmandu, Apr. 9

Prime Minister Balendra Shah has relieved Minister for Labour, Employment and Social Security Dipak Kumar Sah of his duties on Thursday. The decision was taken in accordance with a recommendation from the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP).

Earlier on Thursday, RSP Chair Rabi Lamichhane had recommended action against Minister Sah, alleging that he had misused his official position by involving his wife in regular work as a member of the long-inactive Health Insurance Board (HIB).

On Wednesday, the party’s Central Disciplinary Commission, following a detailed study, had concluded that action should be taken against Sah. Citing that his conduct had seriously undermined the party’s image, ideals, principles and dignity, Chair Lamichhane forwarded the recommendation along with the commission’s report to Prime Minister Shah.

Based on the party recommendation, Prime Minister Shah dismissed Minister Sah, his Press Adviser Deepa Dahal informed.

The RSP said that Clause 25(4)(a) of its party statute assigns the party chair the responsibility of safeguarding the party’s ideals, principles and integrity. It further noted that Clause 69 provides for a ‘Right to recall’ in cases of misuse of office, under which the party may withdraw an individual from their responsibilities.

The recommendation was made to immediately relieve Minister Sah of his duties accordingly.

PM Shah has kept the portfolio of the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security with him. With this, he has the responsibility of three ministries, including Defence, and Industry, Commerce and Supplies, informed the Office of the President.

Similarly, citing a lack of the expected seriousness in handling such a grave matter, Chair Lamichhane had also recommended that Minister for Health and Population Nisha Mehta be formally cautioned. Acting on this recommendation, Prime Minister Shah has also issued a warning to Minister Mehta.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 10 April 2026.      

Nepal should be promoted as safe destination: Tourism entrepreneurs

Kathmandu, Apr. 9

Tourism entrepreneurs and experts have said that the ongoing crisis in West Asia should be viewed not only as a challenge but also an opportunity.

Speaking at a discussion on alternative strategies to minimise the impact of escalating crisis in West Asia on Nepal's key source markets, air connectivity and tourist arrivals, they suggested promoting Nepal as a safe tourist destination. The discussion was hosted by Nepal Tourism Board on Thursday.

West Asia is a major source market for Nepal and also a gateway for European and American tourists, and the crisis could affect air connectivity and arrivals.

“The government is committed to promoting Nepal as a safe and accessible destination,” Mukunda Prasad Niraula, Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, said. He added that a special task force has been formed to outline a roadmap.

Ramkaji Khadka, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the government is working to mitigate potential losses through an inter-ministerial committee and coordination with diplomatic missions to explore alternative routes.

According to him, there is a need to target India and China and leverage tourism as a tool of economic diplomacy.

Vice-Chair of the NTB Ram Prasad Sapkota stressed the need for timely information dissemination and alternative air routes, while also calling for fare concessions to address rising fuel costs.

Likewise, Board Member of NTB Narendra Dev Bhatt emphasised expanding alternative air links, suggesting routes such as Kathmandu–Australia. Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents President Kumar Mani Thapaliya called for initiating flights via Kathmandu–Hong Kong and strengthening coordination among stakeholders.

Sagar Pandey, President of the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal, said uncertainty in Middle East transit routes has increased, and called for fuel subsidies and a stronger role for Nepal Airlines.

Similarly, President of Hotel Association Nepal Binayak Shah said European tourists are cancelling bookings and urged targeted packages for India and China, along with easing entry procedures. He suggested promoting domestic tourism and cultural events.

According to Nepal Association of Tour Operators President Bishweshwar Shrestha, around 47 per cent of bookings have been cancelled, with possible long-term impacts.

Airline representatives said that while arrivals in 2025 were strong and early 2026 remains stable, proactive strategies are needed to reduce the impact of the crisis. They stressed the importance of promoting Nepal as a safe, peaceful and sustainable destination, simplifying visa processes and exploring new markets.

Despite rising fuel prices, no flights have been cancelled, and flexible booking systems have been introduced. Stakeholders said tourism entrepreneurs should also introduce concessional packages to attract visitors.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 10 April 2026.      

Vivo debuts 50MP telephoto phone

Kathmandu, Apr. 8

Vivo has launched the vivo V70, the latest model in its V Series, featuring a 50 MP ZEISS Super Telephoto camera system, in the Nepali market.

The device is equipped with a 50 MP telephoto camera designed for long-distance photography and low-light conditions. It supports zoom functionality for capturing subjects at varying distances, including stage and portrait photography, the company said in a statement on Wednesday.

The camera system also includes ZEISS Multifocal Portrait features and ZEISS Style Bokeh, with support for 85 mm focal length portrait shots.

The new phone supports 4K video recording at 60 frames per second. It includes an AI Stage Mode, which allows image capture across a zoom range from 1x-10x and up to 20x.

According to the company, this mode is designed to maintain subject clarity and detail in complex lighting environments.

"The smartphone features a 1.5K ultra clear OLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate. It is powered by a 6500 mAh battery and supports 90W fast charging. The device also carries IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance," read the statement.

In terms of build, the V70 uses a six-series aluminium alloy frame. It has a flat display with rounded corners and a metallic camera module. The device is available in dune grey and sandalwood brown colour options.

The vivo V70 is priced at Rs. 83,999 for the 12 GB RAM and 256 GB storage variant, and Rs. 94,999 for the 12 GB RAM and 512 GB storage variant.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 9 April 2026.      

NAIMA urges to raise auto loan financing to 80%

Kathmandu, Apr. 8

Nepal Automobile Importers and Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) has urged the government to ensure easier financial access by maintaining a hire-purchase system allowing up to 80 per cent financing with a 20 per cent down payment.

In a meeting with Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle on Monday, a delegation from NAIMA has urged the government to reduce the overall tax burden, simplify and rationalise the tax structure, and increase the auto financing to 80 per cent - about 20 per cent up from the current arrangement.

Presenting detailed suggestions on policy and systemic reforms related to the automobile sector, President of NAIMA Ritu Singh Vaidya stressed the need for a stable, predictable policy environment based on consultation with stakeholders, and called for the automobile sector to be recognised not as a luxury but as a necessity.

The association noted in a press statement on Wednesday that even after customs clearance is completed, differing interpretations at the audit level have led to irregularities being raised, creating business uncertainty. It called for a clear, uniform and transparent system.

It also highlighted the need for customs facilitation, development of testing infrastructure, revision of the Transport Act, integration of digital systems, improvement of road safety and pollution control, promotion of assembly industries under the ‘Make in Nepal’ initiative, and ensuring long-term policy stability.

There is a need for clear, stable and incentive-based policies for electric vehicles, said NAIMA and called for proper classification of hybrid vehicles and the formulation of balanced and fair policies based on their technological features.

In response, FM Dr. Wagle said the government remains positive about creating a business-friendly environment and is working towards making the overall tax system more balanced and practical. He also expressed commitment to incorporating the suggestions, as far as possible, into upcoming policies, programmes and the budget for the Fiscal Year 2026/27.

In a separate meeting, the NAIMA delegation also held discussions with Physical Infrastructure and Transport Minister Sunil Lamsal on current issues in the mobility and automobile sector. Minister Lamsal said the government is taking positive steps towards a policy arrangement that would reinvest a certain percentage of tax revenue generated from the sector back into its development.

He also assured that the practical suggestions put forward by NAIMA would be taken forward for implementation without delay.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 9 April 2026.      

Chinese, Swiss envoy call on FM Khanal

Kathmandu, Apr. 7

Ambassadors of China and Switzerland to Nepal have called on Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal at his office on Tuesday.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Chinese envoy Zhang Maoming conveyed greetings from the Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi to FM Khanal on his assumption of office of the Foreign Minister.

During the call on, matters relating to further strengthening Nepal-China relations and enhancing mutually beneficial cooperation were discussed.

Likewise, Ambassador of Switzerland to Nepal Dr. Danielle Meuwly also conveyed the Federal Councillor (Foreign Minister) of the Swiss Confederation Ignazio Cassis's greetings to FM Khanal on his appointment as the Foreign Minister.

They exchanged views on further deepening the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Nepal and Switzerland.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 April 2026.      

NRNA, ECAN collaborate to reform abroad studies process

Kathmandu, Apr. 7

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) and the Educational Consultancy Association of Nepal (ECAN) have agreed to make the process for abroad study safer, more managed and outcome-oriented through a collaboration between the two organisations.

At an introductory meeting held in Kathmandu on Sunday, leaders from both organisations agreed to lay the groundwork for long-term cooperation, placing student welfare at the centre. The meeting was attended by NRNA President Dr. Hemraj Sharma, ECAN President Laxman Poudel (Andrew), and other officials.

According to a statement issued by the NRNA, discussions were focused on making pre-departure orientation (PDO) more effective, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for students, and improving the quality of counselling services.

Both sides also discussed jointly developing a ‘Nepali Career Portal’ to create an integrated information system on post-study employment and career opportunities.

Likewise, they also agreed to conduct targeted training programmes to enhance the capacity of counsellors, test student support systems through pilot projects, and undertake skill mapping based on different countries and regions.

"Special programmes focusing on mental health and psychosocial awareness will also be prioritised," read the statement.

The meeting further agreed to jointly advocate with relevant authorities for policy reforms in areas such as health insurance, dissemination of scholarship information, and student tax management. Preparations are also underway to sign a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the near future.

The meeting stressed that institutional collaboration is essential to make the sector more organised and credible.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 April 2026.      

'Entrepreneurs, businessmen will be given due respect'

Kathmandu, Apr. 7

Ganesh Parajuli, a leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party and a Member of the House of Representatives, said the government would work to create an environment in which entrepreneurs and businesspeople feel respected in the days ahead.

Speaking at the 45th Annual General Meeting of the Nepal Foreign Trade Association (NFTA) held in Kathmandu on Monday, he stated that the party—having secured nearly a two-thirds majority through elections—requires the support of the private sector to fulfil the five commitments outlined in its pre-election manifesto.

“The Export–Import Act is being drafted, and collaboration with you will be essential in this process," he said.

Parajuli emphasised that just as taxes due to the government can be paid online, refunds owed to businesses should also be processed online.

“If businesses can pay revenue and fees online, why can’t refunds be issued online? Work on this should begin from tomorrow,” he said to the officials of the Department of Customs present at the programme.

Sharing that he has closely experienced the challenges faced by the private sector, Parajuli said the government would regulate, not control, entrepreneurs. He also suggested that policy-related problems and challenges be brought to parliamentary committees, noting that Parliament is the appropriate forum for policymaking.

Likewise, stressing the need to formalise the informal economy in order to remove the country from the FATF grey list, he urged businesspeople to operate with integrity. “Come forward with clean intentions, and we will amend the necessary laws,” he said.

Speaking at the programme, Chandra Prasad Dhakal, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, said that the federation and other private sector organisations must work together to resolve policy-related issues.

Similarly, Birendra Raj Pandey, President of the Confederation of Nepalese Industries, highlighted the need for policy arrangements that support the private sector and emphasised the importance of boosting production and exports.

Kamlesh Kumar Agrawal, President of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce, said that with the change desired by the public and the stability sought by the private sector now in place, the time has come to initiate an economic transformation. He pointed out that around 150,000 businesses have been blacklisted due to policy issues and stressed the need to study the multi-rate Value Added Tax system.

Agrawal also pledged to move forward in unity with the association in advocating issues of concern to the private sector.

Shiva Kumar Agrawal, President of the NFTA, stressed the need to adjust tax and duty rates so that there is no wide price gap between Nepali and Indian markets, in order to curb unauthorised imports through loopholes along the open border.

He also emphasised that imports should not be restricted arbitrarily and that the practice of pressuring businesses to clear goods under higher-revenue categories must be brought to an end.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 April 2026.      

Himalayan Whitewater adventure push

Kathmandu, Mar. 11 

The 24^th Himalayan Whitewater Challenge 2026, and the 50th International Himalayan Rafting and Kayaking Festival kicked off on the Trishuli River on Tuesday.

The international festivals of rafting and kayaking are expected to promote Nepal’s rivers as a major destination for adventure tourism.

Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Nepal Association of Rafting Agencies (NARA) are orgnising the three-day festival to further promote adventure tourism based on Nepal’s Himalayan rivers in the global market.

Rafters and kayakers from Nepal and several other countries are demonstrating their skills and courage while navigating the fast currents and lively rapids of the Trishuli River, informed NARA in a statement.

On the first day of this year’s festival, a total of 51 paddlers participated in the Kayak Sprint (300 metres) event, while 10 teams competed in the Raft Sprint (300 metres).

According to Shukra Lama, Vice-President of NARA and the festival coordinator, the Kayak Cross (300 metres) and the Raft Mandatory Race (10 kilometres) will be held on Wednesday.

Lama informed that 32 athletes, selected from the preliminary rounds, will take part in these events. On the final day, Thursday, a 10-kilometre raft race will be organised, in which 13 teams will compete, with four athletes in each team.

Organisers said that foreign competitors are also taking part in the festival, including two teams from India and two from Israel, competing in the rapids of the Trishuli River.

To ensure greater fairness and transparency in the competition, a time-chip system has been introduced to measure the athletes’ performance times.

Stating that this year's festival is being celebrated as a silver jubilee, NARA President Kamal Bahadur Thakuri said, “This is not merely a sporting competition, it is a proud celebration connected with Nepal’s river tourism, adventure culture and the identity of its participants.

It will help establish Nepal even more strongly on the global map of adventure tourism.”

Uday Bhattarai, Senior Manager at the NTB, expressed confidence that the festival—representing the confluence of rivers, adventure and tourism—would further highlight Nepal’s rivers in the global adventure tourism market.

According to him, river-based adventure tourism in Nepal has grown rapidly in recent decades. In particular, the Trishuli, Bhotekoshi, Karnali and Seti rivers have become major attractions for adventure tourists from around the world for rafting and kayaking.

Winners of the competition will receive cash prizes ranging from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 100,000, along with trophies and certificates in various categories.

During the closing ceremony of the three-day international festival, prizes will be awarded to the winning athletes, and Himalayan River Exploration, which introduced rafting culture in Nepal, will also be honoured.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 12 March 2026.      

Wi-Fi Nepal connects 100,000 households

Kathmandu, Mar. 10

Wi-Fi Nepal has expanded its connections to 100,000 households across the country since starting operations in 2022.

"In less than three years, the company has grown rapidly and established itself as an affordable and reliable internet service provider, particularly for low-income families, students, small family, renters and small businesses," the company said in a statement on Wednesday.

The company has expanded to more than 100 cities, and now operates through over 40 contact offices nationwide, offering local support and faster customer service. It employes more than 500 individuals.

"Our focus has been on communities that often struggle to afford reliable internet packages," read the statement. In March 2025, Wi-Fi Nepal was also recognised among the Top 10 Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in Nepal.

CEO of the company Shatruhan Panjiyar said, “This milestone strengthens our commitment to continuously improving our services and reaching more communities across Nepal.”

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 11 March 2026.      

'Improve business climate to attract investment'

Kathmandu, Mar. 10

German Ambassador to Nepal Udo Eugen Volz, who is also the Honorary President of the Nepal German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NGCCI), stressed a sound business climate is essential to attract investment and strengthen trade and economic activities in Nepal.

Speaking at an interaction programme with business leaders from NGCCI and the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) in Kathmandu recently, he encouraged Nepali entrepreneurs to actively participate in trade fairs and forums in both Nepal and Germany, the NGCCI said in a statement on Tuesday.

Volz also noted the growing interest of German tourists in Nepal, particularly in mountaineering and adventure tourism.

President Santosh Chandra Kunwar pointed to the importance of increasing German investment in Nepal, enhancing Nepal–EU economic cooperation, and addressing the stagnation in labour and skilled migration agreements.

Immediate Past President Anup Bahadur Malla said that Nepal previously enjoyed a trade surplus with Germany but is now facing a deficit, so we need to address challenges related to standards, accreditation, and market access to promote exports.

Members of NGCCI also raised concerns related to visa simplification, tourism promotion, and export facilitation, which were positively received by officials of the German Embassy. 

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 11 March 2026.      

ADB sanctions $40m loan to Nepal

Kathmandu, Mar. 11

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has sanctioned a US$40 million concessional loan to Nepal which will be used in expanding access to high‑impact digital services for citizens and businesses.

The Nepal Digital Transformation Project—the first in South Asia to be cofinanced under the ADB–World Bank Full Mutual Reliance Framework (FMRF)— will strengthen the country’s data hosting and cybersecurity infrastructure to enhance government-wide digital security and resilience, said the ADB in a statement on Tuesday.

According to the multilateral donor, the loan will be used in initiatives such as developing an integrated citizen service portal, improving the national social registry, establishing a secure government-wide data exchange platform for safe and efficient information sharing, and digitalizing about 11 high‑impact government services. 

ADB Country Director for Nepal Arnaud Cauchois said that the reforms supported by ADB and the World Bank will make key services easier to access, reduce waiting times and administrative barriers, and enhance transparency in government processes—helping build greater trust between citizens and public institutions.

The project, that aligns with Digital Nepal Framework 2.0, e-Governance Blueprint and 16^th Plan, will be implemented by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.

The FMRF is an innovative cofinancing arrangement between ADB and the World Bank designed to streamline project preparation, reduce duplication, and deliver faster and more effective development support.

The World Bank is the lead lender for the Nepal Digital Transformation Project, approving its US$50 million concessional loan in February this year.

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 12 March 2026.      

Over 51,000 Nepalis in West Asia register in DoCS portal

Kathmandu, Mar. 8

About 51,405 Nepali nationals residing in West Asia have registered their details in the online registration system launched by the Department of Consular Services (DoCS) by Saturday evening.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said that the registered details will be reviewed on a priority basis, and necessary procedures will be initiated for appropriate action as required.

Following the beginning of the war between Israel-USA and Iran, the entire region in West Asia has been affected as the latter targeted the US bases in Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and several others. These are the countries where a large number of Nepalis are working.

About 1.72 million Nepali nationals have reached the 13 countries in the region including Cyprus and Egypt in Europe and Africa through the formal channel and by obtaining work permit from the Department of Foreign Employment (DoFE). It is also estimated that a significant number of Nepalis have reached those countries and are working illegally. 

However, a small number of Nepali citizens working in West Asia have expressed their desire to return home.

Meanwhile, 50 transit passengers who were denied food and accommodation by Kuwait Air have been provided with meals and lodging by the Embassy of Nepal in Kuwait City in coordination with the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) and the Nepali community.

"While the airspace over Qatar, Kuwait and Iraq had been closed for flights, it has been reported that Doha International Airport has partially reopened from Saturday to manage passengers in transit," read a statement from the MoFA. Likewise, Dubai International Airport, which had remained open until Friday, has been closed until further notice. As some airspace has reopened, interested passengers may travel through other airports in the United Arab Emirates, as well as through Saudi Arabia and Oman.

The mortal remains of Nepali citizen Diwas Shrestha, who was killed after being hit by a shrapnel in Abu Dhabi on March 1, arrived in Nepal on Saturday. The body is handed over to the father and family members of the deceased.

President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan paid tribute to late Shrestha and expressed deep condolences to his relatives.

He praised the honesty, diligence and commitment of Nepali citizens, and expressed confidence that relations between the two countries would grow even stronger in the coming days.

Prime Minister Sushila Karki held a telephone conversation with President Al Nahyan on Saturday and expressed gratitude for prioritising the safety of all citizens, including Nepali nationals.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has made a special appeal to all Nepali citizens to remain calm, vigilant and cautious during this difficult period, and to refrain from recording or sharing photographs, videos or audio materials that may violate the law.

In case of any difficulties, Nepalis in West Asia can immediately inform the MoFA through the telephone numbers or email of the Emergency Action Room, or contact the Nepali diplomatic missions in the respective countries using the contact numbers or email addresses they have provided.

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 9 March 2026.