Jimbu Thakali set to expand its service in India

Kathmandu, July 29

Jimbu Thakali, a Nepali restaurant brand known for Thakali cuisine, is set to open its first international outlet in Gurugram, Haryana, India.

The restaurant will begin operations from Shrawan 15 (July 31) at a commercial complex in Sector 65, one of Gurugram’s prominent commercial and entertainment hubs, the company informed in a statement on Wednesday.

Founder of the company Bibek Man Sherchan said the expansion into India is not merely a business expansion but the beginning of an initiative to introduce Nepali cuisine, culture and hospitality to international markets.

"The new outlet aims to offer Indian and international customers an authentic taste of Thakali cuisine while providing them with an experience reflecting Nepal’s culture, hospitality and Himalayan lifestyle," he said.

The new restaurant will feature a range of traditional Thakali dishes, including the Thakali Khana (lunch/dinner) Set, dhido, buckwheat-based dishes, gundruk, sukuti, and specialties flavored with Nepali jimbu and timmur.

According to the company, to preserve the authentic taste of the cuisine, indigenous Nepali ingredients and spices, including jimbu and timur, will be sourced from Nepal, while other fresh ingredients will be procured locally in India.

It said the menu has also been adapted to appeal to international customers, combining traditional Thakali dishes with a selection of popular Nepali delicacies. The menu will include chatamari, bara, various varieties of momo, gundruk soup, sekuwa, desserts made with juju dhau and khuwa yamari.

"The restaurant’s interior has been designed to reflect Nepali culture and architecture. Nepali woodcraft, traditional patterned windows, artistic pillars and other elements representing Thakali culture have been incorporated into the design," read the statement.

The new outlet will have a seating capacity of around 90 customers at a time. The same complex will also house a branch of Himalayan Java, a Nepali coffee brand that has already expanded its presence in India.

Likewise, it will use the system of IMS Software, a Nepali software company that has also expanded its services into India, for operations management.

Sherchan said the decision to work with Nepali brands and technology companies in the international market was deliberate, demonstrating that Nepali businesses can compete internationally while supporting and strengthening one another.

Established in 2016, Jimbu Thakali currently operates four outlets in Nepal, located in Kalimati, New Baneshwor, Jhamsikhel and Tangal.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 30 July 2026.         

 

NIBL Equity acquires 28.8% stake in Himalayan Java

Kathmandu, Aug. 29

NIBL Equity Partners has acquired a 28.8 per cent stake in popular coffee chain Himalayan Java. The two companies signed an investment agreement at a programme held in Kathmandu on Thursday. NIBL Equity’s CEO, Shiwant Bahadur Pande, and Himalayan Java’s founder, Gagan Pradhan, signed the agreement.

They said that the purpose of the partnership is to take and promote a Nepali brand and its originality in the global market. Pande said, “We want to establish Himalayan Java in the international marketplace, which is also our long-term commitment.”

Similarly, Pradhan said that the investment by NIBL Equity Partners has boosted their confidence in reaching the global market. He added, “This partnership marks an important milestone in our journey. We are committed to creating jobs within Nepal and driving sustainable growth through professional training.”

The key objective of this collaboration and investment is to expand Himalayan Java globally, beginning with Asia and Australia. It will also support the opening of new outlets within Nepal. NIBL Equity Partners has said that its investment is part of a strategy to take Nepali brands abroad.

Established in 1999, Himalayan Java currently operates more than 70 outlets in Nepal, along with 18 Himalayan Java Express outlets and two high-end Gallery by Himalayan Java outlets.

The investment is expected to increase Himalayan Java’s sales, enhance opportunities for international export, and create significant prospects for farmers, roasters, baristas and franchise partners within the chain, according to NIBL Equity Partners.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 30 August 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.   

Chef Santosh Shah launches Janakpur Fish House in Naxal

Kathmandu, July 2

BBC Master Chef Santosh Shah has launched the traditional fish cuisine of Janakpur in his new restaurant ‘Janakpur Fish House’ in Naxal, Kathmandu.

The restaurant offers an authentic taste, style, and dishes of Janakpur, giving food lovers a chance to enjoy the region’s original culinary flavours in the heart of the capital, Shah informed in a statement on Wednesday.

According to him, the Fish House aims to serve fish in its traditional style- pan-fried on a thick griddle using yellow mustard oil-preserving the unique and indigenous flavour of Janakpur. The restaurant features an open kitchen concept and offers live fish options for customers.

Chef Santosh has collaborated with his brother, Chef Dilip Shah, to bring this concept to life. Chef Dilip, who introduced Santosh to the hospitality industry, brings over 35 years of experience working in the hospitality sectors of Nepal, India, and Central America.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the venture, Chef Dilip says, “Just like grilled meat sold by the kilogram has become popular in Kathmandu, we aim to create a similar culture with fish. We are trying to recreate the taste and experience of eating fish the way it's traditionally done in Janakpur.”

The menu at Janakpur Fish House features around 10 varieties of fish dishes. The signature Tawa Fish will be served with Janakpuri murai (puffed rice) and radish pickle. Other offerings include trout, prawns, fish chili, and a special fish set—all prepared in the traditional Mithila and Janakpur culinary style.

Chef Santosh also mentions that a variety of beverages are available at reasonable prices. His previously launched ‘Mithila Thali’ has already gained popularity across the country. The Mithila Thali now has branches in Janakpur and several locations in Kathmandu, including Naxal, Gairidhara, Gaushala, and Jhamsikhel.

“My mission is to promote cuisine from the Tarai region while within Nepal, and represent broader Nepali food when abroad,” said Chef Santosh. “This initiative is an example of cross-promotion, aiming to bring the rich flavours of Mithila and Janakpur to Kathmandu.”

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 3 July 2025.   

Nepal seeks climate finance for mountain agriculture

Kathmandu, July 1

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has urged the international community to support sustainable agricultural systems and provide climate financing for mountainous regions in countries like Nepal.

In her address to the 44^th session of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) held in Rome on Monday, she urged for grant-based international climate financing to be ensured for Nepal, which is severely affected by climate change, particularly its Himalayan regions.

“Nepal and similar countries in the Himalayan regions are the most affected by the climate crisis. However, these areas have been largely neglected in climate financing and adaptation efforts," she said stressing that all stakeholders pay due attention to this issue.

Stating that agriculture held high importance for Nepal, FM Dr. Rana informed that the sector contributes around 23 per cent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and nearly a two-thirds of the population depend on it for their livelihood. She underlined the crucial role agriculture plays in food security, nutrition, poverty alleviation, and rural development.

She pointed out that the goal of achieving a hunger-free world by 2030 remains unmet and that global crisis such as the pandemic, climate emergency, economic instability, and geopolitical tensions are threatening the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Foreign Minister emphasised that promoting sustainable and resilient mountain agriculture is essential not just for livelihoods but also for preserving global biodiversity, ensuring food security, and maintaining ecological balance.

Expressing Nepal’s willingness to expand successful and innovative agricultural practices through the ‘Four Betters’ approach, FM Dr. Rana said, “We are seeking collaboration to enhance farmers’ access to early warning systems. In the face of rising climate risks, we look forward to stronger cooperation with the FAO for promoting sustainable mountain agriculture."

Likewise, Nepal expects the sharing of knowledge and experiences on successful practices to increase the participation and leadership of women and youth, she said.

Meanwhile, speaking at a high-session on agriculture and food system – held as a part of the session, FM Dr. Rana invited international investors and multinational companies to invest directly in Nepal's agricultural sector.

Inviting global investors to benefit from Nepal’s unique and indigenous agricultural products by investing in the sector, she said, “Due to insufficient large-scale investment and lack of modernisation, Nepal has not been able to export agricultural products at scale despite significant potential. We are in urgent need of substantial foreign investment in this area.”

Dr. Rana, who also served as a chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Agriculture, Cooperatives, and Natural Resources, noted that agriculture in Nepal is still viewed as a low-status occupation, and this perception has hindered the development and modernisation of the sector. Without upgrading agriculture and aligning it with modern times, the country has failed to transform it into an export-oriented industry.

Despite Nepal’s challenging topography with 83 per cent of the country being mountainous or hilly with highly fragmented land, agriculture has long been tied to economic self-reliance and poverty reduction.

She also expressed concern over the increasing negative impacts of climate change on agriculture, calling it a serious issue for Nepal. With many men and young people absent from villages, crop damage from wild animals has become more frequent, leading to hardships for farmers and growing human-wildlife conflict, said Dr. Rana.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 2 July 2025.   

Nepal urges global support for climate-resilient food systems, digital agriculture

Kathmandu, June 29

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has informed the international food stakeholders that Nepal has constitutionally guaranteed the right to food for its citizens.
Addressing a special ministerial session of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) held in Rome, Italy on Sunday, she said, “Nepal considers the right to food as a fundamental right, and supporting laws have provided the necessary framework for its implementation and realisation. Furthermore, the execution of the Strategic Plan on Food System Transformation has strengthened this right.”

Speaking at a session on food rights and nutrition for the least developed countries, small island nations, and landlocked countries, organised as part of the FAO’s ongoing 44^th special session, she stated that the government has ensured safe and quality food through regulatory standards, laboratory surveillance, and consumer protection under the Food Safety and Quality Control Policy.

“A separate consumer court has been established to safeguard consumer rights which is a step towards supporting citizens' natural right to health and nutritious food,” said FM Dr. Rana.

She further shared that Nepal has made significant progress in child health and nutrition over the past two decades.

Stunting among children in Nepal has decreased from 57 per cent to 25 per cent, underweight children from 42 per cent to 24 per cent, and child morbidity from 15 per cent to 8 per cent.

Likewise, Nepal’s ranking on the Global Hunger Index has improved with hunger dropping from 37 per cent in 2000 to 22.4 per cent in 2024.

Foreign Minister Dr. Rana emphasised that campaigns promoting healthy eating habits, nutrition education integrated into school curricula, and awareness messages disseminated through the media have helped foster a preference for fresh and locally produced food among the younger generation.

According to her, despite notable progress in grassroots innovation, there is a need to improve access to artificial intelligence, digital agricultural platforms, and modern science and technologies in Nepal.

Similarly, Dr. Rana expressed concern that climate change poses a grave challenge to Nepal. It has resulted in melting glaciers, erratic rainfall, extreme weather events, and climate-induced disasters, which are significantly impacting agricultural production and livelihoods. "This is further weakening the ecological balance linked to mountain agricultural systems," she said.

The Foreign Minister called for increased international cooperation to ensure inclusive progress in nutrition and prosperity, particularly in terms of access to financial resources, technology transfer, and knowledge promotion.

She also emphasised the crucial roles of international organisations like FAO and UNICEF in this area.

However, FM Dr. Rana also warned that the outmigration of youth is depleting the rural labour force, while human-wildlife conflict in the hilly and Himalayan regions is posing a growing threat to livelihoods and food security.
“We must preserve and promote our rich agro biodiversity, traditional knowledge, and high-altitude crops. For this, we require targeted investment, technical support, modernisation of agricultural systems, and access to advanced technologies such as AI,” she said.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 30 June 2025.  

4th edition of 'Bhojanlipi Swad' on June 29

Kathmandu, June 15

The fourth edition of 'Bhojanlipi Swad', a culinary event based on the cooking skills of international chefs Ghanashyam Kandel and Durga Khadka, is scheduled to take place in Kathmandu on June 29, which is also National Paddy Day.

The event is being organised by the Nepali Cuisine Promotion Campaign to coincide with the Paddy Day.

According to the campaign coordinator, Devi Prasad Sapkota, the programme will focus on the promotion of dishes made from paddy and dairy products. The exact time and venue will be announced in a few days, he said at a press conference organised in Kathmandu on Sunday.

The food festival will also feature the promotion of seasonal agricultural produce such as buttermilk, honey, ghee, mustard oil, and Nepali coffee. Earlier, the third edition of the event was held in Kathmandu on June 1.  

Chef Kandel, the creator of 'Bhojanlipi Swad', said that it is appropriate to connect Nepali cuisine with Nepali culture and spirituality. Emphasising that people today seek more than just taste, he expressed his belief that Nepali food could offer the world a precious, medicine-like gift.

He is a researcher of both Nepali and international culinary tastes, and has recently published a world-class cookbook titled 'Timur'. Additionally, a co-authored Bhojanlipi cookbook with fellow chef Durga Khadka is due to be released soon.

Chef Kandel has contributed to the hospitality sector by training hundreds of chefs in more than 40 restaurants, both in Nepal and abroad.

The campaign has been further enriched by the experience-sharing of prominent Nepali chefs including Govinda Narasingh KC, Ganesh Dhakal, Laxman Prasad Bhandari, Shiva Hari Ghimire, and the younger generation such as Purna Shrestha, Ajubi Chamling, and Ingwa Subba. This collaboration has helped the campaign gain national and international recognition in a short time, said Kandel.

According to Sapkota, the campaign plans to organise 100 editions of Bhojanlipi Swad in Nepal and abroad.

So far, dishes made from agricultural produce of 35 districts, including Jhapa, Ilam, Panchthar, Dolakha, Dhanusha, Chitwan, Nawalparasi, Kaski, Myagdi, Baglung, Rolpa, and Jumla, are featured in the campaign.

The campaign aims to gradually incorporate agricultural produce from all 77 districts of Nepal. Sapkota called on farmers across the country to join the campaign as a means of marketing their products.

According to him, hotel entrepreneurs from various parts of the country have shown keen interest in hosting future editions. The campaign also plans to work directly with farmers to present their products as delicious dishes in major cities. It will coordinate the marketing of produce such as grains, fruits, milk, fish, and meat.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 16 June 2025. 

3rd edition of 'Bhojan Lipi: Swaad' tomorrow

Kathmandu, May 30

The third edition of the culinary series 'Bhojan Lipi: Swaad', curated by international chefs Ghanshyam Kandel and Durga Khadka, is scheduled to take place on Sunday, (June 1) at Nepal House, Hattisar in Kathmandu.

The Nepali Cuisine Promotion Campaign has been organising various awareness programmes to promote Nepali food and flavours at both national and international levels.

According to the campaign’s coordinator, Devi Prasad Sapkota, there are plans to organise up to one hundred editions of 'Bhojan Lipi: Swaad' both within Nepal and abroad. The campaign has also encouraged farmers across the country to associate with the initiative in order to support the marketing of their agricultural products. Talks are underway with farmers of various parts of the country.

The third edition of the campaign will also feature musical performances, with Sadhana Kala Kendra, set to present traditional melodies using instruments like the sarangi, bansuri (flute), and madal, centre’s founder Milan Moktan informed at a press conference organised in Kathmandu on Friday.

Two editions of 'Bhojan Lipi: Swaad' have already been organised under the campaign’s coordination. Dishes have been prepared using agricultural produce from 30 districts so far, including Jhapa, Ilam, Panchthar, Dolakha, Dhanusha, Chitwan, Nawalparasi, Baglung, Rolpa, and Jumla.

Speaking at a press conference, Rudra Sharma, Head of Nepal House Restaurant, expressed his pride in collaborating with an initiative so closely connected to Nepali soil and its farmers.

Prominent chefs such as Govinda Narsingh KC, Ganesh Dhakal, Laxman Prasad Bhandari, Shivahari Ghimire, Purna Shrestha, Ajuvi Chamling, Ingwa Subba, and several other veteran and emerging culinary experts will showcase their skills at the event.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 31 May 2025. 

Chefs Kandel, Khadka launch Nepali Cuisine Promotion Campaign

Kathmandu, Mar. 24

The Nepali Cuisine Promotion Campaign in coordination with farmers and the hospitality industry organised a food-tasting event Bhojanlipi-Swad in Kathmandu on Monday.

The campaign aims to establish direct contact with farmers and transform their produce into delicious dishes served in major cities across the country. The initiative also ensures that people can enjoy these meals either at hotels and restaurants or in the comfort of their own homes, said chefs Ghanshyam Kandel and Durga Bahadur Khadka.

The event held at the Hotel Himalayan Suite in Kathmandu, marked the official launching of the Campaign.

Talking to journalists after tasting the indigenous food prepared with multiple fusions, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Ramnath Adhikari, expressed the government's commitment to fully supporting the marketing of Nepali produce and cuisine.

At the event, a variety of dishes were prepared using fresh agricultural produce sourced from districts such as Ilam, Dhanusha, Sarlahi, Chitwan, Nawalparasi, Rolpa, Baglung and Jumla.

The Campaign promises to bring fresh agricultural produce from almost all regions of Nepal to Kathmandu and take it to the international markets.

The campaign coordinator, Amrit Sapkota, said that the initiative would facilitate the marketing of farmers’ produce, including grains, fruits, dairy, and fish and meat products. Initially, the focus will be on the market distribution of seasonal crops, with a gradual expansion towards promoting local handicrafts, tourism-related products, and small-scale enterprises.

Journalist and agro-tourism activist Devi Prasad Sapkota explained that he had joined the campaign to support farmers and cultivate a deeper appreciation for agriculture and soil. He also mentioned that he had been preparing for several years to assist in promoting government initiatives that encourage the production and consumption of domestic goods.

Kandel and Khadka are international chefs who have experience in preparing multiple cuisines in multiple countries including India, Japan and the USA. They are also making preparations to publish a recipe book of Nepali indigenous foods called 'Bhojanlipi'. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 25 March 2025.    

Recipe From The Neighbourhood

Have you ever tried to cook restaurant food that tasted so nice at home? Have you googled for the food recipes you see around and occasionally savour?

If your answer is 'yes,' you might be disappointed for not meeting the taste expectation of the much-loved dish or for not finding the proper recipe or ingredients for the planned food item. But most of us don't care about the recipe, not even the typical delicacies that appear pervasively across the country, sometimes beyond the borders. 

If you are a foreigner and want to cook Nepali indigenous food alone, it's pretty hard to get the recipe, with some exceptions on YouTube. 

Chef Ghanashyam Kandel has made an impressive debut by taking the initiative to help us with the food recipes in the everyday menu of the downtown café to star hotels. 

Timur (Prepare with Passion: Asian Flavours from Bihun Nepal to Haneda Japan) features an extensive list of food from Nepal, India, and Japan, many of which are common in South Asian countries. Chef Kandel has divided the 227 delicacies into 15 categories. This impressive inclusion of national, regional, and continental food has made the cookbook a treasure in your kitchen at your home or restaurant. 

Chef Kandel's career in hotels and cooking in Nepal, India, and Japan has helped create this magnificent edifice, 'Timur,' which aims to satisfy people's taste buds worldwide. 

It is a precious gift, especially to culinary enthusiasts. "I am driven by the prospect of introducing Nepali cuisine to new markets, leveraging branding strategies to carve out a niche in regions like America where diverse culinary experiences thrive," says Kandel, who aspires to expand his hospitality business to the Americas, Australia, and Nepal. Through the cookbook, he has tried to blend traditional Nepali flavors with global ones to offer a fresh and satisfying experience. He loves creating fusion in food so that it could surprise food lovers. 

The book has the prospect of surprising you as it includes almost all the daily food items on the menus in the South Asian region. For example, Raita is uncommon in Nepal, but the book features five different varieties/flavors. 

It includes salad, appetizers/snacks, soup, tandoori items, kebab, curries, noodles, naan, rice, sushi, and dessert with ample vegetarian and non-vegetarian dish options. 

Kandel has presented numerous curry items under five major categories – chicken, mutton or lamb, vegetable, seafood, and Thai- and has specified the recipe step-by-step. 

However, the book features only one drink, 'plain lassi,' while two traditional Nepali dishes - 'Kodoko Roti' and 'Dhido' are presented in a separate section. Kandel has included the Korean dessert 'Bingsu' and East Asian' Tom-Yam soup' in his book. There are plenty of items that could be unheard of for you. 

Chef Kandel's book has followed the suit of Chef Santosh Shah's 'Ayla: A Feast of Nepali Dishes from Terai, Hills and the Himalayas' and a couple of other publications that aim to promote Nepali food. However, Kandel's food fusion and inclusion of the South Asia regional and Japanese menu make the book unique.

Printed on glossy paper with good photographs, 'Timur' can be a good collection for food lovers and culinary enthusiasts. According to him, this is more than a cookbook; it celebrates Nepal's rich culinary heritage and place in the global food landscape. Kandel will likely get a request for the Nepali version of this book. 

The book is eligible to be in the corner of your kitchen. 

Chef Kandel is from Bihun of Baglung district and runs multiple restaurants and cafes in Japan. His journey of promoting Nepali indigenous food wouldn't be concluded with the book. 

He is publishing the second book, Bhojanlipi, which he has prepared with another celebrity chef, Chef Durga Bahadur Khadka. 

The book is in the final publication stage and is expected to introduce Nepali cuisine to the global market significantly.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily's Friday Supplement on 28 February 2025.    

Tank containers carrying raw oil arrive in Birgunj Dry Port

Kathmandu, Mar. 18

For the first time, tank containers carrying raw oil have arrived at Birgunj Dry Port, marking a significant milestone in Nepal’s trade logistics.

A rail consignment of 90 twenty-foot tank containers carrying 20,000 tonnes of crude soybean oil entered Nepal via Birgunj Dry Port on Sunday, informed Nepal Intermodal Transport Development Board (NITDB) in a statement on Tuesday.

The shipment, purchased by Shivashakti Pvt. Ltd., a cooking oil manufacturer based in Jitpur, Bara, was transported from Argentina through Haldia Port, India.

This practice of carrying crude oil via rail containers is expected to reduce transportation costs by approximately 15 per cent compared to road freight, according to officials from the importing company. Until now, crude oil was being transported only by road which was costly and faced logistical challenges including tanker shortages.

Birgunj Dry Port, which came into operation in 2004, handled containerised, bulk, and breakbulk cargo initially. However, from July 1, 2023, it also began handling loose and dirty cargo such as coal. With the introduction of crude oil imports via rail, trade through the Birgunj border is set to expand further, informed the NITDB.

"One of the key advantages of tank containers is their sealed transport system as it prevents theft and leakage, and ensures safer and more efficient imports," read the statement.

Likewise, the use of rail transport helps address the shortage of road tankers, providing a more reliable supply chain for oil importers.

NITDB's Executive Director, Ashish Gajurel, said that this initiative will significantly enhance Nepal’s international trade facilitation and help Birgunj Dry Port operate at full capacity.

“We started handling coal last year, and now we have successfully introduced crude oil imports. We are continuously working to increase the capacity of our ports and modernise our operations,” Gajurel said.

According to him, the arrival of tank containers at Birgunj Dry Port marks a positive step in streamlining Nepal’s trade logistics and improving cost efficiency for importers.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 March 2025.   

Agritech and Food Expo from Friday

Kathmandu, Feb. 13

The 7^th Nepal Agritech and Nepal Food and Beverage International Expo is set to take place from 14 to 16 February at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu.

The event will feature exhibition stalls from domestic agricultural entrepreneurs and businesses, as well as international companies, informed the organisers of the event.

Organised jointly by Media Space Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Futurex Trade Fairs and Events Pvt. Ltd., and Exhibition and Trade Services India Pvt. Ltd., the expo aims to contribute to the development of Nepal’s agricultural sector.

The Prime Minister’s Agriculture Modernisation Project is promoting the event while the National Association of Rural Municipalities in Nepal, Nepal Poultry Federation, National Dairy Development Board, Nepal Agriculture Cooperative Central Federation Ltd., and the National Farmers’ Group Federation Nepal are supporting it.

"The exhibition will showcase a wide range of agricultural tools and machinery, from small-scale implements to dairy machinery and livestock equipment," the organisers informed in a statement on Wednesday.

They are hopeful that this event will contribute to making farming more efficient and cost-effective. Entry to the expo is free for all visitors.

The exhibition is expected to help identify the latest technologies and services suitable for Nepal’s agriculture sector, supporting increased production and promoting self-sufficiency in agricultural output.

"The event will cover various agricultural sectors, including poultry farming, fish farming, goat and cattle rearing, dairy production, agricultural machinery and tools, veterinary services, and food technology," read the statement.

Different sections of the exhibition will be categorised as 'trade fair within a trade fair' for easy access to the concerned industry and products, allowing visitors to explore their specific areas of interest.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 14 February 2025.  

Foodmandu launches its service in Butwal

Kathmandu, Jan. 24

Foodmandu, Nepal’s first food delivery company, has officially launched its services in Butwal. The announcement was made on Thursday at a launch event held at De Crown Inn, Butwal, the company informed in a statement.

"Known for its reliable service in Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Pokhara and Chitwan, Foodmandu delivers from over 1,000 partner restaurants to a customer base of more than 300,000," said the company. The company has recently introduced ‘OneMart’, a new vertical offering instant grocery delivery.

“We are delighted to expand our services to Butwal. Foodmandu has always aimed to make food delivery convenient and enjoyable. And now Butwal residents can order food from their favourite restaurants with just a few clicks. We look forward to building a strong connection with the people of Butwal and surrounding areas,” Inesha Bhattarai, Brand and Marketing Manager of Foodmandu, said.

Likewise, Founder and Managing Director of the company, Manohar Adhikari said that Launching Foodmandu in Butwal is a significant milestone for the company as it continues to expand into key cities across Nepal. "With a robust network of partner restaurants and a commitment to quality service, we are excited to bring Foodmandu’s delivery experience to the people of Butwal and nearby areas,” he said.

To celebrate the launch, Foodmandu has introduced the promo code 'HiButwal' valid till mid-February. With this, customers of Butwal can now enjoy a 30 per cent discount of up to Rs. 250 on every order through the Foodmandu app. The company has already partnered with over 25 restaurants in Butwal to ensure seamless food delivery across Butwal, Tilottama, Kotihawa, Fulbari, Piprahiya, Saina Maina and nearby locations.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 25 January 2025. 

Nepali Cuisine’s Global Advocate

Kathmandu, Jan. 21

With a dream of operating a five-star hotel or a high-end resort in Nepal, Chef Ghanashyam Kandel is now in Kathmandu to intensify his search for partnerships and collaborations with like-minded entrepreneurs, businesses and associations.

His dream has sprouted from his extensive experience in culinary skills in Nepal, India, Japan and elsewhere and an urge to work on developing new tastes in Nepali food through a fusion with various foreign and multinational cuisines.  

Kandel is now working on two fronts: operating a high-quality hospitality business in Nepal and promoting Nepali indigenous cuisine in international markets. "The hospitality business is fully reliant on the quality of service and care as well as catering to the gastronomic needs of the tourists," he told The Rising Nepal.

For him, the growing demand for foreign dishes within Nepal and less attraction to Nepali cuisine in diasporas abroad are the two major challenges that demand greater attention from the government as well as the hospitality sector and cultural campaigners. He has found that the Nepali diaspora generally does not prefer Nepali food. If the attraction of diaspora and tourists who returned from Nepal visit could be increased towards Nepali food, a huge business would be created in foreign land.

"The government and stakeholder organisations should initiate a campaign to create demand for Nepali food items in international markets. We can begin by tapping on the global expansion of Momo," he said indicating the potential successful expansion of Nepali cuisine. The success of such a campaign can also support in increasing the number of tourists coming to Nepal as well.

However, his impression of Nepal's investment environment is yet to be fully favourable to investors, especially foreign ones. He had tried to rent government land to run the resort but faced multiple obstructions from the bureaucracy. According to him, the government should offer more tax discounts and other facilities to attract Foreign Direct Investment in the hospitality sector.

Born in Bihun in Kanthekhola Rural Municipality of Baglung district and worked in hotels and cafes in Nepal, India and Japan, Kandel has amassed a vast experience including the advisor to 30 restaurants globally in the past two and a half decades. He is supporting the restaurants in creating innovative menus and blending traditional Nepali, Japanese, Indian, and Thai flavours into unique fusion dishes.

Kandel has emerged as a global advocate for traditional Nepali cuisine. Over the past two decades, he has promoted Nepali and other culinary traditions, operating from Japan and expanding his influence to the USA, Canada and beyond.

Kadel has been running his restaurant in Tokyo since 2010 and serves as the CEO and head chef. His business operations, including the iconic Mela Restaurant in Tokyo, are run and managed under GK Corporation. He started his career in the hospitality sector as a kitchen helper in India in 1995 and climbed the culinary ladder through perseverance and passion.

He was trained under his elder brother, Jayalal, and worked at renowned establishments like Moti Mahal Deluxe and The Mezbaan, gaining foundational skills that later propelled his success in Japan.

To promote Nepali cuisine internationally he recently published a book 'Timur – Prepare with Passion: Asian flavors from Bihun Nepal to Haneda Japan'. The book blends tradition with innovation, offering unique recipes that connect food lovers worldwide. It could be the potential to be a valuable resource for enthusiasts of Nepali, Japanese, Thai and Indian cuisine.

“Food is not just a dish; it is a cultural bridge that connects people," says Kandel.

He had said during the launch of Timur that Cooking is about connecting people, honouring tradition, and sharing stories that transcend borders. “With Timur, I hope to inspire others to explore new flavours while respecting cultural heritage.”

Chef Kadel and his colleague Chef Durga Bahadur Khadka are at the final stage to publish a new culinary book Bhojanlipi which is also anticipated to play a significant role in introducing Nepali cuisine to the global market.

Kandel has also been involved in philanthropic works through Bihunkot Society Japan which works in the education, health and disaster relief sectors. He is a former president of the society and advisor to the Non-Resident Nepali Association, Japan. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 22 January 2025. 

Peru Food Festival held in Kathmandu

 Kathmandu, Dec. 16

The honorary consulate of Peru in Kathmandu and Embassy of Peru in India which is accredited to Nepal have organised one-day Peru food festival in Kathmandu on Sunday.

The 'Taste of Peru in Kathmandu' event was organised at Mariott Hotel to celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Peru and to promote one of its most iconic creations: the Pisco Sour – a cocktail made with the mix of lime juice, syrup, egg white, angostura bitters and ice cubes.

Honorary Consulate of Peru to Nepal, Sumit Kumar Agrwal, said that Peruvian cuisine is amongst the best in the world. "We have organised this event to pay a tribute to the variety of ingredients, culinary influences during its long history, the talent of their chefs and the passion of their people. I am confident that it has contributed to promoting people to people level connection between the two countries," he said.

The food festival was led by chef Julio Castillo. Businesspeople, political leaders, media persons and people from diplomatic community in Kathmandu attended the event to taste the Peruvian food. Peruvian cultural elements such as costumes were also put on exhibition.

Monica Campos, Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Peru to India concurrent in Nepal, said that the Peru has been chosen as the 'World's leading culinary destination, for the twelfth time while it has been recognized as the 'World's leading cultural destinaion'.

"Peru is a diverse country in terms of cultural and culinary arts," she said.

Nepal and Peru had established diplomatic ties on 28 January 1976. The Embassy of Nepal in Brasilia of Brazil is accredited to Peru.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) of Nepal, as active members of the Non-Aligned Movement and G-77, both countries have been advocating the just causes of the developing countries, while sharing common concerns of being climate change vulnerable and mountainous countries.

The two countries have nominal trade relations with Nepal importing chemicals, pharmaceutical products and fabric and exporting clothing and floor covering textiles to Peru.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 17 December 2024.  

Stakeholders set up HAI to strengthen farmers' resilience

 Kathmandu, Sept. 11

A multi-stakeholder consortium has been set up to strengthen the resilience of farmers in India, Bhutan and Nepal against the climate crisis.

The new mechanism is called the Himalayan Agroecology Initiative (HAI) and, according to the founders, it's a landmark effort to scale up sustainable agriculture in the Himalayan region.

This multi-stakeholder initiative, backed by the global think tank World Future Council and IFOAM – Organics International, a global network of organic farmers, processors, retailers, academics and researchers, will enhance biodiversity, support sustainable agricultural practices and foster durable value chains, they informed in a statement on Wednesday.

The HAI partners pledged to develop comprehensive country roadmaps for the three countries through a series of consultations, culminating in a national consultation in the respective capitals later this year. The final roadmaps will be rolled out at an international conference in 2025.

"The initiative focuses on collaborative planning and stakeholder engagement, underscores its potential to significantly impact the region's agricultural landscape. The HAI aims to create a flagship for the expansion of sustainable food systems," read the statement.

The HAI was officially announced four months ago in May 2024. The Alliance of Bioversity International - CIAT, UNDP India, Local Initiatives for Biodiversity, Research and Development (LI-BIRD) in Nepal, and the Tarayana Foundation in Bhutan are its consortium partners. These organisations have extensive expertise in agricultural research, sustainable development, and community empowerment.

This expertise will ensure that the initiative is rooted in both global best practices and local knowledge, informed the statement.

"To safeguard life on Earth, we urgently need to steer our food systems away from unhealthy and unsustainable practices. The HAI builds the foundation for a more integrated, participatory and holistic approach for coordinated action across government and clear policy interventions to co-create food systems that strike a balance between human nutrition enhancement, rural development, and environment conservation," said Alexandra Wandel, Executive Director of the World Future Council (WFC).

The WFC, IFOAM – Organics International, International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) have supported the creation of the HAI.

According to Ulaç Demirag, IFAD Representative and Country Director, India, the HAI is not just a regional effort; it is a blueprint for sustainable agriculture that has the potential to influence global practices.

According to Ravi R. Prasad, Executive Director of IFOAM – Organics International, the initiative is about establishing food systems that are resilient to climate change and beneficial to smallholders’ livelihoods.

The LI-BIRD of Nepal is renowned for its participatory research methodologies and focus on climate adaptation through community resilience building, agrobiodiversity conservation, and sustainable natural resource management.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 12 September 2024.        

WFP and LCIF announce $4 million for school feeding programme

Kathmandu, July 18

The World Food Program USA and Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF), the charitable arm of the Lions International, have announced a US$ 4 million partnership in support of the United Nations World Food Programme’s (WFP) Homegrown School Feeding (HGSF) Programme in four countries, including Nepal.

Both organisations are contributing USD $2 million each to the project. In Nepal, this grant will support the Government's School Feeding Programme (Mid-Day Meal Programme). This initiative will benefit approximately 90,000 students from grades 0-5 across 800 schools in the Surkhet and Jajarkot districts of Karnali Province.

"With support from LCIF and WFP USA, we are working to ensure regular access to nutritious and sufficient food for children in Nepal and people around the world," President of the Lions Clubs International, Fabrício Oliveira, said in a programme organised in Kathmandu on Thursday to announce the support.

According to the organisers, HGSF Programmes are a multisectoral game changer that have proven over decades to improve children’s education, health, and nutrition. When integrated into the local community, school meals benefit the entire community by providing an important safety net and by strengthening food systems and economies. "By further integrating with local small-scale farmers, local economies benefit, and a better-designed food system is created that also leads to impacts across gender, climate, and sustainability," read a statement issued by the WFP.

“Through homegrown school feeding, we are not only serving nutritious meals that are fresh from the farm to plates but also supporting local farmers and strengthening the community food system. I am confident that it will be catalytic in strengthening the home-grown school feeding approach in Karnali,” said WFP Nepal's Country Director, Robert Kasca.

WFP is the world’s largest provider of school meals, working with communities, governments, and private sector partners to ensure that all primary schoolchildren have access to good quality meals in schools. As part of this collaboration, WFP is engaging with Lions Clubs members in the region. Hunger is one of Lions International’s eight global causes. LCIF is the global foundation supporting the 1.4 million members of Lions Clubs International through grant funds that expand their compassionate works and empower their service at home and around the world. Since its founding in 1968, LCIF has awarded more than 20,000 grants totalling nearly US$1.3 billion, improving health and well-being, strengthening communities, and supporting those in need locally and globally.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 July 2024.        

Asian Thai launches two variants of 2 PM noodles

 Kathmandu, July 20

Asian Thai Foods Pvt Ltd has released two new variants of 2 PM noodles.

The company has launched two new variants of 2 PM noodles - Veg Masala Curry and Chicken Masala Curry, prepared according to the recipe of Master Chef Santosh Shah, who is also the brand ambassador of the noodles.

Shah says that it took a long time to develop these two new variants of 2 PM Noodles. He said that this recipe is very tasty and consumers will like it.

The company has said that it has started the re-production and sales of 2 PM noodles, production of which stopped some time ago.

Established about 25 years ago, the company introduced the first noodles to the market in 2000.

It has introduced various snacks in the market under the brands 2 PM, Preeti and Rumpum.

Akbare Chicken Noodles can be bought for Rs 50, the company said.

Along with this, products like Akbare Veg, Korean Ramen, Kimchi Veg, Kimchi Chicken, Napolitana, Sea Food, Cheese Mushroom will also remain in the market, the company said.

The company informed that there also are products like Premium Cheese Balls, Akbare Sticks, Fire Balls, Shrimp Cracker, Onion Ring, Punjabi Tadka, Fire Cracker, Lemon Mint Sticks, Masala Sticks and Pasta.

The company has been producing 2 PM Akbare Noodles using locally grown Akbare Chilli.

Mahesh Jaju, the company's Managing Director, said that the supply of chillies is also increasing due to the preference for noodles, and the company has also benefited the local people financially.

Likewise, a 60 gram package is available at Rs. 20.

According to Jaju, 2 PM Noodles are exported to 25 countries including Australia, Belgium, Bhutan, Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, Germany, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

Jaju said that the company will introduce more premium products like 'Snacks in Cans' and 'Cup Noodles' in the market in a short time.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 21 July 2024.        

Julie's Cake launches own online service

Kathmandu, Feb. 11

Julie's Cake and Pastry, which has been in the bakery business for the last two decades, has started an online service to facilitate easy access of its customers to its products.

"Established in September 2003 at Kandevtasthan in Lalitpur, Julie has been embracing the latest technology every time in its two-decade journey, and has now launched its own e-commerce platform," said Julie Pradhanang, one of the founders of the outlet.

Through Julie's online service launched on Sunday, customers can easily order their favorite and premium quality bakery and cake items at home.

This strategic move reflects not only its commitment to customer convenience but also its customization, said Jyoti Nakarmi, another founder of the company.

"Julie's Cakes and Pastries, which we started as a small bakery, has been providing premium quality products and services throughout its journey. Keeping in mind the modern times and the business of our customers, we have started the facility of ordering online. This step will help to makes us more responsible and committed to our customers," said the founders.

The launched website boasts an array of features, from customized shopping experiences for every occasion to seamless order tracking, setting a new benchmark in customer convenience and technology integration within the bakery industry.

Already, Julie has partnered with reputed platforms like Foodmandu, Muncha, Thamel.com, Bhoj and more.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 12 February 2024.      

Suaahara II improves nutritional status of mothers, children

Kathmandu, Nov. 8

USAID’s investment in nutrition through the Suaahara II 'Good Nutrition' activity has resulted in improved nutritional status of mothers and children in Nepal, the project informed at the final dissemination programme organised Wednesday in Lalitpur.

In the programme, the project disseminated the accomplishments and insights of USAID’s flagship nutrition initiative, Suaahara, which spanned from 2011 to 2016, and its successor Suaahara II from 2016 to 2023.

Suaahara II, USAID Nepal’s flagship, multisectoral nutrition activity, is the USAID’s largest activity in Nepal in terms of geographic coverage and budget, implemented over seven years with a total estimated cost of $91.4 million and in 42 districts.

It covered all 389 municipalities in 42 of Nepal’s 77 districts.

Minister for Health and Population, Mohan Bahadur Basnet, commended Suaahara’s substantial contribution in enhancing the nutrition of women and children in Nepal.

“The findings corroborate the data of the recently released Nepal Demographic Health Survey. It is interesting that Suaahara also contributed to improving exclusive breastfeeding, which is decreasing in other parts of the country, and poses a new challenge to improving the nutrition of future generations,” he said.

"Through the implementation of evidence-based interventions in alignment with the Government’s national Multi Sectoral Nutrition Plan, Suaahara II has successfully reshaped dietary habits and critical nutrition practices of Nepalis," said Karen Welch, USAID’s Acting Mission Director.

According to the project, an independent impact evaluation has shown that families in Suaahara-supported districts exhibited marked improvements in breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices compared to other districts. Children and mothers residing in Suaahara-supported districts are now consuming diverse nutritious food, and mothers are attending ante-natal care visits and consuming nutritional supplements that are key to ensuring their health and that of their babies.

These improvements in feeding and care practices have contributed to a decline in maternal underweight, which is linked with a lower risk of complications during pregnancy and birth, and an improvement in infant length with associated reduced risk of non-communicable diseases, read a note from the project.

Dr. Sangita Kaushal Mishra, Director General of Department of Health Services under the Ministry of Health and Population, commended Suaahara for leveraging existing government structures and community platforms, which have enhanced knowledge and capacity of health workers and Female Community Health Volunteers in programme districts to deliver high quality nutrition services and tailored counseling to families.

This synergy has strengthened the government’s health service delivery system and platforms, fortifying Nepal’s healthcare ecosystem, he said.

Welch, highlighted Suaahara II’s unique household level approach, effectively reaching nearly 2.2 million families with pregnant or lactating women, and children younger than two years.

She said, “Learning from the achievements of Suaahara II, we are committed to continue supporting the Government of Nepal to scale-up effective, evidence-based nutrition interventions building on the momentum in improving the nutritional status of women, infants, and children in Nepal.”

The project was implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Population, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, National Planning Commission, and other key government entities.

It has successfully woven nutrition into health service delivery, family planning, homestead food production for nutrient-rich foods, nutrition governance, and gender equality and social inclusion, said the experts speaking at the event. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 9 November 2023.