Nepali Roots Summit concludes in Munich

Kathmandu, June 5

The second Nepali Roots Summit 2026 has concluded in Munich, Germany, bringing together Nepali entrepreneurs, researchers, students and community leaders from across the country to strengthen professional networks and promote collaboration with Nepal.

The event was organised by Nepali Roots e.V., a community organisation established to connect Nepali professionals, academics, businesspeople and students living in Germany and Europe. The organisation said in a statement on Sunday that it aims to facilitate knowledge exchange, professional cooperation and long-term engagement between the Nepali diaspora and Nepal.

The summit brought together 96 participants from different German cities.

Acting Nepali Ambassador to Germany Sagar Prasad Phuyal said the government was placing greater emphasis on economic diplomacy alongside traditional diplomacy. He said the expertise, skills and international networks of the Nepali diaspora could contribute to sectors including tourism, trade, industry, energy, information technology, commerce and innovation.

Likewise, NRNA Germany President Lokmani Dhakal said closer cooperation between Nepali Roots and the organisation was necessary to address the priorities of younger generations and strengthen engagement within the diaspora.

Nepali Roots Secretary Jitendra Kasoudhan said the growing presence of Nepali professionals in leadership positions around the world highlighted the need for stronger networks and sustained cooperation in areas including research, technology, entrepreneurship and investment.

Discussions covered leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, artificial intelligence, clean energy and diaspora leadership. Speakers said stronger professional networks, mentorship and collaboration were needed to translate individual achievements into wider social and economic benefits.

Nepali Roots President Dr. Kritan Gautam said the role of the Nepali diaspora should extend beyond remittances to include contributions through research, technology, innovation, entrepreneurship and global professional networks.

The summit also discussed policy measures to strengthen engagement with the diaspora, including remote voting, non-resident Nepali citizenship and the effective mobilisation of diaspora investment funds. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 6 July 2026.       

Speakers urge mechanism to tap NRNs' expertise

 Kathmandu, May 27

Experts have said that a mechanism should be developed to effectively avail of experienced, skilled, and academically qualified experts for multidisciplinary and contemporary research, study, and policy advocacy.

Speaking at an interaction organsied by the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) in Kathmandu on Tuesday, former administrators, private sector experts, and other stakeholders said that such pool of experts can support in advancing the country's governance system, sustainable economic development, and evidence-based policymaking.

The interaction identified existing policy gaps in the country and discussed possibilities for long-term policy reform, the NRNA said in a statement.

Discussions highlighted the need to expand collaboration among non-resident Nepalis, Nepali academic scholars, retired civil servants, successful entrepreneurs and businesspeople, journalists, legal professionals, and researchers to enhance institutional contributions to policymaking.

Likewise, the programme emphasised the formulation and implementation of economic policies focused on structural transformation for Nepal's long-term and inclusive economic development.

Participants stressed the need to pay particular attention to policies that boost production and productivity, industrialisation, the digital economy, the green economy, job creation, and strengthening public-private-cooperative partnerships.

According to them, a collaboration is needed to create the legal and policy frameworks necessary to effectively mobilise the knowledge, skills, and capital of non-resident Nepalis worldwide for Nepal's prosperity and development.

The programme stressed the need to institutionally utilise the international experience and knowledge of Nepali experts in Nepal's policymaking and development processes.

It recommended creating a common platform to coordinate the private sector, academic institutions, and Nepali experts abroad to prepare policy dialogue, research, and strategic recommendations.

Participants of the discussion included President of the Non-Resident Nepali Association, Dr. Hem Raj Sharma, immediate past president Dr. Badri KC, former chief secretaries Ek Narayan Aryal and Shankar Bairagi, former secretaries Shishir Kumar Dhungana, Prem Kandel, Ram Prasad Ghimire, Dhanraj Gyawali, Phadindra Gautam, and Mani Ram Gelal, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Anjan Shrestha, President of the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) Birendra Raj Pandey, Vice President of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce Deepak Shrestha, retired Inspector General of Armed Police Raju Aryal, and President of the Independent Power Producers' Association of Nepal (IPPAN) Ganesh Karki.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 28 May 2026.  

NRNA welcomes govt policies and programmes

Kathmandu, May 13

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has said that the high priority accorded to the NRNs in the government's Policies and Programmes for the upcoming Fiscal Year 2026/27 is an 'extremely positive step'.

"It is a welcome move for the state to formally acknowledge the sentiments, contributions, and potential of millions of Nepalis who are establishing their identity through hard work, knowledge, skills and ability in various countries across the world, and to express a clear commitment to integrating them into the mainstream of national development," it said in a statement on Tuesday.

According to the NRNA, the announcement to establish a 'Diaspora Expert Network' and a 'Knowledge Bank', alongside the government's vision to link the capital, skills, experience, technology, and international networks of Nepalis abroad with Nepal's social and economic development, has enhanced new hope and trust.

"Today, Nepalis across the globe are not merely sources of remittances, they are distinct carriers of knowledge, technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, international reach, and global experience," read the statement, while adding that the Policies and Programmes presented a solid and positive roadmap for utilising global expertise and experience in the national interest.

The NRNA also expressed optimism that programmes such as capital market reform, securities regulation, restructuring of NEPSE and clearing systems, institutional investment expansion, infrastructure bonds, and the development of the debt and bond markets will create an investment-friendly environment in Nepal.

"It will also prepare the foundation for long-term economic stability and transformation. We believe that the government's commitment to making the investments of non-resident Nepalis safe, transparent and easy, will further inspire migrant Nepalis to expand their investments in Nepal," said the NRNA.

It further said that the issue of further strengthening policy and legal arrangements related to the citizenship, financial access, investment security, and democratic rights of non-resident Nepalis is also an important one.

While stating that it is a positive achievement that most of the issues raised by Nepalis living abroad for years have been included in the Policies and Programmes, it reiterated commitment to a more organised partnership in the journey towards national prosperity, and serving as a bridge for foreign investment and technology.

In the Policies and Programmes for the next year, the government announced to provide 'Nepal Investment Visa' to investors making investments above the threshold set by the government.

Documentation of the skills of youths returning from foreign employment through a 'Skills Passport' and providing international professional certification, operation of 'Remittance-Investment Matching Fund' to channel remittances from consumption into productive investment, and creating legal basis for remote work policy have also been announced in the Policies and Programmes.

The government has also announced a 24/7 Central Response Unit, to ensure the safety and protection of the rights of Nepalis living abroad, will be established and operated under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with rapid rescue teams at diplomatic missions. Likewise, passport and consular services provided by Nepali missions abroad will be strengthened.

Similarly, individuals returning from foreign employment will be encouraged to engage in agricultural enterprises.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 14 May 2026.           

Non-Resident Nepali Act to be tabled at Parliament

Kathmandu, Apr. 23

A draft bill related to the proposed Non-Resident Nepali Act is being prepared for tabling in the upcoming parliamentary session, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal informed during an interaction with the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday.

He said that the government is committed to making the law effective by incorporating the rights, roles and contributions of non-resident Nepalis, the NRNA quoted FM Khanal in a statement.

The MoFA said in a tweet that the Minister shared his plan to present the draft of the law in the parliament.

"He further underscored the need for greater clarity in expressing the constitution's aspirations- both in terms of their conceptual foundations and practical realisation," said the MoFA.

NRNA delegation including president Hemraj Sharma, founding president Upendra Mahato, immediate past president Badri KC, former president Kul Acharya, founding international coordinator Bhim Udas, vice-presidents Rojina Pradhan Rai and Buddhi Subedi, and focal person Saroj Dahal, presented suggestions on the draft bill.

They stressed the need to align it with the social, economic and cultural rights enshrined in the constitution while also addressing the aspirations of non-resident Nepalis. The country has already begun issuing citizenship certificates to the NRNs as per the constitutional provisions.

Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai said the ministry considers NRNA a reliable partner and expressed confidence that cooperation would be further strengthened in the coming days.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 April 2026.         

PM Oli urges NRNs to stay away from politics

Kathmandu, May 14

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) should stay away from any form of politics and focus on the preservation of culture, expansion of investment and formation of Nepali unity in the Nepali diasporas abroad.

"This is not an organisation of any political motive or influence. It must remain an apolitical institution," he said at the inaugural session of the NRNA Global Conclave 2025 organised by the NRNA in Kathmandu on Wednesday.

Recalling the disputes over the election of the new president during the general assembly last year, PM Oli said that what happened at the last general assembly of the NRNA was unfortunate and it has certainly damaged its image.

He also said that the government supports the non-political institutional activities of the NRNA. The CPN-UML will never try to exert its influence on the association.

Referring to the court's decision which recognised the elected leadership as official, the Prime Minister questioned, “Can 17 individuals who lost the election come together and claim to have held a unity convention and appointed a chairperson? That’s not acceptable. Such a division is not acceptable. Is this division being carried out for self-interest? This is not a political party’s organisation."

According to him, the real concerns shouldn't be with where voting rights are exercised but what contribution this community can make for its own rights and the country.

"I have seen a few trends in NRNA that do not fit with the motive and objectives of the global movement of the organisaion. It was a mistake to amend the statute for a statue of a certain individual and steps like this were bound to have negative impacts on the organisation in the long run," he said.

Prime Minister Oli urged everyone to focus on unity, reconciliation, and strengthening cohesion rather than turning the organisation into a matter of controversy.

“One should not try to dominate under the pretext that others are being intolerant. You must engage with the other side with an open mind, encourage them to move forward together, and make every effort toward unity,” he advised.

PM Oli praised the NRNA for its role in uniting the diaspora, fighting for their rights and promoting Nepali culture in them.

According to him, the NRNs have contributed to entrepreneurship development and promotion of economic activities. Some of them have brought in new skills and business ideas and created employment.

Speaking on the occasion, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Chandra Prasad Dhakal, highlighted that the global Nepali diaspora is a source of expertise, innovation, and financial capital.

He urged everyone to unite and contribute meaningfully to Nepal. “The NRNA must move forward united, not in fragments. There is a message being spread that wherever Nepalis go, they get involved in politics. This is not a positive trend,” said Dhakal.

NRNA has expanded its network to more than 90 countries around the globe. The government of Nepal has begun issuing the NRNA citizenship which gives economic and cultural rights to the NRNs.

"However, the cultural and economic rights are not yet defined which has created confusion. I request the government to amend the NRN Act and incorporate the details of the rights in it," said Dr. Badri KC, President of the Association.

The NRNA's next step is to collect small amount of money from Nepalis across the globe to set up a fund to invest in large projects in Nepal. It’s a joint effort of NRNs from across the globe to contribute to the development and prosperity of the country, said Dr. KC.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 15 May 2025. 

Reforms underway to increase investment: Minister Bhandari

Kathmandu, Mar. 30

Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, Damodar Bhandari, said that although the government has created a conducive environment for investment, there is still much work to be done.

Addressing the 16^th European Regional Conference of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) in Malta, he cited India and China as examples, emphasising that political stability is essential for investment.

"The government's current priority is policy reform. Our laws are overly cumbersome, and therefore, significant adjustments are required. The ordinance was introduced precisely to address systemic issues," said Minister Bhandari, according a statement issued by the NRNA.

He maintained that with the implementation of the new amendments, no task should take more than seven days to be processed. If a task remains incomplete, an appropriate explanation must be provided.

Minister Bhandari further announced that individuals residing abroad will now be able to register businesses in Nepal remotely. Stressing the shift towards digitalisation, he stated that work will now be conducted online rather than through physical queues.

"He also assured the audience that he would relay their concerns to the Prime Minister and work towards resolving them," read the statement.

NRNA President Badri KC underscored that investment thresholds, whether minimum or maximum, should not be a matter of concern for investors.

"There are numerous Nepalis eager to invest in Nepal. However, when the government organises an investment summit, it often overlooks the NRNA. We have repeatedly called for the enactment of an NRNA-specific law, incorporating economic, social, and cultural rights," he said.

According to KC, no one understands foreign investment better than Non-Resident Nepalis. "To keep our future generations connected to Nepal, we must invest in our homeland. Yet, the government continues to frustrate us with bureaucratic hurdles instead of facilitating our citizenship rights," he said.

NRNA Vice President Rozina Pradhan Rai highlighted the increasing number of women migrating to Europe and stressed the importance of heightened awareness.

"In certain situations, women have been subjected to exploitation and undue pressure at their workplaces. This is why vigilance is crucial," she said.

Stating that mental health issues among women have been rising, she suggested that before coming to Europe, it is essential to thoroughly understand the nature of employment and the credibility of the employing company.

Secretary of the NRNA, Tika Gurung, noted the growing international demand for Nepali products such as dried Gundruk, millet flour, buckwheat, and handicrafts.

She emphasised that branding Nepali products for the global market requires collective effort.

Likewise, Santosh Bhattarai, a businessman based in Germany, criticised the complications involved in registering a business, particularly the mandatory provision of a national identity card. He said that until Nepalis living abroad are provided with a streamlined investment process, significant progress will remain elusive.

Rajeshwar Gyawali, Director General of the Department of Industry, acknowledged that the lengthy legislative process often leads to challenges. Nevertheless, the government is striving to facilitate investment for Non-Resident Nepalis, he said.

Himal Chandra Aryal, Under-Secretary of the Investment Board’s Legal Division, maintained that efforts are under way to establish a streamlined, single-window system for all investment-related procedures.

He urged stakeholders not to confine investment to a limited number of sectors.

"We have been exploring ways to attract investment beyond the usual hotel and hydropower industries. We are making efforts in areas such as cable cars and industrial parks," he stated.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 31 March 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. 

Govt will enact law to establish NRN's rights

Kathmandu, Jan. 17

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has expressed his commitment to introduce a new law that will eliminate the need for Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) to obtain a visa when entering or residing in Nepal. Such provision will be made while introducing a law that will replace the current ordinance issued by the government last week.

Speaking with a delegation of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) led by its president Dr. Badri KC at the Ministry of Home Affairs on Thursday evening, Minister Lekhak assured that the government would enact a law during the upcoming winter session of Parliament which would ensure that the NRNs would have the economic, social, and cultural rights guaranteed by the constitution, and abolish the need for visas for NRNs when entering or residing in Nepal.

Dr. KC raised concerns that some provisions in the ordinance had disappointed the Nepali citizens living abroad, particularly the clause regarding a 10-year visa exemption for NRN cardholders. He pointed out that this provision did not align with the constitutional rights envisioned for NRNs, particularly under Article 14, and did not address the rights of NRNs as envisioned by the Constitution.

Article 14 proposes granting non-resident citizenship to Nepali people who have acquired citizenship in another country. 

"The recently issued ordinance that allows NRNs to obtain a ten-year visa is contradictory—requiring a visa for our citizens to enter their homeland has deeply disappointed all Non-Resident Nepalis," said DR. KC. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 18 January 2025. 

NRN citizenship will be fully implemented: Home Minister Lekhak

 Kathmandu, Jan. 7

Minister for Home Affairs of Nepal, Ramesh Lekhak, has assured the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) that the issues related to the full implementation of NRN citizenship will be resolved soon.

Responding to the concerns of an NRNA delegation led by its President, Dr. Badri KC, Minister Lekhak expressed his commitment to addressing the complexities in implementing NRN citizenship during the upcoming winter session of parliament, the NRNA informed in a statement on Tuesday.

"The government is committed to resolving issues related to NRN citizenship. We will propose amendments to over a dozen laws to address problems in existing legislation, including immigration, land registration, company registration, banking, and other practical areas. Most of these issues will be resolved within this parliamentary session," he said.

Dr. KC had earlier expressed concerns over the lack of constitutional implementation of NRN citizenship leaving many NRNs disheartened. He said that despite being granted citizenship, procedural hurdles have prevented many from obtaining it.

He also pointed out that the absence of NRN citizenship poses challenges for investment in Nepal.

Likewise, Minister Lekhak said, "Instead of waiting for investors, the government should encourage the NRNs. Your decision to invest in your homeland is commendable, and we are working to address legislative barriers to facilitate this."

Dr. KC also raised the issue of identity cards for individuals of Nepali origin who have been foreign nationals for generations. Minister Lekhak responded positively, he said

According to him, discussions are underway to provide identity cards for individuals of Nepali origin and the government is positive about this initiative. The Ministry of Law is working on a separate identity card for individuals of Nepali origin who do not fall under the NRN definition. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 January 2025. 

NRNA, British envoy discuss bilateral matters

Kathmandu, Jan.1

Leaders of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) recently discussed the bilateral relations between the United Kingdom and Nepal and investment opportunities with the Ambassador of the UK, Rob Fenn.

A delegation led by NRNA President, Dr. Badri KC, met with Fenn and also talked about the role of the Nepali diaspora in job creation, education and skill development, the NRNA informed in a statement on Tuesday.

During the discussion, Dr. KC highlighted the Nepali diaspora's contribution to the Nepali economy and their active involvement in sectors such as investment, education, healthcare, employment and philanthropy. He also noted that the Government of Nepal has introduced provisions for Non-Resident Nepali citizenship with socio-economic and cultural rights to encourage diaspora's engagement in investment.

Woman Vice-President of the NRNA, Rojina Pradhan Rai, talked about the ongoing issues of British Gurkhas, urging high-level attention from both the Nepali and British governments. She also highlighted diaspora-led initiatives concerning women, children and Nepali students in the UK.

Ambassador Fenn emphasised the importance of creating employment opportunities for young people and exploring avenues for collaboration. He reaffirmed the UK's commitment to strengthening Nepal-UK cooperation and highlighted the vital role of the Nepali diaspora in Nepal's development.

Noting the challenges in attracting sufficient investment to Nepal, Fenn stressed the need to address these barriers to bring in more investment. He also expressed optimism about potential collaboration with the diaspora in areas like education, trade, and youth employment. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 2 January 2025. 

NRNA seeks implementation NRN citizenship

Kathmandu, Dec. 13

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), has drawn the government’s attention to the implementation of non-resident Nepali (NRN) citizenship.

The association's President, Dr. Badri KC, submitted a letter of memorandum to Acting Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, highlighting delays in enforcing the provision of NRN citizenship. While the citizenship is issued, there have been denials for constitutional economic, social, and cultural rights to eligible individuals, he said.

"Although NRN citizenship has been issued, its practical use faces legal challenges. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) should facilitate the formulation of necessary laws to address this issue," Dr. KC said to Acting Foreign Secretary, Rai.

In response, Rai acknowledged that the lack of legislation before issuing NRN citizenship has caused complications. "The constitution grants economic, social, and cultural rights, but citizenship was issued without the supporting laws in place. This was indeed a shortcoming. A draft NRN Act is now ready, and further clarity will emerge once it becomes law," he said.

Dr. KC also urged the ministry to address the concerns of People of Nepali Origin (PNO) and review the ban on working in Iraq. According to a statement issued by the NRNA, he pointed out that many Nepalis are employed in Kurdistan, Iraq, but face challenges renewing their passports and accessing consular services because of travel restrictions between Kuwait and Kurdistan.

He suggested allowing them to access services from Nepali embassies in Qatar or the United Arab Emirates (UAE) instead. Acting Secretary Rai assured him that the matter would be reviewed and resolved at the ministerial level.

Likewise, Dr. KC urged for simplifying processes for Nepalis employed, studying, or doing business in Russia by resuming labour approval and renewal services, facilitating the renewal of labour approvals, which were halted post-COVID-19, and amending laws to simplify the issuance of NRN identification cards to long-residing Nepalis in Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia, Fiji and other countries.

The NRNA has called for revisions in the provisions of NRN Act to identify Nepalis living abroad for more than 183 days, excluding SAARC countries as the NRNs and including students also within this definition.

Dr. KC also requested to establish Nepali embassies in countries with a high concentration of Nepalis. In the countries without embassies, he proposed appointing honourary consuls based on NRNA recommendations. He called for an inter-ministerial workshop to address NRN issues systematically.

The NRNA President said that NRNs with Nepali identity cards faced discriminatory treatment, such as being charged as foreign nationals for domestic air travel. He urged the government to ensure they were treated as Nepali citizens in such cases.

In response, Acting Secretary Rai assured that efforts would be made to address these concerns gradually, in coordination with the relevant ministries.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 14 December 2024.  

NRNA hands over mobile blood bus to Lumbini

Kathmandu, Jan. 27

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has handed over a mobile blood bus to Lumbini province.

President of the Association Dr. Badri KC handed over the bus to the President of Nepal Red Cross Society Banke, Govardhan Singh Samjhana through Kalruddin Rai, acting Mayor of Nepalgunj Sub-Metropolitan City at a ceremony held here on Friday.

The mobile blood bus costs about Rs. 7 million.

Addressing the programme, Dr. KC said that more than Rs. 50 million Nepalis have been displaced abroad due to various reasons.

Expressing grief over the daily arrival of 10 to 12 dead bodies from abroad to Nepal, he said that the NRNA is working for the welfare of the workers abroad. He informed that in the last two decades, the Association has invested Rs. 100 billion and done charity work worth Rs. 1 billion.

Acting Mayor Rai, expressed his happiness over the support of the mobile blood bus in Lumbini Province by the Nepalis living abroad.

Chief District Officer of Banke, Shraman Kumar Pokharel, Central Vice-President of Nepal Red Cross Society Surendra Singh Air and other local government officials were present in the programme.

In accordance with the policy of operating mobile blood bus service in all seven provinces, the NRNA had previously handed over mobile blood buses to Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati and Sudurpaschim.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 28 January 2024.      

Dr. Adhikari honoured with NRN Science and Technology Award

Kathmandu, Dec. 7

Dr. Raju Adhikari, coordinator of Nepal Science Foundation under the Skill, Knowledge and Innovation Promotion Department of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), has been honoured with the Non-Resident Nepali Science and Technology Award.

Dr. Adhikari has been honoured with this award for his continuous contribution to the development of science and technology at home and abroad with his engagement in skills, knowledge and innovation.

Dr. Adhikari who currently resides in Australia is the first NRN to be honoured with the award established by the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST).

On behalf of Dr. Adhikari, Chief Executive Officer of NRNA, Rajendra Kumar Raut accepted the award presented by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda in a ceremony organised by the NAST on Wednesday, informed the NRNA in a statement.

He has contributions in developing new types of environmental-friendly plastic materials needed in health, agriculture, electro-conductive and OLED food. He also put his efforts in connecting the scientific community around the world with the research centers of Nepal's universities and academies.

Dr. Adhikari who hails from Deukhuri, Mussuria in Dang district is currently working as a Chief Research Scientist at CSIRO and RMIT University in Australia. Dr. Adhikari has 26 patents registered and more than one hundred research articles published. The polymer he developed has also been tested on heart valves.

He had also worked as the first head of the Central Research Laboratory of the then Royal Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (RONAST). The NRNA had formed the Skills, Knowledge and Innovation Promotion Committee in 1997 with the aim of utilising the skills and abilities of the scientific talents in of Nepalis residing abroad in the development of Nepal.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 December 2023. 

Nepal begins distributing citizenship to NRNs

Kathmandu, Oct. 17

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda launched the citizenship for the non-resident Nepalis (NRNs) by handing over the citizenship certificate to Kul Acharya and Dr. Badri KC, president and executive president of the NRN Association, respectively.

"I have made a great struggle and initiative to arrange non-resident citizenship with economic, social and cultural rights for non-resident Nepalis in the constitution of Nepal," the prime minister said after handing over the citizenship, "On that basis, you have obtained constitutional rights."

He said that it demanded a lot of struggle and hard work, to manage the citizenship for the NRNs.

According to PM Prachanda, many issues related to NRNs were addressed through the policies and programmes and budget of the government.

"Government of Nepal has set minimum foreign investment limit of Rs. 20 million brining it down from the earlier Rs. 50 million. A legal arrangement has been made to open the investment of the NRNs in the secondary share market," he said.

Recently, the government has also launched contribution-based social security for Nepalis living abroad.

PM Prachanda also said that the Nepalis around the world are the non-resident ambassadors of Nepal and maintained that the country expects a lot from them.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 18 October 2023. 

NRNs urged to hold unity convention as per statute

Kathmandu, June 18

Foreign Affairs Minister, N. P. Saud has requested the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) – a global organization of non-resident Nepalis – to hold a convention as per the constitution.

In a discussion with a delegation of the NRNA at his office at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) on Sunday, FM Saud asked the representatives of the NRNA's establishment side and the group that remained dissatisfied since the organisation's 10^th convention to hold the convention according to the statute.

He suggested to the representatives of both sides who called on him jointly to be clear about the statute of the association and plan the convention accordingly. "According to the statute, leaders are selected through a due process. Some lose, some win. So, first of all, the legislation should be clear," said FM Saud.

Stressing that the relationship between the MoFA and the NRNA should be clear and conflict-free, he said that the relationship between the two should not be controversial. If there is a need, the MOFA would take action only according to your statute, he further said.

He also reminded the representatives of NRNA that the tendency to control any organisation and organnise parallel activities at a time when someone doesn't have control over the institutional affairs are fatal.

FM Saud also suggested both sides to amicably sort the issues out. "Bring the matter of acceptance to the ministry and leave the rest of the issues to the court. If the MoFA makes any decision, don't take it for granted because if we made any decision, it would be as per the statute of the organisation," he said.

A case about NRNA's dispute is under consideration at the court.

In the meeting with Foreign Minister Saud, Executive Chairman of NRNA Dr. Badri KC had informed that both sides had agreed on unity only on Sunday.

Earlier in the morning, the two sides reached to an agreement touted as 'unity' in the presence of Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda.

A memorandum of understanding was signed between KC and Vice Chairman RK Sharma, and Binod Kunwar from the dissatisfied group while the coordinators of the high-level negotiation committees DB Chhetri and Janaki Gurung also signed the document.

The letter of agreement mentions that the 11^th general assembly would be organised in October 2023 and it would be the convention of consensus, cooperation and unity.

For this, a high-level monitoring committee will be formed incorporating the representatives from both sides.

The committee will monitor the distribution of membership, the selection of convention delegates and the election of national and international coordination councils.

There is a provision that NRNA should get the approval of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the amendment of the constitution.

The NRNA's leadership was split during the 10^th general convention held last year due to issues like membership distribution, leadership election and holding the convention.

It was the dispute of the selection of the representatives for the National Coordination Council in various countries for the 10^th General Convention. A group went to the MoFA with a complaint and the ministry asked not to conduct the election but the association filed a case at the high court which gave a verdict in favour of the NRNA.

Since the events were likely to turn to unfavourable situation for both the sides, some senior leaders including the dissatisfied ones decided to form a team and move ahead. As a result, the NRNA now has a council of three presidents and they take the executive role one after another.

Former President Shesh Ghale from the dissatisfied group was absent during the previous efforts to forge consensus although Kul Acharya and Binod Kunwar are representing his fraction in the association. The latest agreement is likely to end all disputes, according to the NRNA sources. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 June 2023.

CRN facility for NRN announced

 Kathmandu, Nov. 27

Nepali nationals working in foreign countries can now obtain the C-ASBA Registration Number (CRN) by opening account at the bank and financial institutions that have authority to accept application to purchase securities. The migrant workers have to open a Remittance Savings Account.

The Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON) said on Sunday that it has made an arrangement to whereby the BFIs can enter their customers' remittance saving accounts and CRNs.

Securities Issue and Allotment (Sixth Amendment) Guideline, 2022 issued by the SEBON, has a provision to provide ten percent of the shares issued to the public by any company to the Nepalis who are employed abroad after obtaining work permits from the relevant agencies of the Government of Nepal.

For Nepalis who have received labor approval from the relevant government body and are employed abroad, the CRN number registered with the remittance savings account is mandatory for the purchase of shares. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 28 November 2022. 

NRNA to conduct free health camps

Kathmandu, Nov. 25

The Health Committee of Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) is going to conduct free health camps in Jhapa, Sunsari, Morang and Udayapur districts.

The coordinator of the NRNA's Health Committee, Dr. Sanjeeb Sapkota, said that the meeting of the health committee held on Thursday evening decided to conduct free health check-ups for breast cancer, heart and other health problems.

Ravina Thapa, Executive President of the NRNA, said that the important role played by the health committee during the coronavirus pandemic saved people's lives. She said that more work should be done in the field of education and health in Nepal.

Referring to the fact that many women have lost their lives due to breast and uterine cancer in Nepal, Thapa said, "I request you to run a national campaign against cancer."

Dr. Sapkota said that for the past seven years, the health committee has been working on the health problems of Nepalis living abroad.

He said that cervical and breast cancer has reached the villages and said that cancer can be cured if the disease is detected on time.

The meeting also decided to screen the hearing aids at Bahundangi in Jhapa. Dr. Bishwonath Rijal shed light on the health problems of Nepalis in the area. The meeting also discussed the possibility of dental and eye examination in Nepal.

There are 5,000 Nepali doctors and 15,000 nurses living abroad and the association is planning to organise a conference with the aim of gathering them regionally and brainstorming about the health problems of Nepali people. The next health conference of the NRNA is decided to be organised in North America in the third week of January next week. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 26 November 2022.  

NRNA urges govt to expedite process to provide NRN Citizenship

 Kathmandu, Oct. 12

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has urged the government to implement the non-resident Nepali citizenship provision at the earliest and amend the foreign investment related laws to remove the ceiling on the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

In a 10-point declaration published at the closing ceremony of the Annual General Meeting of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) and Global Conclave 2022 on Wednesday in the Capital, it requested the government, political parties and all concerned stakeholders to make the necessary laws to provide NRN citizenship as soon as possible. The constitution of Nepal has a provision to offer NRN citizenship.

Likewise, the declaration suggested immediate amendment to the Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act (FITTA) and related regulations in order to increase the investment of NRNs in the country. In addition, the association requested the government and relevant agencies to amend the Securities Act and regulations to open the secondary market of securities to them.

"It is considered necessary to create a simple, convenient and favourable environment for the investment of non-resident Nepalis in Nepal, as well as to amend the legal obstacles. Therefore, in addition to bringing in investment, the association is committed to encouraging the investment of NRNs in building a prosperous Nepal by helping create jobs, entrepreneurship and infrastructure development in the country," read the declaration.

 Similarly, in addition to enacting the necessary laws and regulations to ensure voting rights for Nepali citizens living abroad, the NRNA urged the government, the Election Commission and related bodies to arrange for non-resident Nepalis carrying Nepali citizenship to register their names in the voter list and obtain national identity cards through Nepali diplomatic missions in the respective countries.

It suggested for the arrangement of an identity card with rights to easily connect Nepali people who have been living in Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia, Fiji and other countries for generations, as well as to arrange a study visa in Nepal.

According to the agreement inked between the Social Security Fund (SSF) and the NRNA for the safe future of Nepalis who are employed abroad, the association requested the immediate implementation of the Fund by creating necessary mechanisms.

Through the declaration, the NRNA requested that only skilled and trained manpower be sent abroad, that awareness information be sent according to the environment of the destination country, and that the labour agreement be renewed with the country that has the labour agreement and that the labor agreement be renewed with the new potential destination country.

It suggested that the remittances sent from abroad should be invested in productive sectors and the government should come up with a solid plan for national development as soon as possible through a collective investment plan.

The NRNA also demanded that the government should establish embassies and consular services in Portugal, Croatia, Romania, Malta, Iraq (Kurdistan), Turkey as well as in South American and African countries where a large number of Nepalis are living.

Addressing the closing ceremony of the three-day celebration of the NRNA, former Prime Minister and chairman of CPN-UML KP Sharma Oli expressed his solidarity to the demands and declaration of the NRNA and said that the demand to have an identity card with cultural, economic and social rights is valid.

There will also be efforts to create conducive environment for investment in Nepal by removing bureaucratic hurdles and policy facilitation, he said. “It is also equally important that Nepalis should have the right to cast their vote and choose their representatives back home regardless of their location across the globe,” Oli added.

Chairman Oli pledged his and party's support to the NRN citizenship.

President of the NRNA Kul Acharya said that the citizenship is the primary issue for the NRNs and urged for the greater political support from all political parties.

"We want to forge even better and stronger partnership with the government in Nepal and other stakeholders here to contribute to the development and economic growth of the country," he said.

He said that foreign employment social security fund is also their concern. While many countries across the globe have implemented this instrument, Nepal was yet to feel its need. According to him, the NRNs want the equal treatment to them as the citizen of Nepal.

Another President of the NRNA, Dr. Badri KC, suggested the government to remove the cap on foreign investment and restriction imposed on certain sectors for the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

All Nepalis across the globe should be provided with the NRN citizenship without limiting it to the three generations of the family lineage in Nepal.

He said that the political interference in the NRNA's movement has resulted in the situation where the organisation has three presidents, and it would be corrected through the convention next year.

Dr. Upendra Mahato, founder President of the NRNA, stated that Nepalis scattered throughout the world have contributed to the development and prosperity of the country according to their capacity. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 13 October 2022. 

Govt urges NRNs to increase investment, transfer technology

Kathmandu, Oct. 11

Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has urged the Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) to support in the development of the country by transferring the much-required capital and technology.

"The government is committed to create an environment where you can safely invest and get a reasonable profit from the investment here," he said while addressing the Annual General Meeting of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) and Global Conclave 2022 on Tuesday in the Capital.

Stating that the government has tried to address most of the demands put forth by the NRNA, PM Deuba urged them to bring investment to Nepal and support in the national prosperity. He also promised to facilitate the investment made by the NRNs in the country.

According to him, the government wants to promote the industries that use the locally available raw materials and generate employment. The prime minister also highlighted the policy reforms including the cutting the limit of investment size for the foreign investors form Rs. 50 million to Rs. 20 million to attract more FDI.

PM Deuba also recalled and appreciated the support of the NRNA during the disasters like the 2015 earthquake and pandemic like COVID-19.

Minister for Home Affairs, Bala Krishna Khand, said Nepal needs investment to realise its development aspirations and vision of prosperous Nepal.

"It is our duty to protect your investment regardless of its size. The government is committed to protect business and property of all investors including the NRNs," he said.

He urged the NRNA to motivate its members and Nepali diaspora to bring in investment in Nepal. Minister Khand also said that the government was serious about providing citizenship to the NRNs as per the constitutional provision.

Bharat Raj Paudyal, Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said that the Constitution of Nepal has recognised the NRNs which is the highest honour given to them by the country.

"You are the goodwill ambassadors and representatives of the country and we expect you to support in promoting investment, trade and tourism of Nepal in the international markets," he said.

According to Paudyal, many countries having friendly and diplomatic relations with Nepal have said that the Nepali community has not become a burden to them but appreciated that the latter has contributed in the business and economy of the respective country.

“We aim at promoting economic diplomacy in collaboration with the NRNA,” he said.

President of the NRNA, Dr. Badri KC, said that the NRNs want policy facilitations since they send remittance equal to about a third of the national Gross Domestic Product of the country.

He also said that in this time of economic slowdown, the NRNA want to expedite the process to run the NRN Development Fund in a full-fledged manner. "We want the government to treat NRNs as Nepalis in terms of investment, there are obstructions in running the NRN Development Fund, so we request the prime minister to look into the issue and facilitate its operation," he said.

The NRNs have been playing an important role in supporting relief and rehabilitation programmes in the post-disaster scenario here, and during the COVID-19 pandemic we rescued more than 200,000 Nepalis stranded in various countries across the globe. They have sent COVID-19 test kits, medicines, oxygen and other essential goods.

“Likewise, we want the NRN citizenship at the earliest and urge the government and other political parties to create another legal instrument to provide citizenship to us,” said Dr. KC.

Vice President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Chandra Prasad Dhakal, said that the government has addressed the demands of the investors through the creation of new investment-friendly laws and amending the existing ones.

"The rate of return from the investment that you make is much better in Nepal compared to many other countries where you have established businesses, so I would like to urge you to channelise your and fellow investors money here," he said.

Former Ambassador and Founder General Secretary of the NRNA, Bhim Udas, suggested using remittance as a collateral to get development finance from the multilateral financial institutions like the World Bank. He said that Nepal should follow the model set by Kenya in this regard. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 10 October 2022. 

Nepal hosing first ever Green Hydrogen Summit

Kathmandu, Sept. 27

With the aim of increasing investment in the clean energy sector and sustainable climate-friendly infrastructure to reduce the impact of climate change and achieve economic prosperity, Green Hydrogen Summit (NGHS) is being held for the first time in Nepal on October 10 and 11 this year.

The organisers informed at a press conference on Tuesday that the summit would  try to prepare a foundation for the support to the study of production, storage and distribution capacity of green hydrogen. It has given a theme 'antidote for melting mountains'.

It is being organised by the MIT Group Foundation, Global NRN Foundation, Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation.

Chairman of MIT Group Foundation and former chairman of Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) Shesh Ghale informed that the summit was being organised to discuss ways to make hydrogen production feasible in Nepal since it has emerged as an environmentally and economically strong option across the world.

"The government should create a clear vision for green hydrogen production and create an environment where the private sector can also take the lead," he said.

Jamuna Ghale, the founding member of Global NRN Foundation, informed in the press conference that there would be a serious brainstorming on the policy and other arrangements to be made in Nepal based on the international experiences and technologies used in the field of hydrogen production.

According to her, it is necessary for all stakeholders to use the immense potential of water resources in hydrogen production to improve the environment, public health, and export trade.

Similarly, the Chief Executive Officer of Wind Power Nepal, Kushal Gurung, said that distinguished personalities of Nepali industry, representatives of various ministries and government offices, development partners, multilateral international community, United Nations agencies, foreign embassies, international experts and representatives of major companies working in green hydrogen technology would participate in the event.

Janaki Gurung, founding member of Global NRN Foundation, said that the conference will discuss and analyse the production of green hydrogen in Nepal and its uses to reduce the impact of climate change.

According to the organisers, the goal of the conference is also to increase the assurance of energy and food security by developing an environmentally sustainable green hydrogen economy in Nepal.

Similarly, international speakers will give information about the cost of green hydrogen production, the technology used and the global trends. Gurung said that the aim of the conference is to attract large amount of private investment in green hydrogen and urea production.

It is also expected to help the Nepal government prepare a roadmap for easy transmission of energy, which will help achieve sustainable development goals, prioritise green and climate-friendly green hydrogen plans.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 28 September 2022.