Health Insurance Scheme faces teething troubles

Efforts being made to integrate all state-funded health programmes

 

Kathmandu, Apr. 26

Even after a decade since the micro-health insurance facility was launched in Nepal with the aim to establish universal access for citizens to quality health services, the programme is facing multi-pronged challenges including the management of funds, shortage of human resources, and inability to review the increasing claims submitted by the service providers.

The programme was launched on a trial a decade ago and was formally implemented after two years following the enactment of the Health Insurance Act, 2017.

Due to the acute shortage of funds, payment liability has piled up at the Health Insurance Board (HIB). It has not been able to reimburse the amount claimed by the service providers (hospitals and health centres) since the beginning of the current Fiscal Year 2024/25.

The HIB is clearing the dues from the last FY 2023/24 this year. It has about Rs. 17.5 billion outstanding. "Estimating the additional claims in the remaining period of the current fiscal year, the total amount remaining for payment by the end of this fiscal year is expected to be Rs. 24 billion. There is a challenge in developing the capacity to make timely payments," the HIB said in a white paper about its status published a month ago.

Meanwhile, the amount of claims submitted to the board goes as up as 40,000 a day while the team to review those claims is struggling with limited human resources and technology.

"The HIB has a team of about 25 medical experts including doctors, nurses and lab technicians to review the claims filed by 485 health institutions across the country. Without additional human resources, this cannot be resolved," said Bikesh Malla, Information Officer of the Board.

With the current setup, the HIB can review maximum 7,000 cases a day. As a result, the claim verification of the last FY 2023/24 is still pending. The White Paper mentions that the number of claims received by the board and not reviewed is about 9 million by the end of February. The paper also maintains that due to insufficient skilled manpower in claim review and the inherently weak method and process adopted, timely verification of claims has not been possible.

It has left the Board, service providers, and the insured all disadvantaged.

 

 

 

Deficit budget, workforce

The HIB is struggling with the limited sources of income. The fund earns about Rs. 3 billion to Rs. 3.5 billion from the premium charges and receives approximately Rs. 7.5 billion from the budget in a year. For the last three fiscal years, the government has disbursed the same amount of money to the Board.

According to Malla, the HIB has approved a budget of Rs. 26.59 billion for this year but it is likely to receive one third of that amount. Through the Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP), it has asked for the funds of Rs. 17.5 billion from the Ministry of Finance (MoF).

But since the country is also struggling with fund management, the MoF had pledged to provide additional Rs. 3 billion on top of the Rs. 7.5 billion announced through the annual budget. If the sum of the premium is also added to this fund, total size of the fund at the HIB reaches Rs. 14 billion. Even then, there will be a shortfall of Rs. 10 billion.

Meanwhile, the Board has been facing growing operation cost issue including Rs. 23.4 million in house rent and millions of rupees for employees' salaries.

"The MoHP has directed the Board to reduce the number of consultants, use government buildings instead of renting out space for offices and maintain full transparency," Spokesperson of the MoHP, Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, said to The Rising Nepal.

According to him, to overcome the challenges posed by the shortage of workforce, the Ministry has given a positive nod to hire 25 experts to review the pending claims.

Likewise, inability to make the operations fully automated has its toll on the board, service providers and service seekers.

Due to the inability to use technology that can automatically reject treatments outside the standards set by the Board and provide information on false claims, there is a risk of some service providers entering false claims and even receiving payments, said the Board.

To address this malady, the HIB has accorded priority to implementation of information technology. New bylaws are formulated and submitted to the Cabinet with a provision to audit the prescriptions of the doctors to discourage the false claims, informed Dr. Budhathoki.

 

Hassles to patients

Hospitals discriminate the patients that come to obtain the health facility under the insurance programme. Service seekers have complained that they have to wait for a long time to obtain the services and have to face hassles at the hospitals.

The White Paper of the HIB has accepted the fact that there have been widespread complaints that the health service offered by service providers has not been effective. "Problems such as having to receive service only at the designated first service point, unavailability of doctors at the first service point, not being able to get tests done on time, and unavailability of medicines are recurring," read the document.

Patients reaching Bir Hopspital, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Chitwan Medical College and other institutions have to spend more time to get their health checked or receive medicine due to additional bureaucratic hassles.

Malla of the Board said that due to limited capacity of the hospital, small number of equipment and shortage of human resources have been the causes behind such challenges that are causing dissatisfaction on the part of patients.

As a result, the programme has been witnessing a high dropout rate. In the current FY 2024/25, the dropout rate stands at 54 per cent. Although it was lower than 64 per cent two years ago, this is significant and needs a serious attention, experts say.

A Health Ministry official said that the Board has failed to identify the reasons behind this high dropout rate and address it in time.

Likewise, the Board has not been able to train the service provider health institutions with which it has agreements and make them proficient in providing services. The capacity to monitor and regulate the services provided by service providers has not been developed. The Board has faced difficulties in controlling quality due to the inability to pay service providers on time, according to the White Paper.

The Board also doesn't have monitoring and evaluation guidelines while checklists and standards need to be updated. It said that while the practice of joint monitoring has not taken place so far, multiple suggestions and conclusions received from monitoring have also not been implemented.

The NIB, in collaboration with the MoHP, plans to bring the first service points into operation in all local levels of the country, enhance their capacity and streamline the referral system.

 

Strategy to manage funds

The MoHP and NIB have begun work on addressing the challenges in the fund management. Health Minister Pradip Paudel has been stressing on strengthening the Board and expanding the programme so that it could cover every citizen of the country.

He even went further to increase the health coverage of up to Rs. 500,000 from the current purse of Rs. 100,000 per family. Such amount for senior citizens and chronically ill people is Rs. 200,000. A family can obtain the facility with premium of Rs. 3,500 while senior citizens above 70 years of age need not pay any premium.

Minister Paudel has already decided to activate the Health Insurance Fund and deposit 1 per cent of the total income of the federal hospital into it. The Finance Ministry has already given a positive nod to his Minister-level decision.

The Health Ministry is of the view that more reforms would be made as per the suggestions of the Task Force on Health Insurance Reform. It has also been saying that all the government implemented health and treatment support programmes should be integrated with the Fund while government employees should contribute 1 per cent from their salary and an equivalent amount should be contributed by the government to the fund.

While accepting the report of the Task Force last month, Minister Paudel said that if all the health-related programmes of all levels of the governments were consolidated, about Rs. 30 billion could be collected into the Fund. Many local governments have been executing free or subsidised health insurance programmes.

Dr. Budhathoki of the Health Ministry said that approximately Rs. 15 billion could be consolidated into the Fund if the free or subsidised health programme for deprived people, senior citizens, people with disability and pregnant or lactating mothers could be brought under the HIB.

However, it is likely to take a couple of years to complete this task.

Similarly, the Health Ministry also wants to bring the health insurance provided by the Social Security Fund to the registered employees under the HIB. But the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security is reluctant to do so.

 

A successful programme

Given the achievements the health insurance programme made in the last eight years, it can be termed as 'successful' minus the shortage of funds. The programme is expanded to 749 local levels of 77 districts of the country. Cumulative registration to the programme so far has reached 8.95 million while active insured individuals by the end of February this year was 5.75 million – 20 per cent of the total population.

Likewise, the number of active enrolled households has gone up from 238,492 in 2017 to 982,062 – excluding senior citizens - by February 2024. Including senior citizens, 2.07 million families are active in health insurance, making it a 31 per cent of the total households, according to the Board.  

While family members up to five individuals are considered one unit in the insurance programme, senior citizens are considered one unit per individual.

As per the NIB statistics, there is imbalance in participation among the provinces. Gandaki province has 34 per cent of the total insured under the health insurance, followed by Koshi with 33 per cent, Bagmati 26 per cent, and Lumbinin and Karnali 14 per cent each. But Sudurpaschim and Madhes have only 11 per cent and 7 per cent share in the total insured population.

"The low participation of provinces lagging behind in human development is a matter of concern. It seems necessary to give more priority to including everyone in health insurance, especially the backward classes, communities, and regions," the Board said.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 26 April 2025.        

Nepal always condemns terrorism: Minister Rana

Kathmandu, Apr. 26

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, has said that Nepal always firmly opposed terrorism and strongly condemns all forms and manifestations of terrorism in the harshest terms.

Speaking at a gathering organised at the Embassy of India in Kathmandu on Saturday to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, she stated that Nepal has always stood against terrorism and in favour of peace.

“Nepal strongly condemns all forms and manifestations of terrorism. Nepal will always stand against terrorist activities, regardless of where, when, or for what purpose they are committed,” she said, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA).

FM Dr. Rana also stressed that there should never be double standards when dealing with terrorism and reiterated Nepal’s firm commitment to ensuring that its territory is never used by any terrorist group for any reason against any country or its people.

She further said that Nepal strongly condemns the terrorist attack that took place in Pahalgam, Kashmir.

According to her, Nepal stands in solidarity with the government and people of India during this time of sorrow.

Recalling the deep relationship between Nepal and India, she mentioned that this bond is not merely diplomatic but is rooted in a shared history, culture, and longstanding cooperation.

“Our open borders are symbols of mutual trust, and our familial ties bind us together. We have always stood together, both in times of joy and crisis. When the earthquake devastated Nepal, it was India that extended the first helping hand,” said FM Dr. Rana.

She also thanked the Government of India for its assistance in repatriating the body of Nepali youth Sudip Neupane, who became a victim of the Pahalgam tragedy, as well as for supporting other affected individuals.
On the occasion, Minister Dr. Rana paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the terrorist attack and expressed heartfelt condolences to their grieving families.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 27 April 2025.        

DPM Paudel stresses need for alternative development financing

Kathmandu, Apr. 25

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Bishnu Prasad Paudel, has emphasised the need to mobilise alternative development financing to ensure long-term investment in sustainable economic growth and infrastructure projects.

Presenting the conceptual framework of the Alternative Development Finance Mobilisation Bill at the House of Representatives on Friday, Minister Paudel said that the bill aims to address the current shortage of financial resources and to mobilise funds for national priority projects by providing a legal foundation for such efforts.

He explained that the bill encompasses provisions for the identification and prioritisation of infrastructure sectors and projects, mobilisation of internal resources and foreign investments, the appropriate use of financial instruments, institutional frameworks, and mechanisms for monitoring and evaluation.

Minister Paudel further noted that the bill is essential not only for mobilising alternative financial resources but also for generating employment opportunities.

According to the concept he presented, there is growing global competition in infrastructure development, alongside increasing investment needs driven by climate change, expanding access to information technology, and rising public expectations.

Studies on Nepal’s investment needs and potential indicate that over Rs. 10 trillion will be required in the coming decade, the Ministry of Finance said in a statement. However, historical data shows that annual infrastructure investment in Nepal has been limited to only Rs. 200 to Rs. 300 billion. To bridge this gap between need and actual investment, innovative financing sources and mechanisms are necessary.

"In line with the long-term national goals set out in the 15^th Development Plan, the government requires substantial investment in areas such as electricity generation, transmission and distribution, industrial and special economic zones, smart cities, urban development, tourism infrastructure, roads, irrigation, drinking water, and airport construction," read the statement by the MoF.

Upon assuming office as Finance Minister last year, Paudel had approved a procedural framework related to alternative financing.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 26 April 2025.        

Nepal, Bosnia discuss bilateral labour agreement

Kathmandu, Apr. 25

Minister for Labour, Employment and Social Security, Sarat Singh Bhandari, has held discussions with Armin Mesinovic, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in New Delhi of India that is accredited to Nepal as well, regarding the possibility of signing a bilateral labour agreement.

In the meeting held on Friday at the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MoLESS), Singha Durbar, they discussed the possibility of recruitment of Nepali workers for employment in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Mesinovic proposed initiating the process for a bilateral labour agreement, noting that Bosnia could become a new destination offering employment opportunities for Nepali workers.

Minister Bhandari explained that the Government of Nepal has been actively pursuing bilateral labour agreements with various European nations to create new opportunities for Nepali workers. He affirmed Nepal’s readiness to establish a formal labour agreement with Bosnia and pledged to begin the necessary procedures.

Minister Bhandari further stated that the MoLESS is committed to equipping Nepali workers with necessary training to ensure they are deployed as skilled manpower. If Bosnia requires skilled workers based on specific labour market needs, Nepal will prepare and send an appropriately trained workforce accordingly, he stated.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 26 April 2025.        

NRNA should be apolitical organisation: Gagan Thapa

Kathmandu, Apr. 25

General Secretary of the Nepali Congress, Gagan Kumar Thapa, called for an inclusive unity convention to resolve the ongoing disputes within the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA).

During a meeting with a delegation led by NRNA President Dr. Badri KC in Kathmandu on Friday, Thapa stressed that any unity efforts must be genuinely aimed at reconciliation and should include all stakeholders without exception.

“I have observed the NRNA since its inception. It must remain apolitical and free from partisan influence,” Thapa said.

Regarding the Non-Resident Nepali Act, Thapa noted that amendments to some related laws were also necessary, the NRNA informed in a statement.

He informed the delegation that he had submitted suggestions to the relevant parliamentary committee to advance these changes. He also urged the NRNA to present a draft proposal from its side, adding, “We will work towards completing the process in the upcoming parliamentary[U1]  session.”

Dr. KC expressed concerns that despite the introduction of NRN citizenship 18 months ago, full implementation has yet to occur. He said that this delay has hindered non-resident Nepalis from exercising their constitutional economic, social and cultural rights.

“We may be far from the country and unable to protest on the streets, but that doesn't mean we aren't suffering. The very citizenship granted by the government is not being recognised by it,” he said.

Dr. KC also criticised the provision in the ordinance that exempts NRNs from visa fees for 10 years, calling it unfair. “Citizenship and visa are not separate issues, yet the ordinance limits the provision to only ten years. While other countries have broader legal frameworks, ours has become more restrictive. This has created obstacles for investment, engagement of second-generation NRNs and cultural exchange,” he said.

He further mentioned that the revised Non-Resident Nepali Act is currently under review at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and urged that the act be tabled in Parliament and passed at the earliest.

Likewise, Vice President of the NRNA, Dr. Hemraj Sharma, said, “The MoFA has already issued correspondence to postpone the general convention. However, the Shesh Ghale faction refuses to recognise the 11^th Executive Committee. There has been no National Coordination Centre (NCC) election, and membership has not been issued as per the statute.”

When General Secretary Thapa asked whether the issue could be resolved in court, both President KC and Vice President Sharma confirmed that the Supreme Court had requested case files from all parties involved and that the matter is currently under review.

Speaking on the evolving draft of the Act, Dr Sharma said, “We were consulted in the initial stages, but not anymore. The definition of a non-resident Nepali has also been altered. While political parties seem supportive, the draft still requires significant revisions.”

Similarly, founding member Ram Pratap Thapa said he distanced himself from the high-level committee after it began taking unilateral actions without adhering to established policies or statutes. “The Supreme Court instructed us to work towards unification, but a small group is now proceeding without any proper process or consensus. Can such an arbitrary and authoritarian committee truly hold a unity convention? If such illegitimate actions continue, the global credibility of the NRNA will be at risk,” he said.

Vice President Rojina Pradhan Rai also stated her belief that the organisation should not be politicised.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 26 April 2025.        

Government change impossible, says Minister Rana

 Kathmandu, Apr. 25

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has dismissed recent rumours of a change in government. Speaking to journalists at the Tribhuvan International Airport upon her return from Bangkok, Thailand, she said, “There is no possibility of a change in government at present; such rumours may have been spread simply for entertainment.”

Responding to questions about speculation following the Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba’s visit to Bangkok, Minister Rana clarified that the trip was solely for routine medical check-ups, not political meetings.

She further said that she had also read the rumours in the media and informed that President Deuba had spoken to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli by phone just yesterday, reinforcing that there is no political instability.

Foreign Minister Rana returned home on Friday after chairing the 81^st session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) in Bangkok. During her visit, she also presided over a special meeting concerning Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

At the forum, she represented Nepal’s position on issues of shared concern among these vulnerable nations. She noted that Nepal’s participation helped raise the country's profile in international and regional platforms and contributed to promoting national interests, read a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA).

On the sidelines of the event, FM Dr. Rana held a meeting with ESCAP Executive Secretary Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, during which she praised ESCAP’s role in fostering regional and international cooperation for socio-economic development in the Asia-Pacific.

She also met with Rahab Fatima, the UN High Representative for the LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS, to discuss various matters of mutual interest.

Likewise, FM Rana Rana briefed UN member states, international organisations, and civil society representatives about the upcoming 'Sagarmatha Dialogue', scheduled to be held in Kathmandu in May this year. She also extended invitations for high-level participation in the event.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 26 April 2025.        

President Paudel calls for adopting disaster safety measures

 Kathmandu, Apr. 24

President of Nepal, Ramchandra Paudel, called for collective awareness and action and encouraged citizens to adopt safety measures and disaster education.

In his message issued on the Earthquake Memorial Day that is marked on Friday, he paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the devastating earthquake of 2015.

Emphasising that earthquakes, though natural, need not lead to severe human losses, the President urged greater awareness and preparedness.

President Paudel highlighted Nepal’s high seismic risk due to its geological structure and vulnerable infrastructure. He acknowledged the government's significant progress in rebuilding quake-affected structures using earthquake-resistant technologies. He also expressed confidence in reduced future risks.

The President thanked everyone who contributed to reconstruction and hoped this day inspires unity and resilience in facing natural disasters.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 25 April 2025.        

NPC suggests increasing fiscal space for government

Kathmandu, Apr. 20

The National Planning Commission (NPC) has suggested the government to bring about the policy and programmes with a focus on increasing the fiscal space by forging better inter-ministerial coordination.

"Recognising the status of poor revenue collection over the years, we decided to recommend to search space of new sources of revenue, expedite the development work and complete the projects in time, and for timely disbursement of dues to the private sector entrepreneurs," Vice-Chairman of the NPC, Prof. Dr. Shiva Raj Adhikari, while handing over the report to Deputy Prime Minister and Ministr for Finance, Bishnu Prasad Paudel.

Fiscal space is creating room in the annual budget and is important for the government as it helps in allocating resources in key programmes without weakening the country's economic stability. It enables the government to take bold steps such as rising spending or lowering taxes when needed.

The federal planning body handed over the Policy and Programmes Report prepared for the upcoming budget of Fiscal Year 2024/25 to DPM Paudel at the Ministry of Finance (MoF) on Sunday.

In the report prepared after consultation with development ministries, the NPC stressed on proper utilisation of the available and potential resources.

"Programmes that foster synergy and contribute to sustainability during implementation, while generating minimal or no trade-offs, should be prioritised in proposal and budget allocation," read the report.

It also recommended that the budget proposals and allocations should prioritise programmes and projects that support increased production, productivity, and employment generation.

According to the NPC, only those programmes and projects that will incur and can realistically utilise expenditures in the upcoming fiscal year should be proposed and allocated budget. Likewise, priority should be given to budget proposals for multi-year projects and programmes that have created liabilities in the current fiscal year and are expected to be completed by the next year.

 

Reprioritise ongoing programmes

"Ongoing programmes and projects should be reprioritised and allocated based on their nature, implementation status, project duration, incurred liabilities, and expenditure potential.  Duplicative or overlapping programmes and projects of a similar nature should be reviewed, merged, or eliminated as necessary," suggested the report of the NPC.

VC Prof. Adhikari said that in the current context, priority should be given to the maximum utilisation of existing institutional structures rather than creating new ones.

Similarly, the report observed that some officials believe the budget ceilings for certain ministries and agencies are too low, and in some cases, even regular and recurrent expenditures must be met through foreign aid, making the budget and programme proposal process challenging.

Other recommendations also include aligning budget proposals with the framework of the sixteenth periodic plan and Sustainable Development Goals, entering the qualified projects to the project banks, and striking regional balance.

"The allocation of projects and programmes must comply with the standards related to the distribution of development projects across the three levels of government," it said.

 

Focus to strengthening economy

DPM Paudel expressed his belief that the report would help in guiding the budget of the next FY 2025/26.

He stated that the budget of the next year will be focused on the creation of strong national economy backed by infrastructure and industrial development.

DPM Paudel is also for tightening the size of budget to all ministries and implementing agencies and is not in the mood to allocate funds to the projects and programmes that will not contribute to capital formation or create facility to the publics.

He said that the achievement of the set target of the economic growth couldn't be achieved but there wouldn't be a situation to be pessimistic.

"Of late, the government has been putting its efforts to address the challenges in the economy especially in the manufacturing sector. We have been working to facilitate the private sector so that more investment would be attracted and jobs would be created," he said.

According to him, the country has reached to the much-desired political stability after a prolonged instability but some reactionary forces are trying to destablise this stability.

This stability is not sought for the ruling parties or coalition but for the reforms and progress, maintained DPM Paudel. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 21 April 2025.        

DPM Al Nahyan pledges stronger UAE-Nepal trade ties

Kathmandu, Apr. 23

Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expressed his commitment to encouraging UAE businesses to expand trade and investment in Nepal’s tourism, energy, and agriculture sectors.

During a courtesy meeting to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers at the Singha Durbar, DPM Al Nahyan also conveyed the UAE’s willingness to enter into a free trade agreement with Nepal.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office, two leaders discussed various aspects of the friendly bilateral relationship between the two countries, as well as matters related to trade and investment.

Prime Minister Oli, while praising the UAE’s rapid progress on the path of development, urged for increased investment in Nepal, particularly in the fields of hydropower, green energy, and hydro energy.

Meanwhile, DPM Al Nahyan paid a courtesy call to President Ramchandra Paudel at the President's Office, Sheetal Niwas on Wednesday.  

They discussed the existing bilateral relations between Nepal and the UAE, as well as topics of mutual interest and concern, a statement from the President's Office informed.

President Paudel acknowledged the UAE's long-standing and significant role as a reliable partner in Nepal's socio-economic development. He expressed his confidence that the areas of cooperation between the two nations would continue to expand in the coming days.

Al Nahyan was in Nepal for a two-day visit that concluded on Wednesday.

His delegation included Ahmed Ali Mohamed Al Sayegh, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Saeed Mubarak Rashed Alhajeri, Assistant Minister for Economic and Trade Affairs, Abdulla Balalaa, Assistant Minister for Energy and Sustainability Affairs, Abdulla Jarwan Alshamsi, Ambassador of the UAE to Nepal and other senior officials of the Government of the UAE.

He was welcomed upon his arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport by Sharat Singh Bhandari, Minister for Labour, Employment and Social Security joined by Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai and other senior officials of the Ministry, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) of Nepal said in a statement on Tuesday. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 April 2025.        

Unplanned urbanisation creating challenges: FM Dr. Rana

 Kathmandu, Apr. 21

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba said that the growing trend of unplanned urbanisation has created multitudes of challenges in urban development and management.

"It has become a global issue and that the Asia-Pacific region has also been affected by it," she said in her remarks following her assumption of the presidency of the 81^st session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), in Bangkok of Thailand on Monday.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) of Nepal informed in a statement that she said this region is facing numerous serious challenges, among which unplanned urbanisation is a key concern.

Speaking at the session on 'Resilient and Sustainable Urban Development in Asia and the Pacific', she said, “Urban areas are also engines of development, innovation, and opportunity. However, unplanned urbanisation is giving rise to many problems. Therefore, we must pursue well-planned urban development.”

FM Dr. Rana emphasised the need to invest in inclusive and green cities to promote resilient and sustainable urban growth.

She highlighted the importance of strengthening networks between cities, preparing robust strategies to address demographic transformations, and adopting measures for financial support from diverse sources.

She also discussed other issues facing the Asia-Pacific region, including financial risks and constraints, lack of investment in sustainable infrastructure, trade fragmentation and protectionist tendencies, as well as the digital divide.

She warned that the digital divide is creating a significant gap between urban and rural communities, and if left unaddressed, could exacerbate inequalities and hinder inclusive growth, read the statement.

Highlighting the region’s vulnerability to climate-induced disasters, the Foreign Minister pointed out that our cities and communities are at risk from devastating floods, droughts, and extreme weather events.

“Our Himalayas, which are not only sources of water but also the foundation of livelihoods and civilisations, are being affected in unimaginable ways by the impacts of climate change. Therefore, there is an urgent need to increase investment in climate resilience and early warning systems,” she said.

She informed the regional community that Nepal is also taking steps in this region to ensure solutions for the present situation, the future of upcoming generations, and the overall safety of the planet. She announced that Nepal will host the Sagarmatha Dialogue in May, through which the country aims to initiate efforts to address the challenges posed by climate change.

She emphasised the need for regional unity and collective cooperation to tackle these issues, stating, “In today’s era, no country can resolve such challenges alone. Regional cooperation is essential to make our collective efforts meaningful.”

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 22 April 2025.        

FM Dr. Rana leaves for Bangkok

Kathmandu, Apr. 20

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has departed for Bangkok, Thailand on Sunday to participate in the 81^st session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP).

The session is being held in Bangkok from April 21 to 25.

As Nepal currently holds the chairmanship of UNESCAP, FM Dr. Rana is scheduled to preside over the session. She will also address the session on behalf of Nepal, the Ministry of Foreign Nepal (MoFA) informed in a statement on Sunday.

The theme of this session is 'Regional Cooperation for Sustainable Urban Development in Asia and the Pacific'. The Nepali delegation, led by Minister Dr. Rana, will include officials from the MoFA, the National Planning Commission, and the Embassy of Nepal in Thailand.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 21 April 2025.        

Nepal advances fair wage agenda

Kathmandu, Apr. 24

In Nepal, where wage disparities and informal employment remain widespread, enhancing wage-setting mechanisms has become a priority for building a more equitable and sustainable economy, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) said in a statement issued on Wednesday following the inauguration of a three-day workshop on wage policies.

The conference, titled ‘Designing and implementing effective wage policies in Nepal’, the workshop focuses on strengthening wage-setting mechanisms through discussion, case studies, and international best practices. These issues are guided by the ILO Wage Policy Guide and the Global Wage Report 2024–25.

The workshop organised jointly by , ILO Nepal and the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MoLESS), has brought together representatives from government, employers, and trade unions.

“Fair wage policies—founded on inclusive, transparent, and evidence-based processes—are critical for addressing wage inadequacy, gender pay gaps, and poor labour compliance. These policies extend beyond setting minimum wage levels; they seek to ensure that workers can live with dignity, businesses can prosper, and economic growth is inclusive and resilient,” read the statement.

Nepal has shown longstanding dedication to fair wage practices, having been the first South Asian country to ratify the ILO Minimum Wage Fixing Convention, 1970 (No. 131). The ILO has supported Nepal and other countries in creating strong minimum wage systems grounded in international labour standards and tailored to local economic conditions.

“Wages are more than numbers—they reflect the dignity of work and the fairness of our economy,” said Numan Özcan, ILO Nepal Country Director. Minister for Labour, Employment and Social Security, Sharat Singh Bhandari, highlighted Nepal’s proactive stance on employment issues and the importance of automation and institutional frameworks in achieving wage fairness.

Joint Secretary of the MoLESS Pradeep Kumar Koirala stressed the need for comprehensive consultation in setting minimum wages, including roles for national, provincial, and local governments. He called for conceptual clarity and stronger governance to support wage reforms.

This workshop underscores Nepal’s commitment to decent work and inclusive wage policies, marking a significant step toward a just and resilient labour market.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 25 April 2025.        

WB lowers growth to 4.5% from earlier projection of 4.6%

Kathmandu, Apr. 23

The World Bank's growth forecast for Nepal has been downgraded to 4.5 per cent in the current Fiscal Year 2024/25 from the earlier projections of 4.6 per cent due to damage from floods and landslides.

Likewise, the growth projection for the next FY 2025/26 is reduced to 5.2 per cent from 5.4 per cent owing to the persistent weakness in the financial system, reported the WB's South Asia Development report published on Wednesday.

Although these projections are above the estimates for 3.9 per cent of 2023/24, these are not encouraging. The government has projected 6 per cent growth for this year.

According to the report, the downgrade is due to persistent weakness in the financial system. Private sector credit has been contracting as a share of GDP, and many financial sector cooperatives have suffered losses or gone bankrupt because of nonperforming loans, particularly to the real estate sector.

"Nepal has also been relisted by the Financial Action Task Force, for the second time, on the grey list of countries that require greater financial monitoring due to not fully implementing money laundering and terrorist financing reforms," read the report.

However, this is the trend across the South Asian region.

The multilateral donor said in its report that amid increasing uncertainty in the global economy, South Asia’s growth prospects have weakened, with projections downgraded in most countries in the region.

"Stepping up domestic revenue mobilisation could help the region strengthen fragile fiscal positions and increase resilience against future shocks,” said the World Bank in its twice-yearly regional outlook.

The report projected regional growth to slow to 5.8 per cent in 2025—0.4 percentage points below October projections—before ticking up to 6.1 per cent in 2026. This outlook is subject to heightened risks, including from a highly uncertain global landscape, combined with domestic vulnerabilities including constrained fiscal space.

“Multiple shocks over the past decade have left South Asian countries with limited buffers to withstand an increasingly challenging global environment. The region needs targeted reforms to address vulnerabilities such as fragile fiscal positions, backward agricultural sectors, and the impact of climate related shocks,” said Martin Raiser, World Bank Vice President for South Asia.

In India, growth is expected to slow from 6.5 per cent in 2024/25 to 6.3 per cent as in 2025/26 as the benefits to private investment from monetary easing and regulatory streamlining are expected to be offset by global economic weakness and policy uncertainty.

Likewise, according to the report, causes of adjustment in Bangladesh are political uncertainty and persistent financial challenges, in Bhutan weak agriculture sector growth. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 April 2025.       

Ghimire appointed CEO of NMB Bank

Kathmandu, Apr. 23

Govind Ghimire has officially taken charge as the Chief Executive Officer of NMB Bank from Wednesday. With over 30 years of banking experience, Ghimire has played a key leadership role at NMB since 2009, previously serving as Deputy CEO, Chief Business Officer, and Head of Business Banking.

He has been instrumental in expanding the bank’s footprint across corporate, SME, and retail banking, while also contributing to trade finance, credit risk management, strategic planning, and operational transformation, the bank said in a statement.

"Known for championing digitisation and innovation, Ghimire has actively served on several strategic and governance committees within the bank," it said.

In his first address as CEO, Ghimire emphasised innovation, sustainable partnerships, and inclusive finance as core to his vision.

Meanwhile, Sudesh Upadhyaya has been appointed Senior Deputy CEO of the bank.

According to the bank, Upadhyaya brings extensive experience in international markets, corporate governance, and compliance, having previously held senior strategic roles at the bank.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 April 2025.       

FM Rana to attend UNESCP meet in Bangkok

Kathmandu, Apr. 19

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba is scheduled to travel to Bangkok, Thailand on Sunday to attend the 81^st session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP).

The session is being held in Bangkok from April 21 to 25, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) informed in a statement on Saturday.

As Nepal currently holds the chairmanship of UNESCAP, FM Dr. Rana will be presiding over the 81^st session of the commission. She is also scheduled to address the session on behalf of Nepal.

The theme of this session is ‘Regional cooperation for sustainable urban development in Asia and the Pacific." The Nepali delegation, led by Minister Dr. Rana, will include officials from the MoFA, National Planning Commission, and the Embassy of Nepal in Thailand.

Nepali delegation is scheduled to return to Nepal on April 25.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 20 April 2025.       

Entrepreneurs stress need for women's participation in tourism

 Kathmandu, Apr. 19

Tourism entrepreneurs and stakeholders have emphasised the need for greater participation of women in Nepal’s tourism sector in the context of the digital age.

Speaking at an interaction programme on ‘Women in Nepali tourism in the digital age’ organised by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) in Lalitpur on Saturday, they said now is the time to make a move to increase women’s participation in tourism and other business sectors.

Speaking at the event, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, said that women's entrepreneurship in tourism is now a top priority. “We are committed to establishing this through policies and programmes. If we can bring digital literacy to women in rural areas, tourism can become the backbone of our economy,” he said.

Minister Pandey also stressed the importance of trust and cooperation between the government and the private sector. “Without collaboration, the government alone cannot achieve everything. We must foster an environment of trust between public and private institutions,” he said.

Geeta Kumari Paudel Adhikari, a member of the National Planning Commission, highlighted the integration of technology in the country’s sixteenth development plan and the importance of empowering women in tourism. “Only 30 per cent of citizens have digital access, and among them, women are even less represented,” she said.

Adhikari added that gender equality must be prioritised during policy-making, especially regarding financial access.

Deepak Raj Joshi, CEO of the NTB, pointed out that while female participation in tourism is above 50 per cent, more focus should be placed on the quality and scope of that involvement. “We need to provide more training and opportunities to women to ensure their meaningful engagement in different areas of tourism,” he said.

Likewise, Liladhar Adhikari, Under Secretary at the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, called tourism a competitive sector and underlined the need to improve women’s leadership skills through digital literacy.

Yuvika Bhandari, head of the Public Relations Committee of the Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents, said tourism cannot grow without women's active involvement. “Women are already transforming the tourism landscape with creativity and access. Without empowering them, we cannot expect the sector to develop,” she said.

Similarly, Nirmala Dhamala, president of the Women Tourism Entrepreneurs Network, said there is no alternative to making women digitally skilled. “It is now essential for the government to make digital training compulsory for female tourism entrepreneurs in its policy,” she said.

Former FNCCI president Bhawani Rana noted that women’s contributions in tourism are often invisible. “Even when women do more, it is not recognised. We must keep this in mind when drafting tourism policies. It is also important to keep tourism free from political influence,” she said.

Meena Baral, founder of Bungee Nepal and a leading figure in adventure tourism, said that financial matters are still male-dominated. “Women are capable when given the opportunity. Now, they need access to finance and technology. Even in adventure tourism, 30 to 40 per cent of participants are women, and they are doing well,” she said.

Dr. Preeti Bista, who is involved in medical tourism, mentioned that Nepal can generate 15 to 20 million dollars annually through this sector, provided proper coordination and policies are in place.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 20 April 2025.       

FM Dr. Rana directs to make border points more efficient

 Kathmandu, Apr. 18

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has directed the concerned authorities to make the border points more organised and efficient.

The directive came following her inspection of the border and customs office at Tatopani in Sindhupalchok.

The Tatopani border serves as a key Nepal-China trade route, generating over Rs. 20 billion in annual revenue.

On the occasion, FM Dr. Rana emphasised the importance of improving the Tatopani point not only for trade purposes but also for tourism promotion, noting that the route offers easier access to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar, a significant religious tourism destination in China.

She further mentioned that the government would take the necessary steps to upgrade the international trade route, the Kathmandu-Kodari Highway, and other roads connected to the Tatopani border.

FM Dr. Rana also consulted with Sindhupalchok’s Members of Parliament, local representatives, and other stakeholders to gather information and hold discussions regarding the required upgrades at the Nepal-China border point. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 April 2025.       

PM Oli inaugurates Pulchowk-Gondrang road section

 Kathmandu, Apr. 18

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli inaugurated the Pulchowk–Gondrang six-lane road section along the East-West Highway in Chitwan on Friday.

The road meets Asian standards and lies strategically between Bhairahawa, Birgunj, Pokhara and  Kathmandu.

Addressing the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Oli emphasised the need to work without prejudice or political division when it comes to the country’s development. He also announced plans to further widen the East-West Highway.

“We are not in an election period, nor is there any need for campaign rhetoric right now. I want to appeal to everyone—not everything needs to be about politics or elections all the time. Let us focus on development,” he said.

“We must unite to build the country. Let’s focus on unity, not differences. While there may be diversity in thought, there is no need for division when it comes to developing our nation. No one else will build our country for us—we must do it ourselves, by strengthening democracy and moving forward with national unity," he added..

 Prime Minister Oli also highlighted Chitwan’s historical and cultural significance, referring to it as a land of civilisation that traces back to the Treta Yuga and the birth of Lord Ram.

The foundation stone for the road was laid by Prime Minister Oli himself on 30 January 2021. The road construction has been completed for Rs 1.13 billion.

Later in the evening, representatives of the Nepal Teachers’ Federation have held discussions with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday regarding the ongoing teachers' protest and possible solutions to the issues.

Following a call by the Federation, teachers have been staging a Kathmandu-centric protest since April 2 demanding, among other things, the prompt passing of the School Education Bill, 2081.

Earlier, on April 7, Prime Minister Oli had directed Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, and Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Bidya Bhattarai to carry out necessary preparations to resolve the issues raised in the protest through dialogue and negotiation.

Likewise, in its meeting held on Tuesday, April 15, the Council of Ministers decided to convene a session of the Federal Parliament to facilitate and coordinate the passage of the School Education Bill which is currently under consideration. The session was scheduled for 1 PM on Friday, April 25.

The same Cabinet meeting also reiterated the government's commitment to addressing the legitimate demands raised by the Federation through continuous dialogue, expressing that the government remains sensitive and serious about the matter. In light of the upcoming school enrolment campaign, the examining of SEE exam papers, and the Class 12 examinations, the government appealed to teachers to end the protest and return to their schools.

The discussion at the Prime Minister's residence in Baluwatar was attended by Federation Chairperson Laxmi Kishor Subedi, Vice-Chairperson Nanumaya Parajuli, General Secretary Tula Bahadur Thapa, and Deputy General Secretary Madan Raj Joshi.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 April 2025.       

CAN, Madan Bhandari University sign deal to collaborate in IT sector

Kathmandu, Apr. 16

The Computer Association of Nepal Federation (CAN Federation) and Madan Bhandari University of Science and Technology (MBUST) have signed an agreement to promote digital technology and foster long-term collaboration in the ICT sector.

The memorandum of understanding (MoU), signed on Sunday, April 13, outlines a shared commitment to advancing information and communication technology (ICT) development and producing skilled human resources in Nepal.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Rajendra Dhwoj Joshi, Chairperson of the University, and Sunaina Pandey Ghimire, President of the CAN Federation.

 

Under the partnership, both institutions will collaborate on research and development in digital technologies, conduct training programmes, seminars, and knowledge-sharing initiatives, and facilitate industry internships for students to strengthen industry-academia linkage, the CAN Federation informed in a statement on Wednesday.

 

Dr. Rajiv Subba of the university and CAN’s immediate past president Ranjit Kumar Poddar have been appointed as focal persons to coordinate the joint initiatives.

The partnership is valid for five years and may be extended or revised by mutual consent. Both sides have committed to operating on principles of mutual trust, transparency, and self-reliant collaboration.

 

Additionally, Madan Bhandari University will offer partial to full scholarships (ranging from 25 per cent to 100 per cent) for two postgraduate IT programmes starting from 16 May 2025 – the Master of Applied Science in Artificial Intelligence and the Master of Applied Science in Data Science.

 

Ghimire described the partnership as historic and vital for fostering innovation in Nepal’s ICT sector. Dr. Joshi expressed confidence that the collaboration would empower students and strengthen digital innovation through private sector engagement.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 17 April 2025.       

PM Oli stresses on sustainable agricultural modernisation

Kathmandu, Apr. 15

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has stressed the urgency of agricultural modernisation, regional cooperation, and sustainable environmental practices, while warning against populist anarchy and regressive political tendencies that threaten democratic progress.

Speaking at the Second South Asian Farmers’ Federation Conference in Kathmandu, Oli said that Nepal and much of South Asia remain trapped in a ‘transitional phase’, where feudal remnants and outdated mentalities still linger despite dramatic social and political shifts.

“Colonialism is over, feudalism is nearly gone but their shadows remain. We must overcome these remnants to move forward,” he said.

Highlighting the contradiction between Nepal’s demographic and economic realities, Prime Minister Oli noted that over 60 per cent of Nepal’s population is engaged in agriculture, yet its contribution to the national economy remains disproportionately low. He called this ‘a matter of grave concern’ and stressed the need for mechanisation, commercialisation, and proper market access for farmers.

“Agriculture feeds us all, and it is the most essential profession, yet it has been neglected,” PM Oli said.

He drew attention to Nepal's growing reliance on food imports, describing it as a painful shift from its past as a food-exporting and self-sufficient nation. “We are importing food in a country once known for agricultural exports. This is unacceptable and must change,” he stated.

According to PM Oli, without modernising agriculture, the development of agro-based industries and the creation of jobs would remain limited. The lack of employment opportunities has led to a wave of outward migration, with young people leaving not just rural areas but the country itself. “It’s not just about joblessness; even those with jobs can’t sustain a living, which forces them to seek better lives abroad,” he said.

The Prime Minister also addressed the rise in dissatisfaction and populist sentiments across the region, criticising what he described as ‘anarchic elements’ who reject democratic processes and constitutional governance.

“They don’t believe in democracy or elections, yet they want to capture power from the streets,” he warned, arguing that such groups lack popular support and exploit public frustrations.

Likewise, speaking on environmental concerns, PM Oli emphasised the dangerous consequences of unchecked carbon emissions, open burning of crop residues, and rampant forest fires, particularly in the Kathmandu Valley.

He linked these practices to rising pollution levels, glacier melt, and disrupted ecosystems and called for a regional effort to combat climate change. “From Iran to Gujarat to Bangladesh, what happens in one place affects us all. We need joint action,” he said.

Similarly, PM Oli urged farmers to adopt sustainable practices, such as using crop residues as fertiliser rather than burning them, and highlighted the role of agriculture in combating climate change. “We are the custodians of the earth. Farmers feed the world, often silently, so we must empower them,” he said, adding that healthy food should nourish people, not just fill stomachs.

He also encouraged the South Asian farming community to formulate policies tailored to their local contexts, share best practices, and commit to a united agricultural vision. “Let us not merely gather to speak but to act. Let the Kathmandu Declaration become a serious document no one can ignore,” he said.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 16 April 2025.       

It's role of all to steer country to path of rapid development: President

 Kathmandu, Apr. 14

President Ramchandra Paudel has underscored the shared responsibility of all Nepalis in steering the country out of the cycle of low economic growth and towards a path of rapid development.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of ‘Visit Nagarkot Year 2082’ on Monday, he called for united efforts to realise the people’s aspirations for swift progress.

“Tourism, agriculture, water resources, energy, information technology, and industry form the backbone of our national economy. It is the state’s primary duty to eliminate the challenges in these sectors by formulating effective policies, enacting supportive legislation and creating opportunities,” said President Paudel.

President Paudel stressed the need to create employment opportunities, foster a conducive environment for investment, reduce production costs, and enhance competitiveness to drive industrialisation. “Only through economic reforms and inclusive development can we strengthen our federal system and meet the people’s expectations,” said President Paudel.

Highlighting the immense potential of tourism, he called for the development of infrastructure and enhancement of skills to transform Nepal’s rich cultural, historical and natural heritage into economic assets.

“We must commercialise tourism products and ensure the fair distribution of benefits,” the President said, urging for better accessibility, product development, and marketing to establish Nepal as a premier travel destination.

He praised Nagarkot as a cherished getaway for those seeking a natural retreat from the congestion of Kathmandu, noting its unique blend of nature, culture, and history. The President expressed hope that the combined efforts of the local residents, entrepreneurs, tourism operators, and all levels of government—particularly the four surrounding municipalities—would contribute to its modernisation and growth.

Referring to the stunning Himalayan views, sunrise and sunset vistas, and proximity to heritage sites like the UNESCO-listed Changunarayan Temple, Mahadev Pokhari, Manjushree Cave, Bhanjyang, Putali Durbar, Shalinadi, and Vajrayogini Temple in Sankhu, he noted the growing popularity of trekking routes that have helped expand tourism activity.

President Paudel commended the municipalities for promoting their respective historical sites and called for road upgrades to improve accessibility. He expressed confidence that the declaration of Visit Nagarkot Year 2082 would lay the foundation for robust tourism-led development and economic prosperity.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 15 April 2025.       

Tourism foundation of development: Dr. Rana

Kathmandu, Apr. 14

Foreign Minister Dr. Rana said that tourism is the cornerstone of Nepal's development and prosperity.

“Nepal’s unique culture, heritage, and natural beauty are major attractions for the world, and these priceless assets are also the basis for the nation’s development and prosperity,” she said.

FM Dr. Rana praised Nepal’s cultural and ecological diversity, scenic landscapes, lush greenery, biodiversity, heritage sites, and majestic Himalayan ranges. Highlighting the significance of the Ilam, she described it as a land of expansive tea gardens, mist-covered hills, and warm-hearted people. She encouraged everyone to experience Ilam's tea, pure air, traditional lifestyle, and unique way of living.

She further urged the attending diplomats to act as "ambassadors of Nepali tourism" upon their return. “I kindly request that when you return to your respective countries, you take with you beautiful stories of Ilam and Nepal, and help promote them as much as possible,” she said.

Dr. Rana also discussed the strong potential for foreign investment in Nepal, particularly in the sectors of tourism and infrastructure, and invited the global community to invest in these areas.

 

‘Trend of making reckless statements to go viral on social media’

Meanwhile, FM Rana who is also a central member of the Nepali Congress, said that a concerning trend of making reckless statements to go viral and blaming one another has been growing within the party.

Addressing an interaction programme with senior party members organised by the Nepali Congress District Committee Ilam in Shree Antu on Monday, she expressed concern over the increasing tendency among party members to speak irresponsibly in pursuit of media attention.

“It seems that some leaders are willing to speak even against the party itself just to get media coverage. While such remarks might make a person go viral, one must also consider the damage it can cause to the party,” said leader Dr. Rana.

She shared her experience, noting that such tendencies among leaders have caused disillusionment among grassroots members as well as those at the central level.

Highlighting a paradox, she said that although the NC is currently part of the government, she often hears the leaders from within the party criticise the government the most.

“We must ensure that our party becomes stronger in the next election. Other parties are moving forward with their 'Mission 2084' agenda, yet we seem more focused on internal disputes rather than uniting our party workers across the country,” said Dr. Rana.

She encouraged party members to voice their disagreements and concerns within internal forums rather than making public statements. She clarified that public complaints or dissatisfaction should be channelled through proper party discussions.

Minister Rana also highlighted the significant contribution of women to the NC and underscored the need for proportional representation of women within the party.

“It’s never easy for women to rise within political parties. Despite having done nothing wrong, I was subjected to various attacks and criticisms, which many of you witnessed,” she said.

According to her, women must take an active role if they are to have a powerful presence in the party.

On the occasion, she also pledged to make every possible effort for the broader development interests of Ilam district. She gave this assurance after NC Koshi Province President Uddhav Thapa and Ilam District President Dambar Khadka expressed hopes for greater support from the federal government for Ilam’s development.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 15 April 2025.       

Health, Education and Innovation Conference kicks off in Lalitpur

Kathmandu, Apr. 12

An international conference on 'Advancing Health Education, Research and Innovation' kicked off on Saturday in Lalitpur.

The two-day event is being jointly organised by the Central Department of Education at Tribhuvan University and the Health Education Association Nepal (HEAN), with support from the University Grants Commission.

The opening ceremony featured key figures including Shambhu Prasad Khatiwada, Associate Chair of the Central Department of Education; Pabitra Subedi, Member of the Education Service Commission; and Professor Dr. Bedraj Acharya, Dean of the Faculty of Education at Tribhuvan University.

Other distinguished guests included Dr. Tulsi Ram Bhandari from Pokhara University, Ashok Kumar Benju, Mayor of Dhulikhel Municipality and representatives from various academic and governmental institutions.

Journal of HEAN was launched at the conference and special recognition was given to Achyut Dev Sitaula for his contributions to HEAN, and recent PhD graduates in health education were honoured with certificates of appreciation.

Professor Dr. Sarah Bauman of the University of Pittsburgh, USA, delivered the keynote address. The plenary session featured presentations on healthy cities by Mayor Ashok Kumar Benju and public health expert Dr. Dirgha Raj Shrestha.

Professor Dr. Bhimsen Devkota, Chairperson of HEAN, said that 18 research papers were presented and discussed across two parallel sessions. Four interactive poster sessions also took place, providing a platform for emerging researchers.

The event featured cultural performances showcasing local traditions, along with sessions on yoga and meditation, reflecting a holistic approach to health and well-being.

According to Dr. Kalpana Gyawali, Vice President of HEAN, the conference aims to highlight the importance of health education in shaping public policy and advancing societal well-being. Dr Bhagwan Aryal, General Secretary of HEAN, informed that around 300 participants from Nepal and abroad are attending.

In addition to the academic sessions, HEAN’s 17th General Assembly and elections for a new central committee are also being held during the conference.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 13 April 2025.       

Style shoes announces offer

 Kathmandu, Apr. 12

On the occasion of the Nepali New Year 2082, Style Shoes has announced a range of discounts and offers for its customers.

The company, which has been producing and marketing footwear for all age groups — from children to the elderly — in the Nepali market for nearly a decade, has introduced special New Year offers for its customers.

Style Shoes Industries Pvt. Ltd., the manufacturer of the Style Shoes brand, has announced a scheme offering up to 15 per cent discount on every purchase. In addition, the company has launched over two dozen new designs of party shoes, sports shoes, boots, and casual footwear for the New Year, the company informed in a statement.

Nepali New Year 2082 falls on Thursday, April 15.

Having already released around 350 models of shoes into the market, Style Shoes has now introduced an additional 25 models targeting this New Year, according to the company.

Kumar Nyaupane, Managing Director of the company said that challenging the common perception that shoes made in Nepal are only suitable for older generations, the company has been offering trendy new designs catering to the tastes of the modern youth.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 13 April 2025.       

Tangled Water Treaties

 Nepal is considered one of the richest countries in terms of water resources and the one with the highest per capita water availability globally. Glaciers, all-season rivers, lakes and monsoon rainfall – it has them all.

 Three large river systems and thousands of rivers and rivulets that supply fresh water for drinking and irrigation and offer the potential for hydropower generation of about 43,000 megawatts.

But the country has largely failed to exploit the abundantly bestowed natural resource for economic, social and political benefits. Only 40 per cent of fields in the country have reliable irrigation facilities, less than one third of the entire population has the supply of pure drinking water, and the country is still facing power outages during the winter as the water level in the rivers goes down significantly. And one of the richest countries in the world in water resources imports electricity from India.

Water resources expert Dr Trilochan Upreti has written and published a book – Antarrastriya Kanun ra Nepalko Jalshrot: Jalbidyut bhanda Paniko Sarbadhik Mahattow' (International Law and Nepal's Water Resources: Water is More Important than Hydroelectricity) – portraying this scenario where Nepal has failed in utilising the water resources in development and diplomacy. He said in the book that it was Nepal's failure not to be able to devise a strategy on shared benefits of Nepal's water resources and rivers that pass through India and ultimately end up at the Bay of Bengal.

India is a thirsty nation. "It might have many alternatives in terms of energy generation for its people and machines; it has limited opportunities for fresh water. India has always been interested in exploiting the water resources of Nepal," writes Dr Upreti. While India has forced Nepal to sign unequal water treaties for the Gandaki, Koshi and Mahakali rivers, it has unilaterally developed embankments across the border against the international rule of not having such structures near the border. 

Both of these acts have long been incurring giant damages in Nepal, including flooding and inundation in the border areas. The southern neighbour has not paid attention to the development of the Pancheshwor Multipurpose Project, which is supposed to benefit Nepal both in terms of energy supply and irrigation, but it has long ago developed the projects that would cause harm to Nepal and benefit India. But Nepali leaders couldn't negotiate and renegotiate with India for equality in benefit sharing or scrap the unequal water treaties.

The Detailed Project Report (DPR) of Pancheshwor has not been prepared. Despite the agreement stating it would be done within six months, 25 years have passed without any progress on the study. India's distorted interpretations and manipulations of the clear terms of the treaty suggest that the project is unlikely to be completed, writes Dr Upreti. 

The project was used as bait to lure (or pressurise) Nepal to sign agreements to allow India to develop projects Tanakpur and Sharada. "In other words, India has achieved two strategic goals: securing the continuous irrigation benefits of the Sharda project (which was on the verge of collapse) and legitimising the illegally constructed Tanakpur project. It is clear that the Pancheshwar project is not a priority for India."

According to him, Nepal should initiate discussions with India to address the border and water issue and calculate the losses caused by the structures built by India across the border and seek compensation from the latter. Likewise, Nepal should now sign an agreement with the southern neighbour preventing the construction of structures that cause harm to Nepal on the border in the future. 

"The agreements between Nepal and India, including those related to Kosi, Gandak, Tanakpur, and the integrated development of the Mahakali River (including the Sharda Barrage), should be revoked. This is because India has not implemented them as stipulated. If India refuses, Nepal should unilaterally declare its withdrawal from these agreements," read the book.

The writer even demands compensation, based on the current market value, for the Kosi flood victims (even after 70 years) for the lands acquired from their ancestors to build the Kosi Barrage, which has provided flood control and irrigation facilities to India. It is worth remembering that India's promise to provide irrigation facilities to thousands of hectares in Morang and Sunsari using water from Chatara, Koshi, remains unfulfilled. Similarly, Nepal has not received irrigation and electricity services from the Gandak project.

The book also argues that large reservoir projects are beneficial for Nepal for water management, electricity generation and irrigation. Nepal should negotiate with India and Bangladesh for mutual co-investment in such projects, as they will be the ones benefitting ultimately. However, he finds the government's lack of efficiency, commitment and readiness.

However, the author has gone off track at multiple instances. Instead of substantiating the arguments, he has spent multiple pages in 'ad hominem' attacks on political leaders. Some information, like a country's size of import and export, could have been backed with the latest data to make the arguments more plausible, which the author has missed. 

Some fundamental information, such as benefit sharing with downstream countries, Nepal's role and political parties' indifference and lack of courage to take up the issues with India, has been repeated in multiple places. The author needs to remove such an unnecessary portion from the book and get it edited well to make it archive-worthy.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily's Friday Supplement on 11 April 2025.