Industrialists seek government support to maintain access to Indian market

 Jute industry under crisis

Kathmandu, Oct. 11

The jute industries in the country have urged the government for diplomatic measures to ensure seamless entry of Nepali products to the Indian markets.

They also demanded full implementation of the directives for the use of domestic goods in public offices, and use of jute bags instead of polythene.

Stating that Nepali jute has lost almost 95 per cent of its market share in India after the latter imposed anti-dumping duties. According to the entrepreneurs, India is also considering imposing counter-veiling duties as well.

On 29 September 2025, India’s Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) initiated an investigation into countervailing duties on jute products imported from Nepal and Bangladesh. Last month, the DGTR published its final findings, recommending the imposition of countervailing duties on some Nepali jute producers.

“This puts the jute industries in a critical situation. They have already invested in product diversification and modern machinery. The government should rescue us from this current crisis with priority,” said Somnath Adhikari, General Secretary of the Nepal Jute Mills Association (NJMA).

He said that the government should hold a high-level talks with India to bail the industries out of the current crisis. As the government is preparing for the visit of Prime Minister Balendra Shah to India, a delegation of industrialists from Biratnagar submitted a memorandum to the government last week which also includes the challenges faced by the jute industries.

According to the memorandum, this issue must not be confined to correspondence between government ministries. A high-level political and diplomatic solution must be sought. “High-level dialogue should be held with India, the issue should be raised through Nepal–India trade mechanisms, and discussions should also take place between the private sectors of both countries,” it said.

“The jute industry had given Biratnagar its identity as an industrial city. Today, however, seven jute mills are at risk of closure. The industry directly supports around 15,000 jobs,” said the delegation.

India itself is a major producer and consumer of jute. According to Indian government statistics, India produced 1.28 million tonnes of jute products in the Fiscal Year 2025/26 and consumed 1.205 million tonnes in its domestic market. The country’s organised jute industry directly employs around 370,000 people, while approximately 4 million farming families are involved in jute cultivation.

“As the jute industry is directly linked to local farmers, there is a need to further promote jute cultivation. Being an environmentally friendly and organic product, jute has considerable potential for the future. We must honestly ask whether India’s move is simply a trade protection measure intended to safeguard its own industry and farmers,” read the memorandum submitted by the Biratnagar-based entrepreneurs to the federal government.

They argued that while it is natural for India to protect the interests of its industries and jobs, Nepal also has the right to protect its 15,000 jobs, its exports and its domestic industry. About 75,000 farmer families in Jhapa, Morang and Sunsari are involved in jute farming, said Adhikari.

Nepali jute industries are wholly dependent on Indian market as 96 per cent of the total product is exported there. Most of the raw materials also come from India. Nepali raw materials cover less than one-third of the total demand.

Meanwhile, speaking at a programme on the state of jute industry in Biratnagar a couple of days ago, Jute industry operator Champalal Rathi said India and Bangladesh provided government protection and incentives to their jute industries, so Nepal should also introduce the necessary policy support to maintain the competitiveness of its domestic industry.

Likewise, NJMA President Raj Kumar Golchha said that if the problem prolonged, there wouldn’t be any alternative other than shutting down the industries.

The industrialists suggested the government to implement policy to promote the use of jute products in packaging food and other items. Although such policy is announced, it's not strictly implemented. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 12 October 2026.      

Nepal amplifies climate justice agenda in int’l platform

 Kathmandu, Oct. 10

Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal has said his visit to Australia, Fiji and Tuvalu was important for highlighting Nepal’s climate vulnerability on international platforms, mobilising climate finance on a just and equitable basis.

"It also helped to further strengthening bilateral relations with Australia," he said upon his arrival in Kathmandu after participating in the high-level 'Pre-COP Leaders' Event' on climate change in Fiji and Tuvalu, and completing an official visit to Australia.

FM Khanal undertook the visit at the invitation of the governments of Australia, Fiji and Tuvalu to help build political consensus ahead of the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP31), to be held in Antalya, Türkiye, in November, and to advance the global climate agenda.

During his visit, Australia announced an additional grant of AUD15 million for relief, recovery and reconstruction in areas affected by the recent devastating floods in Nepal. With the additional assistance, Australia’s total support announced for Nepal’s flood disaster response has reached A$26 million.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), Khanal addressed the ‘Pre-COP Leaders’ Plenary’ in Nadi, Fiji, on October 6, where he noted that mountainous countries and Pacific-island states face similar risks from climate change.

He said glacier melt and rising sea levels were interconnected aspects of the same global climate crisis, stressing the need for cooperation among countries from the mountains to the oceans. During his address, Khanal said that countries such as Nepal, which have made only a limited contribution to climate change, are being forced to bear its serious consequences like the recent Bhotekoshi flood.

Presenting Nepal’s four priorities for COP31, Khanal stressed the commitment to limiting the rise in global temperatures to 1.5°C, grant-based adaptation finance that does not add to countries’ debt burdens, effective mobilisation of the Loss and Damage Fund, and the development of a ‘Sagarmatha to the Sea’ partnership, the MoFA said.

During his visit to Tuvalu, Khanal inspected the causeway area in Funafuti, which is exposed to the risks of coastal erosion and increasingly intense tides, as well as structures constructed under the Tuvalu Coastal Adaptation Project.

"The visit helped in identifying similarities between climate risks in mountainous regions and the challenges faced by Pacific-island states, and contributed to building a common voice for climate justice," said FM Khanal.

He also said that issues concerning the loss of glaciers and ice sheets had been incorporated into the ‘Taku Pakasoa Declaration’ issued on the occasion of the Pre-COP programme.

During bilateral talks with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong on October 8, he discussed expanding technical cooperation in climate action, glacier monitoring, modernisation of early warning systems and the construction of climate-resilient infrastructure.

FM Khanal urged Australia to make the student visa process for Nepali students fair, accessible and predictable. He also proposed greater cooperation in technical and vocational education, joint research between universities, joint degree programmes and an increase in the quota for Australia Awards scholarships.

Similarly, FM Khanal met New South Wales Premier Chris Minns in Sydney on October 8.

They discussed the possibility of study visits and technical exchanges between disaster management agencies. They also talked about the potential for expanding direct air links with Nepal once Western Sydney International Airport becomes operational.

FM Khanal held interactions with Nepali communities in Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra. He inspected the Nepali Embassy in Canberra, and directed embassy officials to make consular services, including passport and document authentication services provided to Nepali students, professionals and the general public, more efficient, hassle-free and technology-friendly.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 11 October 2026.      

56 Dairy Farmers Graduate in Sindhuli

Kathmandu, Oct. 10

Fifty-six dairy farmers of Kamalamai Municipality in Sindhuli have graduated from the Heifer–KOICA Farmers Field School in the Korea–Nepal Model Dairy Village.

According to Heifer International Nepal, this is Nepal’s first-ever graduation ceremony of dairy farmers from a structured field school programme. An event was organised in Kamalamai on Friday to award the farmers.

Over the past four years, 105 farmers from Ward No. 5 of Kamalamai, organised into four Self Help Groups, have been attending monthly classes designed to strengthen dairy farming practices. To graduate, farmers were required to complete 48 sessions with at least 80 per cent attendance.

"The curriculum combined training in good husbandry practices, animal health and reproduction, and enterprise development, delivered by veterinary technicians, municipal veterinary doctors, and Korean dairy and veterinary experts," informed Heifer.

The Integrated Dairy Productivity Improvement Project, funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), aims to establish certified farms that meet government standards for good husbandry practices.

According to Heifer, by equipping farmers with technical knowledge and enterprise skills, the programme is laying the foundation for a more productive, sustainable, and resilient dairy sector in Nepal.

Dr. Tirtha Raj Regmi, Country Director- Heifer International Nepal said that the graduation is a mark of respect for farmers' contribution, and it should inspire similar farmer graduation ceremonies across the country.

Speaking at the programme, graduate farmer Guna Kumari Ghimire, Chairperson of the Kamalamai Social Entrepreneur Women's Dairy Cooperative, said that before joining the Farmers Field School, she had limited knowledge about animal health and modern dairy practices. "These classes have changed the way I care for my cattle and manage my farm. Wearing this graduation hat today fills us with pride,” she said.

While 56 farmers graduated on Friday, the remaining participants will complete their programme in December. At the same time, a new batch of 100 farmers has already enrolled, ensuring continuity and scale for this pioneering initiative.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 11 October 2026.      

Nepal-Europe ST conference held in Germany

Kathmandu, Oct. 10

The Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, the University of Tübingen, Nepal Roots, a Germany-based Nepali organisation, and the Kathmandu University Biotechnology Alumni Network have jointly organised Nepal–Europe Science and Technology Conference 2026 in Germany.

Nepal Roots informed in a statement on Saturday that the conference was organised with the aim of expanding collaboration, promoting knowledge exchange and building professional networks among Nepali scientists, researchers and technical professionals working in Nepal and Europe.

The conference brought together around 60 scientists, researchers, professors, doctors, health researchers, engineers, technology experts, entrepreneurs, students and professionals working in various technical fields from five countries—Nepal, Germany, Finland, Denmark and Switzerland.

The conference discussed scientific research and technological initiatives being undertaken in Nepal, the role of Nepali experts living abroad, and ways of connecting their knowledge and experience with research activities in Nepal.

Participants emphasised that linking the experience and expertise of Nepali professionals abroad with Nepal’s needs and priorities could create new opportunities in research, education, health and technology.

Possible ways for Nepali scientists, researchers, engineers and technical professionals working abroad contributing to the development of Nepal’s education, research and innovation sectors were also discussed.

"Discussions also focused on the potential for Nepali experts based abroad to collaborate with Nepali universities, research institutions and the private sector through joint research, knowledge transfer, capacity building for students and researchers, and the expansion of international networks," said, Dr. Kritan Gautam, President of Nepal Roots.

On the occasion of the conference, a memorandum of understanding was also signed between the Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology Research in Nepal and Nepal Roots in Germany.

The memorandum provides a framework for systematically advancing research, knowledge and experience sharing, and institutional collaboration among Nepali scientists and technical professionals based in Nepal and Europe.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 11 October 2026.      

AEPC distributes electric stoves to indigenous, Dalit students

Kathmandu, Oct. 9

The Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC) has begun distributing electric stoves to students from endangered indigenous nationalities and Dalit communities who have come to Kathmandu from outside the valley and are living in rented accommodation while pursuing undergraduate or higher-level studies, under its Clean Energy Programme.

Under the electric stove distribution programme being conducted on 8, 9 and 12 October, around 250 students from those communities will receive electric stoves.

The initiative aims to provide, albeit symbolically, some relief from the difficulties caused by shortages of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in the Kathmandu Valley and rising LPG prices by using electric stoves, the AEPC said in a statement on Friday.

It also aims to increase the consumption of domestically produced clean energy and further expand the promotion of electric stoves.

The AEPC has previously distributed more than 7,000 electric stoves targeting students. In partnership with local governments, it has also promoted electric stoves among 170,000 households.

In addition, under the Clean Cooking Solutions Programme being implemented in 22 Tarai districts with support from the Green Climate Fund, the Centre aims to distribute 500,000 electric stoves.

Launching the electric stove distribution programme, AEPC Executive Director Nawa Raj Dhakal said the use of electric stoves would directly contribute to increasing clean energy consumption and reducing the use of fossil fuels. He also said that using electric stoves would significantly reduce students’ monthly expenses.

The promotion of electric stoves has contributed to the government’s long-term goals related to renewable energy and climate change mitigation and adaptation. Under its Third Nationally Determined Contribution, the government has set a target of promoting electric stoves in 2.1 million households and 15,000 institutional settings by 2035 to reduce carbon emissions from the energy sector.

However, Nepal remains significantly dependent on traditional energy sources.

According to the Economic Survey for fiscal year 2025/26, traditional energy accounts for 58 per cent of total energy consumption, commercial energy for 39 per cent and renewable energy for around 3 per cent.

Of total commercial energy consumption, petroleum products account for 22 per cent, coal for 9 per cent and electricity supplied through the national grid for 8 per cent. With electricity accounting for 8 per cent and renewable energy for around 3 per cent, only 11 per cent of total energy consumption currently comes from clean energy. "This highlights the challenge of converting the remaining 89 per cent of energy consumption to clean, renewable sources," said the AEPC.

According to the National Population and Housing Census 2021, firewood accounts for nearly 51 per cent of the main cooking fuels used by households, followed by LPG at 44 per cent, animal dung cakes at around 3 per cent, electricity at 0.5 per cent and biogas at 1.2 per cent.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 10 October 2026.      

FM Wagle directs to reward sellers

Kathmandu, Oct. 9

Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle has directed the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) to introduce a provision to provide cash rewards to sellers of goods and services under the taxpayer incentive programme.

Speaking at a revenue review meeting held at the Ministry of Finance on Friday, said that the programme has encouraged consumers to ask for bills and directly contributed to revenue collection, so the IRD should extend incentives to sellers as well.

The government has been rewarding consumers with cash for taking bills since the beginning of the current fiscal year 2026/27, with the aim of developing a culture of issuing and receiving bills and building a formal economy.

Saying that complaints had been received that traders were reluctant to issue bills despite the growing culture of asking for them, Dr. Wagle said sellers also needed to be encouraged.

“It appears that the practice of taking bills has become widespread. But it is also necessary to introduce an incentive policy for those who are expected to issue bills,” he told senior officials under the ministry. “Amend the procedure and bring forward a proposal on how much can be provided and how it can be distributed, so that issuing bills does not become a burden for them.”

He said that, alongside developing a culture of taking bills, it was also necessary to develop a culture of issuing them.

Under the taxpayer incentive reward programme, which began on mid-July, one consumer has been receiving a daily cash prize of Rs 134,000 every 15 days based on bill numbers, while one consumer receives a bumper cash prize of Rs. 1 million during each 15-day period.

If the department makes the necessary provision in the procedure in time, sellers will also be eligible for rewards when prizes are announced for October end. According to the MoF, the reward for sellers will be lower than that offered to consumers, although the exact amount has not yet been determined.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 10 October 2026.      

Preparations underway for PM Shah's visit to India: MoFA

Kathmandu, Oct. 9

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said on Friday that the date for Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s visit to India is yet to be finalised.

"The MoFA is making internal preparations for the Prime Minister’s high-level visit," Spokesperson of the Ministry Lok Bahadur Paudel Chhetri said at a press briefing, adding that the visit will take place at a time convenient to both sides, and the official announcement will be made once the date is finalised.

PM Shah's India visit has been an issue of discussion since he took the post of the head of government. Earlier, the MoFA had said that it was preparing discussion agenda for the bilateral cooperation between Nepal and India.

Likewise, Chhetri said that the government is coordinating with the Chinese government to reopen the Tatopani–Zhangmu and Lizi–Korala border points. Following the Bhotekoshi flood, the Rasuwagadhi border point has become inaccessible while Tatopani is intermittently disturbed by landslides, and Korala lacks necessary infrastructure at the Nepal side.

"Discussions were underway on bringing alternative border points into operation to prevent disruption to trade between Nepal and China. The government is taking steps to open Tatopani and other border points to maintain the smooth movement of people and trade between Nepal and China," he said.

Similarly, preparations were also underway for Nepal’s high-level participation in COP-31, scheduled to be held in Antalya, Türkiye, from 9 to 20 November. Preparations for the second edition of the Sagarmatha Dialogue are also being advanced.

Meanwhile, 18,749 people have so far used Nepal’s e-Attestation System, while 45,920 documents have been authenticated through the system. The ministry said more than 100,000 users are using the ‘MOFA Mitra’ app, which was launched to register complaints from Nepalis stranded abroad or requiring rescue, as well as grievances related to insurance and compensation.

"As part of efforts to preserve Nepal’s historical heritage, more than 800 written documents dating from the 13th to the 20th centuries held in Germany have been handed over to Nepal," Chhetri informed.

The documents were handed to Nepal last week.

According to the MoFA, discussions were continuing with India on trade, transit, water resources and air routes. Nepal presented a proposal concerning the Bhotekoshi flood and climate change at the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), and supported Bhutan’s proposed candidate for the post of the 16th Secretary-General of SAARC.

In addition, the ministry has launched an Instagram account to disseminate diplomatic information and activities to the public.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 10 October 2026.      

Gaire appointed WTA Advisor

Kathmandu, Oct. 9

Chartered accountant Govinda Sharma Gaire has been appointed to the Advisory Board of the World Taxpayers Association (WTA).

He has been active in the areas of taxpayers’ rights, tax policy and fiscal governance in Nepal. Gaire’s appointment was made during the general assembly and conference of the World Taxpayers Associations held in Krakow, Poland earlier this week.

His appointment by the association’s general assembly provides an opportunity to represent Nepal’s taxpayers’ rights campaign at the international level.

The WTA, an international network comprising taxpayers’ organisations from more than 50 countries, has been promoting the protection of taxpayers’ rights, fair taxation, transparent public spending and accountable government.

Gaire is the founding president of the Nepal Taxpayers Welfare Society (NTWS). He has consistently advocated the protection of taxpayers’ rights and interests, greater public awareness of taxation, reforms in tax administration, and making tax policy more transparent and accountable.

A chartered accountant (CA) with a master’s degree in management (MBS) and a bachelor’s degree in law (LLB), Gaire has more than two decades of professional experience in financial and operational auditing, financial regulation, and legal and compliance matters relating to the capital market.

His professional experience is expected to enable him to contribute to international discussions on tax policy, tax administration reform and taxpayers’ rights, the NTWS said in a statement.

The concept of taxpayers’ rights emphasises that, alongside their obligation to pay taxes, taxpayers should be entitled to fair treatment, effective public services, an opportunity to appeal decisions independently, and a judicial hearing. Gaire has consistently stressed that transparency, simple administration and accountable use of public resources are essential for strengthening public trust in the tax system, read the statement.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 10 October 2026.      

PMO prepares draft of National Express Investment System

Kathmandu, Oct. 9

The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) informed that it has prepared a draft of the National Express Investment System (Operation and Management) Procedure, 2083 to facilitate both domestic and foreign investment.

Spokesperson of the Office Hemraj Aryal informed at a press conference held on Friday that it will facilitate investment from Nepali and foreign investors.

He said that the recruitment process has been initiated to carry out the modification, maintenance, software development and operation of nine systems of a common nature and national importance through the Software Development and Operation Centre.

Likewise, work is also underway to ensure the smooth operation of the Government Integrated Office Management System (GIOMS) across the country.

Similarly, the Central Monitoring and Evaluation Committee has decided to ensure the smooth supply of essential goods during the festive season and to intensify monitoring to prevent black-marketing and unjustified price increases. The meeting held at the PMO also decided to strictly enforce measures concerning public transport for passengers, control of fares, and measures against drunk-driving and speeding.

Meanwhile, the National Vigilance Centre directed the concerned agencies to take action against 1,167 employees found to have violated the code of conduct in the past two weeks.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 10 October 2026.      

Nepal needs investment to reform export sector: Minister Shah

Kathmandu, Oct. 8

Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies Dipak Kumar Shah said that Nepal can't reform its export sector without increasing both domestic and foreign investment.

"To reform the export sector, we need to reduce the cost of production and improve productivity, establish an effective product certification system and implement digital upgrade in the entire system," he said while speaking at an event on 'European Union-India Free Trade Agreement's impact on key sectors in Nepal' organised by the European Economic Chamber (EEC) – Nepal in Kathmandu on Thursday.

According to him, Nepal needs to make investment easier, faster, and more attractive, from approval to implementation and from production to export. He also emphasised a mutual recognition arrangement between Nepal and the EU, so that a product tested in Nepal is accepted in Europe.

Stating that paperless border trade in Nepal is only around 33 per cent compared with about 94 per cent in India, Minister Shah said, "The question is not how we protect Nepal from this free trade agreement. The question is how we prepare Nepal to benefit from the new economic architecture created by this EU-India FTA."

According to him, if Nepal can establish appropriate rules of origin, diagonal cumulation, and an efficient border crossing mechanism, Nepal can become a meaningful partner in India and EU collaboration.

He said that if Nepal is to access the EU market, it must have global-standard quality certification, reliable delivery, and strong rules for intellectual property and geographical identity. He further said that the GSP+ should be treated as a project not a policy, requiring rectification of around 30 international conventions, an action plan and enhanced monitoring, while stressing stronger cooperation among the government, European business committees and EEC-Nepal.

Minister Shah presented clean renewable energy and tourism as the sector with strategic advantage for Nepal.

 

EU interested in hydropower development

Ambassador of the Delegation of the EU to Nepal Charles Whiteley said that products and services such as yarn, natural fibres, leather, processed foods, packaging, and business services offer promise. "In this regard, the private sector's proposal to develop cross-border processing zones in partnership with Indian firms deserves serious consideration," he said.

According to him, the clearest immediate opportunity lies in Nepal's potential to become a stronger supplier to Indian manufacturers exporting to Europe. Commercial linkages already exist. India is the main buyer of Nepal's intermediate textile exports, yet Nepal still accounts for only a very small share of inputs used by Indian industry.

Ambassador Whiteley said that the European investors consistently look for three things - predictable rules, efficient approvals and confidence in the movement of capital.

A fully operational one-stop service for investors, clear administrative timelines, simplified procedures for land, forex, exchange, and profit repatriation, and continued progress on financial integrity would make Nepal a highly attractive proposition for European investors, he said.

He stated that through the Global Gateway, together with the European Investment Bank and EU member states, the EU is keen to help advance bankable projects in generation, transmission, and cross-border electricity trade. Whiteley also said that Nepal's real comparative advantage lies in products with a strong and authentic story - such as tea, cardamom, coffee, medicinal plants, essential oils, carpets, and ashwagandha.

"European consumers increasingly value origin, craftsmanship, and sustainability and they are willing to pay for these qualities," he said, "The EU is not always an easy market to export to in that regard. I'm sure we will work more with the European Chamber to make our regulations, which sometimes seem to fly out of nowhere, better understood and better followed."

President of EEC-Nepal Narayan Bajaj said that the impact of EU-India FTA will be severe on readymade garments while Nepal's graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) will bring more complicated requirements.

"So, the government has to think in advance how to increase competitiveness of our industry. Pashmina and other textile products from India will also challenge our export to EU as India will have Zero tariffs," he said.

 

'Tap on hydro potential'

Economist Nishant Khanal said that Nepal's textile export will suffer the impact from the FTA implementation. This sector is estimated to experience a loss of US$ 7 million by the end of the FTA.

"Hydropower has green advantage. India receives no Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism exemption under the FTA which has affected Indian producers of iron, steel, cement, fertilisers and aluminum," he said.

He stated that green power from Nepal lowers embedded carbon in Indian exports and cuts the CBAM certificates Indian manufacturers must buy, giving them a reason to locate carbon-sensitive processing in Nepal. More than 43,000 MW electricity in Nepal is economically feasible, with 23.6 million Euro of GREEN+ support committed.

"Cross-border power trade and India's rising industrial demand make Nepali hydro a prime blending opportunity through European Investment Bank and KFW Germany, aligned to the GREEN+ portfolio," said Khanal.

Likewise, branding, design, certification and quality upgrading for high-value, identity-linked products, pashmina, orthodox tea, cardamom and medicinal and aromatic plants can expand opportunity for Nepal. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 9 October 2026.      

Nepal, Oman discuss opening embassy in Kathmandu

Kathmandu, Oct. 8

Nepal and Oman have discussed the establishment of an Embassy of Oman in Kathmandu and the establishment of a Nepal-Oman friendship association.

At the Second Meeting of the Nepal–Oman Bilateral Consultations held in Kathmandu on Thursday, they reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across areas of mutual interest.

The meeting explored opportunities to expand bilateral trade and investment, particularly in hydropower, agriculture and other priority sectors, informed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in a statement.

Tourism promotion, enhanced air connectivity and cooperation in the health sector were also discussed as important areas for strengthening economic ties and fostering closer engagement between the two countries.

The MoFA said that the two sides further discussed preparations for the joint commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2027.

They also reaffirmed their commitment to further enhancing bilateral cooperation in various areas, including agriculture, trade, tourism, investment, labour migration and culture, among others.

Briefing the Omani delegation on the recent devastating flood in the Bhotekoshi River and appreciating the urgent humanitarian support from friendly partners, Nepali delegates expressed hope for continued support for recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts.

Likewise, cooperation on labour migration featured prominently in the discussions, with both sides emphasising the importance of ensuring safe, orderly and mutually beneficial labour mobility. "The meeting underscored the need to safeguard the welfare, rights and interests of Nepali workers in Oman and stressed the importance of expediting the conclusion of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Labour and Manpower Exchange," said the MoFA.

The meeting also discussed cooperation in culture and education, with both sides exploring opportunities for cultural programmes, scholarships, diplomatic and academic exchanges, and enhanced people-to-people contacts.

The Nepali delegation was led by Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, while the Omani delegation was headed by Sheikh Khalifa Al Harthy, Undersecretary for Political Affairs at the Foreign Ministry of Oman. The Bilateral Consultation Mechanism was established through a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2017.

The first meeting of the mechanism was held in Muscat in August 2024.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 9 October 2026.      

FM Khanal urges Australia to highlight impact of climate change

Kathmandu, Oct. 8

Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal held bilateral talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia Penny Wong in Melbourne on Thursday.

Talking in the context of shared climate vulnerabilities, FM Khanal urged Australia to utilise its international leadership role, including the upcoming COP31 co-presidency, to highlight the disproportionate impacts of climate change on the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.

He also underscored the need for enhanced bilateral partnership in climate adaptation, early warning systems, disaster preparedness, and building climate-resilient infrastructure, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) informed in a statement.

During the bilateral talks, the two ministers reviewed the state of Nepal-Australia bilateral relations, and expressed satisfaction over the close, longstanding and cordial ties between the two nations.

On the occasion, Minister Wong announced an additional AUD 15 million (about Rs. 1.6 billion) in Australian assistance dedicated to relief and early recovery efforts, supplementing the AUD 11 million previously committed for emergency response operations.

Minister Khanal said that such solidarity in times of crisis reflects the enduring goodwill between the two countries.

According to the MoFA, the two leaders also discussed avenues to deepen educational cooperation, exploring initiatives such as the establishment of Australian-accredited Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutes. Emphasizing the vital contributions of Nepali students and the broader diaspora to Australia’s multicultural fabric and economy, Minister Khanal requested favourable considerations for Nepali students under recent student visa policy revisions.

They also explored multifaceted avenues to elevate bilateral partnership, with particular focus on trade and foreign direct investment, technology transfer, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, tourism promotion, labour mobility, and the establishment of direct air connectivity between Nepal and Australia.

Minister Wong reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to further strengthening its partnership with Nepal and welcomed continued collaboration across priority sectors.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 9 October 2026.      

Pavilions Himalayas named best hotel

Kathmandu, Oct. 8

The Paviliosn Himalayas – The Farm, a luxury eco-resort in Pokhara, has been named among the best hotels in Asia in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards.

"Known for its commitment to sustainable tourism, environmental conservation and high-quality hospitality, The Pavilions Himalayas has further strengthened Nepal’s profile in the international tourism sector," the company said in a statement on Thursday.

It said that it has prioritised environmental sustainability and responsible tourism alongside luxury hospitality services. It has developed its services and infrastructure by integrating the conservation of local communities and natural resources with tourism activities.

The Readers’ Choice Awards, organised by Condé Nast Traveller, one of the world’s leading travel and tourism publications, are based on the preferences and experiences of travellers and readers. The awards recognise hotels, resorts, destinations and various tourism-related services around the world.

"The Pavilions Himalayas’ inclusion in the international list is expected to help further promote Nepal’s luxury and eco-tourism in the global tourism market. Tourism entrepreneurs say such international recognition will particularly contribute to establishing Pokhara as a high-end and sustainable tourism destination," read the statement. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 9 October 2026.      

DoI cancels trademark for 'Perfect Center Fills'

Kathmandu, Oct. 8

Following a Supreme Court ruling in a dispute over the use of a trademark similar to ‘Center Fruit’, the Department of Industry (DoI) has cancelled the registration of the ‘Perfect Center Fills’ chewing gum trademark.

The Supreme Court had ruled that the ‘Perfect Center Fills’ trademark was confusingly similar to ‘Center Fruit’, a trademark owned by Italian multinational confectionery company Perfetti Van Melle.

Following the SC's ruling, the DoI cancelled the trademark registered in the name of Perfect Foods Pvt Ltd, based in Duhabi, Sunsari. Perfect Foods had initiated the trademark registration process for chewing gum.

In the dispute, the SC did not merely compare the words used in the two trademarks, but also considered their overall presentation and the potential impact on consumers. The court concluded that there was sufficient similarity between ‘Perfect Center Fills’ and ‘Center Fruit’ to potentially confuse ordinary consumers, according to the legal analysis of the ruling.

The court took the view that determining whether two trademarks are similar requires more than simply comparing their names and words.

According to the legal analysis of the ruling, the pronunciation and visual appearance of a trademark, the nature of the products, the places where they are sold, the level of attention consumers are likely to pay when making purchases, and the overall impact in the market must also be assessed.

During the dispute, Perfect Foods argued that its company name, packaging and other words used in its trademark were different.

The company also claimed that the use of words such as ‘Center’ and ‘Fruit’, which are commonly used terms, would not by itself create confusion among consumers.

The court recognised that ‘Center Fruit’, which has been used in the market for a long time and has become established among consumers, had developed a distinctive commercial identity.

In such circumstances, the ruling states that the addition of words such as ‘Perfect’ or ‘Fills’ does not eliminate the possibility of consumer confusion.

Amir Raj Thapa, General Manager of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham), said that attracting foreign direct investment to Nepal required not only policy stability but also effective legal protection of intellectual property.

According to him, such measures would help create an environment in which foreign investors could secure effective protection for their brands, intellectual property and business interests in Nepal.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 9 October 2026.      

Nepal and Russia discuss Nepalis in Russian Army

Kathmandu, Oct. 7

Nepal and Russia have discussed the issues of Nepali nationals in the Russian Army, including the missing Nepali nationals, and Nepali nationals detained in Ukraine as Prisoners of War and compensation.

At the meeting of bilateral consultation that concluded in Kathmandu on Wednesday, they also exchanged views on various regional and multilateral matters of mutual interest, including climate change and cooperation in multilateral systems, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) informed in a statement.

The meeting, which also coincided with the celebration of 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Russia, reviewed overall aspects of Nepal-Russia relations.

"The two sides appreciated the longstanding friendship and close partnership between the two countries. While briefing each other about the political and economic developments in each other's countries, they reaffirmed their commitment to further promoting cooperation and collaboration in various areas including education, human resource development, culture, tourism, climate change, and trade and investment, among others," read the statement.

Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai and Deputy-Minister of Foreign Affairs of Russia Andrey Rudenko co-chaired their respective delegations.

The Russian delegation comprised of the Ambassador of Russia to Nepal ⁠Aleksei Surovtsev, officials from the MoFA of Russia as well as diplomats from the Embassy. Likewise, the Nepali delegation included Head of Europe Division Ganesh Prasad Dhakal, officials from the MoFA and the sectoral ministries. 

Following the meeting, Foreign Secretary Rai hosted a luncheon in honour of the Deputy Minister Rudenko, and accompanying delegates.  

The Protocol on Consultations between the foreign ministries of Nepal and the Russian Federation was signed on 5 September 1995.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 8 October 2026.      

NCNC supports Rs. 11 M to Disaster Relief Fund

Kathmandu, Oct. 7

The Nepali Centre of North Carolina (NCNC) has handed over a cheque for US$72,000 (about Rs. 11.1 million) for deposit into the Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund (PMDRF) to support families affected by the Bhotekoshi flood that occurred on August 26.

A delegation from NCNC led by its president Dadhin Pandey, including Shyam Aryal, Dr. Pallavi Sharma and other office-bearers, presented the cheque to Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle at a programme held at the Nepali Embassy in Washington, DC, on Monday.

The NCNC said in a statement that Minister Dr. Wagle said the support extended by Nepali organisations based abroad in response to a natural disaster in Nepal reflected a generous spirit. He said such assistance had provided significant relief to families affected by the disaster.

Likewise, NCNC President Pandey expressed his appreciation to individuals, organisations, families, businesses and community groups that had contributed to the humanitarian campaign according to their capacity.

He said the support demonstrated the unity, love and solidarity of Nepalis with those affected by the disaster. “When Nepal is in distress, our hearts also hurt with Nepal,” he said.

Pandey said the fundraising campaign would continue until October 31. He also announced that a five-km run titled 'Walk for Nepal' would be organised the following week, with a target of raising around US$10,000.

During the campaign, Dedicated to Our Community of North Carolina contributed US$12,111, Kanu Patel Divo Foundation US$5,002, Niral Shantilal Patel US$5,150, and Ishwar and Kamala Devkota US$3,001.

Venkateshwara Temple and Shirdi Sai Baba Temple each contributed US$3,000. The United Bengali Association donated US$2,115, while the American Association of Bihar Jharkhand Jhansi contributed US$2,000.

Similarly, Sandesh Joshi donated US$1,100, Jeevan Neupane and Sarita Kandel US$1,001, while Ramila and Bikash Sapkota, Rohil Bhattarai, Ashish Patel, Asian Focus Corporation, L Workbiz and Tomita each contributed US$1,000.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 8 October 2026.      

Social Ministry, NRCS to provide cash assistance to flood affected families

Kathmandu, Oct. 7

The Ministry of Women, Children, Gender and Sexual Minorities and Social Security and the Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) have signed an agreement to provide cash assistance to families affected by the Bhotekoshi flood under the Samunnati Programme.

The agreement was signed at the ministry in the presence of Minister Sita Badi on Wednesday. Acting Secretary of the ministry Chakra Bahadur Budha and NRCS Chairman Dr. Bishal Kumar Bhandari signed the agreement.

NRCS General Secretary Rishiram Khanal and head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in Nepal, David Fisher were also present on the occasion.

Under the agreement, the NRCS will provide cash assistance of Rs. 100,000 to each family affected by Bhotekoshi floods in 63 districts. The assistance is intended to address the immediate and priority needs of flood-affected families, ease their daily lives, and support their recovery and rehabilitation, the NRCS informed in a statement.

Data on affected people will be provided by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA).

An initial estimate puts the number of families affected by Bhotekoshi floods at around 6,000. "Beneficiaries will be identified based on the data received and necessary verification, and the funds will be deposited directly into the bank accounts of the respective beneficiaries," read the statement. This is intended to make the aid distribution process easier, transparent and effective.

Families can use the funds they receive in managing their priorities, including for food, clothing, health and sanitation, essential household items, transport, communication and livelihood-related needs.

According to the NRCS, priority will be given to flood-affected and particularly vulnerable women-headed households, persons with disabilities, children requiring special care, senior citizens, marginalised communities, gender and sexual minorities, and individuals and families with other special needs.

As per the agreement, the ministry will be responsible for policy guidance, programme monitoring and coordination. Likewise, the concerned local governments will support beneficiary identification and verification as well as local coordination, while the NRCS will assist with the distribution of cash and voucher assistance, community coordination, monitoring and accountability-related activities.

The ministry is implementing the Samunnati Programme as an inclusive programme aiming to support women, children, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, gender and sexual minorities, marginalised and socially excluded groups, disaster-affected people, and other individuals and families with special needs and vulnerabilities.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 8 October 2026.      

WB projects Nepal growth at 3.7%

Kathmandu, Oct. 6

The World Bank has projected a slowed economic growth rate of 3.7 per cent for Nepal in the Fiscal Year 2026/27 owing to the disruptions caused by the Bhotekoshi flood on August 26 to industry and services.

The projected growth rate of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is below the estimated economic expansion in FY 2025/26 when the country achieved 3.9 per cent. The economic growth rate in FY 2024/25 was 4.4 per cent.

The South Asia as a region is expected to achieve 6.9 per cent growth this year, with strong domestic demand keeping the region resilient to global shocks. Growth is expected to slow to 6.7 per cent in 2027.

However, reconstruction and rehabilitation activities are expected to begin supporting economic activity, supporting a recovery in growth to 5.2 per cent in FY2027/28 in Nepal, the WB said in its report 'Nepal Development Update, Building Back Differently for the Future' published on Tuesday.

However, the pace and strength of the recovery will depend on the speed and scale of reconstruction and restoration efforts, warned the multilateral donor.

"Industry is expected to be the primary drag on growth, reflecting extensive damage to hydropower, solar energy, electricity transmission, and transport infrastructure, which will constrain electricity generation, production, and the movement of goods," read the report.

Services are expected to be affected through disruptions to trade, transport, tourism, and financial activity. Agricultural losses, while limited in the effects on aggregate output, are expected to have significant impacts on livelihoods in affected areas.

While the catastrophic flood caused devastating human and economic losses, the WB maintained that this is a moment of opportunity for Nepal to think about its infrastructure — connectivity, energy, and basic services like water and sanitation and health and education — and ensure that resilience and redundancy are central to its planning and investment, especially in the context of a changing climate and an evolving set of risks.

"Recovery should therefore go beyond restoring damaged assets to reconsider how future development in highly exposed mountain environments can better account for changing and interconnected risks as well as avoiding the accumulation of risk in a concentrated area," read the report.

It added that reconstruction planning should be informed by updated multi-hazard risk assessments that consider floods, debris flows, landslides, glacial hazards, and river-system dynamics, as well as the potential for cascading impacts across entire infrastructure networks. This includes greater attention to the location and design of critical infrastructure and to lifeline systems— transport, energy, communications, and other networks

"The WB stands ready to assist the authorities in investing in systems and implementing the right policies to help put Nepal on a more resilient and sustainable development path,” said David Sislen, World Bank Division Director for Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

As the country moves from relief to reconstruction, the report recommended recovery efforts that go beyond restoring damaged assets and towards incorporating updated multi-hazard risk assessments, careful consideration of infrastructure location and design, and greater redundancy in critical transport, energy, and communications networks.

"Strengthening early warning systems will be equally vital, alongside building an Integrated Social Protection System as a foundation for rapidly delivering disaster assistance to vulnerable households," said the WB.

The WB also launched the South Asia Economic Update report which is themed on 'adopting AI for growth projects'.

According to it, adoption of AI in South Asia is rising but it remains well behind that in advanced economies. Despite this gap, AI adoption is accelerating and firms are using AI to find new market opportunities.

Analysis of recent data shows that AI is expanding opportunities, through global value chain links, for South Asian suppliers that are heavily exposed to AI. Another area of significant potential is the use of AI for public service delivery, in sectors such as health, education and agriculture, where skilled personnel are scarce.

“The adoption of AI has the potential to transform South Asia’s development trajectory by boosting labour productivity, expanding export opportunities, and improving public service delivery,” said Franziska Ohnsorge, World Bank Group Chief Economist for Asia. “But to reap these benefits, governments need to address the foundational gaps that hold back adoption.”

The report recommends policy measures to strengthen workforce skills, establish a more business-enabling environment, and improve physical and digital infrastructure, complemented by measures to reduce barriers to AI adoption by small firms, foster local AI innovation, and establish a clear regulatory framework that reduces uncertainty and safeguards data security and privacy.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 7 October 2026.      

Mountains, island states facing common climate challenge: FM Khanal

Kathmandu, Oct. 6

Speaking at a high-level ‘Pre-COP Leaders’ Event’ held in Funafuti in Tuvalu on Monday, Foreign Affairs Minister Shisir Khanal highlighted the common challenges and priorities faced by mountainous and small island developing states as a result of climate change.

He led the Nepali delegation to the event organised ahead of the 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Participating in various formal sessions of the event, he highlighted the need to effectively address the shared concerns of countries affected by the adverse impacts of climate change on international platforms, informed FM Khanal's Secretariat in a statement on Tuesday.

During a meeting with Tuvalu Prime Minister Feleti Teo, FM Khanal noted the similarities between the risks and challenges faced by the Himalayan region and small island states in the Pacific due to climate change, and stressed the need to further strengthen cooperation between the two sides on climate-related issues.

Likewise, he met Tongan Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua during a field visit to Tuvalu’s Coastal Adaptation Project in Funafuti.

According to the statement, the two leaders discussed the interrelationship between the risks faced by high-mountain ecosystems and those confronting low-lying coastal island states as a result of climate change. They stressed the need for mountainous and small island states to strengthen their common voice on international platforms to ensure the effective implementation of climate finance, climate adaptation and loss and damage funds.

FM Khanal also held a meeting with Mauritius President Dharam Gokhool and first lady Brinda Gokhool. Recalling his first overseas visit to Mauritius as Foreign Minister, Khanal spoke of the various aspects of the longstanding friendly and cordial relations between Nepal and Mauritius.

The meeting also discussed further strengthening cooperation between Nepal and Mauritius on climate change and climate action at international forums.

The Nepali delegation went for a field visit to make first-hand observation of the coastal engineering and climate adaptation measures adopted by Tuvalu to mitigate the impacts of rising sea levels and increasingly powerful waves.

On the occasion, Minister Khanal drew attention to the interrelationship between the rapid melting and degradation of glaciers in the Himalayan region and rising sea levels.

He said the climate futures of mountainous and small island states were interconnected, and stressed the need for the international community to fulfil its climate finance commitments in a timely, adequate and equitable manner to help countries address the adverse impacts of climate change.

Nepal has been highlighting the adverse impacts of climate change in the Himalayan region, as well as challenges such as rising sea levels and coastal erosion faced by small island states in the Pacific, as shared climate concerns.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 7 October 2026.      

Saroj brings out 'Kaleji Prem'

Kathmandu, Oct. 5

Writer Saroj Bhattarai has published his maiden book 'Kaleji Prem' on love, pain and transformation.

Personalities including Inspector General of Police Dan Bahadur Karki, Nabil Bank's CEO Manoj Gyawali, author's parents Laxmi and Netra and grandfather Bhojraj Bhattarai launched the book at a programme in Kathmandu on Sunday.

Speaking on the occasion, IGP Karki said the story and ideas presented in the book are identifiable with several youth in the country who aspire to stay here and build their identity.

"We used to talk about organic vegetable love in literature but Saroj has come up with velvet love," he said. Stressing upon the citizen's responsibility towards the country, Karki urged the young people including writers to use their skill, knowledge and professional tools with utmost responsibility to society and the nation.

Likewise, Gyawali said that the book has philosophical tint.

He talked about the plight of the majority of the youth who love the country and stay here with an aim to realise their dreams here but achieve less even after a lot of struggles.

"Positive thoughts should be promoted among the young people and good vibes and messages be spread. I hope this book will be able to pass this message to all," stated Gyawali. 

Deepshikha Ghimire, said that the book is the author's conversation with the new generation. "Distance between dreams and the reality of life is very wide and only a few are capable of connecting the two. The book tells the journey for the same," she said.

The author said that the publication of the book has boosted his confidence not only as a writer but also as also as a responsible citizen. According to him, the book tells a story of the pragmatic side of love, hope and life. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 6 October 2026.      

Resilient Planning

Bhotekoshi flooding has revealed a serious shortcoming in Nepal’s approach to disaster management. The country is still following the path of reacting to disasters rather than preparing itself for risks that it knows are looming. The current Post-Disaster Need Assessment (PDNA) must therefore be used as a platform to change that approach entirely and use it to prepare and respond to future disasters. 

The disaster that occurred on 26 August 2026 had implications for settlement, agriculture, productive resources, infrastructure, and public services. The implications were reported to have occurred in the area of the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli-Narayani River, including the Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Gorkha, Chitwan, Tanahun, and Nawalparasi districts. The National Planning Commission and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority are close to completing the initial stage of PDNA, which focuses on damage assessment, economic and social impacts, and needs of recovery. The survey team has covered about 7,000 affected families.

The information on the ground level is critical. However, the assessment will not make any sense at all if it is left as another report in the shelves of the government offices. The extent of the Bhotekoshi disaster is an important wake-up call, as Nepal's previous disaster costs were estimated at 2 per cent of its GDP annually while the current disaster alone has been estimated to cause destruction equivalent to about 6 per cent of GDP. 

Disaster management, therefore, should not be left out of the loop. It must be incorporated into economic and development planning. Damages to hydropower facilities are especially serious. These cannot be fixed overnight, implying that the impacts will persist far into the future. Losses in power production, jobs and revenue will weigh on the economy.

Planning for the aftermath of the disaster must therefore recognise the distinction between emergency response and longer-term reconstruction. The government has made the right move in trying to get international assistance, which includes climate financing and loss and damage financing. As a country vulnerable to climate-related disasters despite having made a minimal contribution to global emissions, Nepal has a strong claim to more international assistance. 

However, it should not use the lack of international aid as an excuse for poor planning. The government must also put its own funds into the task. The government must also refrain from making the error of conducting repeated studies about the disaster without laying down a consistent basis for its activities.

A joint assessment of the situation, clear data collection and proper delineation of the role of all the levels of governments would help in saving time and efforts. Recovery must also be fair because disasters have different impacts on different groups. Women, poor people and marginalised groups lose more and recover less quickly than other groups. 

The needs of these groups must be taken care of in the recovery plan. The declaration of a “disaster decade” certainly needs serious consideration. It must be backed by dedicated funding, measurable targets, stronger institutions and accountability. The Bhotekoshi flood is supposed to be a turning point from a reactive to a resilient approach. While the government cannot prevent all disasters, it can certainly ensure that all disasters do not turn into catastrophes.

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 7 October 2026.      

PDNA on Bhotekoshi flood reaches final stage

Lalitpur, Oct. 4

The National Planning Commission (NPC) is in the final stage in preparing the preliminary report for the Post-Disaster Need Assessment (PDNA) undertaken for the analysis of loss and damage caused by the Bhotekoshi floods occurred on August 26, and recovery needs.

"We are at the final stage of the PDNA's first preliminary report. Most of the field work has been completed," Vice Chairman of the NPC, Dr. Gunakar Bhatta said while speaking at a policy-dialogue on 'Bhotekoshi to Resilience: A Call for climate justice, including the role of CSOs' organised by the Former Planner's Forum Nepal in Lalitpur on Sunday.

The PDNA is being carried out by the NPC and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA). It will validate the information assessed by the RDNA.

According to Dr. Bhatta, the PDNA will cover damage and economic losses, impact on human and society, and macro-economic indicators, disaster recovery and rehabilitation cost, and will determine recovery modality and programmes. 

He said that, in the long-run, the government will also move ahead with the future development strategy in the disaster-affected areas and those with potential risks. "Incorporating the private sector and enhancing their confidence is also our priority," he said.

According to him, the loss in the disaster was estimated at two per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) every year but the latest Bhotekoshi disaster has caused damage of about six per cent of the GDP.

The survey team has contacted about 7,000 families and obtained data about their loss, impact of disaster and need for recovery

The field survey and meeting people affected by the unfortunate event has given an impression that the government has cared about them. It has enhanced government to people relations which is instrumental, said Dr. Bhatta. 

Stating that there are complexities about mapping the loss and damage incurred on the hydroelectricity projects as they can't be rehabilitated at least within a couple of years, he informed that government has sought help from the United Nations agencies.

Economist and Vice-Chairman of the FPFN Dr. Dilli Raj Khanal said that the discourse on disaster management should incorporate climate resilience and resilient development, and the country should be ready for the management of future disasters like the Bhotekoshi flood.

Stating that the climate fund and loss and damage fund are still uncertain, he suggested that the government should adopt two-pronged strategy – multilateral and bilateral support and internal resource generation. "I have suggested the government to remove unnecessary advisors, scrap sick projects, restructure development projects, transfer budget from committee-based organisations, and incorporate the private sector in rebuilding programme," he said.

Likewise, economist Dr. Govinda Nepal said that lack of resources poses challenge for Nepal in balancing resilience and economic cost.

"The government must find ways to manage funds for the recovery and reconstruction and strengthen its agencies and authorities in executing the post-disaster rebuilding projects in timely and efficient manner," he said.

He also cautioned that, in the past, the government had conducted multiple surveys for a single disaster event, this time the floods must not be politicized.

Former CEO of the NDRRMA Dr. Dharma Raj Upreti said that there is a need to rethink about the size of the post-disaster support package.

"A small amount of financial support would be helpful for the quake-affected families as the construction materials like wood and stones could be reused, but in disasters like floods, there remains nothing," he said.

Stating that the communities are incorporated in the disaster management mechanisms from local body to federal level, he said that their roles should be enhanced and strengthened, not reduced.

Former member of the NPC Saloni Pradhan Singh said that the intensity of disaster impacts is different across communities and groups, and women are facing increased discrimination and challenges in the immediate aftermath of the Bhotekoshi flood.

The federal government, local bodies, community organisations, non-government agencies and private sector organisations should form a strong and effective bond to make the recovery and rebuilding result-oriented and timely, she said.

Arjun Bhattarai, president of the NGO Federation, said that the government should plan to announce a 'disaster decade' to set basic infrastructure for climate resilience and implement safety measures as well as to lobby at the international level to obtain facilities. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 5 October 2026.      

Flood-affected businesses remain uninformed of recovery package

Entrepreneurs demand trade infrastructure rehabilitation

 

Kathmandu, Oct. 3

About a month ago, the government announced several economic and financial measures to support the recovery and rehabilitation of the businesses destroyed and affected by the devastating Bhotekoshi flood that occurred on August 26.

But the entrepreneurs and businesses are yet to obtain the announced facilities.

The concerned government authorities - The Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), the Inland Revenue Department (IRD), the Nepal Insurance Authority (NIA), and the Department of Customs (DoC) - said that they are in the process of assessing the situation and determining the future course of action.

The NIA said that sector data on businesses and enterprises has not yet been collected, while the DoC said that the procedure needed to implement the discounts and waivers on the customs duties has not been formulated. This absence of the procedure to offer the announced discounts and facilities has barred the businesses from obtaining them.

Since most of the customs-related provisions are for the imports of vehicles, durable goods and industrial machineries which were mostly supposed to be imported from China and both the entry points at Rasuwagadhi and Tatopani are not in proper functioning, it will take a while to avail of the facilities.

Meanwhile, the entrepreneurs and businesses affected by the disaster are in the process to manage basic necessities like food, shelter and safety of family and they haven't initiated the process to import machinery, recover the business or rehabilitate the industry.

Even if they decide to rehabilitate the industries or businesses including the resumption of operation of the transport company by importing trucks, containers and passenger vehicles, it will take a few months until the goods reach the customs points in Nepal.

However, several entrepreneurs and business leaders expressed ignorance about the government-announced recovery package.

According to the package, the machinery and vehicles should be replaced with the import of similar items of the same capacity.

According to the Rapid Damage Need Assessment (RDNA), the flood affected about 4,800 economic establishments, and caused about Rs. 30 billion damage to businesses in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and Chitwan districts.

"Reported annual economic losses total Rs. 115.89 billion, bringing the combined damage and losses to Rs. 146.19 billion. The flood affected education, health, utilities, finance and insurance, and agriculture, forestry and fishing," read the RDNA.

The National Statistics Office (NSO) and National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) are undertaking the Post Disaster Need Assessment (PDNA) which will collect the detailed statistics and recommend the actions needed.

The NRB is soliciting the data from the banks and financial institutions (BFIs) that were doing businesses in the flood affected areas.

Spokesperson of the NRB Guru Prasad Poudel said that the banks are facing three-pronged challenge – loss of borrower, loss of collateral, and loss of business. "It is a challenge to assess the situation in such a complex scenario and determine the future course of action," he said.

Poudel said that once the PDNA is completed and data from the BFIs are analysed, the NRB will analyse the situation in order to take necessary steps to support the affected businesses and BFIs.

 

The recovery package

The business recovery package announced by the government on September 3 includes measures like tax and customs duty waiver, interest rate discount and priority insurance claim clearance for the businesses and industries affected by the Bhotekoshi flood.

The NRB, the IRD, the NIA, and the DoC will implement the provisions for relief and recovery in their respective sector.

Affected businesses will get customs duty waivers for replacing irreparably damaged machinery, equipment and commercial vehicles. Flood-damaged imported goods can also qualify for customs duty adjustment if replacements are imported within six months.

The package seeks to speed up insurance settlements, allowing advance payments of up to 50 per cent based on preliminary assessments and simplifying claim procedures.

Likewise, the central bank will facilitate loan restructuring, repayment extensions and new lending for affected businesses, including financing for replacement vehicles and machinery. Borrowers will receive interest relief for one year, while additional recovery loans may be provided to support businesses and employment.

Similarly, tax measures include extending VAT, income tax and excise duty filing and payment deadlines until November 11, simplifying VAT adjustments, and allowing deductions for destroyed assets. Individuals directly affected by the floods will receive a full income tax exemption for the year.

 

Need of the hour

While rescue and relief operations are still being conducted along the flood-affected areas, the entrepreneurs said that the government should immediately initiate the business support measures.

The initiative should begin with the rebuilding of the damaged bridges, they said.

"This is the time the government begin support to the affected entrepreneurs in rehabilitating their enterprises with all possible measures. Distribution of a sack of rice, a kilo of sugar and a packet of cooking oil will not solve the problem in the long run," said Suksang Tamang, President of the Rasuwa Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

He suggested for the construction of Bailly bridges at Betrawati and Syaphrubensi and two suspension bridges at Syaphrubensi, and one in Aamachhodingmo Rural Municipality to open the route to the Gosainkunda and the Langtang Valley.

"A bridge at Betrawati will open the route for the Gosainkunda, so this should be the first priority. Restoring tourism will immensely help in business recovery and livelihood restoration," said Tamang.

According to him, road and bridges will be instrumental in reviving hope and instil resilience in business community in Rasuwa and Nuwakot. Operation of the road and Rasuwagadhi border point could work as 'sanjeevani' – a lifeline.

 

Reactions from businesses

Although the business bodies said the recovery package was a welcome step, they didn't officially comment on it.

Immediate Past President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Chandra Prasad Dhakal reached the flood-affected areas in Nuwakot in the immediate aftermath and described the situation as 'horrific'.

"Entrepreneurs have lost everything in the flood. They don't have their enterprises, houses and other structures. Many of them have lost their family members," he said.

Dhakal said that it will take a long time for the recovery of the business which demands a rethinking on the part of the government and central bank. "An entrepreneur has invested a lot of resources including time and finance to create a business. The Bhotekoshi flood was something that we didn't encounter in the past, so the support policies should be implemented differently," he said.

Likewise, Senior Vice-President of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce Deepak Malhotra appreciated the recovery package and said that there should be additional facilities on top of loan restructuring and interest rate discount.

The NCC has established a help desk at its secretariat in Kathmandu to support the affected businesses in obtaining insurance and other facilities.

"The government has begun work to create shelters for the people affected by the flood. The NCC is also mobilising its national and international network to collect support for the same," he said.

The NADA Automobiles Association of Nepal (NADA) was among a few business associations which welcomed the recovery package.

It had said the government’s initiative to provide immediate relief to disaster-affected businesses and create an environment for them to resume operations was highly positive and commendable.

"The NADA believes that the decision to cancel the registration of commercial vehicles and transport equipment that were completely damaged or swept away by the floods and provide customs duty exemptions when importing similar vehicles will provide significant relief to automobile and transport operators," it said in a statement, and added that the concessions provided for the re-import of damaged machinery and equipment are important for the recovery process.

NADA said the provision for loan restructuring, rescheduling and interest concessions for flood-affected borrowers would ease the immediate financial pressure on businesses.

Likewise, President of the FNCCI Anjan Shrestha, addressing an event in Kathmandu a few days ago had said that the disaster had compelled Nepal to think about developing safer and climate-resilient infrastructure over the long-term.

"Nepal should work with China to reduce the risk of glacial lake outburst floods and focus on developing safer settlements and infrastructure. We need to take environmental risks into account when developing hydropower projects," he said. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal on 4 October 2026.