NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 1 NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 2 NEW
SPOTLIGHTFORTNIGHTLY Notes From The Editor
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Printing Megha Offset Printing Press P. Ltd., Dhapasi, Kathmandu Tel. : 977-1-4363624
Keshab Poudel Editor
NEWNEW SPOTLIGHT | JulyJan. 16 24. . 2021 2020 | 1 1 CONTENT JAPAN VACCINE DONATIONS Huge Generosity 3
NEWSNOTES 4
Business Brief 6
VIEWPOINT Dr. Tilak Rawal 8
SHER BAHADUR DEUBA COVERSTORY: COVID-19 VACCINATION: Back On Track 20 Fifth Inning As PM 10
NEPAL-INDIA RAILWAY Greater Access To Services 13
OPINION Dr Bipin Adhikari 14
EU DELEGATION REFUTES NEWS 17
ENVIRONMENT Batu Uprety 18
GLOBAL VIEW UML POLITICS: Divided We Stand 12 Abijit Sharma 26
SKBLBL Two Decades Of Service 27
DEVELOPMENT Promoting Climate Change Friendly Bricks 28
FLOODS AND LANDSLIDES Monsoon Havoc 32
ARITICLE Ashika Sharma 35 ISRAEL SUPPORT: From A Friend Indeed 16
ARITICLE Hemang Dixit 36
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 2 JAPAN VACCINE DONATIONS Huge Generosity With the decision to donate about 1.6 million doses of Japanese-made COVID-19 AstraZeneca vaccine for Nepali friends, Japan has shown its generosity towards the elderly population By KESHAB POUDEL or people such as the former water Japan. The exact shipping schedule will be der the Japanese Grant Aid. It has confirmed resources secretary and seasoned bu- confirmed once the procurement arrange- to donate almost 300 oxygen generators, in Freaucrat, Dr. Dwarika Nath Dhungel, ments will be finalized by the international addition to 25 blood gas analyzers and 25 who has been showing his anger and frus- organization which is in charge of the mat- portable ultrasound image diagnostic sys- tration in social media for not receiving the ter. tems for the necessary medical care. Now second dose of vaccine, the announcement KIKUTA Yutaka, Ambassador 6 Made-in-Japan Ambulances are expected of Japan government to donate 1.6 million of Japan, stated this is a reflection of the to be here by October to save more lives in doses of Japanese-made AstraZeneca must long time friendship of Nepal towards Ja- the COVID-19 situation. The Embassy of have been a real sigh of relief. pan. He welcomed the decision by Tokyo Japan hopes that this vaccination assistance “It is a matter of relief for all of as the vaccine is urgently needed to save will save lives of more Nepali people from Nepali. Actually, I was almost losing hope. lives of many Nepali people. The Ambassa- COVID-19, and it strongly supports the This announcement gives me a huge relief,” dor hoped this vaccine will ease down var- vaccination campaign which is necessary said Dr. Dhungel. “I would like to thank the ious difficulties caused by the COVID-19 for the progress of post-COVID Nepali so- Government of Japan and Japanese people situation. Regarding these Japanese-made ciety and its economy. for this support. Nepal Government needs AstraZeneca vaccines, the Embassy would The Government of Nepal wel- to ensure now that all elderly people who like to coordinate with the Ministry of comes the decision of the Government have been waiting for the second dose get Health and Population of Nepal for the nec- of Japan to provide Nepal with about 1.6 the vaccine.” essary arrangements of receiving and using million doses of Japan-made AstraZene- Frustrated by Nepal Govern- them for the COVID-19 vaccination cam- ca COVID-19 vaccines through COVAX ment’s apathy towards providing the paign of Nepal. Those Japanese-made As- facility. An arrangement will be made to second dose of vaccine, former water re- traZeneca vaccine will effectively assist the transport the vaccines to Nepal at the earli- sources secretary Dwarika Nath Dhungel second injection tweeted, “Was wondering, if there is any of elderly people government in Nepal to take care of its citi- who already had zens? Yes I found one for paying the medi- the first vaccination cal bill of a political leader. What a govern- of Covishield, the ment we have, when we all Nepalese are AstraZeneca-type looking towards the International airport vaccine produced sky for COVID vaccine?” by Serum Institute Dhungel is not the only one to of India. feel relief from this news. Over 1.4 million Ac- elderly people above 65 must be expressing cording to a press the happiness. “Japan has come to rescue release issued by us. Thank you Government of Japan and Embassy of Japan, people of Japan for this great support. This furthermore, they came at a time when majority of people would be also use- of my age were losing hope,” said eighty ful to precede the years old former secretary Shyam Prasad vaccination cam- Adhikari. paign for the young This announcement has also generations who shown the concern of Japanese government are not yet vaccinated. The Embassy of Ja- est opportunity with the completion of due and people of Japan. pan has been working with the Government procedures. The Government of Japan donat- of Nepal to tackle COVID-19 together by The Government of Nepal has ed the 1.6 million doses of Japanese-made assisting Nepali hospitals with medical sincerely appreciated and thanked the Gov- COVID-19 AstraZeneca vaccine for Nepal equipment in multiple ways. ernment of Japan for providing the life-sav- as a grant through COVAX facility, which The Government of Japan stands ing vaccines at this trying time. was officially announced by MOTEGI with Nepal to overcome this pandemic and Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of has been providing medical equipment un-
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 3 NEWSNOTES Foreign Secretary Paudyal Exchanges Views With Uz- Japan Extends Support JDS Scholarships For Young bek Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov Nepali Government Officials Foreign Secretary The Government of Japan has extended grant as- Bharat Raj Paudyal had a sistance of up to three hundred and fifty-six million Japa- courtesy call on Abdulaziz nese Yen (¥356,000,000), to the Government of Nepal for Kamilov, Minister of For- implementing the Project for Human Resource Develop- eign Affairs of the Republic ment Scholarship (JDS: originally called as Japanese Grant of Uzbekistan, in Tashkent Aid for Human Resource Development Scholarship). today. During the call on, KIKUTA Yutaka, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal views were exchanged on and Sishir Kumar Dhungana, Secretary of the Ministry of matters of mutual interest, Finance signed notes to this effect today. including promotion of Another set of grant agreements for implementing trade, tourism, and cultural the program was signed exchanges. by ASAKUMA Yumiko, Secretary Paudyal had a courtesy call on the side- Chief Representative of line of the International Conference on Central and South JICA Nepal, and Dhani Asia: Regional Connectivity, Challenges and Opportunities. Ram Sharma, Joint Sec- Expressing appreciation for hosting the confer- retary, the International ence, Foreign Secretary Paudyal stated that the conference Economic Cooperation provides useful opportunity for discussingconnectivity and and Coordination Divi- promoting economic relations between the two regions. sion of the Ministry of Joint Secretary Harishchandra Ghimire, Head of Finance. Central Asia, West Asia and Africa Division at the Ministry, This JDS grant was also present during the meeting. offers scholarships for up The Foreign Secretary arrived in Tashkent this to 22 young Nepali government officials to study in Japa- morning leading the Nepali delegation to the conference. nese universities for the future policy planning and govern- He was received by senior officials of the Ministry of For- ance of Nepal. eign Affairs of the Government of Republic of Uzbekistan The studies are for two-year Master Degree cours- at Tashkent International Airport. es and three-year Doctoral level research courses. After completion of their studies, the JDS Fellows are expected CPC And World Political Parties Summit Was A Great to contribute towards policy-making of Nepali socio-eco- Event: Dr. Bhattarai nomic development. Since 2016, 102 Nepali JDS Fellows Dr. Babura Bhattarai, Former Prime Minister and have studied under this scheme. Chairman,Federal Council,- Last year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 22 Janata Samajwadi Party, said selected officials had to commence their respective courses that CPC and World Political online. Twenty of them later decided to travel to Japan to Parties Summit was a great complete their studies and two officials decided to continue event. In his tweet, former their studies online from Nepal. Ambassador KIKUTA has prime minister Dr. Bhattarai, expressed his hope that the JDS fellows will put forward the who also attend the summit, social and economic development of Nepal for future gen- has made this remarks. erations, using the knowledge and experiences they gain in “CPC and World Japan efficiently for the advancement of society. He is look- Political Parties Summit” was ing forward to learning about the contributions made by the a great event. This type of interaction among political par- JDS fellows for the Nepal Government’s various policies ties at a time of global COVID-19 pandemic, economic cri- and projects, leading to the increased prosperity of Nepal. sis, environmental catastrophes & simmering new cold war The Ambassador points out that the progress of the should contribute towards creating a new peaceful world post-COVID society will be hands of young Nepali govern- order.” Dr. Bhattarai tweeted. ment officials, particularly those who study in Japan. The On July 6, General Secretary of the Communist Embassy of Japan would like to work with them for further Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and President strengthening the great relationship between the peoples of Xi Jinping attended the CPC and World Political Parties Japan and Nepal. Summit, and delivered a keynote speech “Strengthening According to a press release of JICA, Japan Inter- Cooperation Among Political Parties to Jointly Pursue the national Cooperation Agency (JICA) will provide scholar- People’s Wellbeing” via video link in Beijing. ship for young prospective governmental officials through “The Project for Human Resource Development Strategy
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 4 NEWSNOTES (JDS)”.Paani Project To Protect Local Fish In Bajhang Chinese ambassador to Nepal Hou Yanqi has said that China Chinese ambassador to Nepal Hou Yanqi has said would supply more COVID-19 vaccines to Nepal as needed. that China would supply more COVID-19 vaccines to Ne- She said so while addressing a press meet held vir- pal as needed. tually this morning. She said so while addressing a press meet held vir- She said that China has tually this morning. supplied vaccines to over a hun- She said that China has supplied vaccines to over dred countries including Nepal a hundred countries including Nepal and as China’s vac- and as China’s vaccine produc- cine production capacity has also increased, it would supply tion capacity has also increased, more vaccines to Nepal as needed. it would supply more vaccines Responding to a query about the non-disclosure to Nepal as needed. purchase process between Nepal and China’s company, the Responding to a query Chinese ambassador said the process that was adopted was about the non-disclosure pur- as per international practice. chase process between Nepal Talking about the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and China’s company, the Chinese ambassador said the pro- ambassador Hou viewed that Nepal is an important partner cess that was adopted was as per international practice. in the BRI and expressed her expectation that many more Talking about the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), projects would be implemented in the future under the BRI. ambassador Hou viewed that Nepal is an important partner She also mentioned the completion of the recon- in the BRI and expressed her expectation that many more struction of Durbar High School in Kathmandu, near com- projects would be implemented in the future under the BRI. pletion of the Pokhara regional airport and Gautam Buddha She also mentioned the completion of the recon- Airport, among others, as examples of BRI projects in Ne- struction of Durbar High School in Kathmandu, near com- pal. pletion of the Pokhara regional airport and Gautam Buddha Airport, among others, as examples of BRI projects in Ne- AIN Appeals International Community To Provide Jab pal. To Elderly People Of Nepal When asked about the difficulties in the export of Association of International NGOs (AIN) in Nepal Nepali products to China through Kerung and Tatopai bor- has appealed for an urgent support from the international der points, the Chinese ambassador attributed the problem community to address the health crisis in Nepal pointing to the restrictions enforced to curb the spread of the COV- that the elderly and most ID-19 pandemic and hoped that the concerned authorities in vulnerable people have not the borders will take necessary measures to ease the export received the second dose of and import of goods. AstraZeneca vaccines. “This may prob- Himalaya Airlines Tickets Available Online ably have reduced effects Himalaya Airlines, a Nepal-China joint venture on those vaccinated and airline, has recently launched its online ticket booking consequences could be far engine, which allows customers to make booking on its reaching. This could also have an impact on COVID-19 website https://him-air.com. This platform available on the prevention measures and the efforts of the Government of desktop and mobile is all about connecting people to desti- Nepal to immunise the population,” it said in a statement nations. on Sunday. Remarking upon the new website launch, Presi- “This is our humble appeal to all G7 and other de- dent - Zhou Enyong expressed, “Our customers are at the veloped countries and the European Union to donate Astra- center of everything that we do, and we relentlessly chal- Zeneca vaccines from their stockpile to Nepal to mitigate lenge ourselves to deliver more value to them..” the humanitarian crisis,” said the press release issued by Similarly, Vice President – Administration, Mr. AIN. Vijay Shrestha, said, “This is a significant achievement for It maintained that the principle of equity must be the company in our continuous duly followed while distributing COVID-19 vaccines so effort towards building closer that no one is excluded from getting the life-saving jabs. connectivity with our custom- “This is only possible through the COVAX facil- ers..” ity along with support from vaccine-producing countries. With this new service The only way to equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines introduced, Himalaya is geared is through effective diplomacy and transparent procurement up to ensure seamless ticket and distribution processes,” said AIN. booking experience for its val- ued customers.
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 5 BUSINESS BRIEF School, Health Sectors To Get $100M In WB Additional Financing ADB Appoints New Country Director for Nepal The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Ar- approved two separate additional financing of $50 million each naud Cauchois as its new Country Director for Nepal. to support the implementation of the government’s flagship School As country director, Cauchois will lead ADB operations Sector Development Program, and improve efficiency in the public in the country and policy dialogue with the government of Nepal resource management systems of Nepal’s health sector. and other development partners. He will oversee the implementa- “Strengthening Nepal’s school sector and building re- tion of ADB’s country partnership strategy for Nepal that focuses on silient health systems are critical for human capital development, the country’s long-term development needs through improved infra- particularly for poor and vulnerable populations,” stated Faris Ha- structure for private sector-led growth, improved access to devolved dad-Zervos, World Bank Country Director for Maldives, Nepal, services, and environmental sustainability and resilience. and Sri Lanka. “Through this support to the Government of Nepal, “ADB has been a long- we aim to mitigate learning losses and ensure that children return term development partner of Nepal. I to schools, and improve efficiency of spending and fiscal space for look forward to building on the strong delivering quality and accountable healthcare services.” partnership and working closely with The Additional Financing to the School Sector Develop- the government, development part- ment Program will help reduce dropouts and mitigate learning losses ners, and other stakeholders in sup- by supporting pro-poor targeted scholarships, pro-science scholar- porting Nepal’s development agenda ships, and catch-up programs. It will lay the foundation for the next and poverty reduction efforts,” said school sector successor program in two areas – assessment and data Cauchois. “My immediate priority systems, and help create the fiscal space to fill the gap in financing the will be to support the Government government’s flagship program. It will also support the implementa- of Nepal as it addresses both the tion of federalism in Nepal by aligning the program with the federal immediate and longer-term health, structure to improve efficiency economic, and social impacts of the and achievement of results. COVID-19 crisis.” “Learning losses and In the medium term, Cauchois indicated the need to sup- drop-outs are higher among port the government with the development of integrated solutions children coming from poorer by combining expertise across sectors and mixing public and private socio-economic backgrounds,” sector financing. Expansion of private sector operations, as well as stated Karthika Radhakrishnan, green resilient and inclusive projects, will be pursued in close collab- World Bank’s Program Task oration with the government and development partners. Team Leader. “The additional Cauchois has almost three decades of professional expe- financing will support catch-up rience, including over 15 years with ADB. Cauchois, a French na- programs to mitigate learning tional, joined ADB in 2005 as a Rural Development Specialist and losses, and support children has since held numerous leading positions. Prior to this appointment, from poorer socio-economic backgrounds through pro-poor targeted he served as Principal Water Resources Specialist for India, Nepal, scholarships.” and Sri Lanka and was out posted in ADB’s India Resident Mission. The Additional Financing for Nepal Health Sector Man- He was also assigned in ADB’s Nepal Resident Mission for 6 years agement Reform Program for Results will support the implemen- and led the improvement of the water management systems in Nepal. tation of Nepal’s Health Sector Strategy in the one-year extension He has extensive experience of leading policy dialogue phase and sustain the gains accrued thus far in public resource man- with governments on various aspects of development and has served agement reforms of the health sector. It will also provide critical fi- the European Commission in Afghanistan as Rural Development Ad- nancing in a resource-constrained COVID-19 environment to build visor prior to joining ADB. resilient health systems, and prepare Nepal to implement its next He holds a master of science degree in water resource health sector strategy. management from the Superior School of Tropical Agronomy in “The additional financing will continue to provide incen- Montpellier, France. tives for addressing the bottlenecks to improving public resource Since its establishment in 1966, ADB has provided over management in the health sector, and promote transparency and $7 billion in financial and technical assistance to Nepal. The assis- accountability in the system by linking payments to results,” stated tance was provided in energy, transport, water supply and urban in- Sangeeta Carol Pinto, World Bank’s Program Task Team Leader. frastructure services, agriculture and irrigation, and education. The World Bank, one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, is taking broad, fast action to Indian State Owned SJVNL To develop 679 MW Lower Arun help developing countries respond to the health, social and economic Hydropower Project impacts of COVID-19. This includes $12 billion to help low- and The Investment Board Nepal (IBN) and India’s state- middle-income countries purchase and distribute COVID-19 vac- owned SJVN Ltd signed an agreement to develop the 679-megawatt cines, tests, and treatments, and strengthen vaccination systems. The Lower Arun Hydroelectric Project in the country. A memorandum of financing builds on the broader World Bank Group COVID-19 re- understanding (MoU) was signed by IBN Chief Executive Officer sponse, which is helping more than 100 countries strengthen health Sushil Bhatta and SJVNL Managing Director Nand Lal Sharma on systems, support the poorest households, and create supportive con- behalf of their respective organisations. ditions to maintain livelihoods and jobs for those hit hardest. Bhatta said signing of the MoU for Lower Arun HEP marked a new milestone in the bilateral ties between Nepal and India
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 6 BUSINESS BRIEF and expressed belief that green Coca-Cola India has appointed Devyani Rajya Laxmi projects could aid in significant- Rana as vice president of its public affairs, communications and sus- ly reducing the carbon emis- tainability for India and Southwest Asia. She moves from Cater- sions that have been making the pillar India, where she was director of Public Affairs for India, Nepal headlines for causing climate and Bhutan. change. Rana’s appointment marks the company’s continued effort Sharma said SJVNL towards a purpose-driven approach for the region. Sanket Ray, pres- had bagged the 679-MW Lower ident, India and Southwest Asia, said, “I am delighted to welcome Arun HEP through international Devyani on this exciting charter to deepen Coca-Cola’s engagement competitive bidding, which in- in the region as she joins the leadership team to spearhead the prac- volved big players.The Lower Arun HEP is located in Sankhuwasab- tice in the region. ha and Bhojpur districts. Devyani brings a wealth of experience in advocating for The peaking run-of-the-river project will be implemented policies, legislation, trade agreements and regulations. Her contribu- as per build, own, operate, transfer model.The company will conduct tions will augment our belief in our purpose even stronger and serve a detailed project study and submit the detailed project report to the as an acceleration of the work that was already underway.” IBN within two years of the MoU signing date. Over a span of 25 years, Rana has also worked with the The entire cost of the study will be borne by the company, United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and United Nations which will also have to submit monthly progress report to the IBN. (UN) in India, as well as The Schwab Foundation for Social Entre- Estimated to cost $1,300 million (as per the exchange rate of 2017), preneurship, Geneva and the Switzerland World Economic Forum the project that is scheduled to be completed in four years after com- (WEF). mencement of construction activities and is expected to generate 2,625 gigawatt hours of electricity annually. Samundratar-Trishuli 3 ‘B’ Centre Transmission Line In Operation The pact was signed today in the presence of Nepal Dep- As the government has prioritized the development of en- uty Prime Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel and Ambassador of India ergy sector, the construction of Samundratar-Trishuli 3 ‘B’ Centre to Nepal Vinay Mohan Kwatra. SJVN Arun-3 Power Development 132 KV Transmission Line has been completed. Company (SAPDC) CEO Arun Dhiman and SAPDC Chief Financial Completion of this project is regarded as a great achieve- Officer Jitendra Yadav were also present along with other senior -offi ment at a time lack of transmission lines in the country was creating cials from Nepal government and SJVNL. huge challenges in power supply in spite of the development of hy- SJVN started its journey in Nepal in 2008 by signing of dropower projects. the pact for implementation of 900MW Arun-III Project. The pro- Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli had inaugurated the pro- ject construction activities commenced with laying of the foundation ject. The 26-kilometer transmission line from Trishuli 3 ‘B’ construc- stone jointly by Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and his Indian coun- tion site at Kispang rural municipality could transmit electricity up terpart PM Narendra Modi in 2018.It has been reported that Arun III to 270 megawatts. The line starts from Samundratar of Dupcheshwor Hydroelectric Project has achieved significant progress in the past Rural Municipality in Nuwakot three years despite the COVID-19 pandemic, as construction activi- district. ties of the project are going on in full swing. A total of 60-mega- watt power produced from 10 hydropower projects of the pri- Golchha Group Donates 30 Samsung Microwave Ovens To vate sector from Tadi Khola and Teaching Hospital its tributaries could be connected Golchha Group has contributed 30 Samsung Microwave to this transmission line. Out of Ovens to the COVID heroic personnel at Teaching Hospital. Director 26 kilometers transmission line, of Golchha Group, Seema Golchha handed over the ovens to Prof. three kilometers is multi-cir- Dr. Dibya Singh Shah, the Dean, Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan cuited. Two transformers of 30- University, at a ceremony. MVA capacity towards 132/33 The program was organ- KV have been connected at Samundratar sub-station. ized by Nepal Health Worker’s Asso- Similarly, two transformers of eight-MVA capacity to- ciation, Tribhuvan University Teach- wards 33/11 KV have also been connected at the Samundratar ing Hospital Organization. sub-station. Speaking on the occasion, Executive Director of Nepal Electricity Authority, Hiten- Director of Golchha Group Seema dra Dev Shakya, said the problem of a power outage at the eastern Golchha said, “We are happy to sup- part of the Nuwakot district would be resolved as power would be port Nepal Health Worker’s Associa- supplied there from the sub-station. tion, Tribhuvan University Teaching The project was constructed with investment of the gov- Hospital. We feel that our modest ernment of Nepal and a concessional loan of Asian Development contribution will help in providing Bank and European Investment Bank. The total investment on the some relief to the Covid frontline workers during their difficult and transmission line and sub-station was Rs 155 billion. long hours at work. We are grateful to have this opportunity to ex- Inaugurating the project, Prime Minister Oli said the gov- press gratitude to these selfless and dedicated health workers.” ernment was moving ahead in order to develop a situation to meet the Devyani Rana Joins Coca-Cola India As Vice President country’s power demands from its own production.
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 7 VIEWPOINT Eventful Nepal
Despite issuance of prohibitory orders to confront the informally, telephonic conversations between top lead- second phase of pandemic, which is said to be more ers belonging to different parties, conspiratorial small injurious than the first phase ,Nepal has not remained as group meetings and the surprising move of Oli to stake quiet as earlier and last couple of months have been in- a claim, contrary to his announcement made at 12 noon terestingly eventful, fluidity on the political front being that day. This eventful day was followed by a night of the major contributing factor. It would be interesting to BY: DR. TILAK RAWAL high drama, which saw the President keeping her office delve a bit into the past before discussing the current open well beyond mid-night to approve the mid-night scenario. After the resurrection of the House by the Supreme decision of the Cabinet to dissolve the House (one more time in Court (SC), Prime Minister Oli failed the floor test on May 10 less than 6 months) and have mid-term polls. Expectedly, this as28 members belonging to Nepal\Khanal faction of his party dramatic move created lots of hue and cry but Prime Minister (UML) and 12 members of Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP) led by Oli proceeded ahead, turning a deaf ear to challenges coming Upendra Yadav abstained. As jointly demanded by Nepali Con- from different corners.He expanded his Cabinet twice and con- gress (NC) president Deuba, Maoist Centre (MC) chair Prachan- tinued to make appointments to several constitutional bodies da and JSP co-chair Yadav, urging the president and missions abroad, often resort- to initiate the process of forming a coalition ing to different ordinances that got government, President Bhandari gave political With declining direct for- almost automatic approval of the parties until 9 pm (May 13, 2021) to lay their eign investment, unsatisfactory level President. In addition to problems claim for forming a new coalition government of capital expenditure (about 60 per- related to running of the govern- under Article 76(2) of the constitution. Not- cent this year) and the budget failing ment, Oli had problems keeping withstanding the solid decision of NC to back to address the problems of medium his own party intact since longand Deuba to lead the next coalition government, and small enterprises through spe- lately the rival faction in the party support extended by Prachanda and expect- cific stimulus packages, the wished hadinsisted on a written agreement ed support from Nepal\Khanal-led faction of growth of 6.5 percent is very un- to revive the party committees UML and JSP faction led by Yadav, the parties likely to be achieved. Further, the and structures that existed prior to could not stake claim to form a government in devastating Covid-19 and our highly UML’s merger with MC.They also the given time, clearing way for the President instable politics are certain to con- remained adamant about not with- to appoint Oli, leader of the largest party, as tinue inflicting serious injury on our drawing support given to Deuba in the prime minister under Article 76(3) of the economy next year as well. We wish the case against House dissolution. constitution. President also asked parties rep- experienced Deuba luck in achieving In the midst of divergent views resented in the House to stake claim to form political stability and paying some and many leaders still finding Oli the new government under Article 76(5) of the attention to the economy to arrest its conspiratorial, a 10-member task- constitution by 5 pm on May 21,on the rec- deterioration. force formed to reconcile differ- ommendation of the caretaker government led ences was revived and after sev- by Oli who was not prepared to seek another eral rounds of initial inconclusive trust vote as the situation was not different from that existed on meetings, it succeeded in clinching a unity deal, which included May 10. Although political parties and legal experts had serious amongst others, revival of all party committees and structures reservations about the very short time given and legality of the that existed before UML’s merger with MC and that all party move to ask parties to form a government under Article 76(5) at activities and decisions taken after March 7,the day House was a time when Oli had not resigned or lost the trust vote a second reinstated, will be nullified if they were against party unity. This time, Deuba approached office of the President on time with sig- is definitely a positive development implementation of which natures of 149 parliamentarians in his pocket. On arrival, they could be difficult. Indeed, politics in Nepal is very much instable were informed that Oli had also submitted his claim little ear- and in addition to UML, other political parties are also facing lier, showing support of two parties (UML and JSP) consisting destabilizing problems. NC seemed solidly unified in proposing of 153 lawmakers. The two letters sent to the President’s office Deuba to lead the next government but there is every possibili- by Oli and Mahantha Thakur urging the office not to give -va ty that differences related to the FourteenthGeneral Convention lidity to the signatures of the lawmakers of their two parties, could take alarming proportion to convulse the party anytime 26 and 12 respectively of UML and JSP who had supported soon. Further,with co-chairpersons of the JSP (Thakur and Ya- Deuba, provided a pretext for President Bhandari to disapprove dav) expelling each other from the party and Thakur faction hav- both claims. Indeed, May 21 was an eventful day which sawnu- ing supported Oli and Yadav faction backing Deuba, things look merous inter and intra-party meetings held both formally and unmanageable in this party. It is undeniable thatother political
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 8 VIEWPOINT parties have also contributed to the existing fluid political situ- The SC probably may not be happy to be loaded with ation but people cannot just help pointing a finger of accusation many political cases because these bring along lots of hassles towards the ruling party and its leadership for failing to manage such as the ones seen in the recent formation of the constitutional the country and the party even when the government continued bench, whichlooked a bit complicated in the beginning, with di- to enjoy near two-thirds majority in the House for about 3 years. vergent opinions coming not only from the lawyers involved but It is disheartening that numerous writ petitions were filed in the also from Justices whoappeared publicly divided and went on SC, challenging Oli’s controversial style of managing state af- record to express their disgruntlement on the issue. It was good fairs. that the issue subsided with the inclusion of senior most justices A total of 146 members of the dissolved House filed in it.Understandably,PM Oli alsobegan to come down heavily on a petition at the SC, challenging the dissolution and urging the SC in recent days and his supporters have taken to the street the apex court to appoint Deuba as prime minister. President against its latest verdict, probably forgetting that SC,with some Bhandari, a titular head without any discretionary power, is ve- problems of its own making and accusations by see-sawing pol- hemently attacked by the press.People argue that Bhandari and iticians, may not succeed in giving solutions to political prob- Oli worked hand-in-glove to breach the constitution. It is also lems. The ailing economy has also to be saved from sustaining said that Oli’s style of functioning has soured a bit the pleas- irreparable damage. ant relationship that existed between two state In the midst of con- organs. Indeed, the apex court has already stayed troversy about the size and It is undeniable thatother political the implementation of the Citizenship Act Amend- timing of the budget, budget parties have also contributed to the ment Ordinance, issued a day after dissolving the for the new fiscal year 2021\22 existing fluid political situation but House basically to placate Thakur\Mahato faction (2077\78) was unveiled by the people cannot just help pointing a fin- of JSP. Another political blow suffered by Oli was government through an ordi- ger of accusation towards the ruling on June 22 when the SC, in response to a writ pe- nance, meeting the constitu- party and its leadership for failing tition, stayed the induction into government of 20 tional deadline. Contrary to to manage the country and the party ministers, leavinghim with only four ministers. It the urging of many to bring even when the government continued may be interesting to note that Oli had reshuffled a modest budget, the caretak- to enjoy near two-thirds majority in his Cabinet retaining only 4 ministers and inducting er government made public the House for about 3 years. It is dis- 8 ministers and 2 state ministers from jSP on June a huge annual plan with an heartening that numerous writ peti- 10, just two days after the SC issued a show cause outlay of Rs. 1647.57 billion, tions were filed in the SC, challenging notice on theexpansion of June 4 by the caretak- which is 11.73 percent larg- Oli’s controversial style of managing er Prime Minister. Another crippling blow deliv- er than the on-going budget state affairs. ered by the judiciary pertains to an SC verdict that (Rs.1474.64 billion) and is nullified decision of the hugely expanded Central higher by 22.52 percent if Committee of the UML party, renamed as the Tenth the reviewed figure of Rs General Convention Organizing Committee, to sack 4 rebelling 1344.68 is taken into account. With priority accorded to bat- members in Karnali provincial assembly, stating that the body tling the pandemic, revenue collection target (Rs.1024 billion) created had no legal standing. This verdict rejuvenated a bit the is just enough to meet the recurrent expenditure of Rs.1004 bil- struggling rival faction led by Nepal\Khanal and many observers lion- Rs.678.61 billion kept as recurrent expenditure, Rs.386.71 feel that parallels could be drawn between this decision, which billion and Rs.325.74 billion as equalization grant andRs.60.97 has politically weakened Oli, and the early March verdict of SC billion as conditional grant to lower level governments. Funds that nullified unification of the two parties(UML and MC), very under social security head have gone up by 33percent, which uncomfortably placing Prachanda and Nepal, more specifically undoubtedly is not a bad thing to do, provided the government Nepal who found the verdict a bolt from the blue and had to has the capacity to do so. The government also intends to borrow struggle hard to put himself back on track to proceed with the around Rs. 559 billion (Rs. 250 billion from internal source) and continued battle against his formidable rival. Looking at these expects to collect Rs.63.37 billion as grant. Talking of foreign verdicts of the SC made over the last couple of months and the assistance, it is a well-known fact that the portion of grant has associated rise or fall in political influence alternately of the ri- continuously decreased in the last couple ofyears, compared to val groups of UML, one is tempted to imagine the two factions the loan portion, which is a direct result of our very low grant sitting on each end of a see-saw, going up and down as desired utilizationcapacity, about 39 percent in the last couple of years. by the court. The ultimate blow that Oli received was on 12 With declining direct foreign investment, unsatisfactory level of July when the apex court not only reinstated the House, twice capital expenditure (about 60 percent this year) and the budget in about 4 months, but ordered the President’s office to appoint failing to address the problems of medium and small enterprises Deuba prime minister by the evening of 13 July and fixed 18 through specific stimulus packages, the wished growth of 6.5 July deadline for convening the House session. Resurrection of percent is very unlikely to be achieved. Further, the devastating the House was very much expected but directing the concerned Covid-19 and our highly instable politics are certain to continue to appoint Deuba, specifying the time, was a pleasant surprise inflicting serious injury on our economy next year as well. We even to NC\Deuba supporters. Deuba took the oath two hours wish experienced Deuba luck in achieving political stability and later than the stipulated time because of the controversy over the paying some attention to the economy to arrest its deterioration. contents of the appointment letter. Dr. Rawal is a former governor of NRB.
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 9 POLITICS SHER BAHADUR DEUBA Fifth Inning As PM With the verdict of the apex court, Nepali Congress leader Sher Bahadur Deuba has started his fifth inning as the prime minister. However, the question now is: will Deuba secure a majority in the House within 30 days? If Deuba fails to secure the required majority, elections will have to be held within six months
By A CORRESPONDNET
fter taking oath from President Bidhya Devi Bhandari on 13 AJuly, NC leader Deuba has start- ed his fifth innings as the prime minister of Nepal. Following the verdict of the Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court, Deuba has marched towards Sin- ghdurbar replacing three and half years olf K.P. Sharma Oli-led CPN-UML gov- ernment. This is the second time in his life time Deuba became the prime min- ister of a reinstated house. In his first innings, in 1996, the reinstated House of Representatives elected Deuba as the prime minister. After the restoration of House in 1996, Nepal had seen five years of horse trading in politics that led four governments to fall within a short peri- od of time. On July 12, the Supreme al bench led by Chief Justice Cholen- terming its dissolution unconstitutional. Court, in its verdict issued in favor of dra Shumsher Rana issued the ruling However, political pundits did reinstatement of House of Representa- on July 12 stating that President Bidya not expect mandamus to appoint Deuba tives, had also passed an order to appoint Devi Bhandari’s decision to dissolve as the Prime Minister in two days. They Deuba as the prime minister by 5 pm the the House upon the recommendation of describe the decision as being of a polit- following day. This was not the case in Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli was an ical nature. the 1996 verdict. unconstitutional act. Whatever one thinks about it, As Deuba has been sworn in as Reinstating the House of Rep- the Constitutional Bench of Supreme the prime minister, he has to prove his resentatives, the Supreme Court has also Court formed to hear writs against the majority within 30 days. In case he fails issued a writ of mandamus to appoint dissolution of House of Representatives to secure the majority, the house will Nepali Congress (NC) President Deuba has legitimized the opposition claim for be dissolved and there will be a call for as the Prime Minister within two days. Deuba to lead the government. fresh elections within six months. The apex Court has also ordered to call Although it is a bitter decision The writ filed by 146-lawmak- the HoR meeting on July 18. of the court with political implications, er strong opposition alliance was among Along with PM Deuba, Mao- PM Oli has accepted the verdict with the writ petitions that had moved the ist Centre leaders have also joined the reservations on it. apex court demanding the reinstatement government. However, Samajbadi Janta Although the apex court has of the lower house along with the ap- Party has said it will join the government been censuring several of Prime Min- pointment of Nepali Congress President only after its party meeting. ister Oli’s decisions, few expected that Deuba as the Prime Minister for staking the court could accept all the pleas of a claim to the post according to Article Court’s Verdict As it was expected by many Deuba. 76 (5) of the Constitution. leaders of opposition, the Supreme Court By nullifying Citizenship A five-member constitution- issued an order to reinstate the House Amendment Ordinance, terming the
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 10 POLITICS expansion of cabinet unconstitutional removed unceremoniously by a letter of judiciary. We, the opposition alliance, and banning the export of bolts and con- secretary of Judicial Council. Similarly, are holding a meeting later and will is- cretes to India, the Supreme Court had acting chief justice Dipak Raj Joshi was sue an extended statement then,” said given ample suggestions to show where removed following a hearing committee Sher Bahadur Deuba, President, Nepali it was heading. vote against him. Joshi even denied the Congress. Quietly accepting the court bench to take part as a senior judge. “The Supreme Court’s deci- verdict, PM K.P. Sharma Oli has tried If the fresh reaction of cadres sion is an important historical event in to avoid controversy now. However, this of the National Youth Force who gath- itself. This is a victory not only of the decision is likely to push PM Oli to ex- ered in Maitighar Mandala, chanting opposition alliance, but of the coun- treme front in the coming days. This will slogans against the recently passed ver- try and the people. Supreme Court, by also force politicians to appoint more dict that goes against Oli’s continuity means of this verdict, has taken the na- henchmen in the court for politicization in power, is an indication, the Supreme tion and constitution’s prestige to a new of judiciary. Court and judges will have to face a new high,” said Pushpa Kamal Dahal, Chair, Following the verdict, Sher political ire. CPN (Maoist Centre). Bahadur Tamang, secretary of CPN- “We will not accept all the or- “This verdict has fulfilled four UML party office, informed that his ders passed by the Supreme Court, be- important tasks- it has clarified several party has reservation over the verdict ware!” the demonstrators chanted. Oli’s confusing elements of the Constitution; although it had accepted it. confidant and the youth wing leader Ma- it has limited possible authoritarian in- Similarly, leader Subash hesh Basnet was present at the protests, tentions of Prime Minister(s) and said Chandra Nembang said that they will re- too. that all state bodies should remain with- spect the verdict of the court. “Although Basnet claimed that the court’s in their limits; revived Constitution and the SC’s verdict was unexpected, the decision was unfair as it is not the judi- parliament; and, has safeguarded the party would respect the judiciary and ciary but the president’s prerogative to Constitution and Parliament, yet again, welcome the verdict,” said leader Sher appoint the Prime Minister, and as such which has enhanced the roles and pres- BahadurTamang. the order is unacceptable. The Supreme tige of the Court,” said Madhav Kumar Cadre In the Street Court’s decision has received mixed re- Nepal, Senior Leader, CPN-UML. However, Prime Minister Oli’s views from all sections of the society. Rebel MPs Yogesh Bhattarai cadres have expressed that their party This is the second time that and Ram Kumari Jhankri also toed with will take a certain legal and political the Apex Court has decided in favor of Nepal. “I respect and welcome the Con- stitutional Bench’s order to re- instate the House of Represent- atives. I further urge all leaders and cadres of the UML to main- tain peace and have patience in a bid to save the party’s unity,” said Bhattarai. “The judiciary has added stars to its prestige with the decision. I thank the judi- ciary, members of the constitu- tional bench, advocates, politi- cal leadership, media and civil society that raised their voice against the unconstitutional step,” said Jhankri. However, Oli sup- course. In the revived house, Oli’s sup- reinstatement of House during PM Oli’s porters interpreted the verdict different- porters can take any decision to criticize tenure. ly. “The Supreme Court’s decision has the justice. Mixed Reactions raised a huge question in terms of justice Although the leaders have not As the Supreme Court passed a imparted, on a global scale. Despite that, spoken anything about it, the cadres are verdict, overturning the decisions, there we will accept the court’s verdict,” said demanding registering an impeachment is a mixed reaction. Petitioners hailed Subas Nembang, former chair of Con- motion against selected judges. If this the verdict as historic. However, defend- stituent Assembly, CPN-UML idea is moved forward, it will likely in- ers termed the decision as a blunder. “People should understand vite major constitutional upheavals. “With its verdict, the Supreme that today’s decision has ignited anoth- Since 2006, Nepal’s court has Court has single-handedly saved con- er episode of political instability in the seen several upheavals. Three years ago, stitution and revived rule of law. It has country. Those that are party to this ac- chief justice Gopal Prasad Parajuli was reinstated people’s faith in independent tion will have to stand in court of histo-
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 11 UML POLITICS Divided We Stand They held several meetings and inked a deal. However, UML has still a long way to go before forging unity By A CORRESPONDNET
our parties Nepali Congress, Maoist Center, Samajbadi FJanta Party and Janmorcha are debating over power sharing as CPN-UML is heading towards uni- fying its divided house. Although outgoing Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who holds the key in the rank and file of the party, has not opened his card yet about the likely scenario, rebel leader Madhav Kumar Nepal has already announced that he will be no longer with the new ruling al- do on the vote of confidence motion in agreed to put differences aside, on paper, liance, expressing his reconciliatory tones. the HoR. Oli’s preference is election and and move towards reconciliation for now, At the all-party meeting, UML he wants to foil this motion and hold the in what can be termed a breakthrough deal. leader Madhav Nepal shared that as the elections within six months. However, “The taskforce agreed to resur- basic aims concerning reinstatement of Madhav Nepal-led faction has a different rect the party as it was on May 16, 2018, House and clarification on various confus- approach. They want to vote for the gov- as per the court decision, deciding the ing articles of the constitution have been ernment and the parliament to complete number of party Central Committee mem- achieved, he would step back from the the tenure. bers and on the management of the former alliance and work towards UML reconcil- Disputes had surfaced in the Maoist leaders, who have joined the UML iation. CPN-UML as Oli dissolved the House of and on the court issue,” Bista said. Nepal was later quoted as saying Representatives on May 23 despite the for- Senior leaders Subash Nembang that as the primary issue has been resolved mation of a 10-member taskforce on May and Bhim Rawal led the taskforce teams, and as democracy has prevailed, he would 16 on the basis of consensus of CPN-UML which comprises Bishnu Paudel, Pradeep now like to focus his energies entirely on Chairman Oli and senior leader Nepal. Kumar Gyawali, Shankar Pokharel and reuniting the party. After days of reunion-centered Bishnu Rimal from party chairman Oli’s CPN-UML leader Nepal’s state- dialogues, the two rival factions of the side and Ganshyam Bhusal, Gokarna Bis- ment has indicated that he will now return ruling CPN-UML have finally reached a ta, Surendra Pandey and Raghuji Panta to his own party as his group achieved the consensus on ‘agreeing to agree’. from the side of senior leader Nepal. aim of pulling down the Oli-led govern- The taskforce formed to resolve “The meeting held between par- ment. existing issues between the two sides has ty Chairman KP Sharma Oli and senior He expressed hope that his part- struck a 10-point deal. The two sides have leader Madhav Kumar Nepal has increased ners would understand his predicament decided to resolve all existing differences hopes that the intra-party rift would finally and also advised Deuba to be as inclusive and deal with issues internally for now. come to an end,” said leader Pandey. as he can be while forming the govern- A 14-hour long meeting of lead- The taskforce members agreed ment, and to include UML in the discus- ers representing the dissident sides facili- that all party committees and structures sions, too. tated the possible coming together of party that existed before the CPN-UML’s merg- A Ten-point Agreement chair Oli and senior UML figure Nepal, er with the CPN-MC in 2018 would be Meeting several rounds with who have been at loggerheads with each revived. Oli and forging an agreement, Nepal-led other for months. Despite the ten point agreement, faction has shown that they are willing to Leaders Subash Nembang, the factional feud evolved in the UML af- reconcile in the party. Bishnu Paudel, Pradeep Gyawali, Shankar ter Oli dissolved House of Representatives Following the fall of govern- Pokhrel and Bishnu Rimal have been is yet to die. Although both the factions are ment and formation of new government, initiating talks on Oli’s behalf with Ne- moving very carefully, their real test will unity matters of CPN-UML will be likely pal-Khanal faction leaders including Bhim depend on how they agree on voting on to intensify. Rawal, Ghanashyam Bhusal, Surendra the confidence motion over Deuba- gov They have to decide what to Pandey, Gokarna Bista and Raghuji Panta. ernment. However, the two sides have
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 12 NEPAL-INDIA RAILWAY Greater Access To Services Nepal and India sign an LoE on Nepal-India Rail Service Agreement
By A CORRESPONDNET
ith a single agreement in operators which includes public and The liberalization will par- using the Indian railway Wto ferry goods between Nepal and India, and for Nepal, with other countries, some hassles used to be there. To make things easier, India has agreed to provide more options to Nepal. In this context, Nepal and In- dia have signed a Letter of Exchange (LoE) on the India-Nepal Rail Servic- es Agreement (RSA) 2004. A virtual ceremony was held on 9 July 2021 to exchange Notes Verbales and signed copies of the LoE, between the two governments. This agreement will help Ne- pal’s exporters and importers to ferry goods in much cheaper transport costs. This means Nepalese consumers will get the goods for a cheaper price. From the Indian side, the ceremony was led by Sanjay Kumar Mohanty, Member of Operations and Business Development, Ministry of private container trains operators, au- ticularly reduce transportation costs Railways. From the Nepalese side, it tomobile freight train operators, spe- for automobiles and certain other was led by Dinesh Bhattarai, Secre- cial freight train operators or any other products whose carriage takes place in tary, Ministry of Commerce, Industry operator authorized by Indian Rail- special wagons. Wagons owned by Ne- and Supplies. ways will be able to utilize the Indian pal Railway Company will also be au- According to a press release railway network to carry Nepal’s con- thorized to carry Nepal-bound freight issued by the Embassy of India in Kath- tainer and other freight – both bilat- (inbound and outbound on Kolkata/ mandu, the ceremony was conducted eral between India and Nepal or third Haldia to Biratnagar/Birgunj routes) in presence of Ambassador of India country from Indian ports to Nepal. over the Indian Railways network as to Nepal Vinay Mohan Kwatra, Am- This liberalization will allow per IR standards and procedures. bassador of Nepal to India Nilamber market forces to come up in the rail The LoE also updates sev- Acharya, Joint Secretary (North), freight segment in Nepal, and is likely eral other portions of the India-Nepal Ministry of External Affairs of India, to increase efficiency and cost-com- RSA and brings those in line with lat- Anurag Srivastava and Joint Secretary petitiveness, eventually benefiting est operational and infrastructure sta- (South Asia), Ministry of Foreign Af- Nepalese traders, transporters and the tus of Indian and Nepalese Railways. fairs of Nepal, Tirtha Raj Wagle. Also consumer. It therefore marks another milestone present were representatives from the Further, after this LoE, all in India’s efforts to enhance regional two Embassies and concerned Minis- kinds of cargoes in all categories of connectivity under the “Neighborhood tries of both the Governments. wagons that can carry freight on Indi- First” policy. With the entering into force an Railways network within India can of the LoE, all authorized cargo train also carry freight to and from Nepal.
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 13 OPINION Mobilizing Resources For The University Of Nepal
The Government of Nepal has finally constituted a open areas, playgrounds and garbage dump sites. Sec- Board to take responsibility for the development of in- ondly, the Board will have to finalize academic -pro frastructure of the proposed University of Nepal (UoN), grammesand possible schools or departments that will as per the University ofNepal Infrastructure Develop- be launchedin the initial years of the university, priority ment Preparation Board Constitution Order, issued research areas, student admissionpolicy and necessary by theCouncil of Ministers on April 2, 2021. The human resources. 15-member Board constitutes ofacademics and profes- BY: DR BIPIN ADHIKARI Thirdly, and as a major intervention, the sionals, including four ex-officio members from different levels of Board will have to finalize cooperation with international academ- government, who were active in pursuing such a public university ic institutions and faculties to ensure quality education in Nepal. with their initiationand support. This will require collaborations with international academic insti- With the constitution of the Board, on 14th June, the tutions, including through student and teacher exchange programs, Government has approvedthe opportunity to the academics and short- or long-term visitations of foreign teachers and collabora- professionals who had been calling for the establishment of a tions between research institutions. Fourthly, while the land to be university at Gaindakot, Nawalparasi for the last four yearswith given by the government for the use of the university has already their own initiative. Despite the existence of many universities in been identified, the Board will have to work with the government the country, these academics and professionals aimed to create a to fix its boundaries and establish the details of users’ rights of high-quality,autonomous liberal arts university– something that the university over the land as quickly as possible. Finally, the many people believe has become absolutely necessary to rectify Board must assist the government to pass aUniversity of Nepal existing gaps and shortcomings in the higher education of Nepal. Act through the Parliament by June 2023 to transform the present As a liberal arts university,the proposed University of Board into a statutory university with all paraphernalia of a mod- Nepal’sthe education and academic efforts will be geared towards ern academic institution. exploring the truth, in-depth study of the interdependent relation- As such, in addition to the specific tasks, duties and ship between the individual, society and nature, creation of new powers mentioned elsewhere in theConstitution Order, Section 6 knowledge and practice of multidisciplinary genres to meet the states the general tasks of the Board as follows: present and future challenges of the country and the world and a) to buy or coordinate with the Government of Nepal to acquire seizing opportunities in this regard.This liberal arts education will land for the purpose of building physical infrastructures nec- help creating a group of citizens and leaders who are able to com- essary to run a university such as administrative offices, class pete globally, lead efficiently in the positive transformation of our rooms, laboratories, student hostels or dormitories, residential society and nation, carry social responsibility and be prudent, effi- facilities for the faculty and the staffs, library, guest house, open cient, loyal, creative, innovative, enterprising and critically-mind- spaces, play grounds, waste/sewerage management system; ed. b) to develop a detailed project plan report for the purpose of phys- This education will provide an international standard of ical and academic infrastructure required for the University; higher education in humanities, arts, social science, science, tech- c) to build the physical and institutional infrastructure of the Uni- nology, management, and other departmental fields for the - pur versity; pose of achieving all-round development and prosperity for Nepal. d) to completethe environmental impact assessment as per the ex- These qualities are absolute necessity in Nepal, which is yet to isting law while building the infrastructure as mentioned in (c); employ liberal arts in the nation-building process.Moreover, the e) to prepare the list of the departments, faculty or schools that University looks to collaborate with leaders who possesses integ- are considered necessary for running the courses or conducting rity, excellence, and passion to establish its foundations in various research in the University; different fields. Politics and political affiliation will not sway the f) to enlist the required equipment and prepare the academic cur- University’s mission, and a capable and passionate individual will ricular framework that will eventually have to be approved by find a place at the University should they wish to help establish its the concerned body of the University; components. g) to formulate the policy for the recruitment of students and fac- The University’s Board Constitution Order enables the ulty; Board to work and create infrastructure in five major areas for the h) to prepare and submit to the Government of Nepal a draft bill next two years. Firstly, the Board will have to prepare a master required for the establishment of the (proposed) universityand plan of the university complex and its structure at Gaindakot,build provide needed input and advices to the Government in this offices required for running a university, laboratories, study rooms, matter; dormitories, teachers and staff residence, libraries, information i) to prepare and approve the annual plan, program and budget of technology or research center buildings, guest houses, workshops, the Board;
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 14 OPINION j) to consult and take suggestions and help from Provincial Gov- rity of higher education in Nepal. At the University of Nepal, the ernment, local municipality, elected political representatives, Board is expected to be committed to upholding the autonomy of local civil society/community and other stakeholders in the mat- the institution, regardless of who the donors, whether governmen- ters related to the development of the University; tal or otherwise, are. The Board is expected to do so by ensur- k) to conduct seminars, workshops and talk programs in the area ing (1) transparency and accountability of all financial and other of establishment and running of the university (including the workings of the University throughout the fundraising process and academic programs) as well as academic development and in- (2) participation of relevant and affected stakeholders in the de- novation; and cision-making process. These principles will definitely guide the l) to undertake and/or perform any other relevant activities that are Board in retainingpublic trust in both the leaders as well as the necessary for the establishment of the University. academic integrity of the institution. These general tasks demonstrate that the Board will The need to develop alternative strategies for fund-rais- have a very challenging two-year term. Creating an institution ing ineducation has become an issue that is now receiving wide- from ground up and standardizing it within two years is certain- spreadattention throughout the world of education.The Chairper- ly a challenging work for the Board and its members. Behind the son of the Board and its members are working pro bono for the Board, there is a pool of more than one hundred national and in- public cause and will not claim any compensation for their work. ternational experts who have teamed up as promoters of the lib- The Constitution Order is very clear about it. Rather, many of the eral arts university and are enthusiastic to contribute. However, promoters,including Board members,are interested as first-row the challenge does not become minimized because of this.While individuals in donating whatever is possible in their capacity to the proposed UoN is a public univer- the new initiative. AUniversity can- sity and budgetary support is expect- not expect third partiesto invest un- ed from the Governments at all levels, til those who areclosest to it lead by including the Gaindakot Municipality, example.This act will showcase the the level of their support is yet to be character of the new university and seen. When Finance Minister Bishnu give it a distinct standing in the com- Prasad Paudel presented the annual ity of Nepal’s universities and institu- budget on 29th May, he indicated very tions of higher learning. clearly that the Government of Ne- A university development pal is going to support the UoN ini- plan in the form of a strategic plan- tiative as a policy and programme of ning is one of the quickest tasks the the Government. The Government of Board will have to complete. This Gandaki Province, where the Univer- development plan will specify the sity is to be established, has also as- amount of funding required for the sured that it will support the initiative next few years to achieve the intend- of the academics and professionals. ed development in academics and Although the Gaindakot Municipality, which has been physical infrastructural developments. An exact scenario will ena- supporting the initiative from the very beginning, is not a reve- ble the Board to appeal to Nepalese and internationalcommunities nue-rich municipality, it has assured the promotors of its yearly for crowdfunding.It may come as a surprise to many Nepalese that budgetary contribution. There is enough indication that the Gain- privategenerosity is being called on even to establish a university. dakot Municipality, with its commitment to develop as a knowl- Such a tradition existed in Nepal until a few decades before but edge city, will continue to support the University with everything has fizzled out once the government began stepping forward with that local resources will permit. The presence of four ex-officio public fund committal. members in this Board representing the Federal Government The need to reach out to the members of the Nepalese (Ministries of Finance and Education), the Provincial Government business sector, professionals, academicians and others for the (Gandaki) and the Local Government (Gaindakot Municipality) public good and the betterment of university education is going to will certainly add value to this approach. They can be the bridge be an almostuniquely distinctive trait of the University of Nepal. for the Board to reach the respective governments for their support International donors will also be mobilized for this purpose. Do- and assistance. Even with this combined strength, the ambition that nors provide support to meet their objectives, not simply to give the Board has set for itself requires an enormous investment,in- money away. This requires an adequate level of understanding be- cluding raising funds from all potential non-governmental sources. tween the donors and the institution, and their involvement sought Aside from the funding allocated to the establishment in the planning and policy exercises as observers or development of the University through the local, provincial and federal gov- partners. However, as mentioned previously, the University of Ne- ernments, the Board is further expected toseek opportunities for pal will not compromise its objectives and mission in service of a alternative sources of funding for its massive commitment.The donor’s agenda, and will work to collaborate with partners with foremost issue to confront when it comes to finances is ensuring whom the University aligns in terms of values. the autonomy of this institution. Various universities of Nepal have In allthese instances, the higher the organizational integ- come under fire due to the sway of internal politics and influence rity of the Boardand the university it will be transformed into, the as well as the will of powerful political actors. These factors have more likely it is that the fund-raising outcomes will besuccessful. worked to erode the public’s trust as well as the academic integ- There is no option for the failure in this move.
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 15 ISRAEL SUPPORT From A Friend Indeed Providing 58 ventilators, Israel has shown how it has accorded high priority to Nepal
By A CORRESPONDENT s it is said a friend in need is a friend The consignment was received by respective hospitals to ensure operation of indeed. Since the establishment of the representative of the Ministry of Health those ventilators,” said Dr. Poudel. Abilateral relations, the State of Israel and Population at the airport. Hanan Goder, Following the increase in COV- has been showing its support and backing to Ambassador of Israel to Nepal, and Harish- ID-19 cases after the relaxation of prohibito- Nepal at times of crisis. chandra Ghimire, Joint Secretary of Ministry ry order in various districts across the nation, From economic to humanitarian of Foreign Affairs, were also present on the the government is working in full swing to fronts, Israel’s support to Nepal has been im- occasion. ensure availability of ventilators. mense. Under learn and earn program, Israel Ventilator Support Dr. Poudel, spokesperson at the has been supporting 500 Nepali students, in- According to the MoHP, 200 ven- Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP), viting them to learn about hi-tech agriculture tilators were donated to the nation by various said, “As the demand for ventilators has in- and earn money. Selected through Sanakisan agencies during the pandemic. Of them, 46 creased from the past few days, the ministry Bittiya Sanstha Limited, over 4000 Nepalese were donated by Germany, 40 by the Embas- has managed area-based supply of ventila- young students have already benefited from sy of Switzerland, 20 by T-Pride PTE Lim- tors and increased human resources to facili- this 10-month long program. ited, 15 by the Spanish government, 14 by tate easy operation of the ventilators.” Similarly, Israel has also been France, five by Tibet of China, and one set “Prior to this, even though venti- providing humanitarian support whenev- each by Standard Chartered Bank and One lators were available in a few hospitals, they er Nepal is in desperate needs. Just after a Heart World-Wide. could not come into operation due to the lack major earthquake which rocked Nepal in “Apart from 180 ventilators to be of human resources,” he added. 2015, Israel had sent a special aircraft with a procured this year, currently there are 1,233 According to Dr. Poudel, current- makeshift hospital to treat the victims of the ventilator sets in Nepal including those re- ly there are 1,233 ventilators nationwide. earthquake. ceived as donations,” the MoHP informed. The government had added 600 ventilators Largest Number of Ventilators “The ministry is working round last year itself. Israel has become the first “Considering that the country to donate the largest number number of ventilators they might of ventilators to Nepal this year. Isra- not be enough for the treatment of el handed over 58 ventilators to Ne- COVID-19 patients if the cases spike pal on amid a recent function. again, the MoHP is underway to pro- After experiencing a short- cure 180 more ventilators,” informed age of ventilators, the government Dr. Poudel. had requested various donor agencies He added that the minis- to provide ventilators when the daily try was working by its entire means infection rate of COVID-19 was at a to provide quality treatment to the vi- peak during the second wave. rus-infected patients in time. “The Government of Ne- “Currently, we are collecting pal expresses its gratitude to the Gov- data from hospitals across the nation to ernment and friendly people of the State of the clock to control the spread of the virus distribute the ventilators accordingly,” he added. Israel as well as the Nepali community in and overcome unavailability of hospital According to the MoHP, Gandaki Israel for their generous support of essential beds, ICUs and ventilators for the treatment Province has 542 sets of ventilators, which is medical items to Nepal at this time of need,” of infected patients,” said Dr. Krishna Pras- the highest of all provinces. There are a total said a statement issued by Ministry of For- ad Poudel, spokesperson at the Ministry of of 201 ventilators in government, communi- eign Affairs. Health and Population (MoHP). ty, private hospitals, and medical colleges. A special flight of Nepal Airlines “Thus, preparations are being Ventilators in Kathmandu Valley brought from Israel a consignment of medi- made to frame a directive to strengthen man- As informed by the Health Min- cal support consisting of medical equipment agerial and supply side of ventilators and hu- istry, there are 31 ventilators in TU Teaching and supplies including ventilators, oxygen man resources.” Hospital, 20 in Nepal Police Hospital, 25 in concentrators, masks, PPEs and coverall, According to Dr. Poudel, the ven- Kathmandu Medical College, 22 in Sukraraj provided by the Government and people of tilators available at district hospitals were not Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital; the State of Israel as well as the Nepali com- used due to the absence of competent techni- nine in Armed Police Force (APF) Hospi- munity living in Israel to support the ongoing cians. “Thus, we are making efforts to frame tal, eight in Birendra Sainik Hospital, 10 in fight against COVID-19 in Nepal. plans to employ health professionals in the Bir Hospital, 12 in Manmohan Hospital and eight are in Dhulikhel Hospital. NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 16 EU Delegation Refutes News
By A CORRESPONDENT
As a leading development part- fora on the issues of strategic significance and security, the sustainable development of the ner of Nepal, the Delegation of the European common interest, including global peace and Earth, solidarity and mutual respect among Union to Nepal has been supporting Nepal’s order, stability, sustainable development, cli- peoples, free and fair trade, eradication of pov- social and development sector to improve the mate change, etc. erty, as well as the strict observance and the livelihood of the people living in different The EU strictly provides financial development of international law, including parts of the country. support to Nepal through the government respect for the principles of the United Nations EU’s support to education, health Charter and the international law. and environment has brought about visible Adhering to the prin- changes. Its social inclusion programs have ciples of multilateralism, the EU helped uplift tens of thousands of poor and abides by its international commit- marginalized communities. ments including the Paris and Accra At a time when Nepal faced huge declarations, Busan platform of ac- shortages of medical equipment, EU came tion in terms of supporting all devel- out with the largest package of support, oping nations. The EU shares with mobilising its member states. Nepal has re- Nepal their common adherence to ceived all the necessary emergency medical the Universal Declaration of Human equipment as part of the support. Rights, based on the principle that Even in that context, according all human beings are born free and to a press release of EU, the attention of the equal in dignity and rights without Delegation has been drawn to a factually any kind of distinction . incorrect news item that can misinform the The European Union in people and tarnish its image. Nepal supports combating against “EU engagement in Nepal is treasury, multilateral agencies and Civil Socie- discrimination, promoting participation and openly guided by national priorities, its fun- ty Organisations operational in Nepal through inclusive development process and develop- damental values, adherence to the universal a transparent and competitive process. All the ment benefits shared by all on equitable and principles of human rights, transparency and programmes outlined for the EU-Nepal coop- sustainable manner. In doing so, the Europe- accountability,” the press release said. eration adhere to ‘Leaving No One Behind’, an Union has been consistently committed to “The attention of the Delegation of the overarching principle of the Sustainable going along with its Nepalese partners and the European Union to Nepal has been drawn Development Goals, as well as realising the friends in the implementation of the Constitu- towards a factually incorrect news item head- domestic policy provisions and the interna- tion of Nepal, that expresses its determination lined ‘EU gives NPR 15 million to Rupa Su- tional commitments of Nepal. to create a multi-caste, multi-lingual and mul- nar to Incite Ethnic Tensions in Nepal.’” The EU is founded on the values of ti-cultural society, by ending discriminations The EU Delegation to Nepal stands respect for human dignity, freedom, democ- related to class, caste, region, language, reli- ready to provide further information on EU’s racy, equality, the rule of law and respect for gion and gender, including all forms of racial activities and its partnership with Nepal, the human rights, including the rights of persons untouchability, . statement read. belonging to minorities, as well as peace and The EU has been working together “Our mandate in Nepal focuses on well-being of its peoples. These values are with the National Human Rights Commission a development partnership aiming at having a common to its Member States in a society in and around 300 Civil Society Organizations common understanding on issues of mutual which pluralism, non-discrimination, toler- (CSOs) for the promotion of the rights and concern and thereby working together to help ance, justice, solidarity and equality between protection of women and child rights, rights of Nepal achieve the Sustainable Development women and men prevail. They are enshrined the elderly and the marginalized communities Goals (SDGs) and graduate from LDC sta- in the fundamental treaty of Lisbon. under a rights based approach. tus by 2026,” said EU Ambassador to Nepal, Consequently, in its relations with In general, the EU has prioritized Nona Deprez. the wider world, the Union upholds the prin- three key areas for cooperation—Green The European Union (EU) has ciples which have guided its own creation, de- Growth and Green Recovery, Human Capital established a strong relationship with Nepal velopment and enlargement, and promotes its Development and Good Governance. Adher- since 1975 as a trusted partner and reliable values, such as democracy, the rule of law, the ence and respect of human rights as a driver friend. This relationship is not limited to ex- universality and indivisibility of human rights for peace, stability and development, is a cross tending financial support but also aims to and fundamental freedoms, respect for human cutting issue for all these interventions, as well collaborate jointly in different international dignity. The EU also contributes to peace, their inclusiveness.
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 17 ENVIRONMENT
Impact Of Project Outcomes
The National Adaptation Programme of Action different levels - regional and international and (NAPA), approved by the Government in Septem- sometimes person or institution conceptualising ber 2010, opened avenues to implement climate or developing project document may not know change adaptation projects in Nepal to address BY: BATU UPRETY the state of proposal in countries like ours. Sev- most urgent and immediate needs of the climate eral institutions, if authorised from the national vulnerable communities and natural resources. ‘Stand- government, exist at the national, regional and internation- alone’ approach of implementation, non-integration into al levels to prepare, submit, and negotiate the project, and planning process, and target monitoring indicate positive channelize the financial resources. Concerns, perceptions, outcomes with little effectiveness and replication potentials needs, and priorities might affect the original concept of the beyond the project duration. Issues are frequently raised development proposal. whether these projects are producing good results and have Nepal accessed over US$ 80 million for Pilot Pro- addressed the identified and most prioritised problems and gramme for Climate Resilience (PPCR) from the World challenges effectively. Bank operated Climate Investment Fund. A group of ‘Kath- Recalling the past, project development requires mandu-based elites’ made efforts to ‘blame PPCR as the several brains to address identified, perceived and - pri loan project’ and sounded much saying ‘no loan to climate oritised challenges and attain better results to respond change’. In my recall, only one person, engaged in ener- the needs of needy, marginalised, economically poor and gy and climate change activities, urged to access this fund vulnerable communities. Project development undergoes and best utilise to address climate change impacts. This ‘no several steps. A climate change adaptation and resilience loan to climate change’ issue was also raised in the then project is considered and recalled here to better understand parliament, and the then Secretaries of the Ministries of Fi- project development and outcomes of implementation. nance and Environment professionally briefed the project Once problems and challenges are realised at to the Parliamentary Committee on the Environment. The different levels, the first step is to link with national and then Minister for Finance Bharat Mohan Adhikary was also local needs, priorities, and commitments. This provides a briefed about the possible outcomes of this funding and the basis to conceptualise problem-solving project or activity Minister approved to access this Fund. Many of the ‘2010 to respond to challenges and find appropriate resource or elites’ who opposed to access it contributed a lot in imple- people-centric ways to address the problem. Conceptualis- menting climate change projects funded under this Fund. ation leads to project formulation, preparation of a project Funding for one of the components of the project was also document, and negotiation at different levels with planners, used to construct the new building of the Department of budget allocators and decision-makers within country or Hydrology and Meteorology. with development partner or funding agencies for finan- The then Ministry of Environment implemented cial support. Priorities of the sector agencies, planning, and a component on mainstreaming climate risk management decision-making bodies might differ and project developer in development and funding was channelled through the faces difficulties to convince, primarily the financing insti- Asian Development Bank. The original concept of develop- tution, for funding at national, local or international levels. ing human resources, generating knowledge, and integrat- National development proposals that seek fund- ing climate risks into sector-specific policies, programmes ing from bilateral or multi-lateral sources are reviewed at and facilitative instruments was approached. After the hu-
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 18 ENVIRONMENT man resources and necessary country instru- ments (policies, standards/norms, guidelines and manuals etc) are in place, original idea was to de- velop multi-mil- lion dollars pro- jects to address climate change impacts in key economic and social sectors climate-resilient was not materi- alised. This USD 7 million project developed 6 con- cepts for less than USD 3 million (https://www. spotlight nepal. com/2016/12/16/ cli- mate-change-op- ment and adverse impacts mitigation measures), environ- erationalizing-concept/). mental monitoring and auditing in the project cycle or the There might be several reasons for non-achieve- detail design of the project leaves the proponent multiple ment of the project outcomes as conceptualised and opportunities to benefit from this predictive tool. Some of planned. Few reasons might be: (i) those involved in de- the reasons might be: (i) environmental assessment is con- veloping a concept and project document were either trans- ducted as a ‘stand-alone’ study to get environmental clear- ferred or sidelined or retired or were not in scene; (ii) those ance to implement the project; (ii) many proponents are engaged in implementing the project did not understand the unaware of the benefits of EA tool; (iii) some proponents concept and spirit of the project document; (iii) implement- might not know what is written in the approved EA report, ing agency did not want or try to discuss for better under- what and how to implement; (iv) competent authorities do standing (concept and project outcomes); (iv) ‘close-door’ not allocate necessary funding for, or are unaware of the approach was followed during project implementation; and benefits of, environmental monitoring and auditing or con- (v) technical matters were rather addressed non-technically sider their role to provide ‘environmental clearance’; (v) and/or leading institutions or person overlooked important competent authorities respond or take actions only in case elements as well. This might be one of the reasons for not of any complain registered; (vi) EA report preparers rather having project outcomes effective and replicable. Termina- believe in ‘influencing decision-making process’ for- ap tion of the project leads to forget the outcomes. Similar ac- proval than making realistic and implementable report; and tivities are repeated in similar types of projects. This leads (vii) competent authorities enjoy and express willingness to again ‘starting point’. for being ‘development-friendly’ by approving EA report Similar situation exist in implementing approved of ‘any quality’ such as the EIA report of Nijgadh Interna- project-level environmental assessment (EA - Initial En- tional Airport. vironmental Examination or Environmental Impact As- If situation continues, expected desired long-term sessment) reports. EA is, in many cases, carried out in- outcomes as conceptualised or designed or negotiated or dependently without functional coordination with the approved will not be achieved. feasibility study and project design teams. Non-integration Battu is an former Joint-Secretary (Technical) and Chief of of the environment protection measures (benefit enhance- Climate Change Management Division, then Ministry of Environment, E-mail: [email protected]
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 19 COVERSTORY
COVID-19 VACCINATION Back On Track
With the arrival of a million dozens of Chinese vaccine and following the U.S decision to provide 1.5 million J&J single dose vaccine, Nepal’s vaccination campaign seems to be re- turning to its track. Although Nepal’s 1.4 million elderly people, who have received the first dose of Covieshield, are waiting for the second dose, the new vaccines will help accelerate the pace of vaccination
By KESHAB POUDEL
ith the announcement of the administration’s pledge to share an in- has been providing technical and ma- United States of America itial batch of 80 million US-made vac- terial support. Wto send 1.5 million doses cines globally. Besides, the United States of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 Since the last seven decades, has been providing emergency health vaccine to Nepal, the common people, the United States has been part of es- and other support from time to time. who have been waiting for vaccina- tablishment and expansion of health The current announcement is also a tion, have heaved a sigh of relief. system in Nepal. Beginning from part of continual support of the US Unlike other vaccines, J &J Malaria eradication to expansion of government to Nepal. vaccine is a single dose vaccine to community based health system, mo- “We’re leading the world in cover one and half million population. bilizing Female Community Health a global vaccine strategy because it’s The shipments are part of the Biden Volunters (FCHV), the United States the right thing to do,” news agencies
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 20 quoted a White House official as say- pandemic. ship between the two countries. ing, “It’s the right thing morally, the Receiving the support at a Deputy Prime Minister and right thing from a global public health brief ceremony held at the Prime Min- Minister for Finance Bishnu Prasad perspective and right for our collective ister’s Official Residence, Prime Min- Paudel, Minister for Health and Pop- security and well-being.” The official ister K P Sharma Oli conveyed sincere ulation Krishna Gopal Shrestha and also said that scientific teams and legal gratitude of the Government and peo- senior officials of the Government and and regulatory authorities would work ple of Nepal to the Government and the UN agencies were present on the together to ensure prompt delivery of People of the United States for provid- occasion. safe and effective vaccines to Nepal. ing the generous support of vaccines. The single-dose Johnson With this announcement of ThePrime Minister also acknowledged & Johnson vaccines were airlifted to the United States, Nepal’s government with thanks the cooperation received Kathmandu by a chartered flight this authorities have also heaved a sigh of from COVAX and its partner institu- morning. Minister Shrestha and Am- relief. At a time when 4 million dos- tions. bassador Berry were present at the es of Vero Cell vaccines purchased by “The US handed over today Tribhuvan International Airportto re- Nepal from China have already started more than 15,34,850 doses of J&J ceive the consignment. to arrive, the new vaccines will help vaccines to help Nepal fight against It may be recalled that Pres- Nepal to accelerate the drive. #COVID19. I express sincere grati- ident Mrs. Bidya Devi Bhandari and U.S Handed Over 1.5m tude to @POTUS, the Gov and people President of the United States Joe Bid- Doses Of Single-Shot J&J Vaccines of the US for this generous coopera- en had earlier exchanged communica- To Nepal. tion and solidarity,” tweets PM Oli tions on Nepal-US cooperation in the The United States of America Speaking on the occasion, context of the COVID-19 pandemic, has provided assistance of 1,534,850 Randy Berry, the Ambassador of the including the vaccine support. doses of COVID-19 vaccines to Nepal United States to Nepal, said that the A flight ferrying the - sin through COVAX. This will comple- vaccine support was the gift from the gle-shot vaccine vials provided by ment Nepal’s vaccination drive amid American people to the friendly Nepa- United States government to Nepal the second wave of the COVID-19 lis, reflecting the longstanding friend- landed in the Tribhuvan International
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 21 COVERSTORY Airport Monday morning, as per the Uncertainty for Elderly Although Nepal started its Ministry of Health and Population. Despite the efforts made by vaccination drive, with generous sup- “Today we’re giving Nepal Nepal through various channels, it is port from Indian government, given enough #JNJ COVID19 vaccines via yet to be able to provide the second the current global vaccine scarcity, it #COVAX to fully vaccinate 1.5 mil- dose of vaccine to over 1.4 million is uncertain whether they will get it lion people. I’m proud that the U.S. people who had the first Covieshield or not. Under an interim order of the is the largest single-country donor of vaccines. Supreme Court of India, the Indian #COVID19 assistance to Nepal. This They had received the first government has completely banned gift, on behalf of the American people, dose of the Covieshield vaccine al- the export of the Covieshield vaccine. has the singular goal of saving lives,” most 5 months ago. These 1.4 million Nepal had started vaccination to elder- tweets U.S. Ambassador Randy Berry. people above 65 years are waiting for ly people in March hoping to receive Authorities have moved the their second dose. the necessary doses. consignment to Teku based vaccine Frustrated by a long wait, the However, the deadly upsurge storage facility managed by the De- elderly people have started to express of the second wave of coronavirus has partment of Health Services. their anger through various means. changed everything. The Indian apex “Our sincere gratitude for However, the government looks help- court had in its order asked the gov- providing life saving vaccines with a less given the scarcity of vaccines. ernment to administer vaccines to its high priority to Nepal,” tweets Minis- “I was wondering, if there is citizen before exporting them to other try of Foreign Affairs. any government in Nepal to take care countries. As per preliminary reports, of its citizens? Yes I found one for pay- Despite close relations, individuals falling in the age group 50- ing the medical bill of a political lead- across an open border, the court’s or- 55 will receive the jabs. However, the er. What a government we have, when der stopped the export of the Indian government is yet to make an official we all Nepalese are looking towards vaccine to Nepal and all other coun- announcement regarding the same. the International airport sky for COV- tries of the world. US government dispatched ID vaccine?,” Tweets Dr. Dwarikanath Vero Cell Second Dose the said amount of jabs to Nepal un- Dhungel, former secretary of Nepal. Ministry of Health and Pop-
der COVAX facility, and in line with “As per today’s some newspaper, ulation (MoHP) has been providing a US President Joe Biden’s pledge to Denmark has supplied million doses second dose of Vero Cell from July 6 donate a batch of 80 million US-made of Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccines to and it is planning to start first doze to vaccines globally to counter vaccine Bhutan under the grant program. Why other age groups from 16 July. The disparity. Nepal has been completely forgotten? country resumed its stalled COVID-19 What went wrong to our diplomacy?” vaccination campaign on June 8 with 1
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 22 million doses given by China after the them, which is necessary as a booster for the second dose may have to keep government made international pleas for better efficacy. waiting, but health experts say there is for help with a shortage of shots. “The government had fre- no need to panic. Nepal has vaccinated about quently made appeals to India to at According to Dr. Shyam Raj 14 percent of the population by July least send the remaining 1 million Upreti, Coordinator of the COVID-19 10. Among them, 4 percent have re- Covishield jabs Nepal had paid for, Vaccine Advisory Committee, when ceived both doses and are fully vacci- and to Britain to supply vaccines so people take the first dose of any COV- nated so far. that elderly citizens could get the ID-19 vaccine, it activates an immune According to Dr. Jhalak Gau- booster doses who are now waiting for response, which works even if you de- tam, Chief of the National Immuniza- more than 15 weeks.” lay your booster dose. tion Program under the Ministry of Dr. Rabindra Pandey, a pub- Dr. Upreti said that the main Health and Population (MoHP), so far, lic health expert, said that as the sec- concern in delays of the second dose 851,300 people have been vaccinated ond wave of COVID-19 was more may weaken immune response and one with their second dose of COVID-19 fatal than the first wave, people who must get the second dose as soon as the vaccine while 2.611 million have got have taken double shots have not fall- vaccine becomes available. their first dose in the country by July 9. en ill seriously from the virus. He said that as the new strain “An utmost effort from vari- Deaths were not recorded of the virus is emerging time and again ous mechanisms is underway to bring among the people who received both getting both doses is more important the vaccines,” said Dr. Gautam. “The doses of the vaccine, said Dr. Pandey and safer. government is committed to vaccinat- and emphasized the need to ensure Only one vaccine may not ing all the eligible people free of cost availability of vaccines at the earliest. work at the optimum level, that is why and it has been exploring all possible Nepal launched its vaccina- people need the second dose, accord- ways to procure vaccines at the earli- tion campaign against COVID-19 on ing to doctors. est.” January 27 with the 1 million doses In the case of the Covishield Among the people vaccinated India had provided under its Vaccine vaccine, the minimum gap between with the first dose, around 1.4 million Maitri program. two doses is mentioned as 12 weeks elderly citizens are eagerly waiting for Second dose important, but but a longer gap could increase the re- the second dose of the vaccines. With no need to panic sults. Therefore, everyone must get his the unavailability of vaccines, the gov- As the country faces supply or her second dose of the COVID-19 ernment has not been able to inoculate shortages of vaccines, those waiting vaccine even if it is delayed.
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 23 COVERSTORY The unavailability of vac- ment was delivered immediately, as 1 portation services, water supply and cines has sparked a wave of fear among million doses arrived on February 21 distribution, tourism sector—hotels the people, who got their first dose, but but the second consignment has not and restaurants—production, sales there is nothing to panic about, said arrived yet. and distribution of medicines, electric- Dr. Uprety and urged everyone to fo- Also, 348,000 doses of Cov- ity supply, storage and transportation cus on getting their second dose as per ishield arrived in Nepal on February of consumer goods as well as health the government schedule after availa- 21 under the World Health Organiza- workers who had missed the first bility of the vaccines. tion (WHO)’s COVAX facility. With phase of the vaccination drive earlier Status of the vaccination the arrival of vaccines continuously, from January 27. The government pro- campaign there were high hopes and the public vided a second dose of Vero Cell from Around 430,000 frontline responded heartrendingly. Then the May 16 to May 25. workers – health workers, staff at government inoculated 1.4 million The country resumed its health facilities, female community senior citizens in the second phase of stalled COVID-19 vaccination cam- health volunteers, security personnel, the vaccination campaign. paign on June 8 with 1 million doses sanitation workers – were listed as pri- After Nepal granted emer- given by China after the government ority groups for the first round of the gency use approval to the Vero Cell made international pleas for help with vaccination campaign. vaccine of Sinopharm on February 15, a shortage of shots. After the first round’s first the Chinese government then provided Then the government decid- phase was completed, the government 800,000 doses of the vaccine under the ed to inoculate people aged 61-64. announced vaccination for journalists grant assistance. The Vero Cell arrived Having an insufficient amount of vac- and diplomatic staff. When the first in Kathmandu on March 29. cines, some of the local levels provid- phase was completed on March 5, as After the arrival of the Chi- ed jabs to people aged 62- 64 years of many as 438,000 people had received nese vaccine, the government resumed age. their first dose of COVID vaccines. the vaccination campaign from April Now, the Ministry of Health In February, the government 7. and Population (MoHP) has an- decided to buy 2 million doses of vac- Vero Cell was then admin- nounced to launch the fourth found of cines from the Serum Institute of In- istered to people working in postal vaccine campaign providing first dose dia, at $4 per dose. The first consign- and telephone services, public trans- of Vero Cell from July 16.
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 24 As per COVAX commitment, 1.9 million doses were to arrive in Ne- pal by March. However, as per the latest update made by the COVAX, an addi- tional 348,000 could come by July. Nepal Has Brought First Batch of 4 Million Vero Cell Vaccine Over 809 thousand doses of Vero Cell, COV- ID-19 vaccine developed and manufactured by Sino- pharm, have been brought to Kathmandu. A wide body air- plane, A 330, of the Ne- pal Airlines Corporation brought in a total of 17600 boxes of vaccine, in which a box had 46 doses of vac- from China and the US, Nepal is in a rum Institute of India and Vero Cell cine. relatively better position to cover large developed by Sinopharma and Beijing The vaccine has been pur- sections of people to avoid third wave. Institute of Biological Products. chased on the government-to-govern- As cases in India are declining and the J&J will be the third of the ment (GtoG) basis. Some four million production of vaccine rounds up, Ne- Covid-19 vaccine to be used in Nepal doses of Vero Cell are to be procured pal will be likely to receive more vac- and the first of the single-shot kind. on this basis, and brought in. cine from India as well. The country that is hard- According to the schedule If things go as usual, Nepal pressed to control the spread of the published earlier, remaining vaccine will be in a position to vaccinate over contagion under the second wave of will be brought in on July 15, July 16 50 percent of population by the end of coronavirus infection has the only op- and July 22. Ear- lier, China had donat- ed 2 million doses of Vero Cell to Nepal. Nepal had also received 348 thou- sand doses of vaccine under CO- VAX while India had also provid- ed 1.8 doses of Covishield as assistance. 4.248 million Doses of December. tion of vaccinating as many as its cit- COVID-19 vaccine have been brought Nepal so far has received and izens if it were to put up any kind of in so far, according to the record of the conducted the inoculation drive with fight against a possible third wave of Ministry of Health and Population. COVISHIELD, developed by Oxford the pandemic. With the arrival of vaccine AstraZeneca and manufactured by Se-
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 25 GLOBAL VIEW
Communist Party of China Centenary Celebrations Reading Between The Lips
Marking the 100th year celebration of the formula- socialism with Chinese characteristics – the party’s tion of the Communist Party of China (CPC), there official ideology - could develop China. A point he were dazzling choregraphed performances, fighter reiterated was China’s glorious 5,000 years of his- jets flying in the sky and a carefully vetted crowdna- tory which saw an end after West’s intervention. Xi tionalist songs in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square ear- highlighted that he wanted to bring back the coun- lier this month. But more than anything else, it was try’s glory days. President Xi Jingping who hogged the limelight. BY ABIJIT SHARMA The Chinese President’s strong message More specifically, it was his speech. came not just from his speech but also, quite notably from “Foreign powers will get their heads bashed if they his choice of uniform. Usually clad in an elegant suit, he ap- attempt to bully or influence the country.” peared in the famous ‘Mao suit’ – a dress which was previ- This warning brought rousing shouts and applause ously known as Zhongshan suit in the country but came to from the attending crowd of 70,000. It was a message di- be known as the Mao suit because of the Chinese leader’s rected directly towards the United States and its ally. Xi was fondness for it. Xi appearing in the ‘Mao suit’ was a message clear in his message – China is not the same as it was a 100 that he adhered strongly to the party values, looked up to the years back when foreign powers bullied it, took away parts country’s cherished leader and at the same time also proved of its territory and waged war against it. When the CPC was that he waswalking on a path of similar legacy as the para- formed in 1921, it was formed to fight the nationalist gov- mount leader. Carefully crafted message could be observed ernment with whom it engaged in a bloody civil war until even in the crowd. None in the crowd of 70,000 had been the former’s victory in 1949. At the time, China had recently wearing masks. Using the centenary celebrations, the party seen the end of the Qing dynasty which had been attacked tried to drive home the message of its supremacy over Cov- by numerous foreign powers including the British. It had to id-19. forfeit one of its areas (Hong Kong) and lost its glory of the The centenary celebration event was thus more than ‘Middle Kingdom’ days. China still treats this phase of its just a celebration. It was an event to give out a strong mes- history as humiliating. sage to the West and its allies. The West should take note. Come 100 years later and China stands in a com- Instead of trying to ‘corner’ Beijing in the future, it would pletely different position. It is an emerging superpower and be in their interest to move forward by cooperating with it. If has been overtaking the United States in almost every possi- they do not do so, time will come when they will regret their ble indicator – be it economic or others. So it was not unusu- decision. al for Xi during his address to sing glory of the new China. His threat to the ‘foreign powers’ that they would have their ‘heads bashed’ came in context of the maneuvering the West has been doing in the past few years to discredit China by raising issues of human rights andimplementing sanctions against it following the crackdown in Hong Kong. The Chi- nese leader’s message hinted that they cared very little about what the West thought about China and if in any case it tried to cross the line, it would not be afraid to retaliate. Apart from this, what was also interesting in Xi’s speech was the subtle messages. Highlighting the role of the party in the development of China, Xi reiterated the role of the party in modern China, saying that it has been central to the country’s growth and that attempts to separate it from the people would fail. To the old guards, some of whom see Xi as developing his own personality cult similar to that of Mao, the Chinese leader showed his commitment to the party’s val- ue by saying that ‘only socialism could save China’, and only
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 26 SKBLBL Two Decades Of Service Sana Kisan Bikas Laghubitta Bittyasanstha Ltd (Small Famers Development Microfinance Financial Institu- tion) celebrates its 20th anniversary, enhancing its capacity to serve the needy small farmers
By A CORRESPONDNET
tarted 20 years ago with a net capital opening more of 170 million rupees, Sana Kisan room for in- SBikas Laghubitta Bittyasanstha vestment. Ltd, a venture of Agriculture Develop- How- ment Bank, Small Farmers Cooperatives ever, the re- and other private banks, has proved to be cent Bank and a reliable and integral partner of small Financial Acts and marginal farmers. In the 17 years, has put restric- the deposit has reached Rs. 17 billion tions on it. Giv- with Rs.15 billion loan. en the present The bank has made a tremen- act, there is the dous progress through its poor oriented need to have a sons involved in the promotion of small programs. Supported by Government certain protection from the ministry of farmers. Welcoming the guest, Dr. Shiva of Israel, a nine-month long ‘learn and finance and Nepal Rastra Bank. Ram Prasad Koirala, CEO of the bank, earn’ program has also helped uplift the As Maha Prasad Adhikari, highlighted the progress of the bank in a young sons and daughters of small and governor of Nepal Rastra Bank, is al- virtual program attended by people from marginalized farmers. ways supportive to the upliftment of different walks of life. Under this program, more small farmers, the bank has a good op- Leading the bank for eight than 3000 sons and daughters of small portunity to move ahead through the ex- years, former CEO Jalan Kumar Shar- farmers have already visited Israel to tension and expansion of its jurisdiction. ma pushed it to take a new step, current learn modern agriculture and they have Working for the poor without CEO Dr. Dr. Koirala, who took charge returned with certain earning and learn- aiming at profit, Sana Kisan Bikas- La three years ago, has already come out ing. Many of those who returned from ghubitta Bittyasanstha Ltd needs certain with a new vision and planning to trans- Israel have already started commercial protection from the government and form the bank into another stage. farming in bigger scales. support to increase its With hard In a country with an over- capital. working and dedicated whelming majority of farmers, the ser- Addressing chairman of SAFCL vice demand of Sana Kisan Bikas La- as a Chief Guest of Khem Bahadur Pathak ghubitta Bittyasanstha Ltd continues to the program Governor at the helm and new dy- increase. Establishing its network in 69 Adhikary hailed the namic leadership under districts through over 600 cooperative role played by Sana CEO Dr. Koirala, the members, the bank is now serving over Kisan to uplift the life bank is set to overcome 7 million population of the country. of poor and marginal- all the challenges of the Whether it is in the distribution ized farmers from re- future. of loan to enhance productivity to the mote and rural parts of From the farmers or loan to reconstruction, Sana the country. chair chairperson Pathak, who inaugu- Kisan Bank has reached out to the needy Addressing the 20th anniversa- rated the function, stated how the Sana people. As its system is transparent and ry of the bank, Governor Adhikary said Kisan Bikas Laghubitta Bittyasanstha people oriented, the recovery rate of the that poverty eradication is possible only Ltd has been working to provide servic- bank is very high. through uplifting the life of poor people es to the people. As the Bank’s overall lending and Sana Kisan can play an important Sana Kisan Bikas Laghubitta and base of capital has changed and the role in this direction..“Given the impor- Bittyasanstha Ltd has been distributing demands of farmers are growing, the tant role played by Sana Kisan, the NRB loans to the 897000 small farmers and limitation set for the bank remains very is ready to provide all kinds of support promoting 957 Small Farmer Agricul- small. To make the bank friendlier and to the bank” ture Cooperatives and 1374 Coopera- friend of poor and small farmers, there As the bank celebrated its tives in 531 Palikas of 74 districts. is the need to change its initial status, anniversary, it also recognized the per-
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 27 DEVELOPMENT
Promoting Climate Change Friendly Bricks A startup, Compressed and Stabilized Earth Bricks (CSEB), has opened new livelihood pros- pects for the Dalit women of Mangalsen Municipality of Achham
By A CORRESPONDENT
startup enterprise on Com- allocated Rs.150,000 too, but later, brick produced by the women in Man- pressed and Stabilized Earth in consultation with the group and galsen will support Nepal’s nation- ABricks (CSEB) has excited the experts, we have allocated additional al commitment to the global climate Dalit women’s group of Mangalsen Rs. 350,000 to build a trust building, change agenda as well. Thus, the new Municipality of Achham District about so that the women can produce more initiative taken at Mangalsen is highly new livelihood prospects. From being bricks and can store them as well. significant in the national context, as mostly homemakers and busy in farming, they are looking for- ward to this opportunity, hoping it will help them with employ- ment and livelihood support. The startup bets on developing an in- novative green technology in the area for the first time. The interlock brick fac- tory, as it is called, is set to be operated under the ownership of Sahakarmi Mahila Udhyami. The working modality has already been prepared. The processes to register the industry at the local level and PAN registration have already begun. This was all pos- sible because of the support by PARIWARTAN, which is the short form of Participation, In- clusion and Wider CSOs’ Actions for Responsive, Transparent and Accountable Local governance in Nepal. PARIWARTAN is a project of DCA, which is funded by the European Union (EU) and im- We are also implementing a climate it supports climate change and reaches plemented by local partner NGO, Ma- adaptation and mitigation program at the far western region of Nepal, parts lika Development Organization Nepal the local level and the project is on of which are still inaccessible and (MDO-Nepal). par with our program,” said Mayor of away from latest technologies. “We have been working in Mangalsen Municipality Padma Baha- By supporting the initiative collaboration and partnership with dur Bohara. to establish the brick factory, PA- DCA’s local partner MDO-Nepal. This As interlocking bricks dras- RIWARTAN has shown a way for is the reason the Municipality board tically reduce carbon emission, the forging partnership and collaboration
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 28 DEVELOPMENT among local levels, the development tries, Pradip Kumar Tharu wanted to Partnership with Local Govern- partners, local NGO and community start a small business to support his ments based organizations and supporting family back home without needing to As COVID-19, has forced Nepal’s effort to establish green indus- go abroad for job again. Supported by many migrant workers to return home, tries with the participation of women. DCA and Community Impact Nepal the demand for local jobs is growing, Introduced in 2015 with the (CIN), Tharu started his CSEB tech- and this could just be the right choice. funding of Nordic Climate Facility nology enterprise a year back. “As the Provincial Governments and Local (NCF), DCA, Practical Action and demand for low-cost bricks is going Governments in two provinces have Build Up Nepal successfully pop- up, my entire family is now running also backed the promotion of climate ularized CSEB technology in Ne- this enterprise, including my brothers. friendly brick technology. pal through their joint project, New Instead of going abroad, I am here with To provide employment and Affordable Building Materials my family and we are making enough opportunities for returnee migrants, (NABIN). profits to run our business and sustain Belauri Municipality has decided to With the funding from EU, our family needs. Things would have support people who are willing to es- DCA and Community Impact Nepal been difficult if I was away from fam- tablish CSEB. Sushila Lekhak, the (CIN) are now supporting the establish- ily in such a pandemic situation other- spokesperson of the Belauri Munici- ment of CSEB as part of ongoing PARIWAR- TAN and Enhanced Ac- tion of Inclusive CSOs for Participation in Cli- mate Resilient Econom- ic Growth (UTHAN) projects in the Sudu- rpaschim and Karnali Provinces through dis- tricts with local partners – NNSWA, SOSEC, and MDO. New Venture for locals A return- ee from South Korea, Ghanashyam Joshi, who is a resident of Dhanga- dhi Sub-Metropolitan, has been able to capture a good market share in Kailali within a short period, so much so that he even led the forma- tion of the CSEB inter- locking brick associa- tion in Province 7. “Given the technical support wise,” said Tharu. pality, said that the Municipality board from CIN and financial support from Thanks to the European Un- has been closely collaborating with lo- DCA and other support from local ion-supported UTHAN and PARI- cal NGOs in this regard. government, I am confident that we WARTAN, the livelihood prospects of Similarly, Laljhadi Rural will replace the traditional bricks in a people like Tharu and Joshi of Surdur- Municipality has also decided to pro- few years. Since CSEB is based on a paschim and Karnali Provinces, have mote the interlocking bricks in its area simple technology, it can be easily pro- visibly transformed with CSEB-tech- and announced necessary support for duced. People are also very interested nology. The technology is eco-friendly individuals wanting to produce them. in this new technology,” said Joshi. and safe to build houses at low cost and Madsen Badayak, Mayor of After facing the upsurge of at the same time able to generate em- the Rural Municipality, shared, “We COVID-19 pandemic in foreign coun- ployment for local community people. are collaborating with the local NGOs
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 29 DEVELOPMENT to introduce an upgraded version of With the successful learning crease adaptation, improve quality and the technology to produce interlocking experiences, DCA and CIN are now reduce CO2 emissions,” said Rigendra bricks, as we hope to achieve mitiga- transferring this technology by scal- Khadka, Program Manager - Resilient tion goals, address air pollution, and ing it up in Karnali and Sudurpaschim Livelihood of DCA. “We are work- reduce local impacts while significant- Provinces. The factory proposed to be ing to improve the quality of bricks ly contributing to reduce global warm- established in Mangalsen, Dailekh, through a new process of a soil test, a ing.” Doti, Achham, Kailali, Kanchanpur mobile app and a brick test in remote In this regard, the collabo- and Bardiya will be different from the locations,” he informed. “We use the ration and partnership among DCA, earlier ones in terms of the use of ma- new technology – a mobile app with CIN, provincial governments, local terials and the size of bricks. instruction videos so that masons and
governments and the local community According to DCA, it will brick makers can always go and check in Sudurpaschim and Karnali Province introduce innovations and value-ad- to remember what was taught in the to promote interlocking brick technol- ditions to promote the CSEB technol- training.” ogy have already started. ogy, making it further cost-effective, DCA and CIN, through the “As the policy of the Prov- eco-friendly, and lowered adaptation innovation projects, are also working ince, we are promoting and encourag- barriers. to reduce cement content by adding ing CSEB technology in the region for The new scale-up technology another stabilizer. Cement is the most green development and employment will become accessible to the popula- expensive component in the brick- generation,” opined Bharat Prasad tion living in both lowlands and mid- mix, especially in remote areas due Shrestha, Spokesperson of Ministry hills in the provinces and contribute to high transport costs. Cement also of Industry, Tourism, Forest and En- towards carbon reduction while in- needs a sandy mix which can be a big vironment of Sudurpaschim Province. creasing competitiveness with the ex- problem in remote areas if sand is not “We want to collaborate with develop- isting climate-unfriendly products. available nearby. ment agencies, and business entrepre- “Along with friendly local DCA, CIN and their local neurs to promote this technology.” materials, our innovation projects partners are also preparing to launch Scaling up and Innovations will further improve technology to in- a mobile app targeting the local entre-
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 30 DEVELOPMENT preneurs. One of the features of the app also includes the cost calculation of houses made with CSEB and fired bricks. This helps them to see the differences in the cost and choose what suits their budget. CSEB Support to Cli- mate Change Pol- icy The pro- motion of CSEB technology also supports Nepal’s climate change pol- icy which focuses on the mitigation efforts targeting for the next decade to reduce emissions and support vul- nerable commu- nities to adapt to explains Manjeet Dhakal, climate compared to fired bricks. According the impacts of climate change. The change expert, who has been working to a recent study by the World Bank, Second Nationally Determined Con- in this field for a long time providing fired brick is responsible for 37% tribution (NDC) document submitted advice to the government of Nepal. of CO2 emissions in Nepal and also to the UN Framework on Convention “The NDC has explicitly pointed out a major source of air pollution and of Climate Change (UNFCCC) secre- the importance of this technology to black carbon. The world-renowned tariat in December 2020 clearly talks support climate change.” research institute on earthen struc- about this where Nepal has expressed “Ministry of Forest and Envi- tures – Auroville Earth Institute – has its commitment to shifting from the ronment has already issued circulars to made research showing that walls built traditional brick kiln manufacturing to the provincial and local levels regard- by earth bricks are emitting 4 times an interlocking brick factory entirely ing Nepal’s current position and pro- less CO2 compared with fired bricks. in the next 20 years. posal of NDC. The Ministry believes (56.79 Kg per m3 compared to 230.06 In line with it, the Ministry of that replacing the traditional brick Kg per m3 for kiln fired brick) Forest and Environment has adopted kilns with interlocking bricks will According to a report of the a policy to support the production of help reduce air pollution contributing World Bank published in 2014, the clean and sustainable bricks by opti- to climate change,” affirmed Dr Bud- current CO2 footprint per capita in mizing learning and adopting cleaner dhi Sagar Poudel, Spokesperson of the Nepal is only 0, 3 tons. technologies. The provincial and local Ministry of Forest and Environment. DCA Target to Promote level governments are also promoting CSEB Contribution to Re- Green Growth sustainable and green bricks in the duce Carbon Emission DCA, European Union and construction sector. According to a study, com- Community Impact Nepal have been “NDC has categorically pressed earth blocks require anywhere promoting climate friendly bricks for highlighted the importance of inter- from 1/5 to 1/15 of the energy for pro- green growth. By 2022, at least 30 locking bricks saying that their use duction when compared to fired bricks such green enterprises will be estab- will contribute to the reduction of air and concrete masonry units. On aver- lished in Karnali and Sudurpaschim pollution immediately and support cli- age a small 3-5 room house built with Provinces. mate change impact in the long term,” CSEB saves 4, 58-ton CO2 emissions
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 31 FLOODS AND LANDSLIDES Monsoon Havoc Since the onset of monsoon, more than 70 people have already lost their lives while property and infrastructure worth millions of rupees have been washed away in floods and landslides
By A CORRESPONDENT
ragged in the internal floods would be rebuilt immedi- Prime Minister Oli party politics, Prime ately. handed over 20 million rupees D Minister K.P. Sharma “The government will from the Melamchi Drinking Oli did not find any time to in- provide Rs 50,000 for tempo- Water Development Committee spect the flood-affected people rary housing and Rs 500,000 for to the flood-hit Helambu Rural of Melamchi and Helambu ar- permanent housing for the flood Municipality. eas until quite late. Only after victims,” the PM said, urging On the occasion, Prime two high level committees con- the government not to delay Minister Oli went to the Melam- stituted by PM Oli and his ri- formulating a systematic policy chi Drinking Water Source Area val Madhav Kumar Nepal came to rebuild their shelters. He in- in Helambu and the flood-affect- closer to an agreement, he took formed that a technical team had ed areas. Nepal Army’s helicopter to visit arrived in Helambu along with It has been like an annu- flood affected areas on Saturday, him to construct the bridges im- al ritual for the head of the gov- July 10. mediately. ernment and the home minister As all his pre- decessors would do, PM Oli directed officials to provide immediate relief and expressed his commit- ment to help victims in the process of rehabilitation, providing them financial packages. The Prime Minis- ter reached Ganesh Bagar of Helabmu Village Mu- nicipality-2 in a Nepal Army helicopter, inspected the flood-hit areas and met the flood victims there. He said that the temporary shelters of the locals displaced by the
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 32 to visit and inspect the flood rampant construction of rural and half a dozen others missing. and landslide affected areas. All roads in remote areas needs to Some 17 houses collapsed, 67 of them would return with huge be suspended for the time being. families were displaced in Tan- promises but nothing actually However, making any ahun. materialized for the victims. change in the perception regard- Sixty-seven families Political leaders hard- ing development seems impos- had been displaced in Bandipur ly ever think why incidents of sible. National Disaster Risk Rural Municipality of Tanahu flood and landslides have been Reduction and Management district due to landslide trig- intensifying over the years Authority (NDRRMA) said that gered by incessant rains. causing bigger loss and dam- the total deaths caused by the Out of the 67 houses at age. Instead of preparedness for monsoon-induced disaster had risk, 17 houses were complete- floods and protection of life and reached 51, with 35 injuries and ly destroyed and 15 houses were property, Nepal’s disaster man- 60 missing, as of July 8. partially destroyed, said Karuna agement follows the traditional According to NDRR- Gurung, vice-chairman of the process of rescue, relief and re- MA, floods have caused an es- Rural Municipality. She said that habilitation. timated loss of Rs. 55,342,500 the entire settlement of Khahare As climate change and landslides have caused a area has been displaced. Simi- has started to trigger extreme loss of Rs. 6,941,500 since the larly, in Ramkot of the district, weathers, Nepal will have to start of this Nepali year. four houses have collapsed and face many severe disasters in Similarly, 548 infra- three houses have been partially the coming days. According to structures have been completely damaged. Also, 12 families have experts, Nepal needs to change damaged and 148 partially from been displaced in Dharapani of the settlement patterns and de- June 14 to date. Ward No. 2. velopment works, particularly In the 24 hours before Of those killed in the road construction. the high level visit to Helambu, 24 hours, three were in Darchu- Most of the roads have floods and landslides triggered la, two in Palpa and one each in been passing from river belts by torrential rainfall across the Tanahun and Dang districts. and settlements are shifting to country killed seven persons, The water flow in lower river belts. Similarly, leaving nearly a dozen injured Saptakoshi and its tributaries
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 33 Sunkoshi, Bhotekoshi, Tama- der the DHM, the present mon- been inundated in the ward 1 due koshi, Dudhkoshi, Arun, Tamor soon trough will remain active to the flood. Similarly, Nepal and other rivers is expected to for a few days in many parts of Army helped open a portion of increase and some of them will the country including Provinces Tribhuwan Rajpath in Bhainse reach near alert level while the 1, 2, Bagmati, and Lumbini. which is disturbed by the land flow in the Tinau, Kankai, Ka- Nepal Army In Rescue slide. mala, Bagmati and their tribu- Mission Nepal Army also sup- taries will increase significantly, Meanwhile, Nepal Army ported landslide victims in Sun- according to experts. has launched rescue and relief darpur Municipality of Lamjung Similarly, the water operations to save people from district bringing the people from flow in the Narayani and its trib- landslide and floods. there to a safer area. In Parbat utaries, especially Budhiganda- Following the torren- district, Nepal Army supported ki, Trishuli, Marsyangdi and tial rains, landslides and flood the search and rescue mission to Kaligandaki, has increased sig- affected different parts of Ne- find the people missing in land- nificantly and some of them had pal blocking roads, washing slides. reached alarming levels already. out bridges, burying people and According to a press re- With further activation houses. Nepal Army has mobi- lease issued by Public Relations of monsoon phenomena, several lized its forces on its rescue and and Information Directorate at regions have been continuous- relief mission across the country Nepal Army Headquarter, Ne- ly receiving heavy rainfall, ac- to save the life and property of pal Army is also involved in a cording to senior divisional hy- people and open the connectiv- search, rescue and relief mission drologist Bikram Zoowa at the ity. in flood and landslide affected Department of Hydrology and Nepal Army rescued areas of Panchthhar, Tanahu, Meteorology (DHM). flood affected people in vari- Gulmi, Palpa and Pyuthan dis- According to Meteoro- ous wards of Madi Municipality. tricts. logical Forecasting Division un- Dozens of houses have already
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16. 2021 | 34 ARTICLE Making Digital The New Normal
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a temporary closure year. This emergency plan included the development of educational institutions to contain the spread of of temporary learning facilitation centers and con- the virus.As a response to this, countries all over the verting them into free Wi-Fi zones as an action point. world shifted from a physical learning environment This was aimed to begin from October/November to a virtual learning space to keep the educational ac- 2020, but, the government has not yet taken a sin- tivities going. While many countries easily adjusted BY ASHIKA SHARMA gle step to execute this plan. The action point stated to the shift from physical to virtual learning, a country by the government was perceived to be an ambitious like Nepal faced a lot of challenges due to a lack of crisis pre- statement made without any proper study. Nepal Economic paredness capacity. Forum (2020) also claimed that the GoN failed to build the To meet the educational demand of students during necessary infrastructure for virtual learning during the COV- the lockdown, the Government of Nepal launched its first dig- ID-19 period. ital portal Sikai Chautari that contained a curriculum in both Given the limited infrastructure and resources, it is Nepali and English from grade 1 to grade 10. The system of evident that Nepal is slow when it comes to embracing tech- online education had never been tried at this scale in Nepal, nological changes. While neighboring India took a swift ad- but the digital portal claimed to be effective for students to vancement in the digital learning world, Nepal gained popular- spend quality time in learning school-based cur- ity in digital learning only riculum during the lockdown. Although the online after the pandemic. Nepal portal proclaimed to be student-friendly, and that has to learn from initiatives it could be accessed by everyone from any corner made by India to increase of Nepal, poor data connectivity, lack of access to its e-learning reach and up- laptops and smartphones, power issues, and lack date its laws and policies of parental education acted as major impediments to promote it accordingly. to access the online portal resulting in education In India, rural schools and deprivation for many students in the rural areas of colleges easily adapted to the country. While educational institutions in urban online learning, thanks to and even semi-urban locations moved ahead with its new era of digital liter- online classes, those students who went to state- acy, and the launch of the owned schools, and low-cost private schools were ‘National BroadBand Mis- deprived of online classes, giving rise to uneven opportunities sion’, which promises bandwidth access to all villages by the amongst students. year 2020. The survey conducted by the Times of India stated Learning through online platform still pose a se- that there is a growing acceptance of online education across rious challenge in Nepal. Unlike private schools located in various rural areas in India, and it already has the second-high- urban and semi-urban areas, state-run schools, and low-cost est number of internet which is the second-largest internet private schools are not equipped to run online learning. Ac- marker across the world and aims to reach 624 million active cording to Nepal's education ministry, at least 8.5 million stu- users by February 2021. Furthermore, the government of In- dents are enrolled in primary schools or higher education, but dia also started the initiative “Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital the authorities are struggling to make plans on how the stu- Saksharta Abhiyaan (PMGDISHA)’, which aims to reach out dents can continue their education through online mediums. to 40% of India’s rural population and offer free digital literacy The Flash report 2019-20, stated that currently only 13% of courses for citizens between the ages of 14 to 60. schools have internet access, and the MICS report, 2020 stat- WHO recently pointed out the uncertainty about the ed 45% of students are unlikely to regularly access online or length of the pandemic. Hence, it is crucial that the government other media. Similarly, the recent Child and Family Tracker and educational institutes be prepared to take digital education, survey by UNICEF Nepal showed that more than two-thirds not as a temporary solution, but to look for a planned solution of schoolchildren are deprived of distance learning, and only to deliver it correctly. For this, it has to increase the bandwidth three out of 10 children have access to television, radio and for good internet access, strengthen capacity-building meas- internet-based learning platforms. ures in rural areas including mobilizing school teachers, as As an immediate emergency action to COVID-19, well as parents in utilizing technology, for effective learning of the Ministry of Education, Science & Technology had intro- students in rural areas. duced an Emergency Action Plan for School Education last Ashika is a Sociology graduate and is a development professional
NEW SPOTLIGHT | July 16 . 2021 | 35 ARTICLE Constitutions Galore
While we in our part of the world have read about Constitution in the Western format started in Ne- the great flood at the time of Manu, others elsewhere have pal during the time of Padma Shumsher, one of the hereditary stories of Noah’s Ark and its landing at Mount Ararat. A lat- Rana Prime Ministers of Nepal. He gave some power to the er event is about Moses receiving the two tablets with the people by announcing the first written Constitution of Nepal Ten Commandments from God. These orders are the first in 1948 (2004 BS). commands indicating how Jews should conduct their lives BY: HEMANG DIXIT We must recall that talk of a Constitution started on earth. Can this be taken as the first of the constitutions in from the time when King Tribhuvan came back to Kathmandu the history of mankind? Manusmriti or the Laws of Manu, which casts in February 2007 after his temporary stay in Delhi. Whilst alighting people into four categories, is also an early code for Hindus of around from the plane he held aloft his right hand and displayed to the pub- 100 CE. Having a constitution for any country is a prerequisite to look lic a proposed constitution. That proposed constitution may be said to respectable. Now, with 206 listed states worldwide, we are in a situa- have been transformed or converted into an Interim Government Act tion of constitutions galore! of March 1951. Constitutions have in fact been in existence since ancient The third was the constitution drawn up by Bhagwati Pras- times. The Code of Justice of the Sumerians was dated as early as ad Singh and was enacted and proclaimed on 12th February 1959. The 2300 BCE. Then from 1750 BCE, the well known code of Hammura- fourth in 1962 was with the aid of Sir Ivor Jennings from UK with bi of Babylon came into being. The Romans codified their constitution input of local experts whom King Mahendra had included in the draft- around 450 BCE. ing. This constitution had as its bearings the word Panchayati Raj, said Initially the Pope ruled over the kings and the people of to have originated from ancient Vedic times in our part of the world Europe until a division occurred and the Greek Orthodox Church sep- and meaning thereby that it was a form of local administration of day arated from the church at Rome. Henry VIII of England broke away to day affairs. Whilst this concept has been done away in Nepal, it is from the Papal rule and formed the Anglican Church with himself as noteworthy to state that Part IX of the Indian Constitution relates to monarch. Later the Protestants of many lands of Europe distanced Panchayats. Panchayati Raj was further formalised in India by the 73rd themselves too from Rome. Because of reli- constitutional amendment in 1993 and cur- gious persecution many left Europe for new rently exists in all states except in Nagaland, lands in the Americas. Meghalaya, Mizoram and Union Territories. A constitution, as a written le- What is worth pondering over is how the gal document passed by the authorities of a word ‘Panchayat’ became an anathema to our country according to which it is governed, politicians, ever ready to create a rumpus. An is referred to as being codified. The United amendment to this constitution with the con- Kingdom has no document as such but is cept of ‘Politics for Development’ was done governed as per the common law practices of during the time of King Birendra in 1975 CE. the past, court cases or treaties. A well known The fifth version was the one historical event was the signing of the Magna drawn up by a special committee headed by Carta in 1215 CE by which the then reigning PM Krishna Prasad Bhattarai and including monarch King John of England signed away Nirmal Lama. This constitution of 1990 BS his power to the people. The French, since 1789 CE, with their many recognises the people as the source of its power and touted as the best governments – monarchies, republics and empires have had a number in the world was written within a year. With the abolition of monarchy of constitutions which have been promulgated periodically over the a sixth format of the constitution came into being in 2007 CE. last three hundred years. They can thus claim to be experts in this field. Our 1st Constituent Assembly didn’t finish the task of con- King Prithivi Narayan Shah was the creator of modern Ne- stitution writing. The 2nd Constituent Assembly brought out a ver- pal when he, starting from his small principality of Gorkha brought sion later presented to the people all over Nepal for comments. The about the amalgamation of the ‘Baieses and the Chaubises’ into his responses were just cursorily discussed over three days, ignored and realm. At Kantipur he had to make overtures to the people before he passed by 2/3rd majority with a show of hands. This constitution of was accepted as a ruler. His ‘Divyopadesh’ or Divine Counsel on how the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, 2072 BS (2015 CE) is the to deal with the Northern and Southern neighbours was a guideline for seventh in this reckoning and took almost seven years to compile. Two conduction of state matters. Subsequent conquests by his successors amendments have been made so far and others are expected. Currently created a ‘Greater Nepal’ which lasted for a limited period as the Ne- it is now being debated over as to whether it should be ‘Amended’ or palis were checkmated by the British at Sugauli, to forgo the territories ‘Rewritten’. Nothing is permanent is this world. Change is something they had conquered. Forty years later, Jung Bahadur managed to get which is going on continuously. Let’s await developments! . back for Nepal the ‘Naya Muluk’ or a little part of the territory that the The author is a retired medical doctor and writes fiction under the pen British had taken in 1816 CE. name of Mani Dixit also. Website: www.hdixit.org.np. Twitter: @manidixithd
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