Aug 20. 2021 | 1 NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 1 NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 2 Vol.: 15, No-03, Aug-20, 2021 (Bhadra 04. 2078) Price NRs.100

Completing the Olympic Games successfully amid the COVID-19 Pandemic, the government and people of Japan have shown that they have the ability and capacity to hold such a big event even in these difficult times. Taking note of the country’s prestige in the globe, Japanese government had made every possible effort to contain the risk of COVID-19 in the game. They were successful. The successful completion of Olympic game is a matter of pride for all of us. Although there are several issues, we have covered Tokyo Olympic Games as our lead story. At a time when main opposition party led by K.P. Sharma Oli is waiting to make the government unpopular and gain strength for coming elections, Prime Minister Deuba led government has to show that it is serious to address the ongoing problems of the country. Having been di- vided within, Nepali Congress Party will suffer badly in the coming elections in case it fails to act. Appoint- ing Kul Man Ghising as the new Managing Director of Nepal Electricity Authority, the coalition government led by Sher Bahadur Duba has tried to gain public support. Ghising, a man who was responsible to end load shedding era in Nepal, is popular among the common people. Despite pressure from people and then ruling party leader Prachanda, Oli led government did not extend the tenure of Ghising and appointed Hitendra Dev Shakya as MD. Nepal is going through a transition in all areas including power sector. Although the government has reappointed Ghising, who has not only made Nepal load shedding free but also has turned NEA as a highest profit making public entity, he has to face many challenges ahead including to revive his own long term policies and programs dismantled by his predecessor.

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 1 CONTENT

NEWSNOTES 3

BUSINESS BRIEF 6

OPINION Binoj Basnyat 8

KP OLI Loud Opposition 10 COVERSTORY: Kul Man Ghising: Second Inning, Several Challenges 16

GLOBAL VIEW Abijit Sharma 12

MONETARY POLICY Drive For Digitalization 15

ENVIRONMENT Batu Uprety 20

VIEWPOINT Govind Prasad Thapa, Ph.D. 22

BOP: Increasing Gap 14 DEVELOPMENT CICs Increasing Access To Local Service Delivery 24

COVID-19 Surging Infections 28

TOKYO OLYMPICS 2020 Grand Success 31

EU Higher Study Scholarships 35

JAPAN’S SUPPORT: Friend In Need 30 ARVITICLE Hemang Dixit 36

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 2 Indian Ambassador Kwatra Paid A Courtesy Call On Gorkha soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces by disburs- Acting COAS ing their dues worth NPR 4.45 Crore and a blanket to each family. The celebrations witnessed renditions of patri- otic songs and dance by teachers and students of Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre of the Embassy and Kendri- ya Vidyalaya school, Kathmandu. On this occasion, the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) website for the conservation of cultural heritage sites in Nepal was also launched by Ambassador of India Vinay Mohan Kwatra. The government of India is funding projects for the pres- ervation and restoration of Nepal’s cultural monuments damaged in the 2015 earthquake under overall assistance of US$ 50 million.

Pakistan Provides Ventilators And Medical Equipment Adnan Javed Khan, Charge d`Affaires of Paki- Ambassador of India to Nepal Vinaya Mohan stan to Nepal handed over to Dr. Roshan Pokharel, Sec- Kwatra paid a courtesy call on acting Chief of Army Staff retary, Ministry of Health & Population, ‘Made in Paki- Generral Prabhu Ram Sharma at Nepal Army Headquar- stan’ medical equipment consisting of 30 Ventilators & 30 ter CPAP Breathing Equipment worth over 19 million Nepali During the meeting, mater related to bilateral re- Rupees. lations and mutual interest. According to a press release According to a press release issued by the Em- issued by Public Relations and Information Directorate of bassy of Pa- Nepal Army, Nepal Army expresses confidence that this kistan in Ne- kinds of meeting will help to further strengthen bilateral pal, Pakistan relations between the two countries. has provided additional Embassy Of India In Kathmandu Celebrated 75th In- medical sup- dependence Day port to Nepal The 75th Independence Day of India was cele- in the fight brated at the Embassy of India in Kathmandu on August against the 15, 2021. The celebration was part of ‘AzadiKaAmritMa- COVID-19 hotsav’ which is an initiative of the Government of India pandemic. to celebrate 75 years of progressive India and remarkable achievements by Indians in all spheres of human endeav- our. The celebrations began with the hoisting of “The gift of medical equipment is part of Pa- the national flag by Ambassador of India Vinay Mohan kistan’s COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Program Kwatra, who then read out the message of the President pledged for the SAARC Member States. Earlier last of India on the occasion. The President’s message high- month, the Embassy handed over a cheque of more than lighted the progress in various fields in the past 75 years 43 million Nepali Rupees to the Government of Nepal and paid trib- as part of COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Program,” ute to freedom reads the press release. fighters who laid “Dr. Roshan Pokharel thanked the Government their lives for the and the People of Pakistan for contributing generously independence of for Prevention, Control and Treatment of COVID-19 in India. Nepal”. The Adnan Javed Khan reiterated Pakistan’s contin- Ambassador ued commitment to helping Nepal in its efforts to Prevent, felicitated wid- Control, and Treatment of the COVID-19 pandemic, read ows and next of the press release of the embassy. kin of deceased

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 3 NEWSNOTES Bhutan Hands Over AstraZeneca Vaccines To Nepal Tanahun Hydro Completes Additional Three Tunnels Ne- Tanahun Hydroelectricity Project has pal received completed the construction of three tunnels. 230,000 doses The 140-Megawatts project has constructed audit tun- of AstraZeneca nel required for the access to underground surge tank vaccine provid- having 30 metre diameter and 65 metre height. ed by Bhutan un- The 437.1-metre tunnel constructed under the der a grant. Min- package 2 of the project completed on Friday evening, istry of Health said Chief and Population of the pro- said that the As- ject Achyut traZeneca vac- Babu cines provided Ghimire. by Bhutan have “It will fa- arrived in Nepal. cilitate the P M construc- Sher Bahadur Dueba in his tweet said Nepal welcomes tion of un- the friendly gesture from Bhutan in aiding Nepal’s fight derground against the COVID-19 Pandemic. Many thanks to HM surge tank,” The King and PM Bhutan for the cooperative arrange- he said. Chinese ments in the support of 230000 doses of the Covieshield Sino Hy- vaccine, which Nepal will reciprocate at a later date dro Com- Bhutanese Airlines carrying the vaccine arrived pany has constructed the third tunnel as road de- at Tribhuwan International Airport. velopment was complex in the mountainous area. According to the ministry, senior citizens will Earlier on June 16, main tunnel construction to the be inoculated with the AstraZeneca vaccine, on a priority power house was completed and on June 4 a 314m tun- basis and the emphasis will be given to those that had nel to access the right side of the intake was finished. received the first dose of the Covieshield vaccine and are The project being developed in Byas Municipality-5 yet to receive their second dose. and Rishing Rural Municipality-1 of Tanahun dis- Covieshield and AstraZeneca vaccines are made trict needed tunnels to construct underground surge by the same formula, so those who have received the first tank, power house, intake and river diversion work. dose of Covieshield can get their booster of AstraZene- Ghimire said that it took seven months to construct the ca vaccine as well. Around 1.3 million elderlies who had audit tunnel to the surge tank. Chinese and Nepali tech- received the first dose of the Covishield vaccine three nicians and 400 workers were deployed for the work. months ago are yet to receive their second dose. Sino Hydro is constructing power house while Bhutan has provided the remaining AstraZeneca Song Da Kalika JV will develop the intake. vaccines to Nepal as aid after inoculating its citizens. Progress of the project was delayed due to the delay in appointing contractors, cancellation of them US Ambassador Pays Courtesy Call On COAS General and making news appointment but as it contin- Thapa ued the work even during the lockdowns, three US ambassador to Nepal Randy W. Berry has tunnels are completed by now, said Ghimire. paid a courtesy call on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen- He said that the construction work was continued with eral Purna Chandra physical distance and use of sanitiser and masks. Cur- Thapa at Nepal rently, works to construct tunnel, power house and in- Army Headquarter. stallation of hydro-mechanical equipment are underway. Accord- The contractor company has completed the cable tunnel ing to Public Re- construction and is working to develop tail race tunnel. lations and Infor- As per the third phase of the project, a 220 KV double cir- mation Directorate cuit transmission line is being constructed from Damauli of Nepal Army, of Tanahun to Bharatpur of Chitwan. Foundation of 26 they discussed the towers of transmission line is laid and a technical team issues of bilateral from India is making preparation for the installation of and mutual interest the infrastructure. during the meeting.

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 4 NEWSNOTES ADB Provides Rs. 19.5B To Purchase Vaccines The money will be utilised in procuring 15.9 Against COVID-19 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines which will benefit Fi- about 6.8 million people. nance Secre- Marasini said that the financial support would tary Madhu be instrumental in ensuring safe and effective vaccine to Kumar Mar- Nepali people. “It will contribute to save lives of Nepali asini and Ne- citizens and revive the economy,” he said, while adding pal Country that the vaccination programs were top priority of the Director of government. ADB Arnaud Cauchois expressed confidence that this agree- Cauchois have ment would be helpful in breaking the deadly cycle of signed a con- COVID-19 and saving the lives of people, and moving to cessional loan the economic and social revival. He pledged continuation agreement in of such support in the future as well. which ADB The government also plans to make vaccine dis- will provide Rs. 19.58 billion to Nepal to purchase vac- tribution more effective and enhance community participa- cines against COVID-19. tion in the drive with the new support from the ADB.

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NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 5 BUSINESS BRIEF Industrialist Shyam Sundar Lal Kakshapati No More ernment officials undergoing Master’s program under Renowned KOICA’s support have been recognized for their aca- tourism entrepre- demic excellence in Korea. This year 18 government neur Shyam Sundar officials have been selected to pursue their Master’s pro- Lal Kakshapati, the gram in different courses in various reputed Korean Uni- founder of Nanglo versities. They are tentatively scheduled to leave within Restaurant Chain, August 2021. passed away on Au- In order to facilitate the 2021 group of Master’s gust 9. Former presi- Program, KOCIA and KOICA Alumni Association of dent of Hotel Associ- Nepal (KAAN) organized a Networking Meeting in a ation Nepal (HAN), virtual platform on August 06, 2021 with an objective Kakshapati died in of sharing of experiences and promoting networking be- course of treatment tween KOICA scholars of 2020 and 2021 as well as pro- in Thailand. viding all the needed information about their program, He was suffering from mouth cancer and had life in Korea, information about University, departure been receiving treatment in Thailand for the last two process and etc. The recent returnees and KAAN mem- months. He is credited for starting the fast food business bers made a series of presentation to share the important in Nepal. information. Opening the Nanglo Bakery Cafe in Durbar The program was attended by Sunghoon Ko, Marg of Kathmandu in 2033 BS (1976 AD), he had KOICA Country Director, in his congratulatory remarks also invested in Riverside Spring Resort in Kurintar, a he shared the experience of development of Korea and prime tourist destination. the important role of capable human resource and their Founder president of Restaurant and Bar Asso- role in nation building. He also hoped that after comple- ciation Nepal (REBAN), Kakshapati was the founder of tion of the Master’s Shuvatara School. course, the public He is survived by his wife Rani Gurung Kak- officials will be able shapati, a son and a daughter. to contribute more in development of Nepal KOICA Provides Scholarship To 18 Government Officials as well as support in Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOI- facilitating Nepal and CA) has been imple- Korea relations. menting a Capacity Besides the Improvement and long term program Advancement for KOICA is also implementing a short term fellowship Tomorrow (CIAT) programs as well, due to the outbreak of the Covid 19 program as one of this year KOICA has opted to organize 6 different Ca- the important KOI- pacity Building Programs via virtual platform. CA’s development Within October 2021 total of 121 government cooperation pro- officials from 6 different Ministry / Government Insti- grams since 1995. tutions (Ministry of Women Children and Senior Citi- This pro- zen, Office of Attorney General, Ministry of Education, gram aims at lead- Ministry of Federals Affairs and General Administration, ing human resource Ministry of Finance, Department of hydrology) shall be development (HRD) through short term training and provided training in topics like – Old age income secu- Master’s Degree Scholarship Program for government rity through Korea know how national pension scheme officials and providing capacity building training focus- and Social security, Cyber Crime, Gender Sensitive ing on sharing Korea’s experience and technology for Educational Environment, Sustainable and Rural De- development. Till date we have more than 1800 govern- velopment, Macro Economic Development Strategy, ment officials who have taken part in some training pro- Meteorological instrument and early warning System gram in Korea under KOICA’s support. respectively. All of these programs have been officially However, till date, a total of 146 government requested by the Government of Nepal and shall be im- officials have successfully completed Master’s Degree plemented under KOICA technical support. Course under KOICA’s Scholarship Program. The gov-

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 6 BUSINESS BRIEF dustry, Commerce and Supplies. He also expressed com- Nepali Coffee Professionals Learn About Voluntary Certification mitment to organize similar programs for the benefit of The EU-Ne- the coffee sector. pal Trade and Invest- ment Program (TIP) TVS Motor Company Launches RTFI Scooters In organized a three-day Pokhara training on imple- TVS Motor Company, a renowned two-wheeler menting various vol- and three-wheeler manufacturer in the globe, announced untary international the Pokhara launch of the BS-VI TVS NTORQ 125 with standards for fourteen Race Tuned Fuel Injection (RT-Fi). The scooters were participants from dif- launched at 2:00 p.m. in Batas Brothers Private Lim- ferent sections of the ited’s showroom. Brand Ambassadors of TVS Nepal, coffee value chain in Pradeep Khadka, and Swastima Khadka, also Nepalese Nepal. The training film industry superstars, unveiled the scooter. The RT-Fi provided the coffee experts hands-on coaching followed technology is specially designed to ensure an enjoyable by field visits to commercial coffee farms. racing experience in all driving conditions. Coffee is grown in over 40 districts in Nepal, but various sections of the coffee value chain, especially “We are thrilled to present the TVS NTORQ farmer groups, still need to increase productivity, quality RTFI with BS-VI compliance in Pokhara today,” the as well as volume of production. Nepali coffee growers General Manager of Batas Brothers Private Limit- can improve these factors by implementing the Internal ed, stated at the launch of TVS NTORQ RT Fi. With Management System (IMS) that can also help them to the addition of RT-Fi, the smart scooter is designed to access premium markets. provide a best-in-class ownership experience. He further Mim Hamal, programme manager at the EU added, “We are committed to providing an end-to-end Delegation to Nepal, said the EU prioritizes the devel- experience for our youthful clients in Pokhara and the opment of the coffee sector in Nepal and anticipates it surrounding areas with this launch, which will expand will help narrowing the country’s increasing trade defi- on the TVS NTORQ 125 experience.” cit. “We know the training will provide members of the TVS NTORQ 125 is the first Bluetooth-con- coffee sector the required knowhow to implement volun- nected scooter in Nepal and has become synonymous tary standards to increase exports to premium markets.” with industry-first technology, unrivaled style, and su- Many international buyers these days look spe- perior performance. The scooter boasts superior perfor- cifically for certified coffees. In Europe, North America mance backed by TVS Racing Pedigree and premieres (and South America to a lesser extent), Japan and East the SMARTXONNECTTM, an innovative Bluetooth-en- Asia, demand for certified coffees has been growing abled technology paired with an exclusive TVS Connect steadily for a number of years. An internal management mobile App. SMARTXONNECTTM enables is a host of System (IMS) is a mandatory requirement for many of first-in-segment additions to the fully digital speedome- the certifications. ter, which boasts features such as navigation assist, top “Training on issues such as IMS become im- speed recorder, in-built lap-timer, phone battery strength portant as we prepare to expand coffee growing areas display, last parked location assist, service reminder, trip in the country by promoting the establishment of coffee estates,” said Dr Bishnu Bhattarai, Executive Director at the National Tea and Coffee Development Board. Funded by the European Union, the Nepal-EU TIP aims to reduce supply side constraints in process- ing and quality throughout the coffee value chain, create business linkages for farmers, farmers’ cooperatives and women entrepreneurial associations to expand sales in domestic and international markets, while developing sensitization materials and tools on quality requirements. “We hope the training will encourage the participants to implement the things they learn to help meter, and multi-ride statistic modes such as Street and boost productivity, production as well as exports,” said Sport. Narayan Regmi, Joint-Secretary at the Ministry of In-

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 7 OPINION

US Troops Withdrawal From Afghanistan And Implication To South Asia

The 14th April 2021 US Presidential announcement to the last two years when President Trump has explic- withdraw US and North Atlantic Treaty Organization itly criticized Pakistan for providing shelters to ter- (NATO) forces from Afghanistan draws our attention rorist organizations. The immediate bordering nations to the affect; this is going to have in the region. The will have to live with the return of Taliban to power in withdrawal is accepting not only a turn back of suc- BY: BINOJ BASNYAT Kabul and an encouragement to passionate religious cession formulated and consumed for the last two dec- extremist. The Taliban and the Haqqani group had safe ades but may also increase security threats as terrorists and heavens in Pakistani grounds after the US forces landed in Af- non-state actors like the Taliban and al-Qaeda, as well as the ghanistan and were also known to be established by Pakistani terra-firma standing for more terrorists’ organizations trying security and intelligence institutions. Pakistan will be pulled to conceive, concoct and train against adversaries will gain into the folds situating added challenge to the already fragile some ground. In this turn of events, nation states of South Asia security situation. Upsurge of unpredictability in Afghanistan will witness a rise of both dormant and active terrorist threats. and spill-over upshot to neighboring states will put at risk the Therefore, there is now an expectation, not just from the Af- likelihood of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). ghanistan, but from regional powers particularly China, India, Afghanistan is one of the South Asian nations with Iran, Pakistan, Russia, Turkey and the Central Asian nations noticeable influence of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) to maintain regional security order even after the withdrawal and can jeopardize the stability of a broader region. With the of American and allied forces. This is a political debate that political vacuum and divisional socio-religious complexities has been around for some time now. But priority has shifted the Islamic State in Khorasan, the Afghan avatar of ISIS will ,interests have revised and urgency of risk assessments and have new grounds along the disputed Durand Line between preparations have altered after last month. Pakistan and Afghanistan. Evidences express that thousand Afghanistan also known as the “graveyards of Em- from Central Asians Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan pires” where empires and nations have failed to mollify which have joined ISIS ranks bordering Afghanistan. the British learned from the 1839-1842 war in Afghanistan. Laskhar-e-Toiba and Jaish-e-Mohamed will reposi- The US decision to withdraw from the longest war is the new- tion in South Asia and Afghanistan’s fragile and instability will est in the sequence. US and Allies forces withdrawal, which provide them with ample opportunities. India-Pakistan conten- was deployed from 2001 after the 9/11 twin tower attack to tion will escalate. This is proceeding at an instance when India ensure the land not to be used as a staging area for terrorist pushed back Chinese hostility along the Himalayan borders attack in the US and Allies homeland will come to an end leav- and progressing closer to Washington. ing other challenges to the US and other powers particularly The US decision and the South Asia policy of the US bordering Afghanistan. has put India as one of the regional stake holders with a great Afghanistan is a landlocked gateway that lies at the challenge with China and Russia in one side challenging the central of Asia with four adversaries; challenging terrain, re- US as well as China’s confrontational approach with India for pelling domestic forces, opposition of rising regional powers being closer to the US. and foreign armies, which connects three main terrestrial and The rise in recent attacks in Afghanistan on strategic cultural provinces: the Iranian plateau in the west, central Asia sites and assassination attempt on Mohamed Nasheed, former to the north and the Indian subcontinent to the southeast. President of Maldives are instances. The collaboration and co- There are approximately 40 militant groups active operation of South Asian nations to counter extremism, acts in South Asia, which holds substantial reasons for operation. of terrorism and organized flow of refugees will be more im- The South Asian nations will have to live with the Taliban, perative in days ahead when economy is falling and states are al-Qaeda and other non-state actors that may be detrimental for confronting challenges posed by COVID-19. domestic security and South Asian Security. China has been time and again revealed inconsistent Presence of the US forces dispirited the extremist approach about US presence in Afghanistan and even blamed forces as well as provided a protected setting for India’s func- it to be the source of instability as well as swerved from its in- tions. American reliance on Pakistan strategic advantage be- itial purpose of counter terrorism and mutated strategic design cause of her geographic position for operational maneuvering to influence the hub of Eurasia and China’s bordering states. and strategic depth will be missing. There are occasions when The withdrawal has been criticized by China as an irrespon- the dependence has been used in turn against India contrary to sible behavior of Washington for severely affecting the peace

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 8 OPINION process, the deteriorating security situation and regional sta- status quo will extend across Asia and the world after the with- bility particularly after the May 8th bombing and also called drawal of US and NATO forces from Afghanistan. The vacu- upon the UN and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to um will amply or may provide space for violence activities to consider the state of affairs. expand as terrorism and political violence will merely bring The likelihood of a civil disturbances and war in the in new strategic confrontation in South Asia. With the geo- urban areas of Afghanistan will expose Xinjiang Uygur Au- political swing India possibly will be comparatively detached tonomous Region, northwest province of China, where China in preserving its Afghan interests. Terrorism in South Asia is has been accused of committing genocide and crimes against based on militancy from extremist ideology and fundamental- humanity against the Uygur ethnic minorities. The UN human ism adopting a varied causes affects involving independence rights committeecommission in 2018 conveyed of reliable ev- or separatism, both right-and left-wing beliefs and rebellious idences of Chinese retaining up to a million people in counter religious finitism. extremism centers in Xinjiang. China as an immediate neigh- Now is the best time for South Asian nations along bor of Afghanistan and as trategic ally of Pakistan could see with concerned regional organizations to reassess and re-ex- a largerrole taking into account the sensitivities of Xinjiang amine regional security risks, threats and challenges. The UN province. Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy which agrees on a common Russia was overwhelmed at the hands of US sup- framework with a four-pillar plan of action offers a collective ported Mujahideen and withdrew from Afghanistan three dec- outline for this. ades ago now with the chances of a post-US role for Moscow in Afghan- In addition to the in- istan. Russia has been at the forefront ternational framework, existing for peace in Afghanistan which has regional structures and plans of not been well trusted by both the Tal- organizations including South iban and the Afghan government. The Asian Association for Region- March meeting known as expanded al Cooperation (SAARC) and “Troika” of China, Pakistan, Russia the Bay of Bengal Initiative and the US along with the Taliban for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Afghan delegates came out with a and Economic Cooperation NO to the establishment of an Islamic (BIMSTEC)presents workable Emirates and called on the Taliban to documents for regional col- abandon plans on the Spring offensive laboration on issues related to leaving the Taliban annoyed. border security, mutual legal Iran bordering Pakistan and assistance, and law enforce- Afghanistan has security threats from ment of the importance of de- both with the Taliban regime in Kabul. Iran has links with the veloping an effective, broad based regional response to any Hazaras and also hosted a Taliban delegation opening channels threat. There is also a Regional Convention on Suppression for pursuing better opening. of Terrorism 1987, August 2008 for “combatting terrorism”, What Nepal needs to do SAARC Terrorist Offensive Monitoring Desk (STOMD) and Illegal migration, false documented settlement, more the SAARC Drug Offensive Monitoring Desk (SDOMD) and than twenty thousand refugees and non-state actors, bad gov- an Expert Group on networking Amongst Police Authorities. ernance, political instability/trust, economic decline, dissat- Similarly, the summit of BIMSTEC in 2004 ex- isfied population, institutional corruption are risks to acts of pressed concern about the threat of terrorism and established a terrorism. Counter-Terrorism and Transnational Crime Sector (CTTCS) Stern measures need to be activated by one, strength- to coordinate the sub-region response. The fourth BIMSTEC ening of the law-and-order forces, two, efficient border man- Kathmandu Summit stressed on the fact that terrorism and agement procedures, three, review documentation like the transnational organized crimes continue as a great threat to citizenship and other national identification and finally immi- gration mechanism. These measures are prerequisites for accu- international peace and security and requires sustained efforts rate data and further course and plan of action. and cooperation and comprehensive approach. BIMSTEC In institutional capacity development the adminis- nations initiated a joint military exercise to address common tration should focus on professionalizing the institution rather challenges as well (in which Nepal did not partakeconveying- than politicization. Second, the source of political instability non-alignment policy). must be painstakingly considered. Third, corruption the source All in all, it is time that existing international and of slack system of governance needs modification. Fourth, dip- regional framework on geopolitical security should be exam- lomatic attempts for security diplomacy as well as being part ined as the US and NATO forces prepare for withdrawal from of and encouraging and even leading the regional collective Afghanistan triggering the region of standing more vulnerable arrangements will support the endeavors. to political instability and terrorism. Conclusion Basnyat is a strategic Analyst and a former Major General of the Nepali Army Uncertainty and intensity of the regional security

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 9 POLITICS KP OLI Loud Opposition Slamming Common Minimum Program (CMP), leader of main opposition K. P Sharma Oli flayed the coalition government

By A CORRESPONDENT

bserving carefully and quietly all the activities of Sher Baha- Odur Deuba led coalition government, former prime minister and leader of CPN-UML K.P. Sharma Oli finally came out to slam the government on its Common Minimum Pro- gram. Announced by the leaders of four parties, former Prime Minister Oli found enough ammunition from CMP since it lacks concrete and meaningful programs, Instead of specific and -tar geted programs, the CMP talks about vague issues like protection against COVID, concluding Peace Process and Economic Development. CMP says that it is prioritizing free COVID-19 vaccination to the peo- against CPN-UML leader Oli and his pal faction. As former Prime Minister Oli ple, the conclusion of the remaining tasks government, the CMP seems to be more has already made it clear that it will not of the peace process, relief to the COVID focused on how to revamp the programs tolerate violation of party whip any more, hit businesses and workers, an amend- and priorities given by previous govern- voting Deuba led government without ment to the constitution as per the under- ment. Announced following the presenta- splitting the party might cost the member- standing among political parties, control tion of CMP, the white paper of finance ship of the parliament. of inflation, among others. minister Janardan Sharma Prabhakar also In its recent verdicts, Consti- Unveiled in presence of Prime is full of loaded criticisms against the pol- tutional Court has already defined that Minister Deuba and leaders of the ruling icies followed by Oli government. violating the party whip is tantamount alliance, CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman As the CMP expresses its com- to leaving the party or subject to eviction Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda, Janata mitments to amend the constitution to ac- from the party as per the Anti-Defection Samajwadi Party, Nepal, Chairman Up- commodate the views of Madhesh based Act. endra Yadav and Rashtriya Janamorcha parties, it needs to get support of CPN- Oli’s Stand Chair Chitra Bahadur KC, the 11-point UML for two third majorities. Given so Carefully consulting on the priority of the government was prepared much criticism against the policies and legal and constitutional issues regard- by NC leader and coordinator of the programs of outgoing government, taking ing the provision of anti-defection act task force of the alliance Purna Bahadur support is likely to be impossible. and observing the differences within Khadka. At a time when CPN-UML the ruling factions, CPN-UML Chair Instead of taking specific agen- faction led by Madhav Kumar Nepal con- Oli is looking for spots of weakness to da, the CMP looks merely as a formality tinues to maintain its affiliation with the attack the government. to show the solidarity among three major party, the 3-party coalition government Denouncing the CMP and coalition partners. Although CPN- UML will have to face a difficult task to pass the policies of the Deuba led coalition faction led by Madhav Kumar Nepal did budget and new policies and programs as government, former Prime Minister not attend the program, it is reported that it does not have majority. K.P. Sharma Oli took the rostrum of Nepal group also backs the CMP. The life of the government the House of Representatives. In his As the coalition was formed solely depends upon CPN-UML led Ne- fluent and harsh words, Oli has shown

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 10 POLITICS that the main opposition party will not wait to unseat the government in case it seems failing to deliver. Addressing the Par- liament for the first time after the House was restored, Oli said Deuba was made the PM through a mandamus and not through people’s mandate. He called the Deuba government a government of a selfish alliance.

He also accused Deuba of trying to undo the progress agreements were unequal,” said Oli. He said the CMP vaguely re- made by his government. Oli said that He said that the CMP did not reflect ferred to border problems with neigh- the early indications did not give rea- the values and norms that the Nepali bors without specifically mentioning sons to predict that the government Congress stood for. the problems and the names of the would do well. On the foreign policy front, neighbors. “They said the government Oli criticized Deuba’s government Oli dared PM Deuba to in- was acting with the motive of taking for failing to clearly mention that the vestigate embezzlement of govern- revenge against the opposition,” said government would establish its polit- ment money in the Maoist canton- Oli, questioning the government for ical and administrative control over ments and Matatirtha land grab case. not clearly saying what it would do Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani He also urged the government to probe with the Millennium Challenge Cor- where India currently has its political the Gaur massacre. Oli urged the gov- poration (MCC) agreement which was and administrative control. ernment to pass the citizenship bill signed with the US when the Nepali CPN-UML leader Oli said which had been stuck for three years in Congress and CPN-MC were partners that he would become the prime min- the Parliament. Oli justified issuance in the government. ister again with thumping majority and of citizenship ordinance during his “The government had stat- his party would establish political and prime ministership, which was stayed ed in the CMP that it would review administrative control over Limpiyad- by the Supreme Court. unequal treaties and agreements, but hura, Lipulekh and Kalapani after the “Eligible youths have not did not clearly state which treaties or next general election. been able to get citizenship and pass- ports due to lack of citizenship certificates. They are unable to get jobs. I urge the government to immediately pass the citizenship bill and other urgent bills,” he said. From accusing the Deuba led government on its approaches of foreign policy to criticizing economic policy and health policy, former PM Oli did not spare a chance to question the verdict of the court in removing him. Accusing the Deuba led government as a government formed under a verdict of the court, former Prime Min- ister Oli made it clear that he is ready to face the people and come to power through their votes.

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 11 GLOBAL VIEW

China’s Cautious Steps In The Graveyard Of Empires Beijing’s relationship with the Talibans will be contingent upon a number of factors, two primary ones being Chinese investments and its national security. There is no way that Beijing will ‘rush to embrace the Talibans’, as speculated in the Western media. It is tactful and will not make the mistake of becoming another victim in the graveyard of empires.

BY: ABIJIT SHARMA

‘We are fine till now with God’s grace’, replied my Af- gime. This consequently triggered a violent resistance by ghani friend from Kabul responding to my text on Sat- US, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia backed ‘Mujahideen’. It urday as reports started to come in that Talibans were was clear that Afghanistan was now wedged between US taking over swathes of Afghanistan. ‘It might take some and USSR in the cold war. The Soviet troops withdrew in time for them to reach Kabul. We are figuring out an es- 1988 but the country continued to see a prolonged civil cape plan’, he added. war until 1996. The resulting infighting led to the rise But my friend never got the time to conceptual- of Taliban in 1996 who ruled until the Americans inter- ize his escape plan. The very next day after our conver- vened in 2001. sation, dramatic scenes played out in the streets of Kabul The notorious turn of events, triggered by both as the Talibans marched in in their Humvees wielding internal and external forces, prove that Afghanistan is of machine guns. By late Sunday night, they had taken strategic importance to multiple stakeholders. Ironically, over the Presidential palace. My follow-up message to every actor who has intervened has failed miserably cre- my friend asking about his and his family’s safety re- ating a debacle for itself and the Afghani people. The Tal- mains undelivered as I write this. ibans’ swift ascendancy has shown that the US’s twenty Given its location at the crossroads of Central, years of mission in Afghanistan has also turned to be no South, and Southwest Asia, Afghanistan is not new to different. Afterall, two decades of its mission worth USD volatility. In the 19th and 20th century, the Afghans 2 trillion collapsed in just about one week. At the time of fought three wars with the British, the final war in 1919 this writing, it remains unclear about the type of rule and leading Britain to relinquish their control over Afghan- the form of regime the Taliban will be adopting, but there istan’s foreign affairs. Under the leadership of the then is a common fear that the country will again plunge into monarchy, this isolated but a relatively peaceful country darkness. Aptly describing the US’s hasty withdrawal, aimed to chart a road of development and modernity. But Global Times, a Chinese state backed media said that ‘… fate had other things in store. A coup in 1973 by the then the US’s desperate withdrawal plan shows the unrelia- King’s very own brother-in-law led to the overthrow of bility of US commitments to its allies: when its interests monarchy and introduction of a republican state. Five require it to abandon allies, Washington will not hesitate years later, another coup led to the establishment of a to find every excuse to do so’. communist state. Dramatic events unfolded in 1979 Many have now been turning towards China when this former constitutional monarchy saw Soviet to see its reaction. In a clear case of propaganda, some troops on its land to bolster the faltering communist re- Western medias have been saying that Beijing would

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 12 GLOBAL VIEW try to fill the vacuum left behind by the US while oth- only through the prism of opportunities. It understands ers have pointed out that the Chinese leadership would that its economic and strategic interests in Central Asia ‘embrace Talibans’ considering the fact that the Chinese and Pakistan will stand at risk should a spillover effect played host to a top Taliban leader last month. But these from Afghanistan result in the rise of Islamic militancy arguments are too naive. Unlike Western forces, China in the region. The South China Morning Post in one of does not harbor intentions to intervene directly in other its op-eds stated that the stability of Afghanistan is key countries’ affairs. It’s engagement is usually subtle and to the success of major belt and road projects in South diplomatic. Beijing’s relationship with the Talibans will and Central Asia, including special economic zones and thus be pragmatic and contingent upon a number of fac- energy and transport infrastructure.China is now the tors two primary ones being Chinese investments and largest trading partner of every one of the former Soviet national security. republics in Central Asia. Trade has increased more than In the case of Afghani- stan, Beijing’s perennial concern is security. China’s highly volatile Xinjiang region shares a 90km border with Afghanistan. It is thus skeptical that Afghanistan will be a safe haven for the Uighur militant group - East Turkestan Is- lamic Movement (ETIM) which has been fighting for the -inde pendence of Xinjiang. The ETIM is known to have shared cordial relations with the Taliban. China will thus only establish friendly relations with new government in Kabul if they ensure that they will break off their ties with the ETIM and that their territory will not be used for anti-China activities . There have been hints that 100-fold since 1991 and is worth more than US$50 bil- the meeting in Tianjin was set up to discuss this. The lion annually. If the Taliban manages to create a relative- Chinese Foreign Minister reportedly called on the Talib- ly stable Afghanistan, China will benefit; but if that does an to fight and clearly divide itself from ETIM while the not happen, its investments in Central Asia run at huge visiting Talibani leader also pledged that it would ensure risk. The stability of Afghanistan is also key to the suc- no anti-China activity was held in Afghani soil. cess of major belt and road projects in South and Central China will also not establish any commercial Asia, including special economic zones and energy and links with Afghanistan until Kabul can provide assurance transport infrastructure particularly the China Pakistan that it will be able to maintain stability in the country. Economic Coorirdor (CPEC). China does not really have huge investments in the coun- Thus there are many factors for China to con- try currently as compared to Pakistan or other Central sider before it extends its hand of friendship to the Tali- Asian countries. But given its location at the crossroads bans. There is no way that Beijing will ‘rush to embrace of Central, South, and Southwest Asia, it could play a the Talibans’, as speculated in the Western media. As a pivotal role in China’s ambitious Belt and Road Initia- tactful diplomatic force, Beijing will be careful. Chinese tive (BRI). Beijing will be looking to exploit this factor. Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, calling the Taliban ‘a pivotal But it understands that things are not so simple. Already, political force’ hints towards the fact that Beijing is opti- two of its investments in Afghanistan – the Aynak Cop- mistic. But it also wants to wait and see. Andre Small, an per Mine project and Amu Darya Oil Exploration project expert on China says that Beijing is concerned about the – which are worth USD 700 million are halted due to risks of entanglement in Afghanistan, which is seen as a instability. Hence, China will take on a significant -in strategic trap that has diminished the other great powers vestment role only if there is a permissive security and that have involved themselves too deeply. China is tact- political environment in the country. ful and will not make the mistake of becoming another But China does not tend to perceive Afghanistan victim in the graveyard of empires.

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 13 ECONOMY BOP Increasing Gap Increasing Balance of Payment (BoP) will have long lasting impacts on Nepal’s economy By A CORRESPONDENT

ith the upsurge of COV- against the previous government but it cused on criticizing the works of the ID-19 cases worldwide, de- is the mirror of the country’s economy. previous government,” said Poudel. Wmand for Nepalese workers Sharma also expressed his skepticism He said that the whitepaper and products in foreign countries has about the vaccination drive launched presented in parliament a few days ago drastically declined. However, Nepal’s by the previous government. “I have by Finance Minister Janardan Sharma import continues to grow. This has re- thoroughly studied the number of the has largely ignored the adverse im- sulted in a negative BoP trend. imported vaccines and the actual num- pacts of COVID-19 on the national For the last two decades in ber of people vaccinated, which shows economy. general, Nepal’s balance of payment that the statistics is not as per the one However, those who have never saw any negative trend due to presented by the previous govern- been watching Nepal’s trade scenar- the flow of remittance coming from ment,” he said. io see the present scenario as natural, Gulf and other destinations including ‘Baseless’ White Paper pointing out to Nepal’s growing trade Malaysia. However, former finance deficit with various countries due to The white paper presented minister Bishnu Poudel has termed the lack of products to export. by the government paints this bleak white paper presented by the govern- Tourism and remittance are scenario of the national econ- two major areas contributing omy. Presenting the white to bring balance of payment paper at the Federal Parlia- in Nepal’s favor. Following ment, Minister for Finance, the pandemic, both these sec- Janardan Sharma said that the tors suffered badly reducing national coffer has a deficit the earning. of Rs 143 billion. Addressing Last fiscal year, the parliament, the finance Nepal had a trade deficit of minister has also announced Rs.1016.62. that this government would According to the present a new budget. trade statistics of the De- Nepal’s balance of partment of Customs, the payment (BoP) went on a country’s trade deficit has in- deficit in the last fiscal year creased by 12.49 per cent to 2021 by Rs. 15.25 billion as Rs. 1,016.62 billion during imports surged while the BoP the first nine months of the in the preceding fiscal year of current fiscal year. 2019/20 was in a surplus by High growth in im- Rs. 282 billion. port has led to the widening Similarly, central trade deficit. The trade deficit reserve fund has also been in had reached Rs. 903.71 bil- a deficit by Rs. 146 billion in the last ment in parliament as a baseless doc- lion in the corresponding period the fiscal year whereas it was in a deficit ument aimed at tarnishing the image previous year. by only Rs. 43 billion f our years ago. of the former government led by KP Nepal has had foreign trade “I am not making any ac- Sharma Oli. with more than 152 countries during cusation against the previous govern- Former minister Poudel ac- this period, with the biggest share of ment and the data mentioned in the cused the government of bringing the trade and deficit with India. whitepaper has not been manipulat- whitepaper only for objecting to the According to statistics, the ed,” said Sharma replying to queries previous government’s works. “Al- country imported goods worth Rs. made by the lawmakers in parliament. though the white paper presents in- 724.94 billion from India in the last Sharma said that the present- formation about the current economic nine months. ed document was not for a revenge condition of the country, it is more fo- Exports during the review

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 14 ECONOMY period stood at Rs. 68.43 billion. Nepal’s trade deficit with India has MONETARY POLICY reached Rs. 656.51 billion. During the review period, goods worth Rs. 164.13 billion Drive For Digitalization were imported from China while NRB Unveiled Monetary Policy For Fiscal Year 2021/22 calling to export amounted to only Rs. 796 million. digitalize the banking transactions Nepal’s trade deficit with China is now Rs. 163.33 billion. By A CORRESPONDENT As imports and exports s the new government is yet to financial institutions going for merg- have increased during the period come out with its new budget er. It has also set a ceiling of Rs 120 compared to the same period previ- amending the old one, Nepal million from banks against the depos- ous year, the overall foreign trade A Rastra Bank has faced the most difficult it of shares. and trade deficit also increased sig- time. Governor Maha Prasad Adhikari The governor has announced nificantly, the report said. unveiled the Monetary Policy for the fis- to promote fiscal year 2021/22 as The total foreign trade cal year 2021/22 projecting that the infla- electronic transaction promotion volume has increased by 13.64 per tion would be contained at 6.50 per cent. year. Adhikari said that the policy cent to Rs. 1,206.16 billion in the Unveiling the monetary pol- focus is on developing necessary in- first nine months of the current fis- icy, Governor Adhikari announced the frastructures and promoting aware- cal year. monetary policy is focused on increasing ness among people for the electronic According to the statis- the broad money by 18 per cent on the payment. tics, import of goods has increased basis of the nominal GDP growth target. Among others, the bank also significantly. Goods worth Rs. He also said that the policy will support set a plan to increase the record of 1,111.39 billion have been import- the economic growth target, digital transactions and settle digital ed till mid-April this fiscal year. This is higher by13.12 per cent than the same period last year. During the same period last year, Nepal imported goods worth Rs. 982.53 billion in nine months. Nepal imported goods worth Rs. 168 billion from mid- March to mid-April. This is the highest volume f import in a single month of the current fiscal year. Meanwhile, Nepal’s export trade has increased by 20.23 per cent to Rs. 94.76 billion during the review period. With the increase in exports, its contribution to total trade He also announced plans to transactions that take place within the also risen from 7.62 per cent to maintain record of digital transac- country by interlinking digital pay- 8.42 per cent during the review pe- tions and settle digital transactions ment tools. The new policy also plans riod. that take place within the country by to establish a national payment gate- The share of imports in interlinking digital payment tools. way to introduce payment cards. foreign trade is 92.14 per cent and The central bank has also announced Along with others, the pol- the share of exports is only 7.86 plans to establish a national payment icy has also provided a number of per cent. gateway to introduce payment cards. incentives for banks and financial in- Given Nepal’s current The cash reserve ratio is to be stitutions going for merger. It has also trend of import and declining for- maintained the same as in the past fiscal set a ceiling of Rs 120 million from eign currency from tourism and re- year, at 3 per cent. He also announced banks against the deposit of shares. mittances, the BoP is unlikely to be a number of incentives for banks and in Nepal’s favor.

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 15 COVERSTORY

KUL MAN GHISING Second Inning, Several Challenges

For the previous performance and role of Kul Man Ghising in ending the decades of load shedding and turning a virtually bankrupt public entity into one of the largest profitable ventures, the Government of Nepal reappointed him as the Managing Director of NEA with expectations that his second innings can help build sustainable infrastructure for a future without power cuts and for making NEA an efficient public entity. At a time when NEA’s financial state has started to worsen with a loss of over Rs.5 billion, increasing leakage by 6 percent and frequency of power interruptions in a matter of a year, MD Ghising has resumed his job. Given his experience and commitment, MD Ghising will change the present state of affairs at NEA

BY A CORRESPONDENT

rom the first day of assuming the office, hundreds of media- per Built by spending a lot of office as managing director sons spontaneously gathered at time and efforts, MD Ghising has Fof NEA, MD Kul Man Ghis- NEA to capture a glimpse of his re- to spend time once again in restruc- ing has indicated that he will go for turn. turing the system and placing right sleepless nights for months before MD Ghising had made a persons to right tasks. “Although setting up all the mechanisms with number of achievements during this is one of the biggest challeng- which he used to work before. Ghis- his first tenure by creating - prop es of my personal career, I accepted ing was making the remarks before er institutions and support from the responsibility endowed by the a large number of media persons NEA’s team. As all his creation has government upon me. I will fulfill and office bearers of NEA. been dismantled and employees my responsibilities with determi- Interestingly, even hours dispersed, MD Ghising’s first step nation and uphold the high hope of before Ghising arrived to assume would be to restore the systems. the large number of well-wishers

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 16 COVERSTORY He said that his primary priority is to further improve service delivery and good governance. He has expressed his commitment to solve the current frequent interruptions of electricity supply. He said that he will concentrate his effort to supply quality and reliable electricity to the consumers and common people. “I will not give any chance to consumers to com- plain against the supply of electricity,” said MD Ghis- ing. “I will take all necessary reforms to improve the situation,” said MD Ghising, expressing his commitments. “My efforts will be directed to institutionalize the for bringing back the system for and qualitative electricity,” said achievement made during the past, qualitative and uninterrupted pow- MD Ghising. “I don’t have grudg- to increase consumption of the er supply,” said MD Ghising. “As es against anybody. I will correct electricity, improvement of quality there are many challenges before the mistakes of past and continue of electricity and regularity in the me, I have also decided to work qui- the good work. I have a vision to supply, completing the construc- etly for at least a month,” said MD make NEA better. I don’t have any tion of transmission lines and dis- Ghising. interest in back biting and opposing tribution systems and projects. My What MD Ghising had others. However, we have to work focus will be to take initiative to achieved in his previous stint was hard following the direction of the start new projects, widen electrifi- because of his dedication and com- government and implementing the cation, ensure institutional govern- mitment as well as the support of working plan,” said MD Ghising. ance and improve service delivery. NEA’s team and government. He After a break of almost Deputy Executive Director of Fi- will have to cultivate them again. 11 months, Ghising is back again nancial Directorate Lekhnath Koi- “I should not have come as to lead Nepal Electricity Authority rala expressed the hope that MD MD of NEA. However, I returned (NEA). However, the situation has Ghising will succeed to reduce to NEA and accepted the challenge worsened with figures going down, the current electricity leakage and to fulfill the responsibility given by for example, to Rs. 3.38 billion increase the profit of NEA. Sick the government and trust of a large from Rs.8.30 billion of a year ago. NEA needs a doctor and the MD is number of public who want me to The leakage has increased from 15 the doctor. Thus, now the tool is in be in NEA to fulfill their expecta- percent to 22 percent and revenue MD’s hand on how to treat the sick tions of supplying uninterrupted has declined almost Rs. 5 billion. person and treat him well.

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 17 tion, the Council Present Revenue Status of Ministers ap- When MD Ghising left pointed Ghising NEA last year, the profit of NEA as the managing was over Rs. 12 billion, the profit director of the margin was Rs.8.38 billion lower NEA. Ghising compared to the last fiscal year.The has been reap- total revenue generation of NEA pointed to the has drastically reduced making the post for the next huge loss in the profit margin. four years. Ghis- NEA’s earnings are dwin- ing has already dling as a result of increase in served NEA suc- leakage of electrical energy. The cessfully, earn- outgoing management also blamed ing huge support this for the lower demand in man- from the general ufacturing sector and large volume public as well. of import of expensive power from Ghising India. was appointed the Thanks to the agreement managing direc- signed during the tenure of Ghis- tor of NEA for the ing last year, NEA has additional first time on Sep- surplus of Rs.5 billion from Khim- tember 16, 2016. ti alone. As per the new PPA with In his first four- Khimti the average price of electric- year term, he was ity was reduced from Rs. 8 to Rs. Following the appointment not only success- 2. Thanks to this, the NEA, which of Ghising in NEA, incumbent man- ful in ending the chronic problem used to pay over Rs 5.5 billion year- aging director of the NEA Hitendra of power outage, commonly known ly till two years ago, paid merely Dev Shakya has been transferred to as ‘load-shedding’, in the country Rs 80.7 million this year. This had the Ministry of Energy. but also turned the NEA into a prof- alone saved Rs 5 billion. However, Ghising, during his four- it-making institution, ending the NEA’s loss had increased steadily. year tenure years of loss-making trend. NEA’s administration at the NEA, was largely credited for ending the decades-long load shedding ‘era’ in Nepal and had made the institution profitable. On the propos- al of the Ministry of Ener- gy, Water Resources and Irriga-

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 18 COVERSTORY blamed lower energy consumption due to COVID-19 Pandemic, higher leakages and new tariff and imports from India. If power consumption declined, why did Nepal import electricity from India? When MD Ghis- ing left NEA, the electricity leakage was 14 per cent, However it grew over 18 percent. In his first four year tenure, MD Ghising reduced the leakage from 25.78 per cent in FY 2072/07 to 15 per cent in FY 2076/77. As there is the need to improve distribution sys- NEA is to complete the construction Ghising took charges of an institu- tem and complete many transmis- of all the transmission line projects tion which was nearly in bankrupt- sion lines to prevent paying penalty so that NEA does not have to pay cy and there were many incomplete to private sector investor, MD Ghis- compensation. projects including 456 MW Upper ing has to take many steps. He said that NEA will de- Tamakosi, which was badly shaken MD Ghising said he will velop investment modality for Dud- by earthquake. However, this time, show his work by doing it and that hkosi and Upper Arun projects and his challenges are much bigger as will be the priority for electricity. start the construction of both the he has to resume the work to reform He also announced to formulate a projects. NEA will make necessary distribution system to increase elec- plan to give priority to the sector. arrangements for the construction tricity consumption and complete At a time when NEA has of distribution systems in Terai to the transmission lines to evacuate to pay penalty for the private hy- provide electricity to the farmers. the energy from private producers. dropower producers due to lack of In his first four years, MD transmission line, the priority of

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 19 ENVIRONMENT

Advancing Eba Options In Nepal

BY: BATU UPRETY

The Climate Change Policy (2019) recognizes, inter defined the EbA as the use of biodiversity & ecosys- alia, the adverse impacts of climate change on ecosystem services as part of an overall adaptation strategy tems and underscores the importance of building its to help people adapt to the adverse effects of climate resilience by implementing a policy of developing and change. EbA covers sustainable management, conser- expanding payment for ecosystem services received vation, rehabilitation and restoration of ecosystems to from ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA). Adaptations build climate resilience by reducing vulnerability of options named as community-based or community-led communities and natural resources to climate change. or ecosystem-based or combined are under implemen- It enhances ecosystem goods and services. tation to reduce adverse effects of climate change on Adaptation projects in Nepal have addressed vulnerable communities, their livelihoods and ecosystems - life-supporting system. Nepal’s National Adaptation Pro- gramme of Action (NAPA) approved by the Government in September 2010 prioritised nine adaptation programmes for most urgent and immediate adaptation needs. These programmes emphasises, inter alia, in implementing community-based adaptation (CbA), building and enhancing adaptive capacity of vulnerable communities, reducing climate-induced disasters, managing forests and ecosystems, and promoting climate-smart urban settlement. Considering the comparative advantage of the GEF Implementing Agen- cies, UNDP and UNEP were invited in 2010 to support Nepal in accessing funding from LDC Fund to implement NAPA prioritised adaptation options to reduce adverse effects of glacier melting, and EbA options to restore degraded ecosystems. Implementation of GLOF-related project was complet- and will address climate vulnerability and ecosystem ed few years back, and LDCF-supported EbA project management in different areas. Four dedicated EbA which faced unwanted complexities from GEF and the projects have been implemented and/or are under im- GoN is now under implementation. plementation in Nepal. It does not mean that other In 2009, Convention on Biological Diversity projects do not consider EbA options. For example,

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 20 ENVIRONMENT

Nepal Climate Change Support Programme and Hari- ther contribute, inter alia, in protecting water sources, yo Ban Projects under implementation (second phase) developing flood management tool, constructing- con with support from UK and US governments include servation ponds, recharging groundwater wells, plant- activities to conserve biodiversity, restore habitats, ing climate-resilient tree species, managing open spac- and increase income of climate vulnerable people and es, and minimising damage from rivers and streams. communities. The TAL and CHAL projects focussed in UNEP is implementing a regional EbA pro- reducing threats to ecosystem, helping communities to ject to build climate resilience of urban systems in the build resilience to the adverse effects of climate change, Asia-Pacific region with the objectives of strengthening and improving livelihoods. institutions and building capacity of city management Of the four dedicated EbA projects, Nepal was authorities, demonstrating urban EbA interventions and included in two international projects - EbA in moun- disseminating knowledge and raising public aware- tain ecosystems implemented in Nepal, Peru and Ugan- ness on urban EbA in pilot cities of Bhutan, Cambo- da with support from the Government dia, Lao PDR and of Germany through UNEP, UNDP and Myanmar. Specif- IUCN; and enhancing capacity, knowl- ic EbA interven- edge and technology support to build tions range from climate resilience of vulnerable develop- reforestation, aging countries, popularly known as EbA riculture and wet- South, was implemented in China, Mau- land restoration to ritania (dryland), Nepal (highland) and support livelihood Seychelles (island) with funding from of urban poor Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF) communities. through UNEP. In Nepal, mountain EbA Nepal’s was implemented in Panchase (Kaski, urban EbA pro- Syanja and Parbat) and EbA South in ject may generate Chiti, Lamjung. These two global pro- practical lessons jects contributed in developing method- and learning, in- ologies and tools for EbA, building eco- cluding benefits system resilience, reducing vulnerability of EbA options of mountain communities, strengthening and ‘nature-based country capacity, and generating and solutions’ in mak- sharing knowledge, lessons and good practices. ing cities environmentally comfortable living areas and Nepal accessed funding from the LDCF encourage adaptation advocates at national, regional through UNEP to implement two EbA projects - cat- and international levels in developing and implement- alysing ecosystem restoration for climate resilient nat- ing additional EbA options. ural capital and rural livelihoods in degraded forests With support from the Government of Germa- and rangelands; and urban EbA for climate-resilient ny, the Global EbA Fund has been established to support development in the Kathmandu Valley. The forests and scaling-up EbA options to reduce climate vulnerability. rangelands project that is under implementation aims to This Fund is led by IUCN and UNEP. Nepal may wish increase the capacity of the government and local com- to develop additional EbA projects and access funding munities to adapt to climate change by implementing from LDCF, SCCF, Green Climate Fund (GCF), and EbA options. This project is expected to restore forests Adaptation Fund as a Party to the UN Framework Con- and rangelands in mid-hills of Achham and Salyan and vention on Climate Change, Kyoto Protocol and the high mountains of Dolakha districts. The urban EbA Paris Agreement. Funding may also be accessed from project will build resilience of local communities of the Global EbA Fund, friendly countries, multilateral the Kathmandu Valley to the increasing threats of cli- agencies, and other funding initiatives operated to sup- mate-induced flooding, landslides, and drought through port the implementation of the Convention, Protocol EbA options. and Agreement in developing countries. Opportunities The urban EbA project is expected, inter alia, exist to reduce adverse effects on climate vulnerable to promote groundwater recharge, improve soil stabil- communities and ecosystems, and to benefit from EbA ity, and reduce flooding and landslides in the Valley. It options, both in urban and rural areas. However, it de- will contribute in mainstreaming EbA options into ur- mands for dedicated efforts. ban planning, documenting knowledge, lessons, learn- Former Joint-Secretary (Tech) and Chief, Climate ing and best practices, and developing skills. It will fur- Change Management Division, then Ministry of Environment, E-mail: [email protected]

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 21 VIEWPOINT The Plights Of Rape Survivors And Criminal Investigation

BY: GOVIND PRASAD THAPA, PH.D.

Background interview, and the intelligence gathering for the arrest of Women are subject to criminal victimization, both inside criminals are common. Careless investigation can harm the and outside their homes. These usually include harass- child. The child must be protected during the process of ment, torture, abuses, and sometimes murder in the most investigation. Throughout the world, victims’ experiences deceitful manner. The dowry atrocities, child prostitution, with the criminal justice system vary greatly. In our con- and women trafficking for sexual exploitation have been a text, helpless women and children find access to justice disgrace to society. A large number of children are abused difficult since they are typically not courageous enough to for commercial sexual purposes every year often ending confide and approach police offices. Even those who dare to up with their health destroyed. As a result, many victims do so, also suffer from the stigmatization of society. On top suffer silently. Quite often, the humanitarian needs of the of these, sometimes, police investigations make the victims victims are neglected. Rape has a far-reaching and long- suffer from further apathy and distrust of the justice system. term negative impact in all spheres of life affect not only the The exhibition of insensitiveness of police and other law individual women victims but also her family and the larger enforcement officials towards the victims’ feelings and lack community in general. of techniques to handle women and children victims often The objective of this article is to understand the discourage victims to report and continue defending their physical, psychosocial problems of the victims of rape and cases in the courts. the right approach to intervene in the most professional way Sensitive and professional intervention and in- possible. In other words, humanizing the law enforcement vestigation are crucial to providing relief and justice to the agencies during the investigation of rape crimes is the call victims and punishment to the perpetrators. The technical of the time. aspects of the investigation (i.e. the application of foren- In the fiscal year, 2074/2075 the police registered sic science) are equally important to prove the guilt. The 1480 cases and 727 attempted to rape cases, whereas in the successful investigation and prosecution of the crime is not fiscal year 2075/2076 the total number of rape cases were the only objective rather victims’ rights must be protected 2230 and 786 attempt to rape cases were recorded. In ad- at the highest level, which requires the humanization of the dition, 211cases of child sexual abuse were also reported entire law enforcement system. The successful investiga- in this fiscal year (Nepal Police). These two-year figures tion and prosecution of sexual assault largely depend upon indicate that sexual crimes are increasing in the country. a structural change of the legal system, a transformation of Earlier, child sexual abuse was unheard and unspoken in society’s perception of rape victims, a high level of profi- our society but lately, it has been tormenting society. So, the ciency among the multidisciplinary team, and their ability trend of these crimes is changing. There may be many cases to work well together. of sexual offenses hidden under the layers of guilt, shame, Victims-friendly approach and societal pressure. Consequently, these go undetected The victim of sexual offenses should be dealt with and unpunished, but their victims live with the torment all compassion and support by the family, friends, and law their lives. The prostituted children are often raped, beaten, enforcement agencies. The investigation of crimes against sodomized, emotionally abused, tortured, and even killed women and children requires knowledge, skills, sensitiv- by pimps, brothel owners, and customers. ity, and a particular caring attitude. Male and female of- The investigation generally contains various ficers should be specially trained to deal with such crimes. steps. Identification of victims, the medical check-up, the The pieces of evidence are key factors to prove the mens

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 22 VIEWPOINT rea (criminal intent) and actus reus (criminal act) must be tims should be encouraged to tell their stories in their way proved in the courts. Many law enforcement officers com- and their language. There should not be any person or rel- mit grave mistakes while collecting the primary physical atives of the accused while taking the interviews. Since the pieces of evidence, i.e. they treat the victim as a piece of frequent change of interviewer makes the victims nervous evidence only not a human being abused and suffering from and repeat their stories, again and again, it is advised that loads of psycho-sociological problems. The victim-friendly the interview should be taken by one person only and the approach should be kept in mind throughout the investiga- interview should be recorded for reference purposes. The tion and prosecution stages. The rights, needs, and interests victim’s rights, needs, and interests should be taken care of the victims should be properly handled during all the of during such interviews. If the victim wishes to have her procedures. lawyer with her, it should be fulfilled. Extra precautions and The investigation requires a delicate part of inter- techniques should be taken while handling child victims view sessions with the victims and suspects. It is an art unto and physically and mentally disabled victims. The interview and handling of the suspect also deserve humanitarian behavior without any prejudices and physical and mental torture. The investigating officers should work hard to collect every bit of pieces of evidence methodically to make the case strong in the court. The pieces of evidence are far strong than the words in the courts. The victim’s private lawyer should be allowed to accompany him/her while taking the interviews. Conclusion The violence and crimes against vulnerable sections of society are considered customary and routine social practices in our societies. These crimes are typically under-reported and poorly investigated. As a result, many victims suffer silently in their lives. itself. The reporting of the offense to the police requires an Quite often the rights, humanitarian needs, and interests of act of tremendous courage and determination on the part of the victims and suspects are neglected. The technical part of the victims. The investigating officer, preferably a woman the investigation, i.e. the application of forensic science, is officer while handling sexual offenses, must be extra -cau important to establish the criminal intent and criminal acts tious to respect the dignity of the victims at all times. The but in the name of investigation, the humanitarian perspec- victims need supportive and friendly behavior from the tives should not be omitted by the law enforcing agencies. police and attorneys. Not only during the investigation but The various agencies responsible for the execu- also in the process of adjudication, the courts must handle tion of the criminal justice system have been distant from such cases inhuman behaviors. Quite often, with the lack of the other actors. As such, coordination and cooperation be- knowledge and skills, the victims are re-victimized during tween the police, prosecutors, judges, physicians, forensic the process of investigation and adjudication. An inappro- specialists, social activists, and the jail administration, must priate way of handling the victims will make them misera- be revitalized. There is an acute need for a coalition, not a ble and weak. collision. There are few important guidelines for the police, The criminalization of politics and politicization attorney, medics, and judges to follow while handling the of criminal acts are being frequently experienced in our victims. The environment of the interview should be com- society. These attitudes and practices will only serve the fortable for the victim. It should not be crowded and noisy. purpose of lawlessness and anarchy. Every citizen has to The victim must feel safe, secure, and confident. The police abide by the law and respect the human rights and values officers and advised to wear plain clothes and bear a friend- of others. ly look while taking interviews. The interview should not Dr. Thapa is retired Additional Inspector General of Nepal take a very long time, it may be one hour at a time. The vic- Police. Currently, he is President of the Centre for Security and Justice Studies, Nepal.

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 23 DEVELOPMENT

CICs Increasing Access To Local Service Delivery

DCA has been providing the necessary support to operate the center. One staff is dedicated to work there in coordination with Palika and its IT focal person for technical support.

By A CORRESPONDENT

or a majority of citizens, particu- Paschim Province, with larly the poor, vulnerable and mar- the digitalization of ser- Fginalized population of Chaurpati vices starting there from Rural Municipality of Achham District over a year ago, a large in Sudur Paschim Province, accessing number of people still the services provided by the Rural Mu- did not access the ser- nicipality used to be a tough task. Most vices. of them were left out because they had Maya Kunwar, no knowledge about the services provid- Vice Chairperson of ed by the Municipality. Chaurpati Rural Munic- Following the opening of ipality, believes that the the Community Information Center establishment of CIC is a (CIC) a few months back, things have major step to inform the been changing drastically for the bet- people and increase their ter. Equipped with computers, smart access to the services de- phones, printers and officer in-charge, livered by the Palika. “I CIC has started to provide information am pretty sure that CIC to the people about the services availa- helps people to access ble in the Palika. services offered by Pali- Although Chaurpati Rural ka,” she asserts. Municipality is a Smart Palika of Sudur With funding with technical support from PARIWAR- from DANIDA, DCA supported the es- TAN Project. tablishment of CIC in Kailari Rural Mu- “As Palikas didn’t provide nicipality, Kailali and Panchadewal Mu- photocopy service and support for peo- nicipality, Accham, as a pilot initiative ple to fill the necessary forms in the of DCA Active Citizenship for Inclusive past, we used to go outside for such ser- Governance Programme. vices and had to pay additional money. Following the success of the Thanks to CIC and its officer in charge, first project in Kailari Rural Municipal- we got the support for obtaining the cit- ity of Kailali district and Panchadewal izenship certificates for me and my hus- Municipality of Achham District that band as well as our marriage certificate helped the local government become and birth registration card of our child,” more accessible and transparent for explains Deepa B.K of Kailari Rural the people, it has been replicated in the Municipality, Kailali. “This support has European Union (EU) funded Partici- changed the situation for many now. pation, Inclusion and Wider CSOs’ Ac- Having this CIC inside our Palika has tions for Responsive, Transparent and saved our money and time, which has Accountable Local governance in Nepal simplified our work a lot.” (PARIWARTAN) Project in Achham The CIC center provides qual- and Doti Districts. ity service to the citizens. “We don’t As per the project document, have to invest much time to look after there is a provision for only two CICs. all the necessary documentation that However, Mangalsen Municipality liked needs to be prepared by the citizens who the concept of CIC and it has replicated come here for different works. This en- the center through its own resources sures the quality of work and also makes

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 24 DEVELOPMENT Development Organization Nepal As accountability is a rela- (MDO-Nepal) and 1 CIC in Doti tionship between local government and District with local NGO Equality citizens, the local government repre- Development Center (EDC) are sentatives have to explain and justify in function. These CICs are in their conduct as part of the process. To operation in Pachadewal Binay- hold the government accountable, trans- ak Municipality, Mangalsen Mu- parency and information about local nicipality and Chaurpati Rural government’s decisions, services and Municipality of Achham District actions to the public are a must. and Shikhar Municipality of Doti The Local Government Op- district under PARIWARTAN eration Act, 2017 (the ‘LGOA’), which Project. In addition to this with specifies local government functions support from DANIDA fund, 1 CIC is in operation in Kailari Rural Municipality of Kailai district. There is a plan to handover this CIC for which the process is underway with Kailari Rural Mu- nicipality. The CIC concept ap- plies in the Governance Mecha- the service seekers happy. Hence, we nism to bridging the gap between have integrated this service in our pe- public service and citizen’s access to the riodic plan and have provisioned for a service. The concept ensures the Right separate staff to operate this center from to Information and enables the environ- FY 2078/79,” opines Laxmi Sadgawa ment for marginalized citizens, who are Tharu, Vice-Chair of Kailari Rural Mu- left behind, to access services and re- nicipality. sources provided by the public service The PARIWARTAN project entity i.e. Government Service Provid- has been mainly working in 4 sectors er. For the operation of the centers, CIC and providing support to local govern- Operating Guidelines 2077 has already ment and supporting the establishment been formulated by DCA and local part- of CIC is one of them. ners and endorsed by the local Munici- Under this objective, DCA palities. has already established 4 CICs in part- Unlike in the past, Nepal’s nership with local partner NGO and a present constitutional approach to local and powers and provides a basic struc- bilateral MoU with respective Palikas. government has emphasized local par- ture for the working of municipal as- Currently, 3 CICs in Accham District ticipation, empowerment and creating semblies, also emphasizes the need to in partnership with local NGO Malika institutions for service delivery. How- increase access of people to the services. ever, they In this regard, the establish- demand ment of CIC in various Municipalities accounta- and Rural Municipalities in Kailali, bility and Achham and Doti will increase people’s transpar- involvement in Municipal activities. ency in At a time when the entire their ac- country’s concern is growing over how tions. to increase access of local people, particularly the marginalized, poor and so- cially vulnerable, the establishment and operation of CICs in Kailali, Achham and Doti have raised hope and set ex- amples of how all this can help. With funds from the EU and DCA and in technical collaboration with the Institute of Local Governance Institute (INLOGOS), CICs in Sudur Paschim region are something that can empower the people and can set exam-

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 25 DEVELOPMENT photo- center, I also got a wheelchair which copy has made my life easy. Now, I can move machine, here and there without anyone’s support. printer, Thanks to CIC and the center in-charge desk, for all the support,” says Namsara B.K. table to of Kailari Rural Municipality, Kailali the Pali- District. ka for a The staff in charge of the in- smooth formation center visits different wards running twice a week to make the community of the people aware of the services provided center. by the respective Palikas. This results in building confidence and a sense of be- longingness amongst the marginalized communities and CIC so that they do not hesitate to go to the Palika. Shikar Municipality, Doti, supported by the PARIWARTAN project operates the CIC center in the Pa- ples for many other Municipalities and lika which has a provision of a separate citizens to be able to understand their CICs have not only been pro- staff. The database of all the services rights and be able to enjoy them. viding information to the community provided is presented to the Chief Exec- The first batch of CICs were people but also assisting service seekers utive Officer and Palika representatives conceptualized almost three years ago to fill different forms, with formats that on a monthly basis. A survey is also when DCA took elected representatives are required, to access local services and carried out monthly to assess the satis- from Kailari Rural Municipality, Kailali resources like social security allowance, faction level of the citizens who access and Panchadewal Binayak Municipali- Prime Minister’s Employment Fund, the services from the Palika. The result ty, Achham, on a field and exposure trip disability card, vital registration, etc. shows that more than 85 per cent of re- to Odisha, India, in June 2017, where “I had tried a lot to get the dis- spondents are satisfied with the service they observed the function of CICs sup- ability card but due to illiteracy and dis- provided by the Center. ported by DCA India. ability, I was unable to obtain the card. For an efficient operation of “It was a very good and inter- But the CIC in-charge visited my home the CIC, PARIWARTAN teams have al- esting exposure visit to India to observe and supported me to fill the necessary ready issued a CIC operation guideline CICs operated under the Municipality forms and arranged all the supporting and have provided orientation to the officees. Newly elected representatives documents. Now I have a disability card center in-charge and Palika representa- like me really benefited from the visit. (Red Card) and get the Social Security tives. Palika’s communication officers We realized that this kind of mechanism Allowance every quarter. Further, with also provide technical support to the would very much help us better serve the our citizens as per our commitment in sup- the election,” says Ambika Chalaune, port Vice-Chair of Panchadewal Binayak from Municipality. CIC Following the visit, CIC op- erations were initiated in Kailari Rural Municipality, Kailali and Panchadew- al Binayak Municipality, Achham, in 2018. Since then, more than 3,000 marginalized people have found resource and support from the CIC to access the local services. DCA has been providing the necessary support to operate the center. One staff is dedicated to work there in coordination with Palika and its IT focal person for technical support. DCA has also supplied other logistic, and equipment support such as laptop/computer,

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 26 DEVELOPMENT fairs and Administration. The application is also a tool to connect elected representatives with the citizens. It includes a complaints mechanism that is easy and confidential for citizens to use. “This also ensures people’s right to information as they will have access to all the information related to the Municipality. The Municipality will have enough information to recommend to do- nors as to where to invest and who the beneficiaries are,” adds Ambi- ka. “Now we can plan ahead - we can allocate budget for water supply systems, enterprise promotion, schools, and health centers in the CIC in-charge on a monthly basis. With the establishment of area where people are in dire need The CICs in operation in the CIC, the concept of ‘Smart Palika’ has of such facilities.” respective Palikas have proved to be evolved. “The name Smart Palika, itself Mukesh Kunwar, IT officer at very useful. DCA and its local partners is smart, so there’s no doubt that it will Chaurpati Rural Municipality, Achham have plans to extend it to other Palikas help us improve our communication district, believes that the online system as well. Discussions have been held on system in reaching to the public easily,” will help in the proper use of resourc- the usefulness of this mechanism to mo- says Jamuna Bohora, Deputy Mayor of es. “These data will be GIS-based so the tivate other Palika representatives and Jorayal Rural Municipality, Doti Dis- Municipal authorities sitting in the office its replication. trict. Bohora hopes that the launch of can see the exact location of the commu- Since CICs are targeted to CIC will help authorities and locals in nity households – nearest school, health serve the people by providing them many ways including gathering infor- centers, road, water supply schemes, with much-needed information about mation of the available resources in the touristic places, public places among the service delivery, coordination with Municipality and easily disseminating others.” He emphasizes, “Limited inter- all stakeholders would be crucial in the messages to the service seekers among net access and low literacy rates are the smooth operation of the centers. others. They are prerequisites of Smart main challenges in understanding the “The local authorities are very Palika. “This will eventually help in the intended message and in its successful enthusiastic about welcoming new ideas development planning process of the implementation. However, the establish- and supporting the citizens. They have Municipality,” she opines. ment of CICs in different locations can been adopting new technologies to reach “As we are in the process to bring change, as it will make services out to more of their people and CIC has make it easier to access services by turn- accessible to all. EU’s funding provid- been crucial in bridging the gap,” says ing the Palikas into smart local govern- ed through DCA has been bringing the Ambika Chalaune, Deputy Mayor of Panchadewal Binayak Municipality, Achham district. As Sudurpaschim Provincial Government has already announced its aim to increase the number of Smart Pa- lika in the Province, the establishment of CICs will go to serve the objective of the Provincial Government. “The Provincial Government is happy to welcome any initiative which supports its effort to make local government accessible and transparent. The establishment of CIC has been helping the local population to access the services provided by local government,” says Naresh Singh Karki, ments, CIC will serve the government’s change at the local level, making local Spokesperson of Sudur Paschim Provin- objective,” shares BasantaAdhikary, governments accessible and accountable cial Government. Spokesperson of Ministry of Federal Af- and we see its greater potential in the days to come,” Kunwar adds.

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 27 HEALTH

COVID-19 Surging Infections Despite decline of COVID-19 cases in some hilly regions, the infection rate has been increasing in the Kathmandu Valley By A CORRESPONDENT

t a time when COVID-19 infections surge again in each province. These will help strengthen health prepar- in Nepal, the announcement of the World Bank edness in the event of future waves of the pandemic. Ato provide 4 million doses of Moderna Vaccines “We commend the Government of Nepal for be- through COVAX is highly significant and important. ing the first country in South Asia, and one of the first in According to the World Bank, Nepal will get 4 the world, to join and tap into the COVAX cost-share op- million doses soon. Nepal is the second country global- tion,” said Hartwig Schafer, World Bank Vice President ly to have completed agreements with GAVI to procure for South Asia. “The World Bank is committed to contin- 4 million doses of Moderna vaccines. uing our sup- Financed by the World Bank, through port to Nepal’s the COVAX cost-share option, this will COVID-19 vac- diversify and strengthen the country’s cination pro- COVID-19 vaccine portfolio. gram, which is “Nepal is an early mov- critical to help- er in utilizing the COVAX cost-share ing the people scheme, and I am pleased to note that and economy we have finalized an arrangement,- de of Nepal build spite very challenging circumstances, back better to bring safe and highly effective vac- from this un- cines to Nepal,” said Umesh Shrestha, precedented cri- Minister of State for Health and sis.” Population. “Moderna vaccines have The helped expand options for vaccinating World Bank Nepalis above 12 years of age and fast- supports coun- track Nepal’s progress towards a safer tries’ COV- post-COVID world.” ID-19 vaccine implementation plans. Countries make Delivery of these vaccines is expected to start by choices based on their specific needs and the WHO’s rec- March 2022 and will contribute to Nepal’s goal to vaccinate ommended policy and guidelines on vaccines, therapeutics, at least 72 percent of its population, as well as children 12- and other tools they adopt. As the threshold for eligibility 17 years of age for whom the Moderna vaccine is deemed for IBRD/IDA resources in vaccine purchase, the Bank ac- safe and effective. cepts as eligible for inclusion in the project COVID-19 vac- “We are honored to support the people and Gov- cines that (i) have received regular or emergency licensure ernment of Nepal, along with our development partners, or authorization from at least one of the Stringent Regula- by financing the purchase of safe and effective vaccines tory Authorities (SRAs) identified by World Health Organi- through the COVAX facility,” said Faris Hadad-Zervos, zation (WHO) for vaccines procured and/or supplied under World Bank Country Director for Maldives, Nepal, and the COVAX Facility, as may be amended from time to time Sri Lanka. “This is a key element of our overall COVID by WHO; or (ii) have received WHO Prequalification or response by helping to meet emergency health needs and WHO Emergency Use Listing. The Moderna vaccine meets strengthening the healthcare and vaccine delivery system.” these criteria. The World Bank has made available $104 million Nepal’s COVID-19 to support the Government of Nepal’s health response to Nepal’s COVID-19 cases have started to rise the pandemic, with $67.5 million earmarked to purchase again. However, this surge is concentrated in Kathmandu and deploy COVID-19 vaccines. Last month, 1,000 oxy- Valley. This rise is a natural outcome of early opening of gen concentrators were brought in through the project while the valley without making proper preparations and judging seven oxygen generation plants are being established, one the consequences.

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 28 HEALTH Following two and three months of loose lock- vate hospitals is also the same. All 13 ICU beds at HAMS down, Nepal has completely opened all the activities just hospital have been filled with infected patients. “Current- after the change of new government. Even political rallies ly, five patients are under treatment with ventilator facility. and other such activities have been frequent. Many people Also, 42 out of 49 general beds are also in use for the treat- have not followed the health protocol, including masking ment of infected people,” said Rajbhandari. and social distance. Thus, the achievement Nepal has made The recent surge in cases of novel coronavirus to contain the virus to its limit has vanished overnight. infection has also impacted COVID Unified Hospital. Dr. Although the number of positive cases increases Bhupendra Bahadur Basnet, chief administrative officer at in the valley, the good news is that the rate of hospitali- the hospital, said that the number of virus-infected patients zation has declined compared to early second wave. With visiting the hospital was increasing day by day. highly dense population and frequent visits by people from The hospital has 163 general and High Dependen- different parts of Nepal, Kathmandu Valley is very much cy Unit (HDU) beds and 40 ICU beds. “Currently, 20 are vulnerable to upsurge. under treatment in the ICU and 88 patients are admitted to With the COVID-19 testing facilities available the general beds,” said Dr. Basnet, adding that all the hospi- easily, Kathmandu valley tals might be overflowed has highest number of test- with COVID-19 patients ing compared to other cit- if the daily infections ies. continued to increase in Ministry of Health the same manner. and Population showed that According to Dr in over 60 percent of test- Jhalak Sharma Gautam, ing, the data is coming from chief of the National Im- Kathmandu Valley. This munization Programme, may be the reason the num- about 4,570,553 people ber of positive cases has have received their first gone up. COVID-19 shot. This Understanding makes 9.52 per cent of its vulnerability compared the total population, he to other cities, Ministry of added. Health has decided to in- Of the three crease the vaccination quo- types of a vaccine against tas for Kathmandu Valley in COVID-19, among Cov- other big cities of Terai. ieshield, Johnson & As the Intensive Care Units (ICUs) have already Johnson and Vero Cell are being administered in Nepal. As been packed with virus-infected patients in hospitals in the many as 4,570, 553 people have received their doses of the valley, there would be shortage of general beds in the up- aforementioned vaccine. coming days if the cases continue to surge in the same rate. Whereas 2,888,360 have received their full dose Dr. Anup Bastola, director at Sukraraj Tropical till now. and Infectious Disease Hospital said that the flow of COV- For an estimate, in 24 hours, 69,037 people have ID-19 patients had increased in the hospital in the last 15 been vaccinated with the second dose of the Covishield days. vaccine, 28,871 and 69,111 people have been vaccinated “Of the 40 beds separated for infected patients, 25 with the first dose and second of the Vero cell vaccine re- are currently occupied. Similarly, the 24-bed ICU has al- spectively as well as 28,192 people have been vaccinated ready been packed,” said Dr. Bastola. He added that of the against Johnson & Johnson. infected patients admitted to the hospital, maximum were At the same time, the total number of people from out of the Valley. receiving a complete shot of the Covishield vaccine has The situation is similar to TU Teaching Hospital, reached 597,819, according to the ministry. Maharajgunj as it has also seen a rise in the flow of infect- The number of first doses and second doses of ed patients. “All 40 ICU beds have been filled with COV- the Vero Cell vaccine has reached 272,128 and 1,083,403 ID-19 patients and of them, 17 are in ventilator,” said Dr. respectively. So far, 127,138 people have been vaccinated Santa Kumar Das, COVID focal person at TUTH, adding, with Johnson & Johnson vaccine. “The hospital has separated 115 general beds for treatment As vaccination drive continues and cases of hos- of virus-infected people and of them, 85 are currently oc- pitalization of vaccinated people are fewer, there are hope- cupied.” ful signs that the vaccination campaign will help contain Along with public hospitals, the situation in pri- COVID-19.

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 29 JAPAN’S SUPPORT Friend In Need By providing AstraZeneca COVID-19 Vaccine, Japan has shown that it is always with Nepal at the time of crisis By A CORRESPONDENT

ormer secretary of Nepal Government VAX, GAVI, Dr. Dwarikanath Dhungel, an elderly WHO and Fcitizen of Nepal, posted a ‘fully vacci- UNICEF. He nated’ card on his Facebook wall thanking the also mentioned Japanese government for saving the life of that the Gov- people in Nepal. ernment of Ja- Dr. Dhungel was not alone in pan strongly thanking the government of Japan and people supports the of Japan for the help. Hundreds of other elderly vaccination people who received the vaccine have similar campaign by views towards Japan for the vaccine. Deuba admin- Although Nepal government has istration, which knocked on the various countries around the is necessary for world to provide AstraZeneca COVID-19 the progress of Vaccines to inoculate over 1.4 million elderly post-COVID populations, Japan gave Nepal a big quantity Nepali society of vaccines. and its economic As in the past crises, Japanese Gov- recovery. This vaccination assistance is one ernment announced 1.6 million doses of Jap- “We hope that this vaccine, togeth- of our challenges even in this hardship; Am- anese-made AstraZeneca COVID-19 Vaccine. er with other generous contributions from in- bassador Kikuta looks forward to working Long frustrated by the lack of vaccines, elderly ternational community, will help Nepal to ease for the post-COVID society and economy of people of Nepal saw their hope renewed with down various difficulties caused by the COV- Nepal. the announcement. ID-19,” the Ambassador stated. Japan has been Ambassador Kikuta expressed his Japan government has handed over providing various support for Nepal to tackle hope for the smooth implementation of vacci- the Japanese-made AstraZeneca COVID-19 with the COVID-19 pandemic with medical nation campaign and Minister Shrestha took it vaccine to Nepalese authorities by Japanese equipment for Nepali hospitals to date, the with thanks and committed to do so. The Em- ambassador to Nepal Kikuta Yutaka, who had Embassy of Japan will continue working to- bassy of Japan is now coordinating with the quietly taken the initiative to address Nepal’s gether with Nepal to overcome the pandemic. Ministry of Health and Population of Nepal to need, as soon as the vaccines landed at Tribhu- “The Government of Nepal sin- this effect. van International Airport. cerely appreciates the Government of Japan Ambassador Kikuta informed the Joint Secretary of North East Asia for this generous provision of life-saving vac- Minister of Japan’s multiple approaches to Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lok cine to Nepal through COVAX. These Japa- fight against COVID-19, mentioning, among Bahadur Thapa, Representative of UNICEF nese-made AstraZeneca COVID vaccines will others, that Japan took a leading role to estab- Nepal, Elke Wisch and WHO Representative be administered to the senior citizens who are lish the COVAX facility and pledged 1,000 to Nepal, Dr. Rajesh Sambhajirao Pandav were waiting for second shots of vaccines of this million USD in total, and that Japan has been present at the event when ambassador Kikuta group,” said the press statement of Ministry of supporting Nepali hospitals under this difficult Yutaka handed over the vaccine to minister of Foreign Affairs. situation by the medical equipment assistance state of Health and Population Umesh Shres- The half of Japanese-made Astra- and made-in Japan ambulances will come in tha. Zeneca vaccine for Nepal airlifted on August autumn. The vaccine donation from Japan 7 and 8 from Japan to Nepal and reaming in Moreover, Ambassador pointed out to Nepal through COVAX facility was an- coming to Nepal. that Japan has contributed to UNICEF for the nounced by MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Ambassador KIKUTA hopes that cold-chain facility to ensure that the vaccine Foreign Affairs of Japan on 13 July. these Japanese COVID-19 vaccines will be would reach down as “Last One Mile Sup- At the hand-over ceremony, Am- utilized expeditiously for the COVID-19 vac- port,” which will be beneficial for all Nepali bassador Kikuta stated that this donation is cination campaign, with a good coordination people. Ambassador Kikuta shared the view “From the People of Japan for the Friendship by the Ministry of Health and Population of with Minister Shrestha that Japan and Nepal with Nepal.” He also appreciated the coopera- Nepal. In this pandemic, the Embassy of Japan will strengthen the great partnership by their tion of all the relevant organizations to achieve has been tackling COVID-19 together with people, as shown in the long history of friend- this, including the Government of Nepal and the Government of Nepal to save more Nepali ship between the two countries. the international organizations such as CO- people’s lives.

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 30 SPORTS

TOKYO OLYMPICS 2020 Grand Success

Although countries around the world, including Japan, faced a severe situation due to the rise of COV- ID-19 cases, with the emergence of its Delta Variant, Japan successfully hosted the 32nd Olympic Events, containing the COVID-19 cases, in the Olympic village. Postponed for a year after the Coronavirus crisis, there were many uncertainties till the last minute. As the cancellation of the Olympic would have done much damage for sports and prestige of Japan, the government of Japan held the game, taking all the precautionary measures. After successfully holding the games, containing the pandemic, the Government of Japan has demonstrated to the domestic and international opponents of holding the games that the events were a great success. With this, the 33rd edition of the Olympic Games would be held in Paris, the capital of France. As the last Olympic was devastating for South Asia with no gold, this time India’s Neer- aj Chopra’s win of a gold has set a new record in the history of India as well as South Asia. For Nepal, its participation was itself a big achievement. Historically, the participation was valuable as Nepal started to take part in the Olympics from 1964’s Tokyo Olympic

By KESHAB POUDEL

ational pride is more impor- Successfully holding the him for successfully holding the tant than that of a person. games amid the COVID-19 pandem- game, enhancing the pride of the NThis is what the Japanese ic, Japanese prime minister Suga re- nation, many others disfavored his politicians have shown. Holding the ceived global applause, including handling of Coronavirus Pandemic. Olympic Games in an unprecedent- from US President Joe Biden. His Just after completion of the ed time of COVID-19 crisis, Japa- popularity in Japan has gone down Olympic, Japan’s Prime Minister nese prime minister Suga Yoshihide to the lowest level for not handling Suga has thanked the country’s peo- has shown how the political leader- COVID-19 crisis properly. ple for helping the country host the ship needs to take an individual risk Although an overwhelming Tokyo Olympics. He said the Games for the sake of national pride. majority of Japanese people backed were held under unprecedented re-

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 31 SPORTS ter was below 30%. This is such low for the first time since he took office in September last year. However, polls over the weekend by the daily Yomiuri showed that 64% of re- spondents were glad that the Games took place, opposed to 28% who dis- agreed. At the global level, Japa- nese people have also applauded for successfully holding Olympics. Peo- ple do not see this is enough to support him for his failure in domestic issues. One of the big successes of Japan was that organizers were able to contain the pandemic in the game. Although a few dozen cases of infection were reported during the game, the organizers were able to contain them not allowing the cases to go out of control. After the completion of Olympics, Japan has to hold Para Olympic now. As the game will have smaller participation, the organizers do not have to worry much in holding Para Olympic. 32nd Olympic The recently concluded 32nd Olympics was also unable to challenge United States, sports super power. Al- though China was able to hold the largest gold medal status till the end of two strictions after a one-year delay due successful hosting of the Olympic days, USA secured much needed gold to the coronavirus pandemic, but Ja- Games and the public health meas- medals to push China and other rivals pan fulfilled its duty as the host na- ures that allowed them to be held, a behind. tion and passed the baton to the 2024 White House statement said. Despite serious efforts, Chi- Paris Games. He thanked the public “President Biden applaud- na is far from the United States in the for understanding and cooperation. ed the performance of all the ath- overall games. Although it is gradually Suga praised the athletes letes and highlighted the success of emerging to show its strength, China for helping a wonderful Olympics Japanese and U.S. Olympians,” the needs to wait a long time to better its materialize, saying he applauds them statement said, while noting “the performance in the overall sports. all regardless of their results. He also public health measures taken so that Although Russia stood third said the athletes delivered dream, Olympic athletes could compete in in the overall medal tally, Japan was hope and excitement to youths and the best traditions of the Olympic third in total gold medal tally followed everyone else around the world, pro- spirit.” by United Kingdom. Germany, which viding a unique asset for the future. Domestic Support Shrink- used to be a sports power house in the Along with other world ing past, is now far behind. leaders, U.S. President Joe Bid- Despite receiving applause The Tokyo Olympics that en spoke with the Japanese Prime from the globe, a recent survey was planned for 2020 was deferred by Minister, commending him on the showed support for the prime minis- a year due to global pandemic of coronavirus. Japan has successfully accom-

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 32 SPORTS plished the 32nd Summer Olympics Given Nepal’s own resources the third consecutive Summer Olympic Events amidst coronavirus outbreak. and politicization of sports, it will take Games. Deferred for a year, expecting much longer to make a great success. “We kept our team safe and to see the decline in COVID-19 Pan- Japan’s Success we’re coming home successful,” said demic and audiences in the stadium, the As a host country, Japan Sarah Hirshland, CEO of the United events saw the organizers cancel all the has made a big progress in the game States Olympic & Paralympic Com- tickets. There was no permission for the achieving the third position in secur- mittee. “The Tokyo 2020 Games have audience to be present at the stadium in ing the gold medals. Japan secured 27 been remarkable in so many ways and the Tokyo Olympics due to the menace gold, 14 silver and 17 bronze with 58 I’m filled with gratitude and pride.” of coronavirus. total. Japan stands in the fiftieth place A record total of 94 different However, as many as 11,300 in total medal tally just behind the Unit- nations won a medal at Tokyo 2020, in- Olympians from 205 countries had come to take part in the Tokyo edition. The players competed for 340 gold medals, 338 silver and 402 bronze medals in total 33 sports events. Nepali Olympic Squads Starting its participation from Tokyo Olympics in 1964, Nepal continued to show its presence in the latest edition of the event. This Olympic was also very valuable for Nepal in terms of participation. Jeet Bahadur KC had completed the Marathon in 1964 setting a new record. Nepali Olympic team led by Gaurika Singh and Alex Shah has their zeal to improve performance. Al- though their presence was only just felt, they set new national records in swim- ming. Nepali Olympians Gaurika Singh and Alex Shah had hoisted Ne- pali flag in the inaugural session of the Olympics. Some 93 countries clinched ed Kingdom which secured 22 gold, 21 cluding Turkmenistan, San Marino and medals in the Olympics while 112 silver, 22 bronze with 65 total medals. Burkina Faso -- who all claimed their countries including Nepal remained Although Japanese players first Olympic medals. medal less. had competed in their home ground, Japan, Italy, Netherlands, Bra- Only 65 countries won gold they were unable to see their supporters zil, New Zealand, Chinese Taipei and medals in the Tokyo Olympics. The due to the restrictions made by Olympic Turkey also set new records for most US remained the highest gold medal committee to their audiences. medals secured at a single Olympic winner (39) while China secured sec- Team USA On Top Games. Foreign media outlets have ond position with 38. The host country, Team USA has finished top given their assessments of the To- Japan, remained the third winner with on the medal table at Tokyo 2020, win- kyo Olympic Games. 27 gold medals. India is the only South ning 113 medals in 28 different sports. The BBC said, “In Britain, Asian country to win a gold medal, two A total of 626 athletes competed for the many have loved watching it, and silver and four bronze. US, clinching 39 gold, 41 silver and 33 will remember these Olympics as a The Tokyo Olympics that bronze medals. China and hosts Japan classic.” The broadcaster mentioned kicked off on July 23 was held for 19 were closest to matching the US’ gold “an array of inspiring performanc- days. Japan had hosted the Olympic medal haul, winning 38 and 27 respec- es and innovative new sports” that Games after 57 years. For Nepal, new tively. “captured the imagination.” comers like Singh and Shah are new Team USA’s performance But it also said that “wheth- generation of players who can make a at Tokyo ensured it finished top of the er it was right that the Olympics hap- difference in the future. medal table -- ranked on golds -- for pened at all will always be a matter

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 33 SPORTS for debate.” The BBC also said the second for an individual ever and the als with 36 gold, 39 silver and 33 circumstances surrounding the To- first since Abhinav Bindra’s in 2008, Bronze. kyo Olympics may make it harder to would also ensure India’s richest-ev- Japan secured third highest attract bidders to host the Games in er tally (seven). India finishes 48th, gold medal with 27 gold,12 silver the future. best in four decades; 33rd in terms of and 17 bronze. Great Britain secured Reuters reported that “with overall medals won fifth position securing 20 gold medal, strict pandemic countermeasures and 22 silver and 21 bronze followed by as COVID-19 variants have surged The Olympic medal is ex- Russian Federation with 20 gold,26 back around the world, the Olympics pected to see an army of young boys silver and 23. Australia secured 17 fell short of the triumph and finan- with dreams reaching out for the gold 7 silver and 22 bronze and Ger-

cial windfall Japan had wanted.” javelin. The Asian and Common- many secured 10 gold,11 silver and India’s Neeraj Chopra wealth golds in 2018, was a turn- 16 Bronze. Wins Gold Medal ing point in Neeraj’s life in terms of The Summer Games in par- Neeraj Chopra won a gold fame and recognition. ticular are where the U.S. has found medal, flinging the javelin a stagger- However, no country has success. Team USA has 1,022 gold ing 87.58m to top the charts in To- dominated the Olympics quite like medals in the history of the Summer kyo. With this gold, India win seven the United States. Although China Games and 2,523 total medals. medals in total with 2 silver and 4 secured the largest gold medal with Indian women had already bronze. 38 golds, 31 silver and 18 bronze created history and surpassed all ex- The gold, a historic first for with 87 medals, the United States pectations by entering the semifinals the country in track and field, the lead the game securing 108 med- of the Games for the first time.

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 34 EU Higher Study Scholarships Nepalese students receive 49 Erasmus+ scholarships to study in Europe By A CORRESPONDENT

s Nepal has been in the process skills and knowledge useful for the country She will be studying at the SLU-Swedish of strengthening and making new and themselves, as well as with fond mem- University of Agriculture Sciences, Sweden Ainstitutions, it needs efficient and ories of Europe,” Ambassador Deprez said. and in BOKU-Austria. specialized manpower trained to run such More than 700 Nepalese students Niranjan Khadka, Country Rep- institutions. have benefitted from the EU’s Erasmus+ resentative of Erasmus Mundus Associa- Supporting Nepal’s development Scholarship Programme. The Erasmus+ tion-Nepal, shared EMA Nepal’s current efforts, European Union has been playing scholarships also provide opportunities for activities and plans. “Due to Covid restric- a major role as a partner in the process. Europeans to undertake short-term studies tions, we are working for the promotion Providing scholarships to Nepalese young and teaching in various universities across of Erasmus scholarships in rural areas of students for higher education in European Nepal. Nepal through webinar by connecting with Universities is one of these supports. Shashank Khaniya, who has different colleges and universities. We are As in the past, 49 Nepalese stu- been provided the scholarship for Master’s also equally focusing on strengthening the dents have received Erasmus+ scholarships Degree in Sustainable Forest and Nature networking of EMA Nepal and building it to study in Europe. After acquiring higher Management (SUFONAMA) said, “I feel as a common platform to share each other’s education in Europe, these young Nepalese really excited after getting news of selec- experience and opportunity,” said Khadka. will return home to play an important role tion for SUFONAMA program under Eras- Pawan Dhakal, who is now do- in Nepal. mus Mundus scholarship. The opportunity ing his master’s under Erasmus scholarship The Delegation of the European to learn from two different universities of program in the UK, following a first semes- Union to Nepal together with the Erasmus Europe is really a lifetime experience for ter in Italy, shared his experience of apply- Mundus Association Nepal organized a Vir- me. I hope to use my knowledge and skills ing for visa after receiving the scholarship, tual Pre-Departure Orientation (PDO) for from the program. Furthermore, opportuni- travelling to Europe and getting to know the the new scholarship recipients of Erasmus ty to learn culture of the European nations educational and cultural environment there. Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) is an added advantage for me.” Khaniya Representatives of the EU Mem- batch 2021-2023 on 20 July. will be undertaking his first year in - Uni ber State Embassies based in Kathmandu The Nepalese students have been versity of Gottingen, Germany and second and New Delhi also participated in the awarded full scholarships for the period year in Swedish University of Agricultural programme and answered the queries of 2021-2023 and they will spend 2 years full- Science, Sweden. the students who are looking forward to time in prestigious European Universities Another Erasmus+ Nepal awar- begin their studies in different countries to pursue their Master’s Degrees in various in Europe. Those present were Ms Kath- fields. During the Pre-Departure Orienta- arina Wieser, Ambassador, and Embassy tion, the students got useful tips and advice of Austria in New Delhi, Ms Eva Chme- for living and studying in Europe. likova, Third Secretary, and Embassy of The European Union is the larg- the Czech Republic in New Delhi, Barked est global donor in education with its Eras- Kofi Scheutz First Secretary, Political and mus+ program (2021-2027) budgeted at Economic Counsellor of the Royal Danish EUR 26.2 billion. This is nearly double the Embassy in New Delhi. funding compared to its predecessor pro- Stephane Russek, Chargé d’Af- gramme (2014-2020). faires, Embassy of Germany in Nepal, Ms Welcoming the awardees, EU Sara Lages Range, Attaché, Embassy of Ambassador to Nepal, H.E. Nona Deprez, Portugal in New Delhi and Dr. Gianluca said, “Erasmus is one of the most success- Rubagotti, Italian Consul General based ful programmes of the European Union. dees Pratikshya Shrestha said, “I am feeling in Calcutta were also present at the orien- People to people connectivity are one of the really excited to start my Master’s degree tation. top priorities of the EU. This is one of the in the subject of my interest in one of the In addition to the Erasmus+ ways that we want to promote our values world’s top Agriculture Universities where scholarships, the EU Delegation in Nepal and share knowledge and experiences with I shall get good practical exposure, be fa- has been providing ongoing support to the all of you abroad and for all of us to become miliar with high level of technology and Government of Nepal/Ministry of Educa- richer from the experience.” enhance my current abilities. I am hoping tion, Science and Technology on Quality “We hope that these scholarships that I will be more of an asset to my nation Education and Technical and Vocational will help these students to further excel and upon returning.” Pratikshya will be pur- Training. that they will return to Nepal with enhanced suing Master’s Degree in plant breeding.

NEW SPOTLIGHT | Aug 20. 2021 | 35 ARTICLE Make In Nepal

The Rising Nepal of 20th July 2021 reported about an firms i.e. Unilever, Dabur, Britannia and Patanjali our new Finance Minister Shri Janardan Sharma’s are also based in Nepal and are producing household support to make ‘Make in Nepal’ campaign a suc- items not just for local consumption but also for sale cess. My thoughts went to my childhood days when in regions of Northern India. I collected stamps and match box labels. Sweden then BY: HEMANG DIXIT With the increasing generation of electricity was a major producer of matches. It was rumoured then that to in the land it is good to know that Hulas is contemplating pro- compete with Sweden, the Japanese had named a town ‘Swe- ducing electric cars. However one recalls their Mustang jeep den’ so that matches produced there could be labelled ‘Made and wonders if electric cars will get a market. Other efforts are in Sweden’! I recollected then that during the Rana rule and to assemble two -wheelers within the country but the reality is Panchayat days many factories had been set up in Nepal. Sadly that it will just increase our fuel consumption. Cannot these be all these governmental undertakings were disposed off in the electric powered? Lowering of electric rates in Nepal is essen- name of free enterprise! tial to increase domestic and industrial consumption. A story of around mid-20th Century is that a Japa- Because of the lack of job opportunities many of our nese , with a stick of sugarcane in his hand got on a train in countrymen have been forced to go to foreign lands as un- India. He pared the outside covering of the sugarcane and then skilled labour and where many die and are brought back to ended up by making a fan out of its covering. He followed this Nepal in coffins. Having been overworked to pay back loans by smartly cooling himself with it for the rest of the journey! taken to go to those lands, many have no choice but to contin- During former days it was customary to use, store ue on. Some having suffered harsh conditions have come to and reuse goods and materials over the course of years. Now the conclusion that if they worked just as hard in Nepal they however we are in ‘Use and throw away’ era as the cost of would prosper. Some have started raising goats, pigs, bannels, labour has gone up. It is cheaper to replace goods than repair poultry even kalijes or are growing apples, oranges and even them. The old order has changed yielding place to new. How- kiwi fruit. Some are working on barren lands with the aid of ever a form of re-cycling is being done in the Nepali fash- mechanisation to increase yields. There is going to be some ion has me worried by its subterfuge. The district officer in Nepalis who want to go abroad but cannot do so because of Dhading found that the Family Size large plastic bottles of Co- the lockdown and the fact that they have not been vaccinated. ca-Cola, Sprite and Mountain Dew were all being re-used for Such persons too must be helped with finance to work for a a look like various aerated soft drinks with a somewhat similar livelihood in Nepal. After this they must be helped to find a name and cheating rural folk. This is a crime. On the other market and sell the products of their labour. Such steps must be hand Pokhara has shown that such plastic wastes can be made taken to ‘Make in Nepal’ a reality. Imports from outside need into pellets and used for asphalting roads. to be restricted. As a child I remember using sukuls or mats made The creating and making of slogans ‘Make in Nepal’ of straw. Slippers made of straw were also in use then. Lat- is very impressive and beguiles the ordinary Nepali citizen that er chattees having cloth tops and soles made of recycled old something is being done for the Nepali producer. However we car tyres replaced these as an improvement. Now the mod- have got addicted to tendency of doing ‘Eidharka Udhar and ern equivalents are the rubber made chappals being made in Udharka Edhar’. The profit in it is very good for not many Nepal. One still sees some of the locally made goods such as personnel or production facilities are required. This has led to raddis, bakhus, nanglos, dalos, dokos, wicker baskets, mudas a stage where the custom made products of this country have and bedh furnitures. Rautes used to make wooden thekes. Tra- to compete with the shiny glitzy products from abroad. Being ditional manufacture and usage of goods must be encouraged. a member of WTO there are perhaps some restrictions or bar- After all wooden footwear known as clogs are still in use in ricades. We have a duty to ensure self sufficiency by protecting Holland as are the leather made wear known as lederhosen or local industries. Some sort of restrictions have to be made with bundhosen in Germany! check points at our border to stop agricultural product from A correct step is that all household eatable require- outside to come in quite easily into Nepal whilst similar prod- ments such as biscuits, furindana or bhujia, pustakari, gudhpak ucts from here are prevented by various rules and regulations and usables e.g. soap, toothpaste, disinfectants should also be at foreign borders. Cannot we also arrange to enforce such reg- produced locally in Nepal and not be imported into the coun- ulations at our border so that foreign farmer’s products – veg- try. What has recently been in a Facebook post is the necessity etables and fruits are not brought in to Nepal to create chaos in of proper packaging or contemporary avataar to attract buyers! our day to day living? Products should look chic not cheap. Finally however it is us The author is a retired medical doctor and writes fiction under Nepali customers to promote local products such as apparel, the pen name of Mani Dixit also. Website: www.hdixit.org.np. Twitter: @ footwear, cosmetics or other daily requirements. Certain Indi- manidixithd

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