China wants Bangladesh to revive B.R.I projects in return for more medical assistance. Could Bangladesh be next to fall into China's trap after Nepal? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: After Nepal, Is China eyeing Bangladesh?

The Nepalese army is developing in their territory a track route parallel to the Indian border to reach their high-altitude villages of Tinkar and Changru to minimise their citizens' dependence on an Indian track route, said an Indian official.

"The track route to Changru from Sunsera village of Nepal is being developed by the Nepalese army. The route will be used by residents of high-altitude Nepalese villages of Tinkar and Changru who till date used Indian track routes to migrate to lower valleys in winter and vice versa in summer months, " said SDM Dharchula A K Shukla.

The official added that there is no tension in the border area over Nepal Cabinet's approval of a new map, claiming Kalapani, Limpiadhurs and Lipulekh within their territory.

"The border is calm and peaceful and no anti-India activities have been witnessed by our intelligence agencies, who are keeping a strict vigil on posts at the Indo-Nepal border," the SDM said.

The Nepalese army is developing in their territory a track route parallel to the Indian border to reach their high-altitude villages of Tinkar and Changru to minimise their citizens' dependence on an Indian track route, said an Indian official.

The Nepalese army is developing in their territory a track route parallel to the Indian border to reach their high-altitude villages of Tinkar and Changru to minimise their citizens' dependence on an Indian track route, said an Indian official. "The track route to Changru from Sunsera village of Nepal is being developed by the Nepalese army. The route will be used by residents of high-altitude Nepalese villages of Tinkar and Changru who till date used Indian track routes to migrate to lower valleys in winter and vice versa in summer months, " said SDM Dharchula A K Shukla. The official added that there is no tension in the border area over Nepal Cabinet's approval of a new map, claiming Kalapani, Limpiadhurs and Lipulekh within their territory. "The border is calm and peaceful and no anti-India activities have been witnessed by our intelligence agencies, who are keeping a strict vigil on posts at the Indo-Nepal border," the SDM said.

Nepal army developing own track route

While addressing the Parliament, Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli blamed India for the spread of coronavirus in the neighbouring countries and said the virus from India is more lethal than the Chinese and Italian ones.

Nepal PM: Indian virus more lethal than Chinese and Italian

India on Wednesday asked Nepal to not resort to any "artificial enlargement" of its territorial claim after the neighbouring country came up with a new political map showing Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani as its territory.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in a statement, said the revised map of Nepal included parts of the Indian territory and asked Kathmandu to refrain from such "unjustified cartographic assertion".

India's reaction came in the aftermath of the Nepal government releasing a revised political and administrative map of the country laying claim over the strategically key areas along the border between the two countries.

"This unilateral act is not based on historical facts and evidence. It is contrary to the bilateral understanding to resolve the outstanding boundary issues through diplomatic dialogue. Such artificial enlargement of territorial claims will not be accepted by India," MEA Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said.

He said Nepal was well aware of India's consistent position on the matter.

"We urge the government of Nepal to refrain from such unjustified cartographic assertion and respect India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. We hope that the Nepalese leadership will create a positive atmosphere for diplomatic dialogue to resolve the outstanding boundary issues," he said.

The new map was released by Nepal's Land Reforms Minister Padma Aryal during a televised press conference in Kathmandu.

The ties between the two countries came under strain after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a 80 km-long strategically crucial road connecting the Lipulekh pass with Dharchula in Uttarakhand on May 8.

Nepal reacted sharply to the inauguration of the road claiming that it passed through Nepalese territory. India rejected the claim asserting that the road lies completely within its territory.

Nepalese Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali last week summoned Indian Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra and handed over a diplomatic note to protest against India inaugurating the key road.

In the midst of the row, Indian Army chief Gen MM Naravane said there were reasons to believe that Nepal objected to the road at the behest of "someone else", in an apparent reference to a possible role by China on the matter.

The Lipulekh pass is a far western point near Kalapani, a disputed border area between Nepal and India. Both India and Nepal claim Kalapani as an integral part of their territory -- India as part of Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district and Nepal as part of Dharchula district.

Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli on Tuesday asserted that Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura belong to Nepal and vowed to "reclaim" them from India through political and diplomatic efforts.

Addressing Parliament, Oli said the territories belong to Nepal but India has made it a disputed area by keeping its Army there.

The ties between India and Nepal came under strain after New Delhi issued a new political map incorporating Kalapani and Lipulekh as part of its territory in October last year.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

India on Wednesday asked Nepal to not resort to any "artificial enlargement" of its territorial claim after the neighbouring country came up with a new political map showing Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani as its territory.

India on Wednesday asked Nepal to not resort to any "artificial enlargement" of its territorial claim after the neighbouring country came up with a new political map showing Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani as its territory. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in a statement, said the revised map of Nepal included parts of the Indian territory and asked Kathmandu to refrain from such "unjustified cartographic assertion". India's reaction came in the aftermath of the Nepal government releasing a revised political and administrative map of the country laying claim over the strategically key areas along the border between the two countries. "This unilateral act is not based on historical facts and evidence. It is contrary to the bilateral understanding to resolve the outstanding boundary issues through diplomatic dialogue. Such artificial enlargement of territorial claims will not be accepted by India," MEA Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said. He said Nepal was well aware of India's consistent position on the matter. "We urge the government of Nepal to refrain from such unjustified cartographic assertion and respect India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. We hope that the Nepalese leadership will create a positive atmosphere for diplomatic dialogue to resolve the outstanding boundary issues," he said. The new map was released by Nepal's Land Reforms Minister Padma Aryal during a televised press conference in Kathmandu. The ties between the two countries came under strain after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a 80 km-long strategically crucial road connecting the Lipulekh pass with Dharchula in Uttarakhand on May 8. Nepal reacted sharply to the inauguration of the road claiming that it passed through Nepalese territory. India rejected the claim asserting that the road lies completely within its territory. Nepalese Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali last week summoned Indian Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra and handed over a diplomatic note to protest against India inaugurating the key road. In the midst of the row, Indian Army chief Gen MM Naravane said there were reasons to believe that Nepal objected to the road at the behest of "someone else", in an apparent reference to a possible role by China on the matter. The Lipulekh pass is a far western point near Kalapani, a disputed border area between Nepal and India. Both India and Nepal claim Kalapani as an integral part of their territory -- India as part of Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district and Nepal as part of Dharchula district. Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli on Tuesday asserted that Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura belong to Nepal and vowed to "reclaim" them from India through political and diplomatic efforts. Addressing Parliament, Oli said the territories belong to Nepal but India has made it a disputed area by keeping its Army there. The ties between India and Nepal came under strain after New Delhi issued a new political map incorporating Kalapani and Lipulekh as part of its territory in October last year. (with inputs from agencies)

India calls Nepal's new map unjustified cartographic assertion

After #MapFixing, Nepal's Prime Minister KP Oli has blamed India for the spread of coronavirus cases in his country. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more about Nepal's latest provocation.

Gravitas: After Map Fixing, Nepal PM blames India for coronavirus spread

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said the coronavirus coming from India was more lethal than those from China and Italy, and blamed the rising number of coronavirus cases in the Himalayan nation on those illegally entering the country from India.

The country has so far reported 427 cases of COVID-19.

Oli's remarks came amid Nepal's border row with India after the construction of a key road connecting the Lipulekh pass with Dharchula in Uttarakhand.

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Oli on Tuesday even asserted that Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura belong to Nepal and vowed to "reclaim" them from India through political and diplomatic efforts, as his Cabinet endorsed a new political map showing the three areas as Nepalese territory.

For the uninitiated, the Lipulekh pass is a far western point near Kalapani, a disputed border area between Nepal and India. Both India and Nepal claim Kalapani as an integral part of their territory - India as part of Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district and Nepal as part of Dharchula district.

India has said that the recently-inaugurated road section in Pithoragarh district in Uttarakhand lies completely within its territory. Indian Army chief Gen MM Naravane last week said that there were reasons to believe that Nepal objected to India's newly-inaugurated road linking Lipulekh Pass with Dharchula in Uttarakhand at the behest of "someone else", in an apparent reference to a possible role by China on the matter. 
He said there was no dispute whatsoever between India and Nepal in the area and road laid was very much within the Indian side.

But the question arises -- the long standing issue between India and Nepal could have been resolved without the theatrics. Why has Nepal now resorted to this, when it should be fighting the pandemic?

Or has it been told to behave a certain way?

Interestingly, the Chinese ambassador to Nepal was recently seen holding a series of meetings with senior members of Nepal's ruling party -- a sign of clear interference by China in Nepal's domestic politics.

It is also believed that China engineered the grand alliance of two of the biggest communist parties in Nepal. In 2018, KP Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal -- better known as Prachanda -- had joined hands to form the Nepal Communist Party.

The alliance managed to win power. But the infighting has not stopped.

Reports say Pushpa Kamal Dahal wanted Oli to step down.

So, if other reports are to be believed, facing the risk of a potential collapse of his government, the prime minister of Nepal seems to have taken a tough stand against India.

The ties between India and Nepal came under strain after New Delhi issued a new political map incorporating Kalapani and Lipulekh as part of its territory in October last year.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said the coronavirus coming from India was more lethal than those from China and Italy, and blamed the rising number of coronavirus cases in the Himalayan nation on those illegally entering the country from India.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said the coronavirus coming from India was more lethal than those from China and Italy, and blamed the rising number of coronavirus cases in the Himalayan nation on those illegally entering the country from India. The country has so far reported 427 cases of COVID-19. Oli's remarks came amid Nepal's border row with India after the construction of a key road connecting the Lipulekh pass with Dharchula in Uttarakhand. Oli on Tuesday even asserted that Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura belong to Nepal and vowed to "reclaim" them from India through political and diplomatic efforts, as his Cabinet endorsed a new political map showing the three areas as Nepalese territory. For the uninitiated, the Lipulekh pass is a far western point near Kalapani, a disputed border area between Nepal and India. Both India and Nepal claim Kalapani as an integral part of their territory - India as part of Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district and Nepal as part of Dharchula district. India has said that the recently-inaugurated road section in Pithoragarh district in Uttarakhand lies completely within its territory. Indian Army chief Gen MM Naravane last week said that there were reasons to believe that Nepal objected to India's newly-inaugurated road linking Lipulekh Pass with Dharchula in Uttarakhand at the behest of "someone else", in an apparent reference to a possible role by China on the matter. He said there was no dispute whatsoever between India and Nepal in the area and road laid was very much within the Indian side. But the question arises -- the long standing issue between India and Nepal could have been resolved without the theatrics. Why has Nepal now resorted to this, when it should be fighting the pandemic? Or has it been told to behave a certain way? Interestingly, the Chinese ambassador to Nepal was recently seen holding a series of meetings with senior members of Nepal's ruling party -- a sign of clear interference by China in Nepal's domestic politics. It is also believed that China engineered the grand alliance of two of the biggest communist parties in Nepal. In 2018, KP Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal -- better known as Prachanda -- had joined hands to form the Nepal Communist Party. The alliance managed to win power. But the infighting has not stopped. Reports say Pushpa Kamal Dahal wanted Oli to step down. So, if other reports are to be believed, facing the risk of a potential collapse of his government, the prime minister of Nepal seems to have taken a tough stand against India. The ties between India and Nepal came under strain after New Delhi issued a new political map incorporating Kalapani and Lipulekh as part of its territory in October last year. (with inputs from agencies)

Who, and what, is the reason of Nepal's changed attitude towards India?

The Nepali government on Wednesday issued a new, controversial map of the country which shows Indian territories of Lipulekh, Kalapani, Limpiyadhura as its own. The map was unveiled by the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives &amp; Poverty Alleviation.

Earlier this month Nepali President addressing the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-row-with-india-nepal-pm-oli-defends-new-political-map-299752"> joint session of the Parliament</a> said the new maps of the country will be published that will show all areas it considers its&nbsp;own.&nbsp;

Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari said, "Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani region are Nepal's territory and concrete diplomatic efforts will be taken towards reclaiming these territories. An official map of Nepal will be published accordingly incorporating all the territories of Nepal."

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Elaborating Nepali government's approach, Bhandari explained that the "government of Nepal is committed to safeguarding the international borders of Nepal" and "Outstanding border disputes with India will be resolved through diplomatic medium relying on available historical treaties, maps, facts and evidence"

Kathmandu raised the chorus over the issue after India's defence minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a new road from Dharchula to Lipulekh that will reduce the time taken for Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. After this development, Indian envoy to Nepal Vinay Mohan Kwatra was called by Nepal's Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali who raise the matter.

India has clarified to Nepal on Lipulekh that the "recently <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nepal-cabinet-approves-controversial-map-claiming-indian-territory-299508">inaugurated road section </a>in Pithoragarh district in the State of Uttarakhand lies completely within the territory of India."

New Delhi sees increased Chinese role in Nepal as a reason for current comments by Kathmandu. Indian Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane on Friday hinted at foreign involvement with Nepal raking the Lipulekh issue.

Army Chief speaking at a think tank IDSA's online meet said, "I do not know exactly what they are exactly agitating about. Never been a problem in the past, reasons to believe they might have raised these problems, issues at the behest of someone else and there is very much a possibility."

While names have not been taken, Chinese increased involvement in the country is something that is well known.&nbsp;

The ongoing dispute is not new and dates back to 1816 when under the Treaty of Sugauli, King of Nepal lost parts of its territory to British including Kalapani and Lipulekh.&nbsp;

The Nepali government on Wednesday issued a new, controversial map of the country which shows Indian territories of Lipulekh, Kalapani, Limpiyadhura as its own. The map was unveiled by the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives & Poverty Alleviation.

The Nepali government on Wednesday issued a new, controversial map of the country which shows Indian territories of Lipulekh, Kalapani, Limpiyadhura as its own. The map was unveiled by the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives & Poverty Alleviation. Earlier this month Nepali President addressing the joint session of the Parliament said the new maps of the country will be published that will show all areas it considers its own. Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari said, "Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani region are Nepal's territory and concrete diplomatic efforts will be taken towards reclaiming these territories. An official map of Nepal will be published accordingly incorporating all the territories of Nepal." × Elaborating Nepali government's approach, Bhandari explained that the "government of Nepal is committed to safeguarding the international borders of Nepal" and "Outstanding border disputes with India will be resolved through diplomatic medium relying on available historical treaties, maps, facts and evidence" Kathmandu raised the chorus over the issue after India's defence minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a new road from Dharchula to Lipulekh that will reduce the time taken for Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. After this development, Indian envoy to Nepal Vinay Mohan Kwatra was called by Nepal's Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali who raise the matter. India has clarified to Nepal on Lipulekh that the "recently inaugurated road section in Pithoragarh district in the State of Uttarakhand lies completely within the territory of India." New Delhi sees increased Chinese role in Nepal as a reason for current comments by Kathmandu. Indian Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane on Friday hinted at foreign involvement with Nepal raking the Lipulekh issue. Army Chief speaking at a think tank IDSA's online meet said, "I do not know exactly what they are exactly agitating about. Never been a problem in the past, reasons to believe they might have raised these problems, issues at the behest of someone else and there is very much a possibility." While names have not been taken, Chinese increased involvement in the country is something that is well known. The ongoing dispute is not new and dates back to 1816 when under the Treaty of Sugauli, King of Nepal lost parts of its territory to British including Kalapani and Lipulekh.

Nepal issues new, controversial map showing Indian territory as its own

Nepal will publish a new political map asserting its claim over the Kalapani region that has been at the centre of a simmering territorial dispute with India.

Nepal to publish new political map

Is China's long arm pushing Nepal to protest against India? WION's Palki tells you why Nepal is protesting a link road built to shorten the travel time to Kailash Mansarovar.

Gravitas: Chinese political interference in Nepal?

A tweet by Beijing's state-run media agency -- China Global Television Network (CGTN) -- on May 2 sparked quite an interesting debate on Twitter.

The said tweet had CGTN claiming that the Mount Everest is entirely on China's side. And it drew wide criticism in Nepal for obvious reasons.

To this end, Nepali citizens started #backoffchina trend on Twitter where they have been demanding a clarification from the Chinese envoy to Nepal.

"Dear @PRCAmbNepal don't you think this is fair? We want clarification. #backoffchina," twitter user @coronanpl tweeted.

Anup Kaphle, Executive Editor of Rest of the World and former Editor-in-Chief of the Kathmandu Post tweeted, "...the world's highest peak located in China's Tibet... Really bummed we've been taught to believe Everest is in Nepal all these years. Thanks, CGTN."

Political analyst from Kathmandu writing on diplomacy and foreign affairs, who previously worked as journalist Lekhnath Pandey also questioned, "Now, it's China's turn? As if Mount #Everest, aka #Sagarmatha in #Nepal, is solely of #China in TAR!"

"In pictures: An extraordinary sun halo was spotted Friday in the skies over Mount #Qomolangma, also known as Mount Everest, the world's highest peak located in China's #Tibet Autonomous Region," CGTN tweeted along with some photos as it has been carrying out the survey work on its side.

The Mount Everest region, which created a dispute between Nepal and China back in the 1960s over its territory, was claimed on by Kathmandu when the then prime minister Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala was on a visit to China.

Koirala was summoned by Mao Zedong, chairman of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) or the founding father of the People's Republic of China. At that time Mao had said to divide the Everest into two equal halves, chat transcript published by China in 1998 states.

"It can be solved, half for each side. The southern part is yours and the northern part is ours," the verbatim recorded then, published in Diplomacy and Foreign Language Press, in 1998 stated.

Mao also had then proposed to rename Mount Everest on the basis of mutual understanding in between the nations. "We shall not call it Everest; that was a name given by Westerners. Neither shall we call it Sagarmatha, nor shall we call it Qomolangma. Let's name it Mount Sino-Nepalese Friendship. This mountain has the highest summit in the world, with a height of over 8,800 meters. The United States, the Soviet Union, and India have no mountain of this height. Only our two countries have. You may hold an internal meeting to discuss the question and air your suggestions. It may be put off for settlement in the future if no agreement is reached," Page no. 307 of the published transcript quoted Mao as saying.

After Mao's reaction, the issue was then diverted into the issue of disputed lands between the two nations and remained unsolved. King Mahendra, who visited Northern neighbour in 1961, announced that the Mount Everest falls squarely inside Nepal.

Mount Everest, the world's highest peak with the height of 8,884 meters, has been the main source of income for the landlocked nation. It was first ascended by Sir Edmund Hillary, an American and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, a Nepali, on May 29, 1953.

Though there are two ways to get to the top of the world's highest peak, Nepali side (southern) is considered to be most standard one whose permits are issued by the Government of Nepal.

(with inputs from ANI)

A tweet by Beijing's state-run media agency -- China Global Television Network (CGTN) -- on May 2 sparked quite an interesting debate on Twitter. The said tweet had CGTN claiming that the Mount Everest is entirely on China's side.

A tweet by Beijing's state-run media agency -- China Global Television Network (CGTN) -- on May 2 sparked quite an interesting debate on Twitter. The said tweet had CGTN claiming that the Mount Everest is entirely on China's side. And it drew wide criticism in Nepal for obvious reasons. To this end, Nepali citizens started #backoffchina trend on Twitter where they have been demanding a clarification from the Chinese envoy to Nepal. "Dear @PRCAmbNepal don't you think this is fair? We want clarification. #backoffchina," twitter user @coronanpl tweeted. Anup Kaphle, Executive Editor of Rest of the World and former Editor-in-Chief of the Kathmandu Post tweeted, "...the world's highest peak located in China's Tibet... Really bummed we've been taught to believe Everest is in Nepal all these years. Thanks, CGTN." Political analyst from Kathmandu writing on diplomacy and foreign affairs, who previously worked as journalist Lekhnath Pandey also questioned, "Now, it's China's turn? As if Mount #Everest, aka #Sagarmatha in #Nepal, is solely of #China in TAR!" "In pictures: An extraordinary sun halo was spotted Friday in the skies over Mount #Qomolangma, also known as Mount Everest, the world's highest peak located in China's #Tibet Autonomous Region," CGTN tweeted along with some photos as it has been carrying out the survey work on its side. The Mount Everest region, which created a dispute between Nepal and China back in the 1960s over its territory, was claimed on by Kathmandu when the then prime minister Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala was on a visit to China. Koirala was summoned by Mao Zedong, chairman of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) or the founding father of the People's Republic of China. At that time Mao had said to divide the Everest into two equal halves, chat transcript published by China in 1998 states. "It can be solved, half for each side. The southern part is yours and the northern part is ours," the verbatim recorded then, published in Diplomacy and Foreign Language Press, in 1998 stated. Mao also had then proposed to rename Mount Everest on the basis of mutual understanding in between the nations. "We shall not call it Everest; that was a name given by Westerners. Neither shall we call it Sagarmatha, nor shall we call it Qomolangma. Let's name it Mount Sino-Nepalese Friendship. This mountain has the highest summit in the world, with a height of over 8,800 meters. The United States, the Soviet Union, and India have no mountain of this height. Only our two countries have. You may hold an internal meeting to discuss the question and air your suggestions. It may be put off for settlement in the future if no agreement is reached," Page no. 307 of the published transcript quoted Mao as saying. After Mao's reaction, the issue was then diverted into the issue of disputed lands between the two nations and remained unsolved. King Mahendra, who visited Northern neighbour in 1961, announced that the Mount Everest falls squarely inside Nepal. Mount Everest, the world's highest peak with the height of 8,884 meters, has been the main source of income for the landlocked nation. It was first ascended by Sir Edmund Hillary, an American and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, a Nepali, on May 29, 1953. Though there are two ways to get to the top of the world's highest peak, Nepali side (southern) is considered to be most standard one whose permits are issued by the Government of Nepal. (with inputs from ANI)

Chinese media post on Mt Everest sparks debate with Nepal on Twitter

A dispute between India and Nepal has escalated into a full-blown diplomatic crisis. Kathmandu on Monday summoned the Indian ambassador who was given a 'diplomatic note'.

Nepal is objecting over a road built by India. This is a new link road to Kailash Mansarovar that goes through the Lipulekh pass. The road was inaugurated by defence minister Rajnath Singh on Friday.

Nepal stakes claim over Lipulekh pass, a territory that India controls. For quite some time now, Indians and Tibetans have been using Lipulekh for border trade. India and Nepal were in the process of resolving this dispute and foreign secretaries from both sides were supposed to meet, but the coronavirus outbreak has delayed the talks. The project has been in the public domain since the UPA era. They had cleared it way back in 2005, the BJP government began work on it two years ago.

Observers say domestic compulsions could have compelled the Nepalese government to take a stand on the dispute. Reportedly, Nepal's prime minister KP Sharma Oli was under pressure and factions of his government wanted Oli to take a tough stand against India.

Nepal is governed by the Nepal communist party which was founded in 2018 when two left parties joined hands. This was when Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal joined hands.

The party won power, but the government has been unstable because of the constant in-fighting. There is still a risk that the Nepal Communist Party could split.

Last week, China's ambassador to Nepal met with all key political stakeholders, including prime minister Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

Observers saw this as a move to repair the relationship between the two. When Oli was faced pressure to protest against India, he apparently chose to give in.

What is now becoming clear is the fact that China is micromanaging Nepal. Nepal is struggling to strike a balance between India and China, and prime minister KP Sharma Oli seems to be caught between a rock and a hard place.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A dispute between India and Nepal has escalated into a full-blown diplomatic crisis. Kathmandu on Monday summoned the Indian ambassador who was given a 'diplomatic note'.

A dispute between India and Nepal has escalated into a full-blown diplomatic crisis. Kathmandu on Monday summoned the Indian ambassador who was given a 'diplomatic note'. Nepal is objecting over a road built by India. This is a new link road to Kailash Mansarovar that goes through the Lipulekh pass. The road was inaugurated by defence minister Rajnath Singh on Friday. Nepal stakes claim over Lipulekh pass, a territory that India controls. For quite some time now, Indians and Tibetans have been using Lipulekh for border trade. India and Nepal were in the process of resolving this dispute and foreign secretaries from both sides were supposed to meet, but the coronavirus outbreak has delayed the talks. The project has been in the public domain since the UPA era. They had cleared it way back in 2005, the BJP government began work on it two years ago. Observers say domestic compulsions could have compelled the Nepalese government to take a stand on the dispute. Reportedly, Nepal's prime minister KP Sharma Oli was under pressure and factions of his government wanted Oli to take a tough stand against India. Nepal is governed by the Nepal communist party which was founded in 2018 when two left parties joined hands. This was when Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal joined hands. The party won power, but the government has been unstable because of the constant in-fighting. There is still a risk that the Nepal Communist Party could split. Last week, China's ambassador to Nepal met with all key political stakeholders, including prime minister Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal. Observers saw this as a move to repair the relationship between the two. When Oli was faced pressure to protest against India, he apparently chose to give in. What is now becoming clear is the fact that China is micromanaging Nepal. Nepal is struggling to strike a balance between India and China, and prime minister KP Sharma Oli seems to be caught between a rock and a hard place.

As China's influence grows, Nepal struggles to strike balance between India and Beijing

Nepal police on Friday arrested 45 Chinese nationals stranded in the country because of coronavirus restrictions after a protest turned violent

Nepal detains 45 stranded Chinese after protest turns violent

Over 200 people have been rescued from Mount Everest and Annapurna in Nepal on Saturday, a day after an avalanche hit a section on Annapurna circuit trekking route, Department of Tourism said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/four-south-korean-trekkers-among-seven-missing-in-nepal-avalanche-275074">Four South Korean trekkers among seven missing in Nepal avalanche</a>

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Department of Tourism, Nepal: Over 200 people have been rescued from Mount Everest and Annapurna. An avalanche had hit a section on Annapurna circuit trekking route yesterday.
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A search and rescue team had been deployed yesterday in the avalanche-hit areas to find several trekkers from South Korea and China who had gone missing, authorities had said.

Two helicopters that flew from Pokhara to the avalanche hit area also had an aerial survey of Macchapuchre and Annapurna base camps to check their condition.

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"Both base camps are intact. We are continuing our search and rescue operation but haven't got any clue about the missing ones," secretary of Chomrong Tourism Management Committee Dilip Gurung.

"We are continuing our efforts to locate the missing four Koreans and a Chinese who has gone missing since Friday morning after an avalanche hit Himku near the Annapurna Base Camp," Gurung added.

The missing Koreans include Li Min Su (57), Kim Suk Ja (53), Jiyong Pil Bong (59) and Choi Hyo On (38).

Over 200 people have been rescued from Mount Everest and Annapurna in Nepal on Saturday, a day after an avalanche hit a section on Annapurna circuit trekking route, Department of Tourism said.

Over 200 people have been rescued from Mount Everest and Annapurna in Nepal on Saturday, a day after an avalanche hit a section on Annapurna circuit trekking route, Department of Tourism said. Also read: Four South Korean trekkers among seven missing in Nepal avalanche Department of Tourism, Nepal: Over 200 people have been rescued from Mount Everest and Annapurna. An avalanche had hit a section on Annapurna circuit trekking route yesterday. — ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2020 × A search and rescue team had been deployed yesterday in the avalanche-hit areas to find several trekkers from South Korea and China who had gone missing, authorities had said. Two helicopters that flew from Pokhara to the avalanche hit area also had an aerial survey of Macchapuchre and Annapurna base camps to check their condition. "Both base camps are intact. We are continuing our search and rescue operation but haven't got any clue about the missing ones," secretary of Chomrong Tourism Management Committee Dilip Gurung. "We are continuing our efforts to locate the missing four Koreans and a Chinese who has gone missing since Friday morning after an avalanche hit Himku near the Annapurna Base Camp," Gurung added. The missing Koreans include Li Min Su (57), Kim Suk Ja (53), Jiyong Pil Bong (59) and Choi Hyo On (38).

Nepal avalanche: Nearly 200 rescued from Mount Everest and Annapurna

&nbsp;Nepal reported seven new coronavirus cases, taking the total number of infections in the Himalayan nation to 82, health authorities said on Tuesday.

Nepal is among the nations that has the least cases of the deadly coronavirus.

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With seven new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Nepalgunj in Western Nepal the total number of coronavirus patients in the country has jumped to 82, according to Ministry of Health and Population officials.

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The new cases were confirmed through reports of the tests conducted on Tuesday in Bheri Hospital laboratory, Nepalgunj, the officials said.

As many as 16 COVID-19 patients have been recovered so far and the number of active patients are 66.

As a precautionary measure to contain the spread of the virus, a curfew was imposed from Tuesday till Thursday, police said.

Nepal reported seven new coronavirus cases, taking the total number of infections in the Himalayan nation to 82, health authorities said on Tuesday. Nepal is among the nations that has the least cases of the deadly coronavirus.

Nepal reported seven new coronavirus cases, taking the total number of infections in the Himalayan nation to 82, health authorities said on Tuesday. Nepal is among the nations that has the least cases of the deadly coronavirus. Also read: Over 250,000 die of coronavirus worldwide; confirmed recoveries near 12 lakh With seven new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Nepalgunj in Western Nepal the total number of coronavirus patients in the country has jumped to 82, according to Ministry of Health and Population officials. Also see: World marks Hand Hygiene Day while reeling from coronavirus pandemic The new cases were confirmed through reports of the tests conducted on Tuesday in Bheri Hospital laboratory, Nepalgunj, the officials said. As many as 16 COVID-19 patients have been recovered so far and the number of active patients are 66. As a precautionary measure to contain the spread of the virus, a curfew was imposed from Tuesday till Thursday, police said.

Nepal confirms 7 new coronavirus cases, total climbs to 82

Rescuers&nbsp;on Sunday retrieved two bodies of South Korean trekkers who went missing after being hit by a massive avalanche in January on one of the most popular hiking trails in&nbsp;Nepal, police and army officials said.

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Four South Korean trekkers and three guides disappeared in January after being hit by the avalanche in Hinku village, 150 km (90 miles) northwest of Kathmandu.

They were returning from a trek to the Annapurna Base Camp, one of&nbsp;Nepal's busiest destinations for adventure tourists.

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The area is home to Mount Annapurna, the world's 10th highest mountain at 8,091 metres (26,545 feet) and is visited by thousands of foreign hikers and climbers every year.

Villagers spotted the two bodies of the South Korean trekkers on Saturday. They were found by the side of a river after the snow melted due to rising temperatures, police official Raj Kumar K.C. said.

"A rescue helicopter was used to bring the bodies today from the remote area," he told Reuters, adding that the bodies of one male and one female trekker will be handed over to the families after necessary legal formalities were completed.

Authorities earlier found the bodies of two of the&nbsp;Nepali guides who were part of the group.

Army spokesman Bidyan Dev Pandey said search and rescue personnel continued to look for the three other missing victims - two South Korean trekkers and a&nbsp;Nepali guide.

Trekking and mountain climbing is a key source of income and employment in cash-strapped&nbsp;Nepal.

The Himalayan nation has cancelled all trekking and mountain climbing activities this year amid a nationwide lockdown to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

Nepal&nbsp;has reported 51 cases of coronavirus and no deaths.

Rescuers on Sunday retrieved two bodies of South Korean trekkers who went missing after being hit by a massive avalanche in January on one of the most popular hiking trails in Nepal, police and army officials said.

Rescuers on Sunday retrieved two bodies of South Korean trekkers who went missing after being hit by a massive avalanche in January on one of the most popular hiking trails in Nepal, police and army officials said. Also read: Mosques becoming a major source of transmission: Pakistan health expert Four South Korean trekkers and three guides disappeared in January after being hit by the avalanche in Hinku village, 150 km (90 miles) northwest of Kathmandu. They were returning from a trek to the Annapurna Base Camp, one of Nepal's busiest destinations for adventure tourists. Also read: India sends second tranche of medicines to Bangladesh The area is home to Mount Annapurna, the world's 10th highest mountain at 8,091 metres (26,545 feet) and is visited by thousands of foreign hikers and climbers every year. Villagers spotted the two bodies of the South Korean trekkers on Saturday. They were found by the side of a river after the snow melted due to rising temperatures, police official Raj Kumar K.C. said. "A rescue helicopter was used to bring the bodies today from the remote area," he told Reuters, adding that the bodies of one male and one female trekker will be handed over to the families after necessary legal formalities were completed. Authorities earlier found the bodies of two of the Nepali guides who were part of the group. Army spokesman Bidyan Dev Pandey said search and rescue personnel continued to look for the three other missing victims - two South Korean trekkers and a Nepali guide. Trekking and mountain climbing is a key source of income and employment in cash-strapped Nepal. The Himalayan nation has cancelled all trekking and mountain climbing activities this year amid a nationwide lockdown to stop the spread of the coronavirus. Nepal has reported 51 cases of coronavirus and no deaths.

Nepal rescuers recover bodies of two missing South Korean trekkers

Twelve Indian nationals, who participated in the Tabligi Jamaat congregation in Delhi last month, were tested for coronavirus in Nepal on Wednesday after they were found taking shelter in a mosque, according to a media report.

According to the lockdown regulations, all foreign nationals must self-quarantine and not visit public places.

The Indian Muslim men were initially taken in police custody after it was reported that they were taking shelter in a mosque in eastern Nepal's Udayur district.

Swab samples of the men were collected for COVID-19 tests and they have been quarantined, Setopati newsportal quoted Assistant Chief District Administrator of Udaypur Bhimprasad Bhattarai as saying.

The Indian nationals had taken part in the Tabligi Jamaat congregation in Delhi before entering Nepal in March. At least 9,000 people participated in the religious congregation in Nizamuddin last month, which has become the biggest hotspot for the spread of coronavirus in India.

The Nepal Health Ministry said swab tests for coronavirus have been conducted on 6,871 individuals.

In Nepal, 16 people have so far tested positive for coronavirus and one of them has recovered. The remaining 15 are undergoing treatment.

Meanwhile, the police arrested a 21-year-old man from Surkhet district for spreading rumours regarding coronavirus. Prem Bika, a resident of Dailekh district, was arrested for a misleading post on Facebook that a coronavirus case was reported in Surkhet district.&nbsp;

Twelve Indian nationals, who participated in the Tabligi Jamaat congregation in Delhi last month, were tested for coronavirus in Nepal on Wednesday after they were found taking shelter in a mosque, according to a media report.

Twelve Indian nationals, who participated in the Tabligi Jamaat congregation in Delhi last month, were tested for coronavirus in Nepal on Wednesday after they were found taking shelter in a mosque, according to a media report. According to the lockdown regulations, all foreign nationals must self-quarantine and not visit public places. The Indian Muslim men were initially taken in police custody after it was reported that they were taking shelter in a mosque in eastern Nepal's Udayur district. Swab samples of the men were collected for COVID-19 tests and they have been quarantined, Setopati newsportal quoted Assistant Chief District Administrator of Udaypur Bhimprasad Bhattarai as saying. The Indian nationals had taken part in the Tabligi Jamaat congregation in Delhi before entering Nepal in March. At least 9,000 people participated in the religious congregation in Nizamuddin last month, which has become the biggest hotspot for the spread of coronavirus in India. The Nepal Health Ministry said swab tests for coronavirus have been conducted on 6,871 individuals. In Nepal, 16 people have so far tested positive for coronavirus and one of them has recovered. The remaining 15 are undergoing treatment. Meanwhile, the police arrested a 21-year-old man from Surkhet district for spreading rumours regarding coronavirus. Prem Bika, a resident of Dailekh district, was arrested for a misleading post on Facebook that a coronavirus case was reported in Surkhet district.

12 Indians tested for coronavirus in Nepal

Nepal purchased coronavirus testing kits worth millions of Nepalese rupees from China but soon the advisor to Nepal said that many countries using the same kits are showing unreliable and controversial results.

Government of Nepal rejects China's COVID-19 testing kits

Hundreds of trekkers are stranded on high-altitude trekking&nbsp;trails across&nbsp;Nepal&nbsp;due to a nationwide lockdown designed to contain the coronavirus spread.

There are about 500 foreign trekkers on at least four trekking routes unable to return due to the lockdown, which started Tuesday and will last for a week.

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"We are working with multiple government agencies to rescue the trekkers and bring them to Kathmandu, so that we can coordinate with the embassies to fly them back home," said Shradha Shrestha, a spokeswoman for the Nepal Tourism Board.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-closes-mount-everest-for-climbers-because-of-coronavirus-fears-286068">Nepal closes Mount Everest for climbers because of coronavirus fears</a>

"Several embassies such as the German and French are already planning to send chartered flights to some of these areas to rescue the trekkers. The tourism board has launched a&nbsp;website&nbsp;to make it easier for the stranded trekkers to reach out to authorities," she&nbsp;added.

Nepal's government announced earlier this month the spring climbing season for all the Himalayan peaks in the country, including the world's highest Mount Everest, would be canceled due to coronavirus.

Hundreds of trekkers are stranded on high-altitude trekking trails across Nepal due to a nationwide lockdown designed to contain the coronavirus spread. There are about 500 foreign trekkers on at least four trekking routes unable to return due to the lockdown, which started Tuesday and will last for a week.

Hundreds of trekkers are stranded on high-altitude trekking trails across Nepal due to a nationwide lockdown designed to contain the coronavirus spread. There are about 500 foreign trekkers on at least four trekking routes unable to return due to the lockdown, which started Tuesday and will last for a week. Also read: Nepal announces nationwide lockdown till March 31 as coronavirus infects two "We are working with multiple government agencies to rescue the trekkers and bring them to Kathmandu, so that we can coordinate with the embassies to fly them back home," said Shradha Shrestha, a spokeswoman for the Nepal Tourism Board. Also read: Nepal closes Mount Everest for climbers because of coronavirus fears "Several embassies such as the German and French are already planning to send chartered flights to some of these areas to rescue the trekkers. The tourism board has launched a website to make it easier for the stranded trekkers to reach out to authorities," she added. Nepal's government announced earlier this month the spring climbing season for all the Himalayan peaks in the country, including the world's highest Mount Everest, would be canceled due to coronavirus.

Nepal: Hundreds of trekkers stranded on mountain trails after coronavirus lockdown

Nepal on Wednesday confirmed the third positive case of the novel coronavirus in less than a week after the second case was reported. 
 
The National Public Health Library of Nepal updated the new number of cases on its website in the Himalayan nation to three from the previously reported tally as on Monday. 
 
Rajesh Kumar Gupta, Information Officer at the National Public Health Laboratory, told ANI over the phone: "The third positive case has been confirmed today.

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The patient is currently under isolation at Sukraraj Tropical Infectious Hospital, Teku, Kathmandu,"Gupta didn`t mention any other details about the person, who is confirmed positive. 
 
Nepal to date has tested 687 samples out of which three turned out to be positive while 684 samples have been tested negative.

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The first patient in Nepal to be tested positive in January, who was also the first case in South Asia, has recovered while the second case confirmed on Monday is also undergoing treatment at Sukraraj Hospital. 
 
In order to prevent further spread of the virus, the Government of Nepal from Tuesday imposed a week-long nationwide lockdown.COVID-19, the new strain of coronavirus, was first reported last year in December in Wuhan, China, which has now been reported in over 195 nations with over 16,000 deaths and nearly 400,000 positive cases around the world

Nepal on Wednesday confirmed the third positive case of the novel coronavirus in less than a week after the second case was reported. The National Public Health Library of Nepal updated the new number of cases on its website in the Himalayan nation to three from the previously reported tally as on Monday.

Nepal on Wednesday confirmed the third positive case of the novel coronavirus in less than a week after the second case was reported. The National Public Health Library of Nepal updated the new number of cases on its website in the Himalayan nation to three from the previously reported tally as on Monday. Rajesh Kumar Gupta, Information Officer at the National Public Health Laboratory, told ANI over the phone: "The third positive case has been confirmed today. Also read: Nepal announces nationwide lockdown till March 31 as coronavirus infects two The patient is currently under isolation at Sukraraj Tropical Infectious Hospital, Teku, Kathmandu,"Gupta didn`t mention any other details about the person, who is confirmed positive. Nepal to date has tested 687 samples out of which three turned out to be positive while 684 samples have been tested negative. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: Nepal seals borders with India, China The first patient in Nepal to be tested positive in January, who was also the first case in South Asia, has recovered while the second case confirmed on Monday is also undergoing treatment at Sukraraj Hospital. In order to prevent further spread of the virus, the Government of Nepal from Tuesday imposed a week-long nationwide lockdown.COVID-19, the new strain of coronavirus, was first reported last year in December in Wuhan, China, which has now been reported in over 195 nations with over 16,000 deaths and nearly 400,000 positive cases around the world

Nepal confirms third COVID-19 case in less than a week

An Indian national was among five persons arrested here on Tuesday for stockpiling over one million masks to sell them in the black market, police said.

The coronavirus pandemic has prompted a frenzied buying of masks and hand sanitizers. The shortage due to the increased demand has prompted a growing black market in their sale.

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According to police, they raided a godown of RDG International Suppliers at Milanchowk area in Kathmandu and recovered 10,00,800 masks to be sold in the black market.

Five persons, including a 37-year-old resident of India's Rajasthan state, were arrested for stockpiling the masks.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-suspends-visa-on-arrival-services-amid-coronavirus-outbrek-286359">Nepal suspends visa on arrival services, amid coronavirus outbrek</a>

The Indian national, identified as Subash Maheshwori, is one of the directors of the company.

The four other arrested are all Nepalese nationals.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-closes-mount-everest-for-climbers-because-of-coronavirus-fears-286068"> Nepal closes Mount Everest for climbers because of coronavirus fears</a>

They are also the directors of the company, police said, adding that they have been identified as 30-year-old Tekram Shrestha, 34-year-old Sanjaya Regmi, 24-year-old Suraj Goyal and 26-year-old Ajim Baks Miya.

An Indian national was among five persons arrested here on Tuesday for stockpiling over one million masks to sell them in the black market, police said. The coronavirus pandemic has prompted a frenzied buying of masks and hand sanitizers.

An Indian national was among five persons arrested here on Tuesday for stockpiling over one million masks to sell them in the black market, police said. The coronavirus pandemic has prompted a frenzied buying of masks and hand sanitizers. The shortage due to the increased demand has prompted a growing black market in their sale. Also read: Nepal to transform 3 hospitals into treatment centres for coronavirus patients According to police, they raided a godown of RDG International Suppliers at Milanchowk area in Kathmandu and recovered 10,00,800 masks to be sold in the black market. Five persons, including a 37-year-old resident of India's Rajasthan state, were arrested for stockpiling the masks. Also see: Nepal suspends visa on arrival services, amid coronavirus outbrek The Indian national, identified as Subash Maheshwori, is one of the directors of the company. The four other arrested are all Nepalese nationals. Also read: Nepal closes Mount Everest for climbers because of coronavirus fears They are also the directors of the company, police said, adding that they have been identified as 30-year-old Tekram Shrestha, 34-year-old Sanjaya Regmi, 24-year-old Suraj Goyal and 26-year-old Ajim Baks Miya.

Indian national among 5 arrested in Nepal for selling masks in black market

Nepal has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led initiative of calling a SAARC conference on dealing with the coronavirus outbreak, and has termed it "timely". He said it shows the grouping is not "dead" and at the time of need can "come together... irrespective of any differences".

Nepal envoy praises PM Modi's initiative over coronavirus crisis

The Nepal government on Friday announced the suspension of its visa-on-arrival services till April 30 as part of the measures to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country.

The suspension will come into effect from Saturday, Immigration Department spokesperson Chandra Tiwari told ANI.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-outbreak-first-case-reported-in-nepal-ministry-of-health-confirms-276431">Coronavirus outbreak: First case reported in Nepal, ministry of health confirms&nbsp;</a>

The department has issued a 10-point updated travel advisory where it introduced sweeping measures to contain the spread of the disease which has now been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation.

The country has also halted all mountaineering expeditions, including Mount Everest ascents.

"This is to notify that climbing permits for the expedition that have already been issued or to be issued for the Spring season 2020, has been halted to the present, in accordance with the decision made on 12th March 2020 by a high-level committee chaired by Deputy Prime Minister, Government of Nepal," the release from the Department of Tourism stated.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-warns-nepal-over-coronavirus-276271">WHO warns Nepal over Coronavirus</a>

In addition, the government has also imposed mandatory self-quarantine of 14 days for those arriving in the Himalayan nation.

The country had previously announced the suspension of its visa-on-arrival services for only eight coronavirus-affected countries of Iran, Italy, South Korea, Japan, France, Germany, and Spain.

The Nepal government on Friday announced the suspension of its visa-on-arrival services till April 30 as part of the measures to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country.

The Nepal government on Friday announced the suspension of its visa-on-arrival services till April 30 as part of the measures to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country. The suspension will come into effect from Saturday, Immigration Department spokesperson Chandra Tiwari told ANI. Also Read: Coronavirus outbreak: First case reported in Nepal, ministry of health confirms The department has issued a 10-point updated travel advisory where it introduced sweeping measures to contain the spread of the disease which has now been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation. The country has also halted all mountaineering expeditions, including Mount Everest ascents. "This is to notify that climbing permits for the expedition that have already been issued or to be issued for the Spring season 2020, has been halted to the present, in accordance with the decision made on 12th March 2020 by a high-level committee chaired by Deputy Prime Minister, Government of Nepal," the release from the Department of Tourism stated. Also Read: WHO warns Nepal over Coronavirus In addition, the government has also imposed mandatory self-quarantine of 14 days for those arriving in the Himalayan nation. The country had previously announced the suspension of its visa-on-arrival services for only eight coronavirus-affected countries of Iran, Italy, South Korea, Japan, France, Germany, and Spain.

Nepal suspends visa on arrival services, amid coronavirus outbrek

Nepal has closed all of its Himalayan peaks including Mount Everest this climbing season because of fears of the coronavirus outbreak, a government minister said on Friday.

Nepal, home to eight of the world's 14 highest mountains including Mount Everest, gets more than four million dollars in permit fees for the world's highest peak and other mountains every year.

Tourism Minister Yogesh Bhattarai said expeditions to all peaks in the March-May spring season had been suspended.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-shuts-down-mount-everest-due-to-coronavirus-fears-285841">China shuts down Mount Everest due to coronavirus fears</a>

"Climbing this season has been closed,” Bhattarai told the sources.

"It is as a precaution for that," he added, when asked it its was because of the coronavirus.

Nepal has confirmed just one case of the coronavirus - a student studying in China on a trip home - out of 450 people tested.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-issues-travel-advisory-amid-coronavirus-outbreak-284200">Nepal issues travel advisory amid coronavirus outbreak</a>

The suspension of expeditions in Nepal will affect hundreds of foreign climbers now preparing for the spring season, a window or relatively good weather between the end of the bitterly cold winter and the rainy season, which begins in June.

Everest, the world's highest mountain at 8,850 metres (29,035 feet), is on the border between Nepal and the Chinese region of Tibet. China announced the closure of its side of the mountain on Thursday.

It is the second time in recent years that the climbing season has been disrupted. Expeditions were suspended in 2015 after a major earthquake struck Nepal on April 25 that year, killing some 9,000 people.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chinese-workers-quarantined-at-construction-site-in-nepal-285684">Chinese workers quarantined at construction site in Nepal</a>

Eighteen people were killed at the Everest base camp when an avalanche triggered by the quake roared down a slope.

"This is disappointing news for both our expedition leaders and our clients who have trained for months for this year’s climb," Lukas Furtenbach, of the California-based guiding company Furtenbach Adventure, said.

Adrian Ballinger of the Alpenglow Expeditions company said he understood the decision.

“While cancelling a climb is never an outcome we want, this time, it’s the responsible thing to do,” Ballinger said in a statement.

“A COVID-19 outbreak at base camp would be dangerous and potentially devastating,” he said.

Nepal would also stop issuing visas on arrival until April 30, an official said.

Nepal has closed all of its Himalayan peaks including Mount Everest this climbing season because of fears of the coronavirus outbreak, a government minister said on Friday.

Nepal has closed all of its Himalayan peaks including Mount Everest this climbing season because of fears of the coronavirus outbreak, a government minister said on Friday. Nepal, home to eight of the world's 14 highest mountains including Mount Everest, gets more than four million dollars in permit fees for the world's highest peak and other mountains every year. Tourism Minister Yogesh Bhattarai said expeditions to all peaks in the March-May spring season had been suspended. Also read: China shuts down Mount Everest due to coronavirus fears "Climbing this season has been closed,” Bhattarai told the sources. "It is as a precaution for that," he added, when asked it its was because of the coronavirus. Nepal has confirmed just one case of the coronavirus - a student studying in China on a trip home - out of 450 people tested. Also see: Nepal issues travel advisory amid coronavirus outbreak The suspension of expeditions in Nepal will affect hundreds of foreign climbers now preparing for the spring season, a window or relatively good weather between the end of the bitterly cold winter and the rainy season, which begins in June. Everest, the world's highest mountain at 8,850 metres (29,035 feet), is on the border between Nepal and the Chinese region of Tibet. China announced the closure of its side of the mountain on Thursday. It is the second time in recent years that the climbing season has been disrupted. Expeditions were suspended in 2015 after a major earthquake struck Nepal on April 25 that year, killing some 9,000 people. Also read: Chinese workers quarantined at construction site in Nepal Eighteen people were killed at the Everest base camp when an avalanche triggered by the quake roared down a slope. "This is disappointing news for both our expedition leaders and our clients who have trained for months for this year’s climb," Lukas Furtenbach, of the California-based guiding company Furtenbach Adventure, said. Adrian Ballinger of the Alpenglow Expeditions company said he understood the decision. “While cancelling a climb is never an outcome we want, this time, it’s the responsible thing to do,” Ballinger said in a statement. “A COVID-19 outbreak at base camp would be dangerous and potentially devastating,” he said. Nepal would also stop issuing visas on arrival until April 30, an official said.

Nepal closes Mount Everest for climbers because of coronavirus fears

A total of 71 Chinese workers engaged at a construction site in Nepal have been placed under quarantine after their return to the Himalayan nation from China, an official said on Wednesday.

The Chinese workers, who returned to Nepal between March 4 and 6 from Chengdu and Beijing after celebrating the Chinese New Year, have been kept in isolation at the Pokhara Regional Airport project where they work.

"They had already been quarantined in China for 14 days before embarking for Nepal. As neither we nor the workers wanted to take any chances, we decided to place them in quarantine again," said airport project manager Binesh Munkarmi.

The workers' temperature is being checked three times a day, he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-issues-travel-advisory-amid-coronavirus-outbreak-284200">Nepal issues travel advisory amid coronavirus outbreak</a>

"We've informed the Province Health Directorate about the quarantine of Chinese workers. So far, everyone's is normal," Munkarmi said.

Earlier, 36 Chinese workers of the airport project were also quarantined after their return from China.

Munkarmi said a total of 190 Chinese workers, including the 36 who underwent quarantine, had been deployed for work.

Gandaki Province Health Directorate Director Binod Sharma said his office was keeping a close eye on the condition of the Chinese workers engaged at the airport construction site.

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"We'd visited the project site on Sunday morning. All workers are in good health," he said.

Sharma informed his office was also monitoring the health of Chinese workers employed at other projects, such as Nawalpur's Hongshi Cement Factory, Narayangadh-Butwal road section and Nyadi Hydropower Project.

China has been investing heavily in Nepal in the last few years to enhance the connectivity and infrastructure.

The two countries signed eight agreements in 2018 for developing major infrastructure projects in the land-locked Himalayan nation to further deepen the bilateral ties.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-paper-defiant-after-china-slams-virus-criticism-281858">Nepal paper defiant after China slams virus criticism</a>

The deadly coronavirus that first originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan in December last year has claimed over 4,200 lives and infected more than 117,330 people across 107 countries and territories.

China remains the hardest-hit with more than 80,000 infections and 3,000 deaths.

The World Health Organisation raised the global virus risk to maximum level after the outbreak spread to sub-Saharan Africa and stock markets around the world plummeted.

A total of 71 Chinese workers engaged at a construction site in Nepal have been placed under quarantine after their return to the Himalayan nation from China, an official said on Wednesday.

A total of 71 Chinese workers engaged at a construction site in Nepal have been placed under quarantine after their return to the Himalayan nation from China, an official said on Wednesday. The Chinese workers, who returned to Nepal between March 4 and 6 from Chengdu and Beijing after celebrating the Chinese New Year, have been kept in isolation at the Pokhara Regional Airport project where they work. "They had already been quarantined in China for 14 days before embarking for Nepal. As neither we nor the workers wanted to take any chances, we decided to place them in quarantine again," said airport project manager Binesh Munkarmi. The workers' temperature is being checked three times a day, he said. Also read: Nepal issues travel advisory amid coronavirus outbreak "We've informed the Province Health Directorate about the quarantine of Chinese workers. So far, everyone's is normal," Munkarmi said. Earlier, 36 Chinese workers of the airport project were also quarantined after their return from China. Munkarmi said a total of 190 Chinese workers, including the 36 who underwent quarantine, had been deployed for work. Gandaki Province Health Directorate Director Binod Sharma said his office was keeping a close eye on the condition of the Chinese workers engaged at the airport construction site. Also see: Qatar bans arrivals from 14 countries including India over coronavirus fears "We'd visited the project site on Sunday morning. All workers are in good health," he said. Sharma informed his office was also monitoring the health of Chinese workers employed at other projects, such as Nawalpur's Hongshi Cement Factory, Narayangadh-Butwal road section and Nyadi Hydropower Project. China has been investing heavily in Nepal in the last few years to enhance the connectivity and infrastructure. The two countries signed eight agreements in 2018 for developing major infrastructure projects in the land-locked Himalayan nation to further deepen the bilateral ties. Also read: Nepal paper defiant after China slams virus criticism The deadly coronavirus that first originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan in December last year has claimed over 4,200 lives and infected more than 117,330 people across 107 countries and territories. China remains the hardest-hit with more than 80,000 infections and 3,000 deaths. The World Health Organisation raised the global virus risk to maximum level after the outbreak spread to sub-Saharan Africa and stock markets around the world plummeted.

Chinese workers quarantined at construction site in Nepal

Nepal's Ministry of Health and Population on Tuesday issued a travel advisory to its citizens as well as tourists as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of the deadly coronavirus.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/15-italian-tourists-test-positive-for-coronavirus-total-number-rises-to-28-in-india-284131" hreflang="en">15 Italian tourists in India test positive for coronavirus</a>

According to the advisory, the government has suspended the visa-on-arrival facility extended to the nationals from countries like China, Korea, Iran, Japan, and Italy, which are highly affected by the coronavirus, effective from March 10.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-confirms-fifth-case-of-coronavirus-284027" hreflang="en">Pakistan confirms fifth case of coronavirus</a>

"Nationals of the above-mentioned countries may acquire a visa from Nepali diplomatic missions abroad after fulfilling required procedures," the advisory read.

It added that citizens of China, Korea, Iran, Japan and Italy and the people transiting via those countries will have to submit their health certificates stating that they are not infected by the virus at immigration points in Nepal.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/15-italian-tourists-tested-coronavirus-positive-in-india-284165/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Urging Nepali nationals to refrain from non-essential travel to the countries affected by and at high risk of coronavirus, the statement said, "Nepali nationals directly coming from the countries affected by COVID-19 and from third countries transiting via those countries will have to undergo mandatory home quarantine for 14 days.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">"It further said that all promotional events related to Visit Nepal Year 2020 to be organized abroad have been postponed. "The Sagarmatha Sambaad scheduled to be organized by Nepal in April this year has also been postponed," it added. Private and non-government sectors have been asked to postpone their international programs scheduled to be held in Nepal.</div>

"Health desks with international standards will be established at the major entry points from the neighbouring country India, including in Pashupatinagar, Kakarvitta, Jogabani, Jayanagar, Raxaul, Sunauli, Jamunah (Nepalgunj) and Gaddachaukai, and there will be the health check-up of Indian nationals entering via land routes," said the advisory.

"For the time being, visas to the nationals of third countries, entering through India via land routes, shall be issued after their health check-up ensuring that they will enter only from Kakarvitta, Jogabani, Raxaul, Sunauli, Jamunah (Nepalgunj) and Gaddachaukai," it added.

Coronavirus first originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has since then spread to several countries across the world. The World Health Organisation has declared the outbreak an international health emergency.

Nepal's Ministry of Health and Population on Tuesday issued a travel advisory to its citizens as well as tourists as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of the deadly coronavirus.

Nepal's Ministry of Health and Population on Tuesday issued a travel advisory to its citizens as well as tourists as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of the deadly coronavirus. Also read: 15 Italian tourists in India test positive for coronavirus According to the advisory, the government has suspended the visa-on-arrival facility extended to the nationals from countries like China, Korea, Iran, Japan, and Italy, which are highly affected by the coronavirus, effective from March 10. Also read: Pakistan confirms fifth case of coronavirus "Nationals of the above-mentioned countries may acquire a visa from Nepali diplomatic missions abroad after fulfilling required procedures," the advisory read. It added that citizens of China, Korea, Iran, Japan and Italy and the people transiting via those countries will have to submit their health certificates stating that they are not infected by the virus at immigration points in Nepal. Urging Nepali nationals to refrain from non-essential travel to the countries affected by and at high risk of coronavirus, the statement said, "Nepali nationals directly coming from the countries affected by COVID-19 and from third countries transiting via those countries will have to undergo mandatory home quarantine for 14 days. "It further said that all promotional events related to Visit Nepal Year 2020 to be organized abroad have been postponed. "The Sagarmatha Sambaad scheduled to be organized by Nepal in April this year has also been postponed," it added. Private and non-government sectors have been asked to postpone their international programs scheduled to be held in Nepal. "Health desks with international standards will be established at the major entry points from the neighbouring country India, including in Pashupatinagar, Kakarvitta, Jogabani, Jayanagar, Raxaul, Sunauli, Jamunah (Nepalgunj) and Gaddachaukai, and there will be the health check-up of Indian nationals entering via land routes," said the advisory. "For the time being, visas to the nationals of third countries, entering through India via land routes, shall be issued after their health check-up ensuring that they will enter only from Kakarvitta, Jogabani, Raxaul, Sunauli, Jamunah (Nepalgunj) and Gaddachaukai," it added. Coronavirus first originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has since then spread to several countries across the world. The World Health Organisation has declared the outbreak an international health emergency.

Nepal issues travel advisory amid coronavirus outbreak

Red&nbsp;pandas are not a single species but rather two distinct ones, according to the most comprehensive genetic study to date on these endangered&nbsp;mammals.

Scientists said on Wednesday they found substantial divergences between the two species of the red pandas, namely, the Chinese&nbsp;red&nbsp;pandas and the Himalayan&nbsp;red&nbsp;pandas after the genetic&nbsp;analysis of the DNA from 65 of the animals.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-get-massive-panda-park-35038">China to get massive panda park</a>

The bushy-tailed and russet-furred&nbsp;bamboo munchers dwell in Asian high forests.

The recognition of the existence of two separate species could help guide conservation efforts for a mammal adored&nbsp;by many people even as its numbers dwindle in the wild, they added.

Chinese&nbsp;red&nbsp;pandas are found in northern Myanmar as well as southeastern Tibet, Sichuan and Yunnan provinces in China, while Himalayan&nbsp;red&nbsp;pandas are native to Nepal, India, Bhutan and southern Tibet in China, the researchers said.

Watch:&nbsp;Cute panda videos cheer up coronavirus patients in Wuhan temporary hospital

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cute-panda-videos-cheer-up-coronavirus-patients-in-wuhan-temporary-hospital-282060/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

International experts have estimated a total population of roughly 10,000&nbsp;red&nbsp;pandas in the wild.

"To conserve the genetic uniqueness of the two species, we should avoid their interbreeding in captivity," said Chinese Academy of Sciences conservation biologist Yibo Hu, who along with colleague Fuwen Wei led the study published in the journal Science Advances. "Interbreeding&nbsp;between species may harm the genetic adaptations&nbsp;already established for their local habitat environment."

Scientists previously recognised&nbsp;red&nbsp;pandas as divided into two sub-species. While it had been proposed that these were separate species, the new study was the first to provide the genetic data necessary to allow such a judgement.

The Himalayan&nbsp;red&nbsp;panda&nbsp;is the scarcer of the two and needs urgent protection because of low genetic diversity and small population size, Hu said.

The Yalu Zangbu River most likely marks the geographical boundary separating the two species, not the Nujiang River as previously believed, Hu added.

The two species also differ in colouration and skull shape.

"The Himalayan&nbsp;red&nbsp;panda&nbsp;has more white on the face, while&nbsp;the face coat colour of the Chinese&nbsp;red&nbsp;panda&nbsp;is&nbsp;redder with less white on it. The tail rings of the Chinese&nbsp;red&nbsp;panda&nbsp;are more distinct than those of the Himalayan&nbsp;red&nbsp;panda, with the dark rings being darker&nbsp;red&nbsp;and the pale rings being more whitish," Hu said.

Despite similar names,&nbsp;red&nbsp;pandas and giant&nbsp;pandas are not closely related. Giant&nbsp;pandas are one of the world's eight bear species.

Red&nbsp;pandas are most closely related to a group that includes weasels, raccoons and skunks.

Red pandas are not a single species but rather two distinct ones, according to the most comprehensive genetic study to date on these endangered mammals. Scientists said on Wednesday they found substantial divergences between the two species of the red pandas, namely, the Chinese red pandas and the Himalayan red pandas after the genetic analysis of the DNA from 65 of the animals.

Red pandas are not a single species but rather two distinct ones, according to the most comprehensive genetic study to date on these endangered mammals. Scientists said on Wednesday they found substantial divergences between the two species of the red pandas, namely, the Chinese red pandas and the Himalayan red pandas after the genetic analysis of the DNA from 65 of the animals. Also read: China to get massive panda park The bushy-tailed and russet-furred bamboo munchers dwell in Asian high forests. The recognition of the existence of two separate species could help guide conservation efforts for a mammal adored by many people even as its numbers dwindle in the wild, they added. Chinese red pandas are found in northern Myanmar as well as southeastern Tibet, Sichuan and Yunnan provinces in China, while Himalayan red pandas are native to Nepal, India, Bhutan and southern Tibet in China, the researchers said. Watch: Cute panda videos cheer up coronavirus patients in Wuhan temporary hospital International experts have estimated a total population of roughly 10,000 red pandas in the wild. "To conserve the genetic uniqueness of the two species, we should avoid their interbreeding in captivity," said Chinese Academy of Sciences conservation biologist Yibo Hu, who along with colleague Fuwen Wei led the study published in the journal Science Advances. "Interbreeding between species may harm the genetic adaptations already established for their local habitat environment." Scientists previously recognised red pandas as divided into two sub-species. While it had been proposed that these were separate species, the new study was the first to provide the genetic data necessary to allow such a judgement. The Himalayan red panda is the scarcer of the two and needs urgent protection because of low genetic diversity and small population size, Hu said. The Yalu Zangbu River most likely marks the geographical boundary separating the two species, not the Nujiang River as previously believed, Hu added. The two species also differ in colouration and skull shape. "The Himalayan red panda has more white on the face, while the face coat colour of the Chinese red panda is redder with less white on it. The tail rings of the Chinese red panda are more distinct than those of the Himalayan red panda, with the dark rings being darker red and the pale rings being more whitish," Hu said. Despite similar names, red pandas and giant pandas are not closely related. Giant pandas are one of the world's eight bear species. Red pandas are most closely related to a group that includes weasels, raccoons and skunks.

Genetic study reveals red pandas to be actually two separate species

The coronavirus outbreak has given birth to a new era. Now China has launched a worldwide offensive against any negative coverage of the coronavirus outbreak.

Coronavirus Outbreak: China's war on foreign media

A Nepalese newspaper on Thursday slammed Beijing for trying to muzzle free speech after it was accused of "deliberate" and "malicious" smearing by the Chinese embassy in the Himalayan nation.

The embassy had sharply criticised the Kathmandu Post on Tuesday for publishing a syndicated column which argued that China's authoritarian system of government had worsened the deadly coronavirus outbreak.

The reaction from the embassy came as China ordered three Wall Street Journal reporters to leave the country over an op-ed headline that Beijing had deemed racist, one of the country's harshest moves against foreign media in years.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-major-shift-china-sends-stern-message-to-pakistan-on-fatf-281730">In major shift, China sends stern message to Pakistan on FATF</a>

"The Chinese embassy did not just express its discontent with the article published; it went so far as to disparage the Post's Editor-in-Chief and employ threatening language," the Kathmandu Post said in an editorial.

"The undiplomatic -- and frankly menacing -- manner in which the Chinese embassy made its objections known is condemnable," it added.

"The actions of the embassy... can be perceived as a direct threat to the Nepali people's right to a free press, freedom of opinion and freedom of expression."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-chinas-hubei-province-reports-108-more-deaths-2-dead-in-iran-281693">Coronavirus outbreak - China's Hubei province reports 108 more deaths; 2 dead in Iran</a>

"China can... express its reservations," the paper said. "What it cannot do, especially in a democracy, is demand that articles be taken down and then issue veiled threats against the editor of a foreign newspaper."

The commentary that sparked Chinese anger -- titled "China's secrecy has made the coronavirus crisis much worse" -- was written for the Chicago Tribune by Ivo Daalder, a former US ambassador to NATO.

The Kathmandu Post had republished the piece with an illustration of a 100 yuan note, altered to show communist China's founder Mao Zedong wearing a face mask.

The article "deliberately smeared the efforts of the Chinese government and people... and even viciously attacked the political system of China", the Chinese embassy had said.

It added that the Kathmandu Post's chief editor Anup Kaphle "has always been biased on China-related issues" and had become "a parrot of some anti-China forces".

"The Chinese Embassy in Nepal has made solemn representations to the newspaper and himself and reserves the right of further action."

Eighteen Nepali editors issued a statement Wednesday against the embassy's statement -- particularly the targeting of Kaphle.

"Nepal's constitution has guaranteed full press freedom, and we are committed to exercising and protecting it," they said.

Beijing has been wooing Nepal with pledges of development in the Himalayan nation, pumping millions of dollars into projects ranging from roads to hydropower plants.

Its embassy in Nepal has traditionally refrained from commenting on internal affairs.

A Nepalese newspaper on Thursday slammed Beijing for trying to muzzle free speech after it was accused of "deliberate" and "malicious" smearing by the Chinese embassy in the Himalayan nation.

A Nepalese newspaper on Thursday slammed Beijing for trying to muzzle free speech after it was accused of "deliberate" and "malicious" smearing by the Chinese embassy in the Himalayan nation. The embassy had sharply criticised the Kathmandu Post on Tuesday for publishing a syndicated column which argued that China's authoritarian system of government had worsened the deadly coronavirus outbreak. The reaction from the embassy came as China ordered three Wall Street Journal reporters to leave the country over an op-ed headline that Beijing had deemed racist, one of the country's harshest moves against foreign media in years. Also read: In major shift, China sends stern message to Pakistan on FATF "The Chinese embassy did not just express its discontent with the article published; it went so far as to disparage the Post's Editor-in-Chief and employ threatening language," the Kathmandu Post said in an editorial. "The undiplomatic -- and frankly menacing -- manner in which the Chinese embassy made its objections known is condemnable," it added. "The actions of the embassy... can be perceived as a direct threat to the Nepali people's right to a free press, freedom of opinion and freedom of expression." Also read: Coronavirus outbreak - China's Hubei province reports 108 more deaths; 2 dead in Iran "China can... express its reservations," the paper said. "What it cannot do, especially in a democracy, is demand that articles be taken down and then issue veiled threats against the editor of a foreign newspaper." The commentary that sparked Chinese anger -- titled "China's secrecy has made the coronavirus crisis much worse" -- was written for the Chicago Tribune by Ivo Daalder, a former US ambassador to NATO. The Kathmandu Post had republished the piece with an illustration of a 100 yuan note, altered to show communist China's founder Mao Zedong wearing a face mask. The article "deliberately smeared the efforts of the Chinese government and people... and even viciously attacked the political system of China", the Chinese embassy had said. It added that the Kathmandu Post's chief editor Anup Kaphle "has always been biased on China-related issues" and had become "a parrot of some anti-China forces". "The Chinese Embassy in Nepal has made solemn representations to the newspaper and himself and reserves the right of further action." Eighteen Nepali editors issued a statement Wednesday against the embassy's statement -- particularly the targeting of Kaphle. "Nepal's constitution has guaranteed full press freedom, and we are committed to exercising and protecting it," they said. Beijing has been wooing Nepal with pledges of development in the Himalayan nation, pumping millions of dollars into projects ranging from roads to hydropower plants. Its embassy in Nepal has traditionally refrained from commenting on internal affairs.

Nepal paper defiant after China slams virus criticism

The Union health ministry has constituted central teams of experts for the examination of villages bordering Nepal for novel coronavirus infection.

Villages bordering Nepal in the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim and West Bengal will be inspected by central teams for community-level Information Education Communication (IEC) activities for Coronavirus in regard to the novel coronavirus, an order by the health ministry dated February 15 said.

Five separate teams of doctors from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Safdarjung Hospital, Dr Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital among others have been set up.

"The teams will visit the bordering districts of the states allotted to them. The regional director (Ministry of Health) will coordinate with the respective state health departments for the visit of the team to the bordering villages," the order read.

India has so far reported three confirmed cases of the virus, all in Kerala.

One of the three medical students, who had tested positive for novel coronavirus infection and were treated at a hospital in Kerala, has been discharged after recovery, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan had said on Thursday.

About the other two, he said subsequent tests indicated a significant reduction in "viral load".

The health ministry has asked people to refrain from travelling to China in view of the coronavirus outbreak and said travellers on return could be quarantined.

The Union health ministry has constituted central teams of experts for the examination of villages bordering Nepal for novel coronavirus infection. Villages bordering Nepal in the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim and West Bengal will be inspected by central teams for community-level Information Education Communication (IEC) activities for Coronavirus in regard to the novel coronavirus, an order by the health ministry dated February 15 said.

The Union health ministry has constituted central teams of experts for the examination of villages bordering Nepal for novel coronavirus infection. Villages bordering Nepal in the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim and West Bengal will be inspected by central teams for community-level Information Education Communication (IEC) activities for Coronavirus in regard to the novel coronavirus, an order by the health ministry dated February 15 said. Five separate teams of doctors from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Safdarjung Hospital, Dr Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital among others have been set up. "The teams will visit the bordering districts of the states allotted to them. The regional director (Ministry of Health) will coordinate with the respective state health departments for the visit of the team to the bordering villages," the order read. India has so far reported three confirmed cases of the virus, all in Kerala. One of the three medical students, who had tested positive for novel coronavirus infection and were treated at a hospital in Kerala, has been discharged after recovery, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan had said on Thursday. About the other two, he said subsequent tests indicated a significant reduction in "viral load". The health ministry has asked people to refrain from travelling to China in view of the coronavirus outbreak and said travellers on return could be quarantined.

Government sets up teams to inspect villages bordering Nepal for COVID-19

Not just US, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka have crashed to historic low in ODIs

In a letter to the central government, Nepal on Wednesday asked for help from India after over 100 people were affected by the flu-like condition. Authorities suspect it could be coronavirus as it has similar symptoms.&nbsp;

In the letter sent by the Jugal village authorities, Nepal asked for assistance in determining whether it is actually coronavirus and requested to diagnose the cause of disease.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/race-against-time-china-battles-coronavirus-as-death-toll-crosses-1000-108-deaths-in-last-24-hours-280135">Also read: China battles coronavirus as death toll crosses 1,000; 108 deaths in last 24 hours</a>

According to a report, the patients are suffering from cough, high fever that is also a symptom of the coronavirus.

"We are sure it is viral which has symptoms similar to Coronavirus, we don't have any resource to confirm it. However, over 100 have reported similar symptoms in a single day on Tuesday," news agency ANI quoted Hom Narayan Shreshta, Chairman of the Jugal village council as saying.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-journalist-reported-missing-list-of-whistleblowers-vanishing-grows-as-fast-as-coronavirus-280077">Also read:&nbsp;Chinese journalist reported missing; list of whistleblowers vanishing grows as fast as coronavirus</a>

Coronavirus which first appeared in December in the Wuhan city of China has so far claimed the lives of 1100 people.

On January 19, Nepal became the first South Asian nation to confirm infection.&nbsp;

With reports of the deadly virus being spread in many other countries, the World Health Organisation earlier this month declared a global health emergency.

In India, three cases of coronavirus have been confirmed so far. All three have been reported in the state of Kerala.

Authorities have placed thermal scanners and hand-held thermal detectors at 21 airports. Most cities are tracking down returnees from China.

In the national capital, 10 people have been isolated due to suspicion.

In a letter to the central government, Nepal on Wednesday asked for help from India after over 100 people were affected by the flu-like condition. Authorities suspect it could be coronavirus as it has similar symptoms.

In a letter to the central government, Nepal on Wednesday asked for help from India after over 100 people were affected by the flu-like condition. Authorities suspect it could be coronavirus as it has similar symptoms. In the letter sent by the Jugal village authorities, Nepal asked for assistance in determining whether it is actually coronavirus and requested to diagnose the cause of disease. Also read: China battles coronavirus as death toll crosses 1,000; 108 deaths in last 24 hours According to a report, the patients are suffering from cough, high fever that is also a symptom of the coronavirus. "We are sure it is viral which has symptoms similar to Coronavirus, we don't have any resource to confirm it. However, over 100 have reported similar symptoms in a single day on Tuesday," news agency ANI quoted Hom Narayan Shreshta, Chairman of the Jugal village council as saying. Also read: Chinese journalist reported missing; list of whistleblowers vanishing grows as fast as coronavirus Coronavirus which first appeared in December in the Wuhan city of China has so far claimed the lives of 1100 people. On January 19, Nepal became the first South Asian nation to confirm infection. With reports of the deadly virus being spread in many other countries, the World Health Organisation earlier this month declared a global health emergency. In India, three cases of coronavirus have been confirmed so far. All three have been reported in the state of Kerala. Authorities have placed thermal scanners and hand-held thermal detectors at 21 airports. Most cities are tracking down returnees from China. In the national capital, 10 people have been isolated due to suspicion.

Nepal seeks Indian government's help after 100 people suffer from coronavirus like flu

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