Nepal will send a dedicated team to Mount Everest this climbing season to collect garbage and retrieve bodies littering the world's highest peak, officials said Thursday.

Decades of commercial mountaineering have turned the mountain into the world's highest rubbish dump as an increasing number of big-spending climbers pay little attention to the ugly footprint they leave behind.

Fluorescent tents, discarded climbing equipment, empty gas canisters and even human excrement pollute the well-trodden route to the summit of the 8,848-metre peak.

"We take pride in Mount Everest but we are often accused of not being able to clean it... We have now come together to clean the mountain," said Dandu Raj Ghimire, chief of Nepal's tourism department.

The government has joined hands with mountaineering associations, the army and local organisations to coordinate the clean-up effort.

A 14-member team will be sent to Everest base camp from April 25 and aim to bring back 10,000 kilogrammes of trash.

Eight members will then ascend to Camp 2 at 6,400 metres and teams of three will take turns to go up to Camp 4 at 7,950 metres, where they will spend 15 days litter-picking on the snowy slopes.

Climbers and high altitude workers will be given incentives to bring back the bundled trash down to the base camp and the recyclables will be airlifted to the capital.

"This is the first time the government has taken initiative to clean the mountain... But it can't be done in just one year. We have to continue this," said Santa Bir Sherpa of the Nepal Mountaineering Association.

Six years ago, Nepal implemented a USD4,000 rubbish deposit per team that would be refunded if each climber brought down at least eight kilogrammes of waste, but only half of the climbers return with their trash.

In February, China banned non-climbers from accessing its Everest base camp in Tibet in an attempt to clean up its side of the mountain.

Over 4,000 people have climbed Everest so far, and last year saw a record 807 climbers reach the summit.

Melting glaciers caused by global warming are exposing bodies and trash that have accumulated on the mountain since Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay made the first successful summit 66 years ago.

Environmentalists are also concerned that the pollution on Everest is also affecting water sources down in the valley.

Nepal will send a dedicated team to Mount Everest this climbing season to collect garbage and retrieve bodies littering the world's highest peak, officials said Thursday.

Nepal will send a dedicated team to Mount Everest this climbing season to collect garbage and retrieve bodies littering the world's highest peak, officials said Thursday. Decades of commercial mountaineering have turned the mountain into the world's highest rubbish dump as an increasing number of big-spending climbers pay little attention to the ugly footprint they leave behind. Fluorescent tents, discarded climbing equipment, empty gas canisters and even human excrement pollute the well-trodden route to the summit of the 8,848-metre peak. "We take pride in Mount Everest but we are often accused of not being able to clean it... We have now come together to clean the mountain," said Dandu Raj Ghimire, chief of Nepal's tourism department. The government has joined hands with mountaineering associations, the army and local organisations to coordinate the clean-up effort. A 14-member team will be sent to Everest base camp from April 25 and aim to bring back 10,000 kilogrammes of trash. Eight members will then ascend to Camp 2 at 6,400 metres and teams of three will take turns to go up to Camp 4 at 7,950 metres, where they will spend 15 days litter-picking on the snowy slopes. Climbers and high altitude workers will be given incentives to bring back the bundled trash down to the base camp and the recyclables will be airlifted to the capital. "This is the first time the government has taken initiative to clean the mountain... But it can't be done in just one year. We have to continue this," said Santa Bir Sherpa of the Nepal Mountaineering Association. Six years ago, Nepal implemented a USD4,000 rubbish deposit per team that would be refunded if each climber brought down at least eight kilogrammes of waste, but only half of the climbers return with their trash. In February, China banned non-climbers from accessing its Everest base camp in Tibet in an attempt to clean up its side of the mountain. Over 4,000 people have climbed Everest so far, and last year saw a record 807 climbers reach the summit. Melting glaciers caused by global warming are exposing bodies and trash that have accumulated on the mountain since Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay made the first successful summit 66 years ago. Environmentalists are also concerned that the pollution on Everest is also affecting water sources down in the valley.

Nepal to send team to clean Mount Everest

Nepal on Wednesday deployed a team to find out the height of the world`s highest peak, Mount Everest.

This comes after speculations regarding shrinking of Mount Everest`s height started floating after Nepal was hit by a devastating earthquake measuring 7.9 Richter scale in April 2015.

A group of four officials from the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation set off for the peak after Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli bid them farewell, the Prime Minister`s Secretariat said in a statement.

"It will be the first time that Nepal is measuring the height of Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest). You all please bring the measurement on centimetres also. The measurement conducted by you will be the only official height of the Mount Everest," the Secretariat quoted Prime Minister Oli as saying.

The team comprises of Chief Survey Officer Khim Lal Gautam and Survey Officer Rabin Karki, Suraj Singh Bhandari and Amin Yubraj Dhital.

Amongst them, Chief Survey Officer Gautama and Survey Officer Bhandari will make it to the top of the Everest whereas the two other officials will remain at the base camp assisting the surveyors and monitor activities at an altitude of 5,364 meters.

The team is expected to return to Kathmandu within a month while the report is expected to be announced by end of this year.

The survey will be conducted according to different categories, including Precise Levelling, Trigonometric Levelling, Gravity Survey and GNSS survey which covers 285 points with 12 different observation stations.

The first kind of survey would help in finding the height from the Southern Plains of Nepal to the selected control points; the second is performed from selected control points, the point of precise levelling.

The Gravity Survey will define the local surface that corresponds to sea level and its imagined extension under (or over) land areas and the fourth survey determines the location of gravity points benchmarks as well as the top of Everest.

The centuries-old belief regarding the height of Mount Everest measuring 8,842 meters will be verified at earliest of 2020.&nbsp;

Nepal on Wednesday deployed a team to find out the height of the world`s highest peak, Mount Everest. This comes after speculations regarding shrinking of Mount Everest`s height started floating after Nepal was hit by a devastating earthquake measuring 7.

Nepal on Wednesday deployed a team to find out the height of the world`s highest peak, Mount Everest. This comes after speculations regarding shrinking of Mount Everest`s height started floating after Nepal was hit by a devastating earthquake measuring 7.9 Richter scale in April 2015. A group of four officials from the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation set off for the peak after Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli bid them farewell, the Prime Minister`s Secretariat said in a statement. "It will be the first time that Nepal is measuring the height of Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest). You all please bring the measurement on centimetres also. The measurement conducted by you will be the only official height of the Mount Everest," the Secretariat quoted Prime Minister Oli as saying. The team comprises of Chief Survey Officer Khim Lal Gautam and Survey Officer Rabin Karki, Suraj Singh Bhandari and Amin Yubraj Dhital. Amongst them, Chief Survey Officer Gautama and Survey Officer Bhandari will make it to the top of the Everest whereas the two other officials will remain at the base camp assisting the surveyors and monitor activities at an altitude of 5,364 meters. The team is expected to return to Kathmandu within a month while the report is expected to be announced by end of this year. The survey will be conducted according to different categories, including Precise Levelling, Trigonometric Levelling, Gravity Survey and GNSS survey which covers 285 points with 12 different observation stations. The first kind of survey would help in finding the height from the Southern Plains of Nepal to the selected control points; the second is performed from selected control points, the point of precise levelling. The Gravity Survey will define the local surface that corresponds to sea level and its imagined extension under (or over) land areas and the fourth survey determines the location of gravity points benchmarks as well as the top of Everest. The centuries-old belief regarding the height of Mount Everest measuring 8,842 meters will be verified at earliest of 2020.

Nepal initiates survey to measure height of Mt. Everest

The survivors of a severe <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-thunderstorm-india-offers-relief-assistance-to-storm-victims-207573&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjCmN_e5LXhAhVd63MBHdO1DIMQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0irC-5cuYnRvsAMgrC9S1-">thunderstorm</a> over the weekend in southern Nepal have been struggling to get back on their feet without sufficient food or a roof over their heads this week.

The severe thunderstorm which hit <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-27-dead-over-600-injured-after-storm-hit-southern-nepal-207129&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiJ1o2F5bXhAhV463MBHcXaBE4QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2TTUUXAJTxMq1gn6hYf-cC">southern Nepal </a>on March 31, killed more than 30 people, injured hundreds and destroyed nearly 400 houses, local media reported.

The storm, accompanied by heavy rainfall, destroyed buildings, uprooted trees, electric, and telephone poles. With no roof on their heads and their food stock destroyed, people living in the impoverished settlements were the worst-affected.

"We don't have anything to eat," said a survivor in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-thunderstorm-india-offers-relief-assistance-to-storm-victims-207573&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiP3u_y5LXhAhVk73MBHVuDDN4QFggJMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0GseFqKIVnu_7NHMoPSYqN">Bara</a>, where the storm hit. "The storm took everything with it," he added.

Despite being less than 100 kilometres from the capital, Kathmandu, the Bara region is remote, meaning rescue and cleanup operations have taken days. Pre-monsoon thunderstorms are common in Nepal during the spring season but are rarely of an intensity that causes high casualties.

The survivors of a severe thunderstorm over the weekend in southern Nepal have been struggling to get back on their feet without sufficient food or a roof over their heads this week.

The survivors of a severe thunderstorm over the weekend in southern Nepal have been struggling to get back on their feet without sufficient food or a roof over their heads this week. The severe thunderstorm which hit southern Nepal on March 31, killed more than 30 people, injured hundreds and destroyed nearly 400 houses, local media reported. The storm, accompanied by heavy rainfall, destroyed buildings, uprooted trees, electric, and telephone poles. With no roof on their heads and their food stock destroyed, people living in the impoverished settlements were the worst-affected. "We don't have anything to eat," said a survivor in Bara, where the storm hit. "The storm took everything with it," he added. Despite being less than 100 kilometres from the capital, Kathmandu, the Bara region is remote, meaning rescue and cleanup operations have taken days. Pre-monsoon thunderstorms are common in Nepal during the spring season but are rarely of an intensity that causes high casualties.

Nepal storm survivors struggle for food, housing

Nepal will hold a first-ever investment conclave here next month to primarily focus on building relations between India and Nepal through entrepreneurship development.&nbsp;

The 'India Franchise Investment Conclave' will from May 15- 16 is to explore business opportunities and exchange expertise and know-how between the business communities of the two countries.&nbsp;

"The event will primarily focus on building relations between India and Nepal through entrepreneurship development which entertains in-depth knowledge regarding investment, brand concept and business operations," according to a press release issued by Nepal Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FNCCI), the co-organiser of the conclave.

"The expo will be a premier exhibition showcasing a myriad mix of international and national brands from different industries outlining their brand concept and business operations, focusing on master franchising or unit franchise."

"The conclave will certainly help in exploring new business through an exchange of information and collaboration under one roof with joint efforts," said Bhawana Rana, president of the FNCCI.

The event will support Nepalese businesses to establish and maintain the international network that will facilitate their gateway to the international market, Rana said.

Franchise India is excited to join hands with Nepalese business community with a strong focus on encouraging entrepreneurship in Nepal, on one hand, helping Indian businesses to expand and invest in Nepal market, said Gaurav Marya, chairman of Franchise India.

Nepal's economy was similar to that of India, increasingly being fuelled by highly aspiring Nepali consumers who expect nothing short of the world's best when it comes to their brand consumption, Ambassador of India to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri said.

Around 250 aspiring businessmen and investors will attend the conclave and 1,000 plus prospective franchises and investors are expected to visit the expo that will showcase different brands representing different industries such as education, fitness, fashion, food and beverage, wellness, real estate, technology and services.&nbsp;

Nepal will hold a first-ever investment conclave here next month to primarily focus on building relations between India and Nepal through entrepreneurship development.

Nepal will hold a first-ever investment conclave here next month to primarily focus on building relations between India and Nepal through entrepreneurship development. The 'India Franchise Investment Conclave' will from May 15- 16 is to explore business opportunities and exchange expertise and know-how between the business communities of the two countries. "The event will primarily focus on building relations between India and Nepal through entrepreneurship development which entertains in-depth knowledge regarding investment, brand concept and business operations," according to a press release issued by Nepal Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FNCCI), the co-organiser of the conclave. "The expo will be a premier exhibition showcasing a myriad mix of international and national brands from different industries outlining their brand concept and business operations, focusing on master franchising or unit franchise." "The conclave will certainly help in exploring new business through an exchange of information and collaboration under one roof with joint efforts," said Bhawana Rana, president of the FNCCI. The event will support Nepalese businesses to establish and maintain the international network that will facilitate their gateway to the international market, Rana said. Franchise India is excited to join hands with Nepalese business community with a strong focus on encouraging entrepreneurship in Nepal, on one hand, helping Indian businesses to expand and invest in Nepal market, said Gaurav Marya, chairman of Franchise India. Nepal's economy was similar to that of India, increasingly being fuelled by highly aspiring Nepali consumers who expect nothing short of the world's best when it comes to their brand consumption, Ambassador of India to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri said. Around 250 aspiring businessmen and investors will attend the conclave and 1,000 plus prospective franchises and investors are expected to visit the expo that will showcase different brands representing different industries such as education, fitness, fashion, food and beverage, wellness, real estate, technology and services.

India-Nepal franchise conclave to kick off next month in Kathmandu

India firstly steps to help Nepal after a deadly thunderstorm hits

India has said that it is ready to provide relief assistance to Nepal in the aftermath of the devastating thunderstorm that struck the country last week.&nbsp;

More than 30 people have died in the thunderstorm in Bara and Parsa districts of Nepal. India is the first foreign nation to show readiness to provide help in relief and rescue operations in the country.

In a release, the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life and damage to property in Nepal following the devastating thunderstorm that struck Bara and Parsa districts of Nepal. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have lost their dear ones, sustained injuries or suffered damage to their property."

Indian mission in Kathmandu and Consulate in Birgunj are in touch with Nepalese authorities regarding any kind of assistance needed by the South Asian country.&nbsp;

Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in a tweet last week said, no stone will be left unturned to help people impacted by the thunderstorm.

Under its Operation Maitri in the aftermath of the deadly 2015 Nepal earthquake, India was the first responder by sending its rescue and relief assistance within 6 hours. Over 570 tonnes of relief material was air-lifted, over 14000 tonnes was sent by road in nearly 2000 trucks, and about 1200 tonnes was sent by rail to the country by New Delhi.&nbsp;

India was able to rescue nearly 6500 persons, provided medical aid to over 4700 persons, and cleared 6500 cubic meters of debris from World Heritage Sites in Nepal under operation Maitri.

India has said that it is ready to provide relief assistance to Nepal in the aftermath of the devastating thunderstorm that struck the country last week. More than 30 people have died in the thunderstorm in Bara and Parsa districts of Nepal.

India has said that it is ready to provide relief assistance to Nepal in the aftermath of the devastating thunderstorm that struck the country last week. More than 30 people have died in the thunderstorm in Bara and Parsa districts of Nepal. India is the first foreign nation to show readiness to provide help in relief and rescue operations in the country. In a release, the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "We are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life and damage to property in Nepal following the devastating thunderstorm that struck Bara and Parsa districts of Nepal. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have lost their dear ones, sustained injuries or suffered damage to their property." Indian mission in Kathmandu and Consulate in Birgunj are in touch with Nepalese authorities regarding any kind of assistance needed by the South Asian country. Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in a tweet last week said, no stone will be left unturned to help people impacted by the thunderstorm. Under its Operation Maitri in the aftermath of the deadly 2015 Nepal earthquake, India was the first responder by sending its rescue and relief assistance within 6 hours. Over 570 tonnes of relief material was air-lifted, over 14000 tonnes was sent by road in nearly 2000 trucks, and about 1200 tonnes was sent by rail to the country by New Delhi. India was able to rescue nearly 6500 persons, provided medical aid to over 4700 persons, and cleared 6500 cubic meters of debris from World Heritage Sites in Nepal under operation Maitri.

Nepal thunderstorm: India offers relief assistance to storm victims

Rainstorm sweeps through South Nepal

Nine people were killed and three others injured in two separate road accidents in Nepal, police said on Sunday.

Six persons died on the spot and three others sustained injuries when a jeep fell in Bhadarekhola river, some 100 metres below the road in Manebhanjyang Rural Municipality of Okhaldhunga district of Eastern Nepal on Sunday.

The identity of the deceased and injured is yet to be established.

In a separate incident, three persons died after two motorcycles collided with each other in Barbardiya Municipality-9 of Bardiya district on Saturday.

Nine people were killed and three others injured in two separate road accidents in Nepal, police said on Sunday. Six persons died on the spot and three others sustained injuries when a jeep fell in Bhadarekhola river, some 100 metres below the road in Manebhanjyang Rural Municipality of Okhaldhunga district of Eastern Nepal on Sunday.

Nine people were killed and three others injured in two separate road accidents in Nepal, police said on Sunday. Six persons died on the spot and three others sustained injuries when a jeep fell in Bhadarekhola river, some 100 metres below the road in Manebhanjyang Rural Municipality of Okhaldhunga district of Eastern Nepal on Sunday. The identity of the deceased and injured is yet to be established. In a separate incident, three persons died after two motorcycles collided with each other in Barbardiya Municipality-9 of Bardiya district on Saturday.

Nine killed in road accidents in Nepal

Nepal has invited Indian investments in hydropower, roads and highways and the hotel industry to give a boost to economic ties between the two countries.

Huge business opportunities exist in sectors such as roads and highway, hydropower, etc, Maha Prasad Adhikari, chief executive officer (CEO) of the

Investment Board Nepal (IBN), a body under the Government of Nepal, told reporters here on the sidelines of the Nepal Investment Summit 2019.

The IBN, Chaired by Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli, is a high-level fast track agency with the objective of facilitating the economic development of Nepal by creating an investment-friendly environment by mobilising and managing domestic as well as foreign investment, Adhikari said.

"Nepal is a developing country. In Nepal, there is immense potential in sectors such as hydropower, roads and highway, hotel industry and investors must take advantage of this situation. We invite foreign investors including our neighbour India to invest in such sectors here," he said adding that out of the 700 delegates attending the Investors Summit, 120 were from India.

Developing roads and highways and building hydropower projects are key focus areas of the government, he said.

Building roads and highways, Adhikari said, will help better connectivity of towns and cities among each other, and with neighbouring countries which can promote trade and bring down logistics costs.

Nepal also needs electricity and the companies keen to invest in this area are welcome to set up hydropower projects, he added.

When asked about the incentives the government is providing on new investments, Adhikari said, "The government will provide all support to any investor.

Any investor can come and submit it's investment plan and conduct a detailed project report (DPR) and the government will help in fast-tracking the process."

The government will soon come up with a single-window clearance system to facilitate new investments into the country so that the investors need not get the documents cleared by multiple government departments, he added.&nbsp;

Nepal has invited Indian investments in hydropower, roads and highways and the hotel industry to give a boost to economic ties between the two countries. Huge business opportunities exist in sectors such as roads and highway, hydropower, etc, Maha Prasad Adhikari, chief executive officer (CEO) of the Investment Board Nepal (IBN), a body under the Government of Nepal, told reporters here on the sidelines of the Nepal Investment Summit 2019.

Nepal has invited Indian investments in hydropower, roads and highways and the hotel industry to give a boost to economic ties between the two countries. Huge business opportunities exist in sectors such as roads and highway, hydropower, etc, Maha Prasad Adhikari, chief executive officer (CEO) of the Investment Board Nepal (IBN), a body under the Government of Nepal, told reporters here on the sidelines of the Nepal Investment Summit 2019. The IBN, Chaired by Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli, is a high-level fast track agency with the objective of facilitating the economic development of Nepal by creating an investment-friendly environment by mobilising and managing domestic as well as foreign investment, Adhikari said. "Nepal is a developing country. In Nepal, there is immense potential in sectors such as hydropower, roads and highway, hotel industry and investors must take advantage of this situation. We invite foreign investors including our neighbour India to invest in such sectors here," he said adding that out of the 700 delegates attending the Investors Summit, 120 were from India. Developing roads and highways and building hydropower projects are key focus areas of the government, he said. Building roads and highways, Adhikari said, will help better connectivity of towns and cities among each other, and with neighbouring countries which can promote trade and bring down logistics costs. Nepal also needs electricity and the companies keen to invest in this area are welcome to set up hydropower projects, he added. When asked about the incentives the government is providing on new investments, Adhikari said, "The government will provide all support to any investor. Any investor can come and submit it's investment plan and conduct a detailed project report (DPR) and the government will help in fast-tracking the process." The government will soon come up with a single-window clearance system to facilitate new investments into the country so that the investors need not get the documents cleared by multiple government departments, he added.

Nepal seeks Indian investment in hydro power, roads and highways

The third Investment Summit began in Kathmandu on Friday.

The Government of Nepal is showcasing as many as 77 viable projects worth the US $ 31.93 billion in two-day summit.

"With India, we have duty free arrangements for most of our products, both primary and industrial goods while China has granted a significant number of our tariff lines duty free access to its market," Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli said while addressing the inaugural session of the Summit.

"Modern alternative port has helped reduce hassle at crowded Kolkata-Haldia port. Digital tracking and transhipment systems, introduced recently, has eased the transportation process. A new transit route through the use of inland waterways is under progress," he said.

"This will not only provide an alternative transit route, but will also connect landlocked Nepal to the sea through the waterways," Prime Minister Oli informed the investors about the latest trade technique which Nepal has adopted with the help of India.

The two-day summit is being attended by foreign delegates from over 40 countries out of which 120 are from India and 265 from China.

The Himalayan nation was rattled by a strong earthquake of 7.9 Richter scale in the year of 2015.

In a bid to rebuild the nation, the government at that time had organised an Investment Summit in 2017.

A total of US $ 13.51 billion foreign direct investment (FDI) was committed by participating nations at that time. India has solely committed a total of US $ 317 million for Nepal.&nbsp;

The third Investment Summit began in Kathmandu on Friday. The Government of Nepal is showcasing as many as 77 viable projects worth the US $ 31.93 billion in two-day summit.

The third Investment Summit began in Kathmandu on Friday. The Government of Nepal is showcasing as many as 77 viable projects worth the US $ 31.93 billion in two-day summit. "With India, we have duty free arrangements for most of our products, both primary and industrial goods while China has granted a significant number of our tariff lines duty free access to its market," Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli said while addressing the inaugural session of the Summit. "Modern alternative port has helped reduce hassle at crowded Kolkata-Haldia port. Digital tracking and transhipment systems, introduced recently, has eased the transportation process. A new transit route through the use of inland waterways is under progress," he said. "This will not only provide an alternative transit route, but will also connect landlocked Nepal to the sea through the waterways," Prime Minister Oli informed the investors about the latest trade technique which Nepal has adopted with the help of India. The two-day summit is being attended by foreign delegates from over 40 countries out of which 120 are from India and 265 from China. The Himalayan nation was rattled by a strong earthquake of 7.9 Richter scale in the year of 2015. In a bid to rebuild the nation, the government at that time had organised an Investment Summit in 2017. A total of US $ 13.51 billion foreign direct investment (FDI) was committed by participating nations at that time. India has solely committed a total of US $ 317 million for Nepal.

Nepal's 2-day investment summit starts with high hopes

Nepal and Japan have signed a labour pact under which Nepali workers residing in Japan will receive the status of 'Specified Skilled Workers' (SSW).

The signed pact will come into effect from April 1 and would not include those who went to Japan earlier.

Ram Prasad Ghimire, Joint Secretary at Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security and Masamichi Saigo, Japanese Ambassador to Nepal signed the&nbsp;pact on Monday.

As per the Memorandum of Cooperation, a separate unit will be established under the Department of Foreign Employment (DOFE) to facilitate the recruitment the process of Nepali workers with the status of residence of SSW including call for applicants, facilitating the Japanese side to conduct the language and skills tests and overseeing the deployment of successful applicants to Japan.

The MoC also states that a joint committee with representatives from both sides has been established to ensure the proper implementation of the MoC and to take necessary corrective measures to improve the recruitment, employment and repatriation of Nepali workers with the status of residence of SSW.

On the basis of the agreement, Japan is planning to take Nepal migrant workers to work in 14 sectors including industrial, nursing, construction and sanitation.&nbsp;

As per the Japanese plan, a total of 345,150 workers are expected to be flown in the first five years which includes 60,000 nurses and 53,000 workers for restaurants.

All those workers will flow to Japan from Nepal as per the South Korean model and they will be paid a minimum salary of Nepal rs. 200,000 per months after they match the eligibility criteria.

Nepal had proposed to send workers to Japan through the government during the discussion between the technical teams of the two countries on January 16 to decide the process for sending workers.

Japan will take those workers from Nepal, Vietnam, China, Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia and Mongolia. Japan has already implemented a new visa system to take migrant workers.

Nepal and Japan have signed a labour pact under which Nepali workers residing in Japan will receive the status of 'Specified Skilled Workers' (SSW). The signed pact will come into effect from April 1 and would not include those who went to Japan earlier.

Nepal and Japan have signed a labour pact under which Nepali workers residing in Japan will receive the status of 'Specified Skilled Workers' (SSW). The signed pact will come into effect from April 1 and would not include those who went to Japan earlier. Ram Prasad Ghimire, Joint Secretary at Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security and Masamichi Saigo, Japanese Ambassador to Nepal signed the pact on Monday. As per the Memorandum of Cooperation, a separate unit will be established under the Department of Foreign Employment (DOFE) to facilitate the recruitment the process of Nepali workers with the status of residence of SSW including call for applicants, facilitating the Japanese side to conduct the language and skills tests and overseeing the deployment of successful applicants to Japan. The MoC also states that a joint committee with representatives from both sides has been established to ensure the proper implementation of the MoC and to take necessary corrective measures to improve the recruitment, employment and repatriation of Nepali workers with the status of residence of SSW. On the basis of the agreement, Japan is planning to take Nepal migrant workers to work in 14 sectors including industrial, nursing, construction and sanitation. As per the Japanese plan, a total of 345,150 workers are expected to be flown in the first five years which includes 60,000 nurses and 53,000 workers for restaurants. All those workers will flow to Japan from Nepal as per the South Korean model and they will be paid a minimum salary of Nepal rs. 200,000 per months after they match the eligibility criteria. Nepal had proposed to send workers to Japan through the government during the discussion between the technical teams of the two countries on January 16 to decide the process for sending workers. Japan will take those workers from Nepal, Vietnam, China, Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia and Mongolia. Japan has already implemented a new visa system to take migrant workers.

Nepal, Japan ink labour agreement

Weeks after the Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal walked out of the Government of Nepal, another party, Federal Socialist Forum- Nepal (FSF-N) has warned to quit the government if previously made agreements were not implemented.

Addressing the last parliamentary meeting of the winter session of Lower House of Nepal on Sunday, FSF-N MP, Rajendra Prasad Shrestha warned of walking out of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-oli-promises-to-make-public-report-on-terai-madhesh-unrest-205447">KP Oli-led government</a> if the demands were not met.

“About 9 months have already elapsed since the FSF-N came on board but the two-point agreement regarding the constitutional amendment which was signed on, do not seem to be taken forward for implementation," said Shrestha.

"If that thing does not come in regulation the Federal Socialist Forum Nepal’s co-operation with Communist Party of Nepal also might break,” he added.

The party currently holds a ministry as well as has started dialogues and preparations for the merger with the Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal, the conglomeration of the disgruntled Madhesh-based parties.

The RJP-N on March 10 formally withdrew its support to KP Sharma Oli government after its demands were not met.

Weeks after the Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal walked out of the Government of Nepal, another party, Federal Socialist Forum- Nepal (FSF-N) has warned to quit the government if previously made agreements were not implemented.

Weeks after the Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal walked out of the Government of Nepal, another party, Federal Socialist Forum- Nepal (FSF-N) has warned to quit the government if previously made agreements were not implemented. Addressing the last parliamentary meeting of the winter session of Lower House of Nepal on Sunday, FSF-N MP, Rajendra Prasad Shrestha warned of walking out of KP Oli-led government if the demands were not met. “About 9 months have already elapsed since the FSF-N came on board but the two-point agreement regarding the constitutional amendment which was signed on, do not seem to be taken forward for implementation," said Shrestha. "If that thing does not come in regulation the Federal Socialist Forum Nepal’s co-operation with Communist Party of Nepal also might break,” he added. The party currently holds a ministry as well as has started dialogues and preparations for the merger with the Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal, the conglomeration of the disgruntled Madhesh-based parties. The RJP-N on March 10 formally withdrew its support to KP Sharma Oli government after its demands were not met.

After RJP-N, FSF-N warns to quit Oli government in Nepal

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has promised to make public the report of Terai-Madhesh unrest probe committee after the government goes through it.

Addressing the last day of the current winter session of Nepal Parliament, Prime Minister Oli in his one hour address promised to release the report which was submitted to then Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba in December 2017.

“The report by Girish Chandra Lal is not the thing that couldn’t be made public. There is no reason for the delay in making it public. It is a report, a report is a recommendation we cannot be sure that it is absolute," Oli said.

"While studying there is a question over how the person has investigated it in limited time, what are the results; they are the secondary things. But that report will be studied by the Government and there won’t be any problem in making it public," Oli said.

The Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal has been long demanding for the release of the report, which was submitted to the Government of Nepal in December 2017. The party had demanded the release of the report on Sunday too and obstructed the House proceedings.

The Members of Parliament of the party stood up from their respective seats as a gesture of protest as soon as the session commenced. In a bid to settle the issue, House Speaker Krishna Bahadur Mahara gave time to lawmaker Laxman Lal Karna to put forth his views.

“We have been raising this issue time and again, taking special time too. Wherever and whenever we raise this issue, the government did not pay attention. So, we are compelled to obstruct the parliament,” RJP-N MP Laxman Lal Karna said before Prime Minister Oli’s address to the parliament on Sunday.

The high-level probe commission on Terai- Madhesh unrest was led by Former Justice of the apex court of Nepal, Judge Girish Chandra Lal, formed in the year of 2016.

The probe committee was formed to investigate the incidents of killing, violence, destruction of properties, and arson at the time of Madhesh&nbsp; 
agitation.

The tenure of the high commission was extended by three times after it faced difficulties over starting the probe and the final report submitted to the government had 709 pages.

The commission has had prepared the report after studying 1,326 complaints received from various communication channels and an additional 1,938 complaints from the Madhesh based parties. The commission has entertained as many as 3,264 complaints to prepare the final report with field visits.

The restive Southern Plains of Nepal witnessed bloodshed and widespread protest with reports of human rights abuse and destruction of the properties worth millions of rupees after the promulgation of the Constitution in 2015.

The Tikapur incident which became the centre of the attention and the bloodiest place with the massacre of 7 police personnel including Nepal Police Senior Superintendent of Police Laxman Neupane, Seti Zonal Police Office, Dhangadhi and a two-year-old boy.

The clash between the security forces with the Tharuhat and the United Democratic Madhesi Front on August 2015 resulted in widespread violence increasing the death toll in the movement.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has promised to make public the report of Terai-Madhesh unrest probe committee after the government goes through it. Addressing the last day of the current winter session of Nepal Parliament, Prime Minister Oli in his one hour address promised to release the report which was submitted to then Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba in December 2017.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has promised to make public the report of Terai-Madhesh unrest probe committee after the government goes through it. Addressing the last day of the current winter session of Nepal Parliament, Prime Minister Oli in his one hour address promised to release the report which was submitted to then Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba in December 2017. “The report by Girish Chandra Lal is not the thing that couldn’t be made public. There is no reason for the delay in making it public. It is a report, a report is a recommendation we cannot be sure that it is absolute," Oli said. "While studying there is a question over how the person has investigated it in limited time, what are the results; they are the secondary things. But that report will be studied by the Government and there won’t be any problem in making it public," Oli said. The Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal has been long demanding for the release of the report, which was submitted to the Government of Nepal in December 2017. The party had demanded the release of the report on Sunday too and obstructed the House proceedings. The Members of Parliament of the party stood up from their respective seats as a gesture of protest as soon as the session commenced. In a bid to settle the issue, House Speaker Krishna Bahadur Mahara gave time to lawmaker Laxman Lal Karna to put forth his views. “We have been raising this issue time and again, taking special time too. Wherever and whenever we raise this issue, the government did not pay attention. So, we are compelled to obstruct the parliament,” RJP-N MP Laxman Lal Karna said before Prime Minister Oli’s address to the parliament on Sunday. The high-level probe commission on Terai- Madhesh unrest was led by Former Justice of the apex court of Nepal, Judge Girish Chandra Lal, formed in the year of 2016. The probe committee was formed to investigate the incidents of killing, violence, destruction of properties, and arson at the time of Madhesh agitation. The tenure of the high commission was extended by three times after it faced difficulties over starting the probe and the final report submitted to the government had 709 pages. The commission has had prepared the report after studying 1,326 complaints received from various communication channels and an additional 1,938 complaints from the Madhesh based parties. The commission has entertained as many as 3,264 complaints to prepare the final report with field visits. The restive Southern Plains of Nepal witnessed bloodshed and widespread protest with reports of human rights abuse and destruction of the properties worth millions of rupees after the promulgation of the Constitution in 2015. The Tikapur incident which became the centre of the attention and the bloodiest place with the massacre of 7 police personnel including Nepal Police Senior Superintendent of Police Laxman Neupane, Seti Zonal Police Office, Dhangadhi and a two-year-old boy. The clash between the security forces with the Tharuhat and the United Democratic Madhesi Front on August 2015 resulted in widespread violence increasing the death toll in the movement.

Nepal PM Oli promises to make public report on Terai-Madhesh unrest

Authorities in Nepal have planned to fit electronic chips on animals including cows and oxen to keep a record of loitering cattle in Kathmandu, a media report said Sunday.

The chips may be installed on the ear or neck of an animal, The Kathmandu Post reported.

"We will have a control room to monitor those animals," Dhanapati Sapkota, chief of the Implementation Department at the metropolis, said.

He said his office is planning to maintain a database of households that keep animals such as cows and calves.

The metropolis held a meeting with officials from Animal Nepal, a non-profit organisation working to set a standard of animal welfare.

"We'll be helping the metropolis for the installation of chips and handling the data," said Bishnu Prasad Joshi, former chief of the municipal police.

The metropolis has been consulting with other organisations as well and seeking technical consultancy to curb the problem of stray cattle.

"The metropolis had started a drive two decades ago of lifting animals from the streets and auctioning them but the problem has yet to be resolved.&nbsp;With this new initiative, we'll be able to root the problem out," said Sapkota.

Over 10,000 such animals have been auctioned in the past two decades, he said.

Joshi said the reason behind the lack of progress was the metropolis not having a shelter for loitering animals.

"Since we don't have a good Kanji (animal care) house, many stray animals, which were already sick, died in Teku last year," said Joshi.

Due to the ill-health of animals, people were not interested in buying them, he said.

Sapkota is hopeful that the new dive will be successful.

Reports show that 500 animals, including oxen and cows that do not give milk, are left on the streets of Kathmandu every year.

Sick animals are also abandoned by their owners.

These animals not only occupy the roads, they also cause accidents.

The Metropolitan Traffic Police Division had planned to search for the owners of abandoned cattle and fine them but not a single owner has been booked so far.

Authorities in Nepal have planned to fit electronic chips on animals including cows and oxen to keep a record of loitering cattle in Kathmandu, a media report said Sunday.

Authorities in Nepal have planned to fit electronic chips on animals including cows and oxen to keep a record of loitering cattle in Kathmandu, a media report said Sunday. The chips may be installed on the ear or neck of an animal, The Kathmandu Post reported. "We will have a control room to monitor those animals," Dhanapati Sapkota, chief of the Implementation Department at the metropolis, said. He said his office is planning to maintain a database of households that keep animals such as cows and calves. The metropolis held a meeting with officials from Animal Nepal, a non-profit organisation working to set a standard of animal welfare. "We'll be helping the metropolis for the installation of chips and handling the data," said Bishnu Prasad Joshi, former chief of the municipal police. The metropolis has been consulting with other organisations as well and seeking technical consultancy to curb the problem of stray cattle. "The metropolis had started a drive two decades ago of lifting animals from the streets and auctioning them but the problem has yet to be resolved. With this new initiative, we'll be able to root the problem out," said Sapkota. Over 10,000 such animals have been auctioned in the past two decades, he said. Joshi said the reason behind the lack of progress was the metropolis not having a shelter for loitering animals. "Since we don't have a good Kanji (animal care) house, many stray animals, which were already sick, died in Teku last year," said Joshi. Due to the ill-health of animals, people were not interested in buying them, he said. Sapkota is hopeful that the new dive will be successful. Reports show that 500 animals, including oxen and cows that do not give milk, are left on the streets of Kathmandu every year. Sick animals are also abandoned by their owners. These animals not only occupy the roads, they also cause accidents. The Metropolitan Traffic Police Division had planned to search for the owners of abandoned cattle and fine them but not a single owner has been booked so far.

Nepal to fix electronic chips on animals to monitor them

A mild earthquake measuring 4.1 on the Richter Scale was felt in Kathmandu on Monday, in an aftershock of the Gorkha earthquake that devastated the country in April in 2015.

The quake with its epicentre located in the southern part of Kathmandu was recorded at 9.01 am, according to National Seismological Centre.

The tremor jolted Makawanpur district situated 150 km south of Kathmandu.

The tremor was an aftershock of the Gorkha earthquake that shook Nepal on Nepal April 25, 2015, it said.

A mild earthquake measuring 4.1 on the Richter Scale was felt in Kathmandu on Monday, in an aftershock of the Gorkha earthquake that devastated the country in April in 2015.

A mild earthquake measuring 4.1 on the Richter Scale was felt in Kathmandu on Monday, in an aftershock of the Gorkha earthquake that devastated the country in April in 2015. The quake with its epicentre located in the southern part of Kathmandu was recorded at 9.01 am, according to National Seismological Centre. The tremor jolted Makawanpur district situated 150 km south of Kathmandu. The tremor was an aftershock of the Gorkha earthquake that shook Nepal on Nepal April 25, 2015, it said.

Mild earthquake with magnitude 4 hits Nepal

The Nepal government has deported 51 foreign nationals, mostly Chinese and Bangladeshi citizens, on charges of overstaying in the country, officials said Friday.&nbsp;

As per law, if a foreigner overstays without renewing tourist visa in excess of the period of 150 days, he or she will be expelled from the country.&nbsp;

The offender will have to pay a fine of $3 per day and an additional fine of up to Rs 50,000, officials said.

As per the recommendation of the Department of Immigration, the Ministry of Home Affairs deported 51 foreign nationals, mostly citizens from China and Bangladesh, on charges of overstaying in Nepal over the last three months, they said.

The deported foreigners are nationals from over three dozen countries, according to the Department of Immigration.&nbsp;

Some of those overstaying in Nepal were found to be working without a permit or converting Hindus to Christians, officials said.

The Nepal government has deported 51 foreign nationals, mostly Chinese and Bangladeshi citizens, on charges of overstaying in the country, officials said Friday.

The Nepal government has deported 51 foreign nationals, mostly Chinese and Bangladeshi citizens, on charges of overstaying in the country, officials said Friday. As per law, if a foreigner overstays without renewing tourist visa in excess of the period of 150 days, he or she will be expelled from the country. The offender will have to pay a fine of $3 per day and an additional fine of up to Rs 50,000, officials said. As per the recommendation of the Department of Immigration, the Ministry of Home Affairs deported 51 foreign nationals, mostly citizens from China and Bangladesh, on charges of overstaying in Nepal over the last three months, they said. The deported foreigners are nationals from over three dozen countries, according to the Department of Immigration. Some of those overstaying in Nepal were found to be working without a permit or converting Hindus to Christians, officials said.

Nepal deports 51 foreigners for overstaying

Two Nepalese girls were rescued from Nepal-India border in Bardiya district on Sunday while they were allegedly being trafficked to India, police said.

The two girls, aged 18 and 20, who hail from Rasuwa district, were lured to go to New Delhi with promises of attractive jobs in Kuwait and Oman, police said.

Police have arrested three agents involved in the trafficking of the girls.

The agents have been identified as Wakil Bahadur Malla of Surkhet district, Maimi Sarki of Dang district and Kami Thokra of Rasuwa district.

Sarki was allegedly operating a human traffic network in New Delhi.

Cases of human trafficking have been registered against the agent.

Two Nepalese girls were rescued from Nepal-India border in Bardiya district on Sunday while they were allegedly being trafficked to India, police said. The two girls, aged 18 and 20, who hail from Rasuwa district, were lured to go to New Delhi with promises of attractive jobs in Kuwait and Oman, police said.

Two Nepalese girls were rescued from Nepal-India border in Bardiya district on Sunday while they were allegedly being trafficked to India, police said. The two girls, aged 18 and 20, who hail from Rasuwa district, were lured to go to New Delhi with promises of attractive jobs in Kuwait and Oman, police said. Police have arrested three agents involved in the trafficking of the girls. The agents have been identified as Wakil Bahadur Malla of Surkhet district, Maimi Sarki of Dang district and Kami Thokra of Rasuwa district. Sarki was allegedly operating a human traffic network in New Delhi. Cases of human trafficking have been registered against the agent.

Two Nepalese girls rescued while being trafficked to India

A chopper carrying Nepal's Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Rabindra Adhikari and five others crashed Wednesday in Taplejung district in the country, according to a media report.

The Air Dynasty helicopter was carrying Adhikari as well as Ang Tsering Sherpa, a prominent aviation and hospitality entrepreneur, and Yubaraj Dahal, personal aide to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Inspector General of Nepal Police Sarbendra Khanal was quoted as saying by the Kathmandu Post.

The two other passengers were Birendra Prasad Shrestha, Deputy Director General of Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, and Arjun Kumar Ghimire. The helicopter was being flown by Captain Prabhakar KC.&nbsp;

Sherpa, managing director of Yeti Airlines, is the chairman of Air Dynasty.&nbsp;

Moments after the chopper was reported missing, local residents in Pathibara area informed the police about a huge flame at the crash site, the daily said.

"Our people are about to reach the site of the crash and we will know more then,"said Sarbendra Khanal, the Inspector General said.

 
&nbsp;

A chopper carrying Nepal's Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Rabindra Adhikari and five others crashed Wednesday in Taplejung district in the country, according to a media report.

A chopper carrying Nepal's Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Rabindra Adhikari and five others crashed Wednesday in Taplejung district in the country, according to a media report. The Air Dynasty helicopter was carrying Adhikari as well as Ang Tsering Sherpa, a prominent aviation and hospitality entrepreneur, and Yubaraj Dahal, personal aide to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Inspector General of Nepal Police Sarbendra Khanal was quoted as saying by the Kathmandu Post. The two other passengers were Birendra Prasad Shrestha, Deputy Director General of Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, and Arjun Kumar Ghimire. The helicopter was being flown by Captain Prabhakar KC. Sherpa, managing director of Yeti Airlines, is the chairman of Air Dynasty. Moments after the chopper was reported missing, local residents in Pathibara area informed the police about a huge flame at the crash site, the daily said. "Our people are about to reach the site of the crash and we will know more then,"said Sarbendra Khanal, the Inspector General said.

Helicopter carrying Nepal's Tourism Minister Rabindra Adhikari, five others crashes

A powerful explosion on the outskirts of Nepal's capital Kathmandu has killed at least one person and left two others injured, police said Saturday.

The incident occurred outside the headquarters of Ncell, a telecommunications company mostly owned by Malaysia-based Axiata Group Berhad.

According to eyewitnesses, a loud explosion was heard at around 7:55 pm at Nakku in Lalitpur, located in the south-central part of Kathmandu.

A bomb disposal unit was rushed to the spot following the explosion, a senior police officer said.

He said that a 49-year-old man was killed while two others were injured in the incident which is being probed.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Police have detained six persons in connection with the blast.

Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa said that the perpetrators will soon be brought to justice.&nbsp;

A powerful explosion on the outskirts of Nepal's capital Kathmandu has killed at least one person and left two others injured, police said Saturday. The incident occurred outside the headquarters of Ncell, a telecommunications company mostly owned by Malaysia-based Axiata Group Berhad.

A powerful explosion on the outskirts of Nepal's capital Kathmandu has killed at least one person and left two others injured, police said Saturday. The incident occurred outside the headquarters of Ncell, a telecommunications company mostly owned by Malaysia-based Axiata Group Berhad. According to eyewitnesses, a loud explosion was heard at around 7:55 pm at Nakku in Lalitpur, located in the south-central part of Kathmandu. A bomb disposal unit was rushed to the spot following the explosion, a senior police officer said. He said that a 49-year-old man was killed while two others were injured in the incident which is being probed. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Police have detained six persons in connection with the blast. Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa said that the perpetrators will soon be brought to justice.

Blast in Nepal's capital kills one, injures two

A right-wing political party in Nepal has demanded the government reinstate the country as a Hindu state.

Nepal was declared a secular state in 2008 after the success of the people's movement of 2006 that saw the abolition of monarchy.&nbsp;

Rastriya Prajatantra Party, led by former deputy premier Kamal Thapa, in a memorandum handed to Prime Minister K P Oli demanded that Nepal should be declared a Hindu state with complete religious freedom by revoking the provision of secularism.

The party sent the memorandum to the Prime Minister through Khotang District Administration Office on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The party also demanded a referendum on whether to continue with federalism or not.&nbsp;

Hinduism is the largest religion of Nepal.

A right-wing political party in Nepal has demanded the government reinstate the country as a Hindu state. Nepal was declared a secular state in 2008 after the success of the people's movement of 2006 that saw the abolition of monarchy.

A right-wing political party in Nepal has demanded the government reinstate the country as a Hindu state. Nepal was declared a secular state in 2008 after the success of the people's movement of 2006 that saw the abolition of monarchy. Rastriya Prajatantra Party, led by former deputy premier Kamal Thapa, in a memorandum handed to Prime Minister K P Oli demanded that Nepal should be declared a Hindu state with complete religious freedom by revoking the provision of secularism. The party sent the memorandum to the Prime Minister through Khotang District Administration Office on Tuesday. The party also demanded a referendum on whether to continue with federalism or not. Hinduism is the largest religion of Nepal.

Nepal party demands reinstatement of Hindu state

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Tuesday claimed that his government has successfully managed the Maoist conflict, that had groped the Himalayan country for over a decade.

Addressing the nation on the occasion of the 69th Democracy Day in the Tundikhel, PM Oli said, “As of now the conflict management is almost done. In the context of the conflict management, Nepal had adopted a substantive method, It took the ways forward with a commitment to resolve its’ own problem and this work have shown Nepal’s capability to solve its problem on its own. This also has increased Nepal’s prestige in the international arena.”

The Nepali government had signed a peace agreement with the de-facto group in 2006 after which it became a political party and ruled over the country with the formation of the government over different period of time.

During the decade-long insurgency, around 13,000 people had reportedly lost their lives, while about 1,300 people are still missing, along with complaints and reports of mass violation of human rights.

The Government of Nepal had also formed a commission to probe into the reports, however, very less progress has been made so far while drawing the attention of the International community.

Recently, the diplomatic missions have called for a free, fair and timely redressal of the issues.&nbsp;

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Tuesday claimed that his government has successfully managed the Maoist conflict, that had groped the Himalayan country for over a decade.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Tuesday claimed that his government has successfully managed the Maoist conflict, that had groped the Himalayan country for over a decade. Addressing the nation on the occasion of the 69th Democracy Day in the Tundikhel, PM Oli said, “As of now the conflict management is almost done. In the context of the conflict management, Nepal had adopted a substantive method, It took the ways forward with a commitment to resolve its’ own problem and this work have shown Nepal’s capability to solve its problem on its own. This also has increased Nepal’s prestige in the international arena.” The Nepali government had signed a peace agreement with the de-facto group in 2006 after which it became a political party and ruled over the country with the formation of the government over different period of time. During the decade-long insurgency, around 13,000 people had reportedly lost their lives, while about 1,300 people are still missing, along with complaints and reports of mass violation of human rights. The Government of Nepal had also formed a commission to probe into the reports, however, very less progress has been made so far while drawing the attention of the International community. Recently, the diplomatic missions have called for a free, fair and timely redressal of the issues.

Nepal PM claims of successfully managing decade-long Maoist conflict

The first train carrying Nepal-bound transit containers under the new simplified trans-shipment procedure was on Friday jointly flagged off from Kolkata by Kolkata Port Trust Chairman Vinit Kumar, Commissioner of Customs, Kolkata and CG Nepal.

On Friday, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs introduced the trans-shipment procedure using the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS), a new procedure facilitating the transport of Nepal bound transit containers from Kolkata/Haldia port.

This modality has been introduced on a pilot basis on rail route from Kolkata/Haldia to Birgunj via Raxual LCS and Biratnagar via Bathnaha Railway Station and Jogbani LCS, said a statement by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu.

A similar facility for Nepal-bound transit cargo had been previously introduced on a pilot basis from Vishakhapatnam port in August last year.

"This is a significant step towards automating Customs transit facilitation between two countries and renews the commitment of Indian government to improve the transit facilities for Nepalese trade. Under this new modality, the need for Nepalese traders to seek permission and file transit declaration is done away with," the statement added.

The ECTS offers the facility of sealing the containers using high-security electronic seals, having tracking functionality embedded in them, it said.

The Nepalese traders would immensely benefit out of the new modality as it would ensure safe and secure transit, simplified border formalities reduction in transit time and transaction cost and improved shipment visibility.

The first train carrying Nepal-bound transit containers under the new simplified trans-shipment procedure was on Friday jointly flagged off from Kolkata by Kolkata Port Trust Chairman Vinit Kumar, Commissioner of Customs, Kolkata and CG Nepal.

The first train carrying Nepal-bound transit containers under the new simplified trans-shipment procedure was on Friday jointly flagged off from Kolkata by Kolkata Port Trust Chairman Vinit Kumar, Commissioner of Customs, Kolkata and CG Nepal. On Friday, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs introduced the trans-shipment procedure using the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS), a new procedure facilitating the transport of Nepal bound transit containers from Kolkata/Haldia port. This modality has been introduced on a pilot basis on rail route from Kolkata/Haldia to Birgunj via Raxual LCS and Biratnagar via Bathnaha Railway Station and Jogbani LCS, said a statement by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu. A similar facility for Nepal-bound transit cargo had been previously introduced on a pilot basis from Vishakhapatnam port in August last year. "This is a significant step towards automating Customs transit facilitation between two countries and renews the commitment of Indian government to improve the transit facilities for Nepalese trade. Under this new modality, the need for Nepalese traders to seek permission and file transit declaration is done away with," the statement added. The ECTS offers the facility of sealing the containers using high-security electronic seals, having tracking functionality embedded in them, it said. The Nepalese traders would immensely benefit out of the new modality as it would ensure safe and secure transit, simplified border formalities reduction in transit time and transaction cost and improved shipment visibility.

First Nepal-bound container train under ECTS flagged off

Nepal put forward a proposal seeking access to two additional Indian ports to facilitate trade with other nations during the two-day Joint Secretary Level meeting, which culminated on February 9.

"Nepal has presented a proposal to have access to two additional ports, namely the Mundra port in Gujarat and Dhamara port in Odisha. The Indian side has given a positive reaction over the proposal but a concrete agreement is yet to be made," an official from Nepal’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies informed.

Kathmandu is currently using the Indian ports of Visakhapatnam in Andra Pradesh and Haldia in Kolkata for trade.

Recommendations for an amendment to the India-Nepal Trade Treaty 1990 were one of the expected outcomes of the meeting, which commenced on February 8 in Pokhara between the two neighbours.&nbsp;

It is during the discourse regarding amendments to the treaty that Nepal put forth the new proposal with the Indian side.

The Joint Secretary from Nepal’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, Rabi Shankar Sainju, led a nine-member delegation for the talks, while his Indian counterpart Bhupinder Bhalla led a seven-member contingent.&nbsp;

Nepal put forward a proposal seeking access to two additional Indian ports to facilitate trade with other nations during the two-day Joint Secretary Level meeting, which culminated on February 9.

Nepal put forward a proposal seeking access to two additional Indian ports to facilitate trade with other nations during the two-day Joint Secretary Level meeting, which culminated on February 9. "Nepal has presented a proposal to have access to two additional ports, namely the Mundra port in Gujarat and Dhamara port in Odisha. The Indian side has given a positive reaction over the proposal but a concrete agreement is yet to be made," an official from Nepal’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies informed. Kathmandu is currently using the Indian ports of Visakhapatnam in Andra Pradesh and Haldia in Kolkata for trade. Recommendations for an amendment to the India-Nepal Trade Treaty 1990 were one of the expected outcomes of the meeting, which commenced on February 8 in Pokhara between the two neighbours. It is during the discourse regarding amendments to the treaty that Nepal put forth the new proposal with the Indian side. The Joint Secretary from Nepal’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, Rabi Shankar Sainju, led a nine-member delegation for the talks, while his Indian counterpart Bhupinder Bhalla led a seven-member contingent.

Nepal seeks access to two additional Indian ports for trade

Nepal seeks access to 2 additional Indian ports for trade

With the start of Valentine’s week, Nepal has witnessed a surge in the import of roses from India.

According to the Floriculture Association Nepal (FAN), about 160,000 stems of roses worth NPR 15 million would be imported in Nepal for this year's Valentine’s Day celebrations which falls on February 14.

“We are now importing the roses from India. Importing flowers from other countries rather than India would push the price of roses to a high point in the market. We bring these roses especially from India’s Calcutta and Bangalore,” said FAN`s president Kumar Kasjoo Shrestha.

“For this year’s Valentine’s Day, we have estimated that about 2,00,000 stem roses will be needed. We collected this data from various sources which yield the demand of 200,000 stem roses. Out of which approximately 1.5 lakh stem roses would be imported from India while the demand for about 50,000 stem roses will be addressed by internal production,” Shrestha added.

According to FAN`s statistics, Nepal imported roses worth NPR 12.5 million in 2018 from India. The figure is higher this year due to increased demand. In fact, 60 per cent of the total demand is consumed by Kathmandu valley alone.

With the cold increasing in the Himalayan nation, Indian roses are in demand for the 'day of love'&nbsp;which is popular amongst youngsters.

"The production of roses here in Nepal is down because of the cold and we are fulfilling the demands by importing from India, imported by the whole sellers and then brought here for the sale," said Meena Tamang Shrestha from the Royal Daffodils Flowers Shop in Kathmandu.

As per FAN's estimates, out of the 2 lakh rose stems sold on Valentine’s Day, 1.5 lakh rose stems are from India.

During Valentine’s week, Nepali markets see a sale of about 8,000 to 10,000 stems of roses in a single day.&nbsp;

With the start of Valentine’s week, Nepal has witnessed a surge in the import of roses from India. According to the Floriculture Association Nepal (FAN), about 160,000 stems of roses worth NPR 15 million would be imported in Nepal for this year's Valentine’s Day celebrations which falls on February 14.

With the start of Valentine’s week, Nepal has witnessed a surge in the import of roses from India. According to the Floriculture Association Nepal (FAN), about 160,000 stems of roses worth NPR 15 million would be imported in Nepal for this year's Valentine’s Day celebrations which falls on February 14. “We are now importing the roses from India. Importing flowers from other countries rather than India would push the price of roses to a high point in the market. We bring these roses especially from India’s Calcutta and Bangalore,” said FAN`s president Kumar Kasjoo Shrestha. “For this year’s Valentine’s Day, we have estimated that about 2,00,000 stem roses will be needed. We collected this data from various sources which yield the demand of 200,000 stem roses. Out of which approximately 1.5 lakh stem roses would be imported from India while the demand for about 50,000 stem roses will be addressed by internal production,” Shrestha added. According to FAN`s statistics, Nepal imported roses worth NPR 12.5 million in 2018 from India. The figure is higher this year due to increased demand. In fact, 60 per cent of the total demand is consumed by Kathmandu valley alone. With the cold increasing in the Himalayan nation, Indian roses are in demand for the 'day of love' which is popular amongst youngsters. "The production of roses here in Nepal is down because of the cold and we are fulfilling the demands by importing from India, imported by the whole sellers and then brought here for the sale," said Meena Tamang Shrestha from the Royal Daffodils Flowers Shop in Kathmandu. As per FAN's estimates, out of the 2 lakh rose stems sold on Valentine’s Day, 1.5 lakh rose stems are from India. During Valentine’s week, Nepali markets see a sale of about 8,000 to 10,000 stems of roses in a single day.

Nepal to import roses worth NPR 15 million from India for Valentine’s Day

Nepal on Wednesday approved a third extension for commissions tasked with probing crimes committed during its decade-long civil war, promising changes to make the hamstrung bodies effective.

The commissions had initially been given two years in 2015 to probe abuses by government forces and Maoist rebels during the conflict that left 17,000 dead and others missing without a trace.

But even after four years and two extensions, their mandates were to expire on Saturday without resolving a single case.&nbsp;

A parliament meeting passed an amendment to the Transitional Justice Act that allowed a year's extension.

Law minister Bhanu Bhakta Dhakal said in his parliament address that the terms of the commissions had to be extended to avoid a legal vacuum.

"The government understands that lawmakers are concerned the issues may not be resolved with the &nbsp;existing structure, working approach and speed of the two commissions... we are committed to finding a permanent solution," he said.

More than 65,000 complaints have been filed to the two commissions -- one investigating an estimated 3,000 forced disappearances and the other focusing on crimes such as rape and murder.

Critics say the truth and reconciliation process has been poorly designed from the outset and stymied by a lack of funding and political will.

The government has not granted the commissioners the legal powers necessary to prosecute war crimes, while a provision granting amnesty to perpetrators is still on the books.

"It is certain that the main objective of establishing these commissions will not be met unless the laws, mechanism and process is improved according to international standards," rights organisations said in a joint statement Wednesday.

Last month, the United Nations cautioned Nepal that it risked failing war crimes victims unless there was a broad public trust in the process, in a statement jointly signed by the US, Britain, France and Germany, among other nations.

"No government has been able to give us justice, but we still have to hope for a mechanism we can trust," Bhagiram Chaudhary, president of Conflict Victims' Common Platform, told AFP.

The fighting ended in 2006 with a peace deal between Maoist insurgents and government forces. Many former rebels now fill the political ranks of Nepal's ruling party.

Just two convictions related to civil war-era crimes have been handed down in civilian courts, one linked to the murder of a teenage girl and the other concerning the killing of a journalist.

Nepal on Wednesday approved a third extension for commissions tasked with probing crimes committed during its decade-long civil war, promising changes to make the hamstrung bodies effective.

Nepal on Wednesday approved a third extension for commissions tasked with probing crimes committed during its decade-long civil war, promising changes to make the hamstrung bodies effective. The commissions had initially been given two years in 2015 to probe abuses by government forces and Maoist rebels during the conflict that left 17,000 dead and others missing without a trace. But even after four years and two extensions, their mandates were to expire on Saturday without resolving a single case. A parliament meeting passed an amendment to the Transitional Justice Act that allowed a year's extension. Law minister Bhanu Bhakta Dhakal said in his parliament address that the terms of the commissions had to be extended to avoid a legal vacuum. "The government understands that lawmakers are concerned the issues may not be resolved with the existing structure, working approach and speed of the two commissions... we are committed to finding a permanent solution," he said. More than 65,000 complaints have been filed to the two commissions -- one investigating an estimated 3,000 forced disappearances and the other focusing on crimes such as rape and murder. Critics say the truth and reconciliation process has been poorly designed from the outset and stymied by a lack of funding and political will. The government has not granted the commissioners the legal powers necessary to prosecute war crimes, while a provision granting amnesty to perpetrators is still on the books. "It is certain that the main objective of establishing these commissions will not be met unless the laws, mechanism and process is improved according to international standards," rights organisations said in a joint statement Wednesday. Last month, the United Nations cautioned Nepal that it risked failing war crimes victims unless there was a broad public trust in the process, in a statement jointly signed by the US, Britain, France and Germany, among other nations. "No government has been able to give us justice, but we still have to hope for a mechanism we can trust," Bhagiram Chaudhary, president of Conflict Victims' Common Platform, told AFP. The fighting ended in 2006 with a peace deal between Maoist insurgents and government forces. Many former rebels now fill the political ranks of Nepal's ruling party. Just two convictions related to civil war-era crimes have been handed down in civilian courts, one linked to the murder of a teenage girl and the other concerning the killing of a journalist.

Nepal extends deadline for war crimes investigations

Nepal has started the procurement process to launch railway services from Janakpur in Nepal to Jayanagar in India, for which Indian companies have been approached.

The Government of Nepal had, on January 13, gave a go-ahead for the procurement process following which the Department of Railways, under the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, started preparations for the purchase of rails.

"The Department has sent proposals to Indian government companies towards that end, and some of them have responded to the proposals,''&nbsp;the state news agency RSS reported.

Though the Government of Nepal allocated NRs 500 million for the purchase of two trains for the service, the Department has stated that at least NRs 1.5 billion would be required for the purchase of rails.

The newly upgraded railway line between Nepal and India would cover a total distance of 35 kilometres in the first phase, for which the trial has already been carried out.

The total length of the Bardibas-Janakpur-Jayanagar-Kurtha-Bijayapura is 69 kilometres.&nbsp;

Nepal has started the procurement process to launch railway services from Janakpur in Nepal to Jayanagar in India, for which Indian companies have been approached.

Nepal has started the procurement process to launch railway services from Janakpur in Nepal to Jayanagar in India, for which Indian companies have been approached. The Government of Nepal had, on January 13, gave a go-ahead for the procurement process following which the Department of Railways, under the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, started preparations for the purchase of rails. "The Department has sent proposals to Indian government companies towards that end, and some of them have responded to the proposals,'' the state news agency RSS reported. Though the Government of Nepal allocated NRs 500 million for the purchase of two trains for the service, the Department has stated that at least NRs 1.5 billion would be required for the purchase of rails. The newly upgraded railway line between Nepal and India would cover a total distance of 35 kilometres in the first phase, for which the trial has already been carried out. The total length of the Bardibas-Janakpur-Jayanagar-Kurtha-Bijayapura is 69 kilometres.

Nepal starts Janakpur-Jayanagar railway procurement process, approaches Indian companies

The Nepali Congress (NC), on Monday, took to the roads here to protest against the government, claiming that the activities of the government are going against the public interest.

“The Constitutional Council appoints ambassadors and head of other constitutional bodies.&nbsp;

While making the decisions from the council, the government has been making decisions on its own.

The provisions regarding the attorney of the appointments to be made by the cabinet and the constitutional council are mentioned on the constitution itself.&nbsp;

The President of the opposition party is must during the meeting and upon bearing the post. Sher Bahadur Deuba (NC President) should be present there," Bimalendra Nidhi, a senior leader from the opposition party said while addressing the protest in Janakpur.

"Without inviting or informing Sher Bahadur Deuba over the meeting you have heard that the ambassadors were appointed. The Nepali Congress then denounced the meeting. This is proof of the incumbent Communist Party’s Prime Minister and the Oli Government not following the democratic process, not as per the Constitution but going against it and defying it which works against the public will,” Nidhi further said.

The NC, which is also the largest opposition party, claim that the anti-government protest rallies were organized in all the 77 districts of the country against the “tyranny of the State”.

Along with this, the opposition has also blamed the government of marching against the will of the Constitution - Defying it, playing role in consolidating corruption, rape and crime, hefty hike in the market price, tax burden and bad governance.

The Central Committee meeting of the opposition Nepali Congress last month decided to organize demonstrations against the government.&nbsp;

The opposition previously has shown its solidarity over the demands of so-called `social activist` Dr Govinda KC when it staged protests in the Parliament, throwing the procession off the track.

The NC has also protested against the government’s step of endorsing the National Medical Education Bill, despite the protests and the objections.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Nepali Congress (NC), on Monday, took to the roads here to protest against the government, claiming that the activities of the government are going against the public interest.

The Nepali Congress (NC), on Monday, took to the roads here to protest against the government, claiming that the activities of the government are going against the public interest. “The Constitutional Council appoints ambassadors and head of other constitutional bodies. While making the decisions from the council, the government has been making decisions on its own. The provisions regarding the attorney of the appointments to be made by the cabinet and the constitutional council are mentioned on the constitution itself. The President of the opposition party is must during the meeting and upon bearing the post. Sher Bahadur Deuba (NC President) should be present there," Bimalendra Nidhi, a senior leader from the opposition party said while addressing the protest in Janakpur. "Without inviting or informing Sher Bahadur Deuba over the meeting you have heard that the ambassadors were appointed. The Nepali Congress then denounced the meeting. This is proof of the incumbent Communist Party’s Prime Minister and the Oli Government not following the democratic process, not as per the Constitution but going against it and defying it which works against the public will,” Nidhi further said. The NC, which is also the largest opposition party, claim that the anti-government protest rallies were organized in all the 77 districts of the country against the “tyranny of the State”. Along with this, the opposition has also blamed the government of marching against the will of the Constitution - Defying it, playing role in consolidating corruption, rape and crime, hefty hike in the market price, tax burden and bad governance. The Central Committee meeting of the opposition Nepali Congress last month decided to organize demonstrations against the government. The opposition previously has shown its solidarity over the demands of so-called `social activist` Dr Govinda KC when it staged protests in the Parliament, throwing the procession off the track. The NC has also protested against the government’s step of endorsing the National Medical Education Bill, despite the protests and the objections.

Nepal Opposition stages nationwide anti-government protests

&nbsp;Nilambar Acharya, Nepal's former law minister, has been appointed as the country's ambassador to India, a position that was vacant since October 2017.&nbsp;

The position of the Nepalese ambassador to India was vacant for more than a year after Deep Kumar Upadhyay resigned to join politics.&nbsp;

President Bidya Devi Bhandari on Sunday administered an oath of office to Acharya at the Rashtrapati Bhawan at Sheetal Niwas.&nbsp;

Bhandari congratulated Acharya for being an ambassador to a very close neighbour of Nepal.

Acharya is the first Nepalese ambassador to take an oath of office and secrecy from the president under a new provision.

Earlier, ambassadors were administered an oath of office by Supreme Court chief justice. 
&nbsp; 
A Moscow University graduate, Acharya was initially left-leaning but later joined the Nepali Congress party.&nbsp;

He was minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs and Labour and Social Welfare in the interim government of 1990.&nbsp;

Foreign policy experts here say that Acharya faces huge challenges as he takes up his diplomatic assignment next month as the first envoy to New Delhi since the 2015 blockade after of the promulgation of the new Constitution in Nepal that had strained bilateral ties, The Kathmandu Post reported.

Nepal had blamed India for the blockade. India has denied the allegations, stating the shortage of essential supplies was caused by the unrest in the country due to Madheshi protests.

Nilambar Acharya, Nepal's former law minister, has been appointed as the country's ambassador to India, a position that was vacant since October 2017. The position of the Nepalese ambassador to India was vacant for more than a year after Deep Kumar Upadhyay resigned to join politics.

Nilambar Acharya, Nepal's former law minister, has been appointed as the country's ambassador to India, a position that was vacant since October 2017. The position of the Nepalese ambassador to India was vacant for more than a year after Deep Kumar Upadhyay resigned to join politics. President Bidya Devi Bhandari on Sunday administered an oath of office to Acharya at the Rashtrapati Bhawan at Sheetal Niwas. Bhandari congratulated Acharya for being an ambassador to a very close neighbour of Nepal. Acharya is the first Nepalese ambassador to take an oath of office and secrecy from the president under a new provision. Earlier, ambassadors were administered an oath of office by Supreme Court chief justice. A Moscow University graduate, Acharya was initially left-leaning but later joined the Nepali Congress party. He was minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs and Labour and Social Welfare in the interim government of 1990. Foreign policy experts here say that Acharya faces huge challenges as he takes up his diplomatic assignment next month as the first envoy to New Delhi since the 2015 blockade after of the promulgation of the new Constitution in Nepal that had strained bilateral ties, The Kathmandu Post reported. Nepal had blamed India for the blockade. India has denied the allegations, stating the shortage of essential supplies was caused by the unrest in the country due to Madheshi protests.

Nilambar Acharya appointed Nepal's envoy to India

Five student leaders in Nepal have been arrested for their alleged involvement in torching a government vehicle during a protest by a student wing of opposition Nepali Congress against the misuse of government vehicles.

The Nepal Student Union cadres on Saturday took the vehicle of Chief of Education Department at Pokhara Metropolis under control and torched it as part of their protest to restrict government vehicles from plying on road on holidays.

The agitating student cadres dragged the driver from the vehicle, poured petrol and torched it.

The arrested student leaders include Nepal Student Union president of Pokhara University Rajendra Baral, officials said.

NSU central member Bhanu Dhakal said that the misuse of government vehicles has increased in the recent time, and the student body has started a campaign to control the practice.

Five student leaders in Nepal have been arrested for their alleged involvement in torching a government vehicle during a protest by a student wing of opposition Nepali Congress against the misuse of government vehicles.

Five student leaders in Nepal have been arrested for their alleged involvement in torching a government vehicle during a protest by a student wing of opposition Nepali Congress against the misuse of government vehicles. The Nepal Student Union cadres on Saturday took the vehicle of Chief of Education Department at Pokhara Metropolis under control and torched it as part of their protest to restrict government vehicles from plying on road on holidays. The agitating student cadres dragged the driver from the vehicle, poured petrol and torched it. The arrested student leaders include Nepal Student Union president of Pokhara University Rajendra Baral, officials said. NSU central member Bhanu Dhakal said that the misuse of government vehicles has increased in the recent time, and the student body has started a campaign to control the practice.

Five student leaders arrested for torching government vehicle in Nepal

Nepal's prominent surgeon and activist Dr Govinda KC, who was on fast-unto-death for nearly a month demanding reforms in the country's health care and medical education system, ended his 16th hunger strike on Friday after parliament endorsed a controversial medical education bill without necessary amendments sought by him.

The 61-year-old senior orthopaedic surgeon was on a hunger strike for 24 days demanding reforms in the medical sector through amendment to a medical bill, which was tabled by the ruling Nepal Communist Party in parliament.

He ended his hunger strike a day after the upper house of parliament endorsed the controversial National Medical Education Bill without necessary amendments.

While announcing his decision to end the hunger strike, Dr KC said him continuing the strike would disrupt health service delivery and affect the general people.

Nepal's doctors shut hospitals across the country on Friday, demanding that the government accept the demands of Dr KC.

The Nepal Medical Association on Friday called doctors across the country to shut down all the general services except emergency, depriving patients of health services.

The fasting doctor warned that he would stage the 17th hunger strike again if his demands were not fulfilled by the government.

He lashed out at Prime Minister Oli accusing him of betraying not only the Mathema report that recommended reforms in the country's medical education but also the entire 30 million Nepali citizens.

Dr KC said he ended the hunger strike at the request of former President Dr Rambaran Yadav and former Prime Minister and Nepali Congress president Sher Bahadur Deuba.

Dr KC told media persons that he would continue his struggle against the policy-level corruption that has gripped the medical education sector.

The surgeon also slammed the government for being insensitive on reforming medical education sector and legalising malpractices for commercial gains.

I will fight until I initiate reform in the medical education sector, he said prior to being transferred to TUTH Intensive Care Unit for further treatment.

The doctor's demands include healthcare services for poor people in remote regions and an end to the commercialisation of medical education.

Nepal's prominent surgeon and activist Dr Govinda KC, who was on fast-unto-death for nearly a month demanding reforms in the country's health care and medical education system, ended his 16th hunger strike on Friday after parliament endorsed a controversial medical education bill without necessary amendments sought by him.

Nepal's prominent surgeon and activist Dr Govinda KC, who was on fast-unto-death for nearly a month demanding reforms in the country's health care and medical education system, ended his 16th hunger strike on Friday after parliament endorsed a controversial medical education bill without necessary amendments sought by him. The 61-year-old senior orthopaedic surgeon was on a hunger strike for 24 days demanding reforms in the medical sector through amendment to a medical bill, which was tabled by the ruling Nepal Communist Party in parliament. He ended his hunger strike a day after the upper house of parliament endorsed the controversial National Medical Education Bill without necessary amendments. While announcing his decision to end the hunger strike, Dr KC said him continuing the strike would disrupt health service delivery and affect the general people. Nepal's doctors shut hospitals across the country on Friday, demanding that the government accept the demands of Dr KC. The Nepal Medical Association on Friday called doctors across the country to shut down all the general services except emergency, depriving patients of health services. The fasting doctor warned that he would stage the 17th hunger strike again if his demands were not fulfilled by the government. He lashed out at Prime Minister Oli accusing him of betraying not only the Mathema report that recommended reforms in the country's medical education but also the entire 30 million Nepali citizens. Dr KC said he ended the hunger strike at the request of former President Dr Rambaran Yadav and former Prime Minister and Nepali Congress president Sher Bahadur Deuba. Dr KC told media persons that he would continue his struggle against the policy-level corruption that has gripped the medical education sector. The surgeon also slammed the government for being insensitive on reforming medical education sector and legalising malpractices for commercial gains. I will fight until I initiate reform in the medical education sector, he said prior to being transferred to TUTH Intensive Care Unit for further treatment. The doctor's demands include healthcare services for poor people in remote regions and an end to the commercialisation of medical education.

Nepal's fasting doctor ends 24-day-long hunger strike over medical reforms

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