An Indian national has been injured in firing by the Nepal Armed Police Force (NAPF) in the 'no man's land' on the Indo-Nepal border in Bihar's Kishanganj district, a senior police officer said on Sunday.

The incident occurred around 9:30 pm on Saturday near pillar number 152 when Jitendra Kumar Singh and two others had gone there to bring back their cattle that had strayed into the 'no man's land', Superintendent of Police Kumar Ashish said.

The victim is a resident of Mafia Tola village under Fatehpur police station of the district.

The family members rushed the injured man, who received a bullet injury on his left arm, to Kishanganj Sadar hospital from where doctors referred him to Purnea for better treatment.

The SP said police and Sashastra Seema Bal, the Indian border guarding force deployed on the Indo-Nepal border, are probing the matter.

The SSBs 12th battalion Commandant Lalit Kumar said that Nepal Armed Police Force opened fire on the suspicion that they were cattle smugglers.

Entering the 'no man's land' is prohibited during the lockdown, he said, adding the Nepalese force opened fire following an altercation.

The Nepalese personnel fired four rounds.

On June 12, an Indian national was killed while two others were injured in firing by the NAPF on the Indo-Nepal border near Lalbandi Janki Nagar village in Bihar's Sitamarhi district.

The incidents have occurred in the midst of a raging boundary row between the two countries, with India sternly asking Nepal not to resort to any "artificial enlargement" of its territorial claims after Kathmandu recently released a new political map laying claim over Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura.

New Delhi maintains that these are part of Uttarakhand, while Kathmandu, in its recent map, has shown them as part of Western Nepal.

India had published its new map of the border region in November after it divided Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh into two union territories.

The map had incorporated these areas of Uttarakhand, the territories disputed with Nepal, within India's borders.

An Indian national has been injured in firing by the Nepal Armed Police Force (NAPF) in the 'no man's land' on the Indo-Nepal border in Bihar's Kishanganj district, a senior police officer said on Sunday.

An Indian national has been injured in firing by the Nepal Armed Police Force (NAPF) in the 'no man's land' on the Indo-Nepal border in Bihar's Kishanganj district, a senior police officer said on Sunday. The incident occurred around 9:30 pm on Saturday near pillar number 152 when Jitendra Kumar Singh and two others had gone there to bring back their cattle that had strayed into the 'no man's land', Superintendent of Police Kumar Ashish said. The victim is a resident of Mafia Tola village under Fatehpur police station of the district. The family members rushed the injured man, who received a bullet injury on his left arm, to Kishanganj Sadar hospital from where doctors referred him to Purnea for better treatment. The SP said police and Sashastra Seema Bal, the Indian border guarding force deployed on the Indo-Nepal border, are probing the matter. The SSBs 12th battalion Commandant Lalit Kumar said that Nepal Armed Police Force opened fire on the suspicion that they were cattle smugglers. Entering the 'no man's land' is prohibited during the lockdown, he said, adding the Nepalese force opened fire following an altercation. The Nepalese personnel fired four rounds. On June 12, an Indian national was killed while two others were injured in firing by the NAPF on the Indo-Nepal border near Lalbandi Janki Nagar village in Bihar's Sitamarhi district. The incidents have occurred in the midst of a raging boundary row between the two countries, with India sternly asking Nepal not to resort to any "artificial enlargement" of its territorial claims after Kathmandu recently released a new political map laying claim over Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura. New Delhi maintains that these are part of Uttarakhand, while Kathmandu, in its recent map, has shown them as part of Western Nepal. India had published its new map of the border region in November after it divided Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh into two union territories. The map had incorporated these areas of Uttarakhand, the territories disputed with Nepal, within India's borders.

One of three Indians injured in firing by Nepal Police along border in Bihar's Kishanganj

Nepal's ruling communist party's top decision-making body on Saturday failed to achieve a breakthrough to end the tussle for power between Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and former premier Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' despite four hours of marathon discussions.

Nepal's ruling communist party's top decision-making body on Saturday failed to achieve a breakthrough to end the tussle for power between Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and former premier Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' despite four hours of marathon discussions. No conclusion was reached during the meeting of the Nepal Communist Party's (NCP) nine-member Central Secretariat though the party leaders discussed the agenda to be presented during Sunday's crucial Standing Committee meeting, according to senior party leader Ganesh Shah. During their discussions, senior leaders agreed to resolve the issues through consensus, party spokesperson Narayankaji Shrestha told media persons after the 9-member Central Secretariat meeting. After the meeting, the NCP co-chairs Prime Minister Oli and Prachanda called on Nepal President Bidya Devi Bhandari at her official residence. The reason behind the two top NCP leaders meeting the President is not known but it has further added to the political uncertainty in the country, The Himalayan Times reported. The NCP called a secretariat meeting after the two top leaders agreed to call a conclave of the highest body of the party ahead of the 45-member Standing Committee meeting on Sunday in a bid to strike a new power-sharing deal by sorting out their differences. The Standing Committee meeting of the party is scheduled to take place at 3 pm on Sunday. The Standing Committee meeting was postponed until Sunday to give more time to Oli and the rival faction led by Prachanda, the executive chairman of the NCP to have more talks to end the intra-party infighting. During previous meetings, Oli has refused to resign or give up his position as chairman of the NCP as demanded by the faction led by Prachanda. Sunday's Standing Committee meeting is expected to fix the date for the CWC meeting, which will ultimately decide the future of Prime Minister Oli, Shah, a Standing Committee member, said earlier. Oli and Prachanda have held at least eight meetings in recent weeks to sort out their differences. But, as the Prime Minister did not accept the condition of a one-man-one-post, the talks failed, party sources said. Top NCP leaders, including 'Prachanda', have been demanding Prime Minister Oli's resignation, saying his recent anti-India remarks were "neither politically correct nor diplomatically appropriate." They are also against Oli's autocratic style of functioning. The differences grew further after Oli alleged that some of the ruling party leaders are aligning with the southern neighbour to remove him from power after his government issued a new political map incorporating three Indian territories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura. The differences between the two factions of the NCP, one led by Oli and the other led by Prachanda on the issue of power-sharing, intensified after the prime minister unilaterally decided to prorogue the budget session of Parliament. Prachanda was made the executive chairman of the NCP in November last year under a deal between him and Oli. But the former prime minister was rarely given a chance to lead the party on his own, which some leaders say is one of the reasons he decided to form his own faction against Oli. The Kathmandu Post recently reported that Prachanda might not agree for something less than the prime minister's post, but since Oli has taken some drastic steps, including the House prorogation, he could step back for some time, fearing he would be blamed in the event of a split in the party. The Prachanda faction until a few weeks ago was so confident that it looked like they would manage to force Oli to capitulate. But two days after proroguing the House on July 3, Oli told his Cabinet that the rival faction was plotting to oust him and impeach President Bhandari, putting Prachanda and his faction on the back foot, the newspaper noted.

Nepal's communist party's key meeting ends with no breakthrough to end Oli-Prachanda infighting

Lord Ram is trending in India, all credit to the prime minister of Nepal. In his quest to prove his nationalistic credentials and to woo China,&nbsp;Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli played the oldest card in the subcontinent's politics.

PM Oli is relying on religion to push his case&nbsp;in the bid to distract the people of Nepal from his failings. On Monday, Prime Minister Oli said that the real Ayodhya is in Nepal and Lord Ram is Nepali, not Indian.&nbsp;

According to facts, the Hindu mythology says that Lord Ram was Indian and Ayodhya&nbsp;as known to all&nbsp;is in India. However, there's an Ayodhya in Thailand too. The Ramayan has many versions of Hindu, Buddhist, Jain and&nbsp;Indonesian.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-nepal-kp-sharma-olis-desperate-bid-to-hang-onto-power-313320/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Nepal has a Maithili speaking population. There was a time when Nepal was a&nbsp;Sakya kingdom with a&nbsp;much larger territory with parts of eastern India including Bihar extending up to the Bay of Bengal.

Lord Ram is an issue&nbsp;both emotional and politically potent in India. PM Oli's tactic&nbsp;had the desired effect. There was a controversy and after letting it brew for almost 24 hours, the government of Nepal issued a clarification.&nbsp;It was a&nbsp;poor attempt at damage control.

A foreign ministry statement said&nbsp;the prime minister's remarks "are not meant to debase the significance of Ayodhya and the cultural value it bears".

But his remarks do debase the sanctity of the office he holds. Nepal's Prime Minister has turned to national pride and religion to save his job and he can think of only one way to survive - blame India for everything. When he felt besieged, Oli blamed India for his mounting troubles. First, he blamed Indians for the growing COVID-19 cases in Nepal. Then, he claimed India was trying to dethrone him.

These attacks backfired as the chorus for his exit grew louder. Now, Oli has come up with a new assertion about Lord Ram and Ayodhya's origins.&nbsp;

Needless to say, India finds these claims laughable. A paranoia is driving the actions of the Nepal prime minister in a bid to prove that he is a bigger nationalist than his rival.

Pushpa Kamal Dahal, the former prime minister of Nepal famously known as Prachanda has been the&nbsp;leading the rival faction within Nepal's ruling party. He has publicly demanded Oli's resignation. They want Oli to step down. Two leaders are fighting for power in Nepal and&nbsp;Oli is in the minority within his party.

So, he is trying to win the&nbsp;battle to garner public court&nbsp;by blaming India&nbsp;and playing the nationalism card. Oli wants to show that he is more popular than Dahal.

Both leaders are trying to dethrone the other. Oli and Prachanda are now trying to save the government through talks. In recent days, both leaders have held more than six one-on-one meetings.

Another meeting happened today but, they are nowhere close to a power-sharing deal.&nbsp;There could be a showdown on Friday. In four days, the standing committee of Nepal's ruling party is supposed to meet. The&nbsp;meeting has been delayed several times.

It was supposed to decide the fate of KP Sharma Oli. Oli has skipped this meeting several times&nbsp;because&nbsp;whenever he has attended it, he has had to face demands for resignation.

Earlier this month,&nbsp;Oli escaped a potential showdown with his party. Just before he came face-to-face with the rival faction, Oli complained of chest pain.&nbsp;He was admitted to a hospital. A day later, he prorogued&nbsp;the budget session of Nepal's parliament potentially avoiding a no-confidence motion from his party members and&nbsp;escaped a floor test.

Lord Ram is trending in India, all credit to the prime minister of Nepal. In his quest to prove his nationalistic credentials and to woo China, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli played the oldest card in the subcontinent's politics.

Lord Ram is trending in India, all credit to the prime minister of Nepal. In his quest to prove his nationalistic credentials and to woo China, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli played the oldest card in the subcontinent's politics. PM Oli is relying on religion to push his case in the bid to distract the people of Nepal from his failings. On Monday, Prime Minister Oli said that the real Ayodhya is in Nepal and Lord Ram is Nepali, not Indian. According to facts, the Hindu mythology says that Lord Ram was Indian and Ayodhya as known to all is in India. However, there's an Ayodhya in Thailand too. The Ramayan has many versions of Hindu, Buddhist, Jain and Indonesian. Nepal has a Maithili speaking population. There was a time when Nepal was a Sakya kingdom with a much larger territory with parts of eastern India including Bihar extending up to the Bay of Bengal. Lord Ram is an issue both emotional and politically potent in India. PM Oli's tactic had the desired effect. There was a controversy and after letting it brew for almost 24 hours, the government of Nepal issued a clarification. It was a poor attempt at damage control. A foreign ministry statement said the prime minister's remarks "are not meant to debase the significance of Ayodhya and the cultural value it bears". But his remarks do debase the sanctity of the office he holds. Nepal's Prime Minister has turned to national pride and religion to save his job and he can think of only one way to survive - blame India for everything. When he felt besieged, Oli blamed India for his mounting troubles. First, he blamed Indians for the growing COVID-19 cases in Nepal. Then, he claimed India was trying to dethrone him. These attacks backfired as the chorus for his exit grew louder. Now, Oli has come up with a new assertion about Lord Ram and Ayodhya's origins. Needless to say, India finds these claims laughable. A paranoia is driving the actions of the Nepal prime minister in a bid to prove that he is a bigger nationalist than his rival. Pushpa Kamal Dahal, the former prime minister of Nepal famously known as Prachanda has been the leading the rival faction within Nepal's ruling party. He has publicly demanded Oli's resignation. They want Oli to step down. Two leaders are fighting for power in Nepal and Oli is in the minority within his party. So, he is trying to win the battle to garner public court by blaming India and playing the nationalism card. Oli wants to show that he is more popular than Dahal. Both leaders are trying to dethrone the other. Oli and Prachanda are now trying to save the government through talks. In recent days, both leaders have held more than six one-on-one meetings. Another meeting happened today but, they are nowhere close to a power-sharing deal. There could be a showdown on Friday. In four days, the standing committee of Nepal's ruling party is supposed to meet. The meeting has been delayed several times. It was supposed to decide the fate of KP Sharma Oli. Oli has skipped this meeting several times because whenever he has attended it, he has had to face demands for resignation. Earlier this month, Oli escaped a potential showdown with his party. Just before he came face-to-face with the rival faction, Oli complained of chest pain. He was admitted to a hospital. A day later, he prorogued the budget session of Nepal's parliament potentially avoiding a no-confidence motion from his party members and escaped a floor test.

Nepal PM Oli blames India whenever he finds himself in a sticky situation

Nepal Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa on Monday said construction activities by India along the border have blocked the flow of water and resulted in inundation of various places in the country`s south.

India and Nepal are both facing the problem of inundation during monsoon season and hundreds of lives have been lost in the past.

Bihar Water Resources Minister had said last month that Nepal had stopped all repair work of river embankments in Bihar on the India-Nepal border by erecting barriers and effectively putting a stop to work done by India to prevent flooding of its low-lying areas.

Thapa, who was answering questions of members at a parliamentary meeting earlier today, blamed India for constructing structures which, he claimed, blocked the flow of water to India and inundated Nepali lands.

"It is interference rather than a political move of India against Nepal," he said.

Thapa said some diplomatic steps undertaken by the Nepal government to solve but said it did not work out well.

"Agreements over it were signed at the time of Indian Prime Minister`s Visit to Nepal but all of them are yet to be implemented," he said members of the parliamentary committee also spoke on the issue.

At least 60 people have died while 41 have gone missing in floods and landslides in the last four days in various parts of Nepal. Myagdi district of Western Nepal is the worst affected with 27 deaths.

Nepal Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa on Monday said construction activities by India along the border have blocked the flow of water and resulted in inundation of various places in the country`s south.

Nepal Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa on Monday said construction activities by India along the border have blocked the flow of water and resulted in inundation of various places in the country`s south. India and Nepal are both facing the problem of inundation during monsoon season and hundreds of lives have been lost in the past. Bihar Water Resources Minister had said last month that Nepal had stopped all repair work of river embankments in Bihar on the India-Nepal border by erecting barriers and effectively putting a stop to work done by India to prevent flooding of its low-lying areas. Thapa, who was answering questions of members at a parliamentary meeting earlier today, blamed India for constructing structures which, he claimed, blocked the flow of water to India and inundated Nepali lands. "It is interference rather than a political move of India against Nepal," he said. Thapa said some diplomatic steps undertaken by the Nepal government to solve but said it did not work out well. "Agreements over it were signed at the time of Indian Prime Minister`s Visit to Nepal but all of them are yet to be implemented," he said members of the parliamentary committee also spoke on the issue. At least 60 people have died while 41 have gone missing in floods and landslides in the last four days in various parts of Nepal. Myagdi district of Western Nepal is the worst affected with 27 deaths.

Nepal minister says India's `interference' causing inundation in country

Nepal's National Assembly has unanimously passed the Constitution Amendment Bill on Thursday. The bill will update Nepal's political and administrative map incorporating three Indian territories.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/lower-house-of-nepal-parliament-unanimously-passes-bill-to-back-new-controversial-map-305625" hreflang="en">Lower House of Nepal Parliament unanimously passes bill to back new controversial map</a>

Earlier, the Lower House of Nepal's Parliament on June 13 unanimously voted to amend the Constitution to update the country's new political map, laying claim over the strategically key areas of Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura along the border with India. The Indian government termed it as untenable the "artificial enlargement" of territorial claims by Nepal.&nbsp;

All 57 members of the Upper House voted in favour of the bill.&nbsp;

The ties between India and Nepal came under strain after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated an 80-km-long strategically crucial road connecting the Lipulekh pass with Dharchula in Uttarakhand on May 8.

Nepal reacted sharply to the inauguration of the road claiming that it passed through Nepalese territory. India rejected the claim asserting that the road lies completely within its territory.

Nepal last month released the revised political and administrative map of the country laying claim over the strategically key areas. India has been maintaining that these three areas belonged to it.

New Nepal map Amendment bill&nbsp;will become a law once Nepali President gives her assent.

Nepal's National Assembly has unanimously passed the Constitution Amendment Bill on Thursday. The bill will update Nepal's political and administrative map incorporating three Indian territories.

Nepal's National Assembly has unanimously passed the Constitution Amendment Bill on Thursday. The bill will update Nepal's political and administrative map incorporating three Indian territories. Also read: Lower House of Nepal Parliament unanimously passes bill to back new controversial map Earlier, the Lower House of Nepal's Parliament on June 13 unanimously voted to amend the Constitution to update the country's new political map, laying claim over the strategically key areas of Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura along the border with India. The Indian government termed it as untenable the "artificial enlargement" of territorial claims by Nepal. All 57 members of the Upper House voted in favour of the bill. The ties between India and Nepal came under strain after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated an 80-km-long strategically crucial road connecting the Lipulekh pass with Dharchula in Uttarakhand on May 8. Nepal reacted sharply to the inauguration of the road claiming that it passed through Nepalese territory. India rejected the claim asserting that the road lies completely within its territory. Nepal last month released the revised political and administrative map of the country laying claim over the strategically key areas. India has been maintaining that these three areas belonged to it. New Nepal map Amendment bill will become a law once Nepali President gives her assent.

Nepal's Upper House passes bill to update map that includes Indian territories

A lot has happened in Nepal over the weekend -- the controversial map bill has been fast-tracked,&nbsp;New Delhi has offered to solve the dispute through dialogue. The anti-India sentiments gave way to anti-govt protests, and Kathmandu has released details of its coronavirus expenses.

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The anti-government protests increased in the country as the Nepal government was blamed for not doing enough to contain the outbreak. The government&nbsp;has been accused of misusing relief money. The government further faced immense criticism for responding to the protests with force and violence, and detaining dozens of demonstrators, including&nbsp;several foreign citizens.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/nepal/hundreds-protest-against-nepals-coronavirus-response-7-foreigners-arrested-305599">Also read|&nbsp;Hundreds protest against Nepal's coronavirus response; 7 foreigners arrested</a>

Nepal says that foreign powers are apparently trying to interfere in its internal matters, but the protests seem to bearing fruit.

The Nepal government has been forced to make public the details of its coronavirus expenses.

According to the details, the federal and provincial governments have apparently spent 8 billion rupees in dealing with the pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-nepal-ties-not-ordinary-no-power-in-the-world-can-break-it-rajnath-singh-305948">Also read|&nbsp;Indo-Nepal ties not ordinary, no power in the world can break it: Rajnath Singh</a>

Map politics

As we all know, Nepal wants to update its map to include the disputed territories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura.

On Saturday, the lower house of the Nepal parliament unanimously voted in favour of altering the map. Atleast 258 out of 275 lawmakers are said to have voted in favour of the constitution amendment bill.

On Sunday, the bill reached the upper house and a&nbsp;proposal to discuss the amendment bill for approval was unanimously endorsed.

The discussion is expected to go on for 72 hours, and the outcome will be declared by Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-delhi-expresses-surprise-at-nepal-pm-olis-distorted-comments-on-covid-surge-in-country-due-to-india-306073">Also read|&nbsp;New Delhi expresses surprise at Nepal PM Oli's 'distorted' comments on Covid surge in country due to India</a>

Happenings at Delhi

The Defence Minister of India Rajnath Singh has categorically stated that any misunderstanding with Nepal will be sorted only through dialogue. He even used a famous adage to describe India's ties with Nepal. He called the bilateral relationship "roti-beti ka rishta", which in simpler words means it's like a relationship between two families.

The two countries indeed have shared excellent bilateral ties. However, situation suddenly became very tense during the pandemic.

On May 08, the Indian Defence Minister virtually inaugurated a new 80-kilometre long road in the Himalayas. This road was built along the India-China border at the Lipulekh pass.

Three days later, on May 11,&nbsp;Kathmandu protested and contended that the road crosses territory it claims.

It accused India of changing the status quo and summoned the Indian ambassador to Kathmandu.

Nepal's actions were followed by some remarks by the Indian army chief on May 15.

Without taking any names, army chief M.M Naravane said that Nepal was doing what it was doing at someone else's behest -- a&nbsp;subtle reference to the growing influence of China in Nepal.

What followed was an endless war-of-words. The Prime Minister of Nepal unleashed a torren of invectives against India. He took jibes at the Indian motto of 'satyamev jayate' ---- truth prevails. Prime Minister K.P Oli said that India was not living up to this motto.

Its been less than a month and now his government is on the verge of passing a constitutional amendment to alter its official map.

If this continues, a possible dispute between India and Nepal will further put the stability of this region at risk. So,&nbsp;New Delhi and Kathmandu need to think out of the box and find a practical solution.

A lot has happened in Nepal over the weekend -- the controversial map bill has been fast-tracked, New Delhi has offered to solve the dispute through dialogue. The anti-India sentiments gave way to anti-govt protests, and Kathmandu has released details of its coronavirus expenses.

A lot has happened in Nepal over the weekend -- the controversial map bill has been fast-tracked, New Delhi has offered to solve the dispute through dialogue. The anti-India sentiments gave way to anti-govt protests, and Kathmandu has released details of its coronavirus expenses. The anti-government protests increased in the country as the Nepal government was blamed for not doing enough to contain the outbreak. The government has been accused of misusing relief money. The government further faced immense criticism for responding to the protests with force and violence, and detaining dozens of demonstrators, including several foreign citizens. Also read| Hundreds protest against Nepal's coronavirus response; 7 foreigners arrested Nepal says that foreign powers are apparently trying to interfere in its internal matters, but the protests seem to bearing fruit. The Nepal government has been forced to make public the details of its coronavirus expenses. According to the details, the federal and provincial governments have apparently spent 8 billion rupees in dealing with the pandemic. Also read| Indo-Nepal ties not ordinary, no power in the world can break it: Rajnath Singh Map politics As we all know, Nepal wants to update its map to include the disputed territories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura. On Saturday, the lower house of the Nepal parliament unanimously voted in favour of altering the map. Atleast 258 out of 275 lawmakers are said to have voted in favour of the constitution amendment bill. On Sunday, the bill reached the upper house and a proposal to discuss the amendment bill for approval was unanimously endorsed. The discussion is expected to go on for 72 hours, and the outcome will be declared by Thursday. Also read| New Delhi expresses surprise at Nepal PM Oli's 'distorted' comments on Covid surge in country due to India Happenings at Delhi The Defence Minister of India Rajnath Singh has categorically stated that any misunderstanding with Nepal will be sorted only through dialogue. He even used a famous adage to describe India's ties with Nepal. He called the bilateral relationship "roti-beti ka rishta", which in simpler words means it's like a relationship between two families. The two countries indeed have shared excellent bilateral ties. However, situation suddenly became very tense during the pandemic. On May 08, the Indian Defence Minister virtually inaugurated a new 80-kilometre long road in the Himalayas. This road was built along the India-China border at the Lipulekh pass. Three days later, on May 11, Kathmandu protested and contended that the road crosses territory it claims. It accused India of changing the status quo and summoned the Indian ambassador to Kathmandu. Nepal's actions were followed by some remarks by the Indian army chief on May 15. Without taking any names, army chief M.M Naravane said that Nepal was doing what it was doing at someone else's behest -- a subtle reference to the growing influence of China in Nepal. What followed was an endless war-of-words. The Prime Minister of Nepal unleashed a torren of invectives against India. He took jibes at the Indian motto of 'satyamev jayate' ---- truth prevails. Prime Minister K.P Oli said that India was not living up to this motto. Its been less than a month and now his government is on the verge of passing a constitutional amendment to alter its official map. If this continues, a possible dispute between India and Nepal will further put the stability of this region at risk. So, New Delhi and Kathmandu need to think out of the box and find a practical solution.

On a shaky ground: India Nepal dispute put the stability of the region at risk

Nepal's parliament is set to vote on Saturday on a new map of its border with India, an official said on Thursday, underlining the Himalayan nation's determination to press ahead with the controversial decision that has strained ties with India.

Nepal's parliament is set to vote on Saturday on a new map of its border with India, an official said on Thursday, underlining the Himalayan nation's determination to press ahead with the controversial decision that has strained ties with India. The map row broke after India's defence minister inaugurated a road till Lipulekh which Nepal says is its own territory. It was followed by Nepal FM Pradeep Kumar Gyawali meeting Indian envoy to Nepal Vinay Mohan Kwatra and Nepali Foreign Ministery and ruling party Nepal Communist Party issued a strongly worded release protesting the new road built by India that will reduce the time for Indian pilgrims to go for Mansarovar Yatra in Tibet, China. It was followed by a protest by India who reminded Kathmandu that it is Indian territory. The government has tabled the new map in parliament, seeking to amend the constitution and remove the old version. Also read: New Nepal map constitutional amendment placed in Lower house of Nepali Parliament "A house meeting has been scheduled for Saturday when the amendment is expected to be debated and put to vote," parliamentary official Dashrath Dhamala reportedly told. Nepal's Prime Minister K.P.Sharma Oli had earlier said he has sought talks with India to seek to resolve the dispute over the small stretch of land, which includes the areas of Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani. "We have told (them) that we want to resolve this through diplomatic talks ... And the solution is that our land should be returned to us," Oli said in parliament on Wednesday. Also read: Lower House of Nepali Parliament unanimously backs Map Amendment Bill There was no immediate comment from India on Oli's latest statement. But New Delhi rejected Nepal's map when it was published in May, calling it a "unilateral act" that was not based on historical facts or evidence.

Nepal parliament to vote on controversial map today

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Wednesday once again spoke on India, this time on the presence of Indian forces in Kalapani, comments by Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh (UP) Yogi Adityanath on his country and increased influx of COVID-19 infection from the southern neighbour.&nbsp;

Nepal considers Kalapani as its territory along with Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura and last month issued a new map showing the Indian territories as its own drawing New Delhi's ire.&nbsp;

Speaking in the Nepali Parliament, PM Oli said,"The territory has been separated from us by the stationing of Indian forces and due to Indian Army's deployment, access is being denied to us."

Calling for a diplomatic solution to the border row, Nepali PM said his country has "been raising the issue with India..and based on facts and historic evidences, the area should be handed over back".

He also commented on remarks made by UP CM, who had equated Nepal with what Tibet faced in the 1950s saying the comments made by him are "condemnable" and "threatening" Nepal is unacceptable.&nbsp;

On the COVID-19 crisis, he said 85% of cases in the country is due to an increase in the number of infected people coming from India, something he has said in the past as well.&nbsp;

His comments come at a time when ties between New Delhi and Kathmandu are in a downward trajectory due to Nepal coming with a new map, which India sees as "unjustified cartographic assertion".&nbsp;

New Delhi has asked the country to "respect India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity" and create "positive atmosphere" for diplomatic dialogue to resolve the outstanding boundary issues.

On Tuesday, Nepal's lower house unanimously backed a constitutional amendment bill that will amend Nepal's political map in the coat of arms. Once passed by the 2/3rd majority in the lower house after 72 hours, it will go to the upper house -the national assembly where the same procedure will be followed. After passage in the upper house and assent by the Nepali President, the law or the amendment will come into force giving constitutional backing to the Nepal Map which is at the heart of diplomatic row with India. 
&nbsp;

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Wednesday once again spoke on India, this time on the presence of Indian forces in Kalapani, comments by Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh (UP) Yogi Adityanath on his country and increased influx of COVID-19 infection from the southern neighbour.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Wednesday once again spoke on India, this time on the presence of Indian forces in Kalapani, comments by Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh (UP) Yogi Adityanath on his country and increased influx of COVID-19 infection from the southern neighbour. Nepal considers Kalapani as its territory along with Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura and last month issued a new map showing the Indian territories as its own drawing New Delhi's ire. Speaking in the Nepali Parliament, PM Oli said,"The territory has been separated from us by the stationing of Indian forces and due to Indian Army's deployment, access is being denied to us." Calling for a diplomatic solution to the border row, Nepali PM said his country has "been raising the issue with India..and based on facts and historic evidences, the area should be handed over back". He also commented on remarks made by UP CM, who had equated Nepal with what Tibet faced in the 1950s saying the comments made by him are "condemnable" and "threatening" Nepal is unacceptable. On the COVID-19 crisis, he said 85% of cases in the country is due to an increase in the number of infected people coming from India, something he has said in the past as well. His comments come at a time when ties between New Delhi and Kathmandu are in a downward trajectory due to Nepal coming with a new map, which India sees as "unjustified cartographic assertion". New Delhi has asked the country to "respect India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity" and create "positive atmosphere" for diplomatic dialogue to resolve the outstanding boundary issues. On Tuesday, Nepal's lower house unanimously backed a constitutional amendment bill that will amend Nepal's political map in the coat of arms. Once passed by the 2/3rd majority in the lower house after 72 hours, it will go to the upper house -the national assembly where the same procedure will be followed. After passage in the upper house and assent by the Nepali President, the law or the amendment will come into force giving constitutional backing to the Nepal Map which is at the heart of diplomatic row with India.

Nepal PM miffed by presence of Indian forces in Kalapani, remarks by UP CM and COVID-19

Nepal Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Ishwar Pokhrel on Tuesday said that his country would solve the border issue with India through dialogue and there is no sense in deploying the army.

Nepal Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Ishwar Pokhrel on Tuesday said that his country would solve the border issue with India through dialogue and there is no sense in deploying the army. ''We will solve the border issue through dialogue with India, it is our consistent point,'' news agency ANI quoted Pokhrel as saying. ''There is no sense in deploying the army,'' he added. Also read: Nepal Parliament delays taking up constitutional amendment for controversial new map Pokhrel's comment comes even as Nepal's parliament gears up to discuss controversial constitution amendment bill on a new map which includes parts of India territory. The bill was tabled by Nepalese Law Minister Shivamaya Tumbahangphe in the parliament on May 31. We will solve the border issue through dialogue with India, it is our consistent point. There is no sense in deploying the Army: Nepal Deputy PM and Defense Minister Ishwar Pokhrel pic.twitter.com/XFKvvvPQ4V — ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2020 × The Amendment Proposal seeks to incorporate updated political map in the Constitution of Nepal- 2072, depicting Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura within its own borders. The Nepali government recently issued a new, controversial map of the country which showed Indian territories of Lipulekh, Kalapani, Limpiyadhura as its own. Also read: Nepal issues new, controversial map showing Indian territory as its own Earlier this month Nepali President addressing the joint session of the Parliament said the new maps of the country will be published that will show all areas it considers its own. The ongoing dispute is not new and dates back to 1816 when under the Treaty of Sugauli, King of Nepal lost parts of its territory to British including Kalapani and Lipulekh.

Nepal will solve border issue with India through dialogue, says deputy PM

Nepal has reported 288 new cases of the novel coronavirus in the past 24 hours. The current tally stands at 2,099, as per health ministry.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-reports-3938-new-covid-19-cases-death-toll-reaches-1621-302600" hreflang="en">Pakistan reports 3,938 new COVID-19 cases, death toll reaches 1,621</a>

The cases have been recorded in 61 out of 77 districts. This is the highest single day spike in cases of coronavirus in the country.&nbsp;

Eight people in the country have succumbed to the infectious virus.&nbsp;

Around 6.3 million cases of the new coronavirus have been officially declared in the world, more than two-thirds of them in Europe and the United States, according to a tally compiled by Johns Hopkins University.

On Tuesday, the cases stood at &nbsp;6,274,136, according to Johns Hopkins University. So far, the virus has killed 375,711 people worldwide. Coronavirus cases, first reported in China in December last year, peaked in mid-March. The virus is currently affecting more than 200 countries around the world.

The United States has recorded the most deaths of any country, with 105,160, ahead of Britain with 39,045, Italy with 33,475, Brazil with 29,937 and France at 28,833.

Nepal has reported 288 new cases of the novel coronavirus in the past 24 hours. The current tally stands at 2,099, as per health ministry. Also read: Pakistan reports 3,938 new COVID-19 cases, death toll reaches 1,621 The cases have been recorded in 61 out of 77 districts.

Nepal has reported 288 new cases of the novel coronavirus in the past 24 hours. The current tally stands at 2,099, as per health ministry. Also read: Pakistan reports 3,938 new COVID-19 cases, death toll reaches 1,621 The cases have been recorded in 61 out of 77 districts. This is the highest single day spike in cases of coronavirus in the country. Eight people in the country have succumbed to the infectious virus. Around 6.3 million cases of the new coronavirus have been officially declared in the world, more than two-thirds of them in Europe and the United States, according to a tally compiled by Johns Hopkins University. On Tuesday, the cases stood at 6,274,136, according to Johns Hopkins University. So far, the virus has killed 375,711 people worldwide. Coronavirus cases, first reported in China in December last year, peaked in mid-March. The virus is currently affecting more than 200 countries around the world. The United States has recorded the most deaths of any country, with 105,160, ahead of Britain with 39,045, Italy with 33,475, Brazil with 29,937 and France at 28,833.

Coronavirus: Nepal records highest single day spike with 288 new cases

Nepal's defence minister Ishwar Pokhrel has said that Indian Army Chief's remarks on the raising border dispute between India and Nepal have "hurt" the sentiments of Gurkha regiment who have laid down their lives to protect India.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-government-frees-900-taliban-prisoners-on-last-day-of-truce-301202" hreflang="en">Afghan government frees 900 Taliban prisoners on last day of truce</a>

Nepal had staged a protest against India for opening a new road to Lipulekh that was inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. India rejected the protest by saying that the road was within the Indian territory, to which Nepal responded by publishing a new map showing Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadura, which fall within India, as part of Nepalese territory.

During an interview with Nepal's news agency, Pokhrel said: “No matter what background and circumstance is it based on, such statements are an effort to offend sovereign and independent Nepal and prideful Nepalis… With this, the Indian CoAS [chief of army staff] has also hurt the sentiments of the Nepali Gurkha army personnel who lay down their lives to protect India. It must now become difficult for them to stand tall in front of the Gurkha forces…The statement by the Indian CoAS seems to be a political stunt.”

He added, “How professional is it for the head of the army to make a political statement? We don’t have anything like that here. Nepali Army does not go vocal on such matter. The army is not there to speak. Nepali Army is a fully professional military force. It would play its role in the right time, as per the directives of the government based on our Constitution.”

Pokhrel is also the deputy prime minister of the country called India a "friendly country" and urged that “lost Nepali territory must be returned through peaceful political dialogue and diplomatic channel, and I am confident that it is possible”.

India has not responded to Pokhrel's remarks.&nbsp;

Nepal's defence minister Ishwar Pokhrel has said that Indian Army Chief's remarks on the raising border dispute between India and Nepal have "hurt" the sentiments of Gurkha regiment who have laid down their lives to protect India.

Nepal's defence minister Ishwar Pokhrel has said that Indian Army Chief's remarks on the raising border dispute between India and Nepal have "hurt" the sentiments of Gurkha regiment who have laid down their lives to protect India. Also read: Afghan government frees 900 Taliban prisoners on last day of truce Nepal had staged a protest against India for opening a new road to Lipulekh that was inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. India rejected the protest by saying that the road was within the Indian territory, to which Nepal responded by publishing a new map showing Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadura, which fall within India, as part of Nepalese territory. During an interview with Nepal's news agency, Pokhrel said: “No matter what background and circumstance is it based on, such statements are an effort to offend sovereign and independent Nepal and prideful Nepalis… With this, the Indian CoAS [chief of army staff] has also hurt the sentiments of the Nepali Gurkha army personnel who lay down their lives to protect India. It must now become difficult for them to stand tall in front of the Gurkha forces…The statement by the Indian CoAS seems to be a political stunt.” He added, “How professional is it for the head of the army to make a political statement? We don’t have anything like that here. Nepali Army does not go vocal on such matter. The army is not there to speak. Nepali Army is a fully professional military force. It would play its role in the right time, as per the directives of the government based on our Constitution.” Pokhrel is also the deputy prime minister of the country called India a "friendly country" and urged that “lost Nepali territory must be returned through peaceful political dialogue and diplomatic channel, and I am confident that it is possible”. India has not responded to Pokhrel's remarks.

Our Army will fight if necessary: Nepal's defence minister on Indian Army Chief's remark

Nepal has extended the ban on international flights till April 30th. Whereas, the ban on domestic flights to remain in effect till 15th April.

The Nepal government has tightened restrictions during the lockdown imposed until April 7.

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Nepal extends the ban on international flights till 30th April. Whereas, the ban on domestic flights to remain in effect till 15th April. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://t.co/PTvgej2E0y">pic.twitter.com/PTvgej2E0y</a>
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Meanwhile, the government is thinking about extending the lockdown through a decision in this direction has not been taken yet.&nbsp;

Minister Khatiwada recently said the Cabinet will decide whether to extend the lockdown in its next meeting.

Around 780 foreign tourists, mostly from European countries, stranded in the Himalayan country due to the coronavirus pandemic, have been evacuated in special flights.

The foreigners were evacuated in four different chartered flights arranged by different countries and their diplomatic missions in Nepal, according to officials.

Nepal has extended the ban on international flights till April 30th. Whereas, the ban on domestic flights to remain in effect till 15th April. The Nepal government has tightened restrictions during the lockdown imposed until April 7.

Nepal has extended the ban on international flights till April 30th. Whereas, the ban on domestic flights to remain in effect till 15th April. The Nepal government has tightened restrictions during the lockdown imposed until April 7. Nepal extends the ban on international flights till 30th April. Whereas, the ban on domestic flights to remain in effect till 15th April. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/PTvgej2E0y — ANI (@ANI) April 7, 2020 × Meanwhile, the government is thinking about extending the lockdown through a decision in this direction has not been taken yet. Minister Khatiwada recently said the Cabinet will decide whether to extend the lockdown in its next meeting. Around 780 foreign tourists, mostly from European countries, stranded in the Himalayan country due to the coronavirus pandemic, have been evacuated in special flights. The foreigners were evacuated in four different chartered flights arranged by different countries and their diplomatic missions in Nepal, according to officials.

Nepal extends ban on international flights till April 30

Nepal government on Sunday intensified lockdown in western districts bordering India after two people who returned from India tested positive for coronavirus, taking the total number of cases to nine.

The government has intensified security in western Nepal's Kailali and Kanchanpur districts after the two India returnees found to be infected with coronavirus during tests on Saturday, officials said.

Rapid tests will be conducted in these two districts and Baglung, situated in North-West Nepal, which have been identified as hotspots. The government will soon dispatch Rapid diagnostic test teams. In the wake of growing fear of coronavirus spread, the testing of suspected infected persons have increased to 1,529.

The government has tightened restrictions during the lockdown imposed till April 7.

A Cabinet meeting held on Saturday decided to stop citizens from moving from one local unit to another and from one district to another, said government spokesperson and Minister for Finance Yuba Raj Khatiwada.

The government's decision came as the country confirmed three new coronavirus cases in a single day.

Among the three cases, one is a 34-year-old woman, who happened to be the first COVID-19 patient in the country who got internally transmitted with the disease. Two others who tested positive had recently returned from India.

The country's health officials have said this incident marks Nepal's entry to the second stage of coronavirus infection, suggesting more restrictive measures.

However, the government has not yet made any decision on whether to extend the lockdown which will be lifted after mid-night of April 7.

Minister Khatiwada said the Cabinet will decide whether to extend the lockdown in its next meeting. Around 780 foreign tourists, mostly from European countries, stranded in the Himalyan country due to the coronavirus pandemic, have been evacuated in special flights.

The foreigners were evacuated in four different chartered flights arranged by different countries and their diplomatic missions in Nepal, according to officials.

Nepal government on Sunday intensified lockdown in western districts bordering India after two people who returned from India tested positive for coronavirus, taking the total number of cases to nine.

Nepal government on Sunday intensified lockdown in western districts bordering India after two people who returned from India tested positive for coronavirus, taking the total number of cases to nine. The government has intensified security in western Nepal's Kailali and Kanchanpur districts after the two India returnees found to be infected with coronavirus during tests on Saturday, officials said. Rapid tests will be conducted in these two districts and Baglung, situated in North-West Nepal, which have been identified as hotspots. The government will soon dispatch Rapid diagnostic test teams. In the wake of growing fear of coronavirus spread, the testing of suspected infected persons have increased to 1,529. The government has tightened restrictions during the lockdown imposed till April 7. A Cabinet meeting held on Saturday decided to stop citizens from moving from one local unit to another and from one district to another, said government spokesperson and Minister for Finance Yuba Raj Khatiwada. The government's decision came as the country confirmed three new coronavirus cases in a single day. Among the three cases, one is a 34-year-old woman, who happened to be the first COVID-19 patient in the country who got internally transmitted with the disease. Two others who tested positive had recently returned from India. The country's health officials have said this incident marks Nepal's entry to the second stage of coronavirus infection, suggesting more restrictive measures. However, the government has not yet made any decision on whether to extend the lockdown which will be lifted after mid-night of April 7. Minister Khatiwada said the Cabinet will decide whether to extend the lockdown in its next meeting. Around 780 foreign tourists, mostly from European countries, stranded in the Himalyan country due to the coronavirus pandemic, have been evacuated in special flights. The foreigners were evacuated in four different chartered flights arranged by different countries and their diplomatic missions in Nepal, according to officials.

Nepal intensifies lockdown near India border after two India returnees test positive for coronavirus

The Nepal government on Sunday announced to transform three hospitals in Kathmandu to treat the COVID-19 patients as a preparation to fight against possible outbreak in the country.

Minister for Health and Population, Bhanu Bhakta Dhakal, made the announcement while addressing the Upper House meeting.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-suspends-visa-on-arrival-services-amid-coronavirus-outbrek-286359">Nepal suspends visa on arrival services, amid coronavirus outbrek</a>

"We already have separated 155 isolated beds. In case if this infection spread all around, rather than sending the patients to hospitals, especially talking about the capital and its periphery, we have decided to focus on three hospitals which will give utmost priority to the infected patients and others would be transferred to another hospital. This would not disrupt the services being provided to the public," Dhakal said in an address at National Assembly.

The Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital, Patan Hospital, and Kirtipur Hospital will be dedicated to treating the infected patients.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-closes-mount-everest-for-climbers-because-of-coronavirus-fears-286068">Nepal closes Mount Everest for climbers because of coronavirus fears</a>

"Currently in Kathmandu Valley, we only have around 170 ICUs in operation," Dhakal informed.

As a heightened measure, Nepal has canceled all on-arrival visas making it compulsory to get the permit to enter the country only after submitting a health report not late than a week.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/latest-south-asia-news-lets-vacate-parliament-to-shelter-evacuees-nepali-lawmaker-jabs-govt-over-failure-to-set-up-quarantine-facilities-278812">Let's vacate Parliament to shelter evacuees: Nepali lawmaker jabs government over failure to set up quarantine facilities</a>

As per the minister, a total of 464 people have undergone tests for possible infection of coronavirus and none of the reports turned positive except for the case that was reported first.

The Nepal government on Sunday announced to transform three hospitals in Kathmandu to treat the COVID-19 patients as a preparation to fight against possible outbreak in the country.

The Nepal government on Sunday announced to transform three hospitals in Kathmandu to treat the COVID-19 patients as a preparation to fight against possible outbreak in the country. Minister for Health and Population, Bhanu Bhakta Dhakal, made the announcement while addressing the Upper House meeting. Also read: Nepal suspends visa on arrival services, amid coronavirus outbrek "We already have separated 155 isolated beds. In case if this infection spread all around, rather than sending the patients to hospitals, especially talking about the capital and its periphery, we have decided to focus on three hospitals which will give utmost priority to the infected patients and others would be transferred to another hospital. This would not disrupt the services being provided to the public," Dhakal said in an address at National Assembly. The Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital, Patan Hospital, and Kirtipur Hospital will be dedicated to treating the infected patients. Also see: Nepal closes Mount Everest for climbers because of coronavirus fears "Currently in Kathmandu Valley, we only have around 170 ICUs in operation," Dhakal informed. As a heightened measure, Nepal has canceled all on-arrival visas making it compulsory to get the permit to enter the country only after submitting a health report not late than a week. Also read: Let's vacate Parliament to shelter evacuees: Nepali lawmaker jabs government over failure to set up quarantine facilities As per the minister, a total of 464 people have undergone tests for possible infection of coronavirus and none of the reports turned positive except for the case that was reported first.

Nepal to transform 3 hospitals into treatment centres for coronavirus patients

As the global concerns over novel coronavirus are rising, SAARC nations agreed on taking collective measures to tackle the outbreak.&nbsp;

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani said," the closing of borders will result in a significant problem of availability of food, medicines &amp; basic goods".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-must-act-succeed-together-pm-modi-at-saarc-conference-286516">'We must act, succeed together': PM Modi at SAARC conference</a>

He also proposed a common framework for telemedicine to combat the coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih thanked India and PM Narendra Modi for helping the country with the assistance.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> conference | 'We should ensure that SAARC countries exchange information... We also need to target affected countries with economic relief', says President of Maldives, <a href="https://twitter.com/ibusolih?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ibusolih</a> 
 
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Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa highlighted that the country's economy took a "serious blow"', especially the tourism sector because of the outbreak after it was recovering from last year's terrorist attacks.&nbsp;

"I strongly recommend SAARC leaders to formulate mechanism to assist our economies to tide over difficult period," Rajapaksa said.&nbsp;

PM Narendra Modi later proposed of SAARC nations setting up a COVID-19 emergency fund. He said that India could begin with contribution of 10 million USD.&nbsp;

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Rajapaksa proposed setting-up of a ministerial-level group among SAARC nations to tackle the outbreak.&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina acknowledged India and PM Narendra Modi's help in rescuing 23 Bangladeshi students from China's Wuhan.

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She called for continued dialogue between experts and officials on follow-up actions regarding COVID-19.&nbsp;

"Our collective efforts will help us devise a sound and robust strategy for SAARC region to fight coronavirus," Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli said.&nbsp;

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Praising PM Modi's "excellent leadership" for bringing SAARC nations together, Bhutan PM Lotay Tshering said that at a time when the world is fighting one common disease, it is important to leave behind our differences.&nbsp;

Pakistan PM's Special Assistant on Health Zafar Mirza raised Kashmir issue on the conference and said that all restrictions imposed on the state to be lifted for dealing with the coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

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He also said, "no nation can afford to be unresponsive to the situation in wake of coronavirus outbreak".&nbsp;

As the global concerns over novel coronavirus are rising, SAARC nations agreed on taking collective measures to tackle the outbreak. Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani said," the closing of borders will result in a significant problem of availability of food, medicines & basic goods".

As the global concerns over novel coronavirus are rising, SAARC nations agreed on taking collective measures to tackle the outbreak. Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani said," the closing of borders will result in a significant problem of availability of food, medicines & basic goods". Also read: 'We must act, succeed together': PM Modi at SAARC conference He also proposed a common framework for telemedicine to combat the coronavirus outbreak. Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih thanked India and PM Narendra Modi for helping the country with the assistance. #SAARC #coronavirus conference | 'We should ensure that SAARC countries exchange information... We also need to target affected countries with economic relief', says President of Maldives, @ibusolih Watch live here: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN#coronaviruspandemic pic.twitter.com/DzAGWYbYc2 — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa highlighted that the country's economy took a "serious blow"', especially the tourism sector because of the outbreak after it was recovering from last year's terrorist attacks. "I strongly recommend SAARC leaders to formulate mechanism to assist our economies to tide over difficult period," Rajapaksa said. PM Narendra Modi later proposed of SAARC nations setting up a COVID-19 emergency fund. He said that India could begin with contribution of 10 million USD. #SAARC #coronavirus conference | 'I propose we create a #Covid19 emergency fund... India can start with a contribution of 10m USD..... Any of us can use the fund', says PM @narendramodi Watch live here: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN#coronaviruspandemic pic.twitter.com/aJTDjkA1Z9 — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × Rajapaksa proposed setting-up of a ministerial-level group among SAARC nations to tackle the outbreak. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina acknowledged India and PM Narendra Modi's help in rescuing 23 Bangladeshi students from China's Wuhan. #SAARC #coronavirus conference | 'All #SAARC countries need to collaborate to fight this pandemic...We need to share our collective capacity, expertise, and resources', says Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh Watch live here: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN pic.twitter.com/nJ4fb7LPM1 — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × She called for continued dialogue between experts and officials on follow-up actions regarding COVID-19. "Our collective efforts will help us devise a sound and robust strategy for SAARC region to fight coronavirus," Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli said. #SAARC #coronavirus conference | 'Our collective wisdom will help us in fighting the virus,' says Prime Minister of Nepal @PM_Nepal Watch live here: https://t.co/iSR65rv97J #coronaviruspandemic pic.twitter.com/Sltnr8kooL — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × Praising PM Modi's "excellent leadership" for bringing SAARC nations together, Bhutan PM Lotay Tshering said that at a time when the world is fighting one common disease, it is important to leave behind our differences. Pakistan PM's Special Assistant on Health Zafar Mirza raised Kashmir issue on the conference and said that all restrictions imposed on the state to be lifted for dealing with the coronavirus outbreak. #SAARC #coronavirus conference | 'We should learn from and disseminate the experience of SAARC observer states, especially China', says @zfrmrza, State Minister of Health, Pakistan Watch live here: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN#coronaviruspandemic pic.twitter.com/U43cY2fXDa — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × He also said, "no nation can afford to be unresponsive to the situation in wake of coronavirus outbreak".

Collective response needed to tackle coronavirus outbreak: SAARC leaders 

As China struggles to contain the spread of deadly&nbsp; coronavirus,&nbsp;Nepal has become the first country in the South Asian region to confirm the first case of deadly virus.

Given the extreme vulnerability of the region considering its proximity to china, the authorities in the region remain alert.

In Pakistan, the first suspected case is that of a man who travelled from China to Dubai, and then back to Karachi. He arrived in Pakistan on the January 21 and then travelled to Multan city in the country.

While in Multan, he started showing symptoms of coronavirus and shifted to an isolated ward at the Nishtar hospital.

Nepal is the only country in South Asia to have a confirmed case.

The patient has been identified as a student who had come home from Wuhan for holidays. The patient has been quarantined, and his immediate family is being observed, reports said.

"One patient tested positive for coronavirus. He is a Nepali student studying in China," Mahendra Shrestha, a Health Ministry spokesperson, told Reuters.

As China struggles to contain the spread of deadly coronavirus, Nepal has become the first country in the South Asian region to confirm the first case of deadly virus.

As China struggles to contain the spread of deadly coronavirus, Nepal has become the first country in the South Asian region to confirm the first case of deadly virus. Given the extreme vulnerability of the region considering its proximity to china, the authorities in the region remain alert. In Pakistan, the first suspected case is that of a man who travelled from China to Dubai, and then back to Karachi. He arrived in Pakistan on the January 21 and then travelled to Multan city in the country. While in Multan, he started showing symptoms of coronavirus and shifted to an isolated ward at the Nishtar hospital. Nepal is the only country in South Asia to have a confirmed case. The patient has been identified as a student who had come home from Wuhan for holidays. The patient has been quarantined, and his immediate family is being observed, reports said. "One patient tested positive for coronavirus. He is a Nepali student studying in China," Mahendra Shrestha, a Health Ministry spokesperson, told Reuters.

Suspected case of coronavirus reported in Pakistan, Nepal confirms first case 

Referring to border issues, the Nepal government said that there will be no problem to resolve matters with India, sources said on Saturday.

"Sometimes, some issues are unresolved. We should not keep in mind and not speak. We can discuss openly including border issues. We are developing friendly ties. There will be no problem to resolve issues with India," Nepal government sources told ANI.

This comes a day after Nepali Foreign Minister Pradeep Gyawali said he is optimistic that the lingering territorial issues will be resolved by the two countries through the "diplomatic process".

Speaking to ANI, Gyawali said that New Delhi and Kathmandu are preparing a mechanism to resolve the issue.Nepal had raised objections over the inclusion of Limpiyadhura, Lipulek, and Kalapani areas under India's territory in a fresh map released by the Centre following the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into Union Territories.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-urges-india-to-reconsider-palm-oil-import-ban-276463">Nepal finance minister urges India to reconsider palm oil import ban</a>

India, on its part, said that the map accurately depicts its sovereign territory and that it did not revise its boundary with Nepal in any manner.

The valley of Kalapani, with the Lipulekh Pass at the top, forms the Indian route to Kailash Manasarovar, an ancient pilgrimage site.

The territory is also the traditional trading route to Tibet for the Bhotiyas of Uttarakhand.

After India closed the Lipulekh Pass in the aftermath of the 1962 Sino-Indian War, much of the Bhotiya trade used to pass through the Tinkar Pass.

The Nepalese protests regarding the Kalapani territory started in 1997 after India and China agreed to reopen the Lipulekh Pass.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Referring to border issues, the Nepal government said that there will be no problem to resolve matters with India, sources said on Saturday. "Sometimes, some issues are unresolved.

Referring to border issues, the Nepal government said that there will be no problem to resolve matters with India, sources said on Saturday. "Sometimes, some issues are unresolved. We should not keep in mind and not speak. We can discuss openly including border issues. We are developing friendly ties. There will be no problem to resolve issues with India," Nepal government sources told ANI. This comes a day after Nepali Foreign Minister Pradeep Gyawali said he is optimistic that the lingering territorial issues will be resolved by the two countries through the "diplomatic process". Speaking to ANI, Gyawali said that New Delhi and Kathmandu are preparing a mechanism to resolve the issue.Nepal had raised objections over the inclusion of Limpiyadhura, Lipulek, and Kalapani areas under India's territory in a fresh map released by the Centre following the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into Union Territories. Also read: Nepal finance minister urges India to reconsider palm oil import ban India, on its part, said that the map accurately depicts its sovereign territory and that it did not revise its boundary with Nepal in any manner. The valley of Kalapani, with the Lipulekh Pass at the top, forms the Indian route to Kailash Manasarovar, an ancient pilgrimage site. The territory is also the traditional trading route to Tibet for the Bhotiyas of Uttarakhand. After India closed the Lipulekh Pass in the aftermath of the 1962 Sino-Indian War, much of the Bhotiya trade used to pass through the Tinkar Pass. The Nepalese protests regarding the Kalapani territory started in 1997 after India and China agreed to reopen the Lipulekh Pass.

No problem in resolving border issues with India: Nepal

Donned in marron red outfits, women here gathered at the banks of Salinadi river on early Tuesday morning to take dips and worship Lord Madhav Narayan.

After offering prayers, the women will eat food devoid of salt and other spices and that too only once a day. Braving the winter chill, the devotees follow the same rituals for the entire month to celebrate the festival of Shree Swasthani Brata Katha.

The festival, which kickstarted on January 10, with the worship of Hindu deity Swasthani and recitation of religious sermons, will conclude on the next full moon day.

Hindus in Nepal read one chapter out of 31 lessons a day from the religious book `Swasthani` which comprises of stories including tales on creation of the world, Hindu deities and demons.

"For a month, we get up at 4 in the morning. We have been told to get up at a particular time after the conch is blown by priests. After that we are not supposed to sleep. We go down to Salinadi river after getting up to take a holy dip," said a devotee Kunti Devi Shrestha, who has been taking a month-long Swasthani Brata.

"After that we come up to the temple and sit around the fire to make ourselves warm. We start worshipping Lord Madhav Narayan after devotees who came from other places pay their obesiance," the devotee said.

"After that, Lord Madhav Narayan is taken out on tour and there is `Srahastra Dhara` on the head of Madhav Narayan. After offering `jal` (sacred water), we can go to our room and we eat items that are cooked on our own," she added.

Devotees, who take on fast for a month, do not eat foods cooked by others. They only eat rice, beaten rice, sugar, ghee, sugar candy, molasses, spinach from Patan, peas amongst those considered sacred.

The `Swasthani` book mainly tells the story of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati that is described in Skandha Purana, belonging to the Hindu`s secondary scripture.

It also has directives which states about do's and dont's to be followed while undertaking a month-long fast that has been followed on a long run.

The scripture also has a section that states about the start of observing fast which brought in prosperity and happiness and mentions about Salinadi which is also is the reason for the people to flock to a particular place to observe the fast.

The sermon recited for a month also mentions that Goddess Parvati prayed to Goddess Swasthani to become Lord Shiva`s wife because of which unmarried females also observe fast praying to get a suitable groom.

The married men, on the other hand, pray for the well-being and progress of their spouses and children.

"I observed fast of Shree Swasthani two years before praying for the recovery of my son, who fractured his hand and for my elder son to get Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia. Both of these came true," Yasodha Bhattarai who came from Biratnagar to observe fast in Kathmandu told ANI.

"Now I am observing fast for my younger son and I hope that he gets admission in the Nepal Army School for studies," she said.

Special arrangements have been made on the banks of Salinadi for the convenience of devotees in Sankhu area of Kathmandu.

On the final day of the fasting, all the offerings made to the goddess is immersed in the river.

Donned in marron red outfits, women here gathered at the banks of Salinadi river on early Tuesday morning to take dips and worship Lord Madhav Narayan. After offering prayers, the women will eat food devoid of salt and other spices and that too only once a day.

Donned in marron red outfits, women here gathered at the banks of Salinadi river on early Tuesday morning to take dips and worship Lord Madhav Narayan. After offering prayers, the women will eat food devoid of salt and other spices and that too only once a day. Braving the winter chill, the devotees follow the same rituals for the entire month to celebrate the festival of Shree Swasthani Brata Katha. The festival, which kickstarted on January 10, with the worship of Hindu deity Swasthani and recitation of religious sermons, will conclude on the next full moon day. Hindus in Nepal read one chapter out of 31 lessons a day from the religious book `Swasthani` which comprises of stories including tales on creation of the world, Hindu deities and demons. "For a month, we get up at 4 in the morning. We have been told to get up at a particular time after the conch is blown by priests. After that we are not supposed to sleep. We go down to Salinadi river after getting up to take a holy dip," said a devotee Kunti Devi Shrestha, who has been taking a month-long Swasthani Brata. "After that we come up to the temple and sit around the fire to make ourselves warm. We start worshipping Lord Madhav Narayan after devotees who came from other places pay their obesiance," the devotee said. "After that, Lord Madhav Narayan is taken out on tour and there is `Srahastra Dhara` on the head of Madhav Narayan. After offering `jal` (sacred water), we can go to our room and we eat items that are cooked on our own," she added. Devotees, who take on fast for a month, do not eat foods cooked by others. They only eat rice, beaten rice, sugar, ghee, sugar candy, molasses, spinach from Patan, peas amongst those considered sacred. The `Swasthani` book mainly tells the story of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati that is described in Skandha Purana, belonging to the Hindu`s secondary scripture. It also has directives which states about do's and dont's to be followed while undertaking a month-long fast that has been followed on a long run. The scripture also has a section that states about the start of observing fast which brought in prosperity and happiness and mentions about Salinadi which is also is the reason for the people to flock to a particular place to observe the fast. The sermon recited for a month also mentions that Goddess Parvati prayed to Goddess Swasthani to become Lord Shiva`s wife because of which unmarried females also observe fast praying to get a suitable groom. The married men, on the other hand, pray for the well-being and progress of their spouses and children. "I observed fast of Shree Swasthani two years before praying for the recovery of my son, who fractured his hand and for my elder son to get Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia. Both of these came true," Yasodha Bhattarai who came from Biratnagar to observe fast in Kathmandu told ANI. "Now I am observing fast for my younger son and I hope that he gets admission in the Nepal Army School for studies," she said. Special arrangements have been made on the banks of Salinadi for the convenience of devotees in Sankhu area of Kathmandu. On the final day of the fasting, all the offerings made to the goddess is immersed in the river.

Nepal's Swasthani Brata Katha: A festival about fasting, reading, discipline

A heart transplant was successfully carried out on a six-year-old girl in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv amidst the constant danger of Russian missiles, reported CNN. The procedure was reportedly carried out on Sunday (July 9) at Heart Institute of Ukraine's Ministry of Health. The operation lasted for three hours and the girl was given the heart of a four-year-old boy who was previously declared brain dead due to an aneurysm.

The institute has said that this is the first heart transplant in Ukraine which involves children so young.

“The operation was also unique in that both the donor and the recipient were very young children, and the transplant required more effort from the doctors,” it said, as quoted by CNN.

The team of doctors who performed the surgery was led by Dr Boris Todurov, who is the chief scientist of the Department of Surgical and Minimally Invasive Treatment.

In a Facebook post, Dr Todurov said that the procedure went "smoothly" and that the girl was intubated for two hours.

 
Watch | US Cluster Bombs for Ukraine: US President Joe Biden gives the green light | Russia-Ukraine War

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“The operation went well, and the new heart is beating in the girl’s chest,” Oksana Dmytrieva, chairman of the Ukrainian Parliament’s subcommittee on modern medical technologies and transplantation development, said in an emotional post on Facebook.

<h2>Boy's mother hears&nbsp;the&nbsp;heartbeat</h2>

The images released by the institute showed the mother of the boy whose heart was donated standing by the bedside of the girl.

CNN reported that three more organs of the boy were donated to two other boys. The organs donated were two kidneys and a liver.

“Many thanks to the parents of the little angel, who made an extremely noble act in this extremely difficult time for the family! You are people with a big and kind heart!” Dmytrieva said as quoted by CNN.

“May the little angel rest in peace. And a speedy recovery to the patients who got a chance for a full life!”

Ukraine is currently at war with Russia which invaded the country in February last year. Many cities, including the capital Kyiv, have been bombarded by Russia.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-air-strike-on-kyiv-ahead-of-nato-summit-614156">Russia launches air strike on Kyiv ahead of NATO summit</a>

In Kyiv hospitals, if air-raid sirens begin blaring after an operation has commenced, it is not stopped. In case the air raid sirens are sounded before the commencement of an operation, the doctors wait for all clear before starting the procedure.

After sustained gains in the initial months of the Ukraine invasion, Russian forces have had to retreat from large swathes of land. Ukraine is being backed by the West, led by the US, which has poured millions and millions in humanitarian as well as military aid.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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A heart transplant was successfully carried out on a six-year-old girl in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv amidst the constant danger of Russian missiles, reported CNN.

A heart transplant was successfully carried out on a six-year-old girl in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv amidst the constant danger of Russian missiles, reported CNN. The procedure was reportedly carried out on Sunday (July 9) at Heart Institute of Ukraine's Ministry of Health. The operation lasted for three hours and the girl was given the heart of a four-year-old boy who was previously declared brain dead due to an aneurysm. The institute has said that this is the first heart transplant in Ukraine which involves children so young. “The operation was also unique in that both the donor and the recipient were very young children, and the transplant required more effort from the doctors,” it said, as quoted by CNN. The team of doctors who performed the surgery was led by Dr Boris Todurov, who is the chief scientist of the Department of Surgical and Minimally Invasive Treatment. In a Facebook post, Dr Todurov said that the procedure went "smoothly" and that the girl was intubated for two hours. Watch | US Cluster Bombs for Ukraine: US President Joe Biden gives the green light | Russia-Ukraine War × “The operation went well, and the new heart is beating in the girl’s chest,” Oksana Dmytrieva, chairman of the Ukrainian Parliament’s subcommittee on modern medical technologies and transplantation development, said in an emotional post on Facebook. Boy's mother hears the heartbeat The images released by the institute showed the mother of the boy whose heart was donated standing by the bedside of the girl. CNN reported that three more organs of the boy were donated to two other boys. The organs donated were two kidneys and a liver. “Many thanks to the parents of the little angel, who made an extremely noble act in this extremely difficult time for the family! You are people with a big and kind heart!” Dmytrieva said as quoted by CNN. “May the little angel rest in peace. And a speedy recovery to the patients who got a chance for a full life!” Ukraine is currently at war with Russia which invaded the country in February last year. Many cities, including the capital Kyiv, have been bombarded by Russia. Also Read | Russia launches air strike on Kyiv ahead of NATO summit In Kyiv hospitals, if air-raid sirens begin blaring after an operation has commenced, it is not stopped. In case the air raid sirens are sounded before the commencement of an operation, the doctors wait for all clear before starting the procedure. After sustained gains in the initial months of the Ukraine invasion, Russian forces have had to retreat from large swathes of land. Ukraine is being backed by the West, led by the US, which has poured millions and millions in humanitarian as well as military aid. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

At least 114 dead in Bangladesh floods triggered by incessant rains

The<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-death-toll-reaches-78-in-floods-and-landslides-32-missing-236380"> death toll in floods and landslides</a> triggered by incessant rains since last week in Nepal rose to 90, with about 31 people still missing, the country's home ministry said on Thursday.

"Over 3,366 people have been rescued from across the nation. Data collection and relief distribution is in full swing," the ministry said.

The torrential downpour which has battered the Himalayan nation since July 11 has affected around 31 of the 70 districts across the country.

As per government figures, as many as 27,000 police personnel, 8,000 Army personnel and 8150 Armed Police Force (APF) personnel have been mobilised to the flood-affected regions.

The rescue and relief efforts are currently underway in the districts of Rautahat, Dhanusha, Mahottri, and Dolpa. Helicopters have been kept on standby in Kathmandu, Itahari, and Dhanusha to meet any eventualities.

Provinces 1, 2 and 3 are the worst hit, with Lalitpur, Bhojpur and Rautahat witnessing the highest death toll.

In addition, the lack of sanitation has increased the fear of the breakout of epidemics.

Meanwhile, the Nepal government has decided not to seek foreign aid and instead directed the local bodies to expedite rescue and relief work.

The death toll in floods and landslides triggered by incessant rains since last week in Nepal rose to 90, with about 31 people still missing, the country's home ministry said on Thursday.

The death toll in floods and landslides triggered by incessant rains since last week in Nepal rose to 90, with about 31 people still missing, the country's home ministry said on Thursday. "Over 3,366 people have been rescued from across the nation. Data collection and relief distribution is in full swing," the ministry said. The torrential downpour which has battered the Himalayan nation since July 11 has affected around 31 of the 70 districts across the country. As per government figures, as many as 27,000 police personnel, 8,000 Army personnel and 8150 Armed Police Force (APF) personnel have been mobilised to the flood-affected regions. The rescue and relief efforts are currently underway in the districts of Rautahat, Dhanusha, Mahottri, and Dolpa. Helicopters have been kept on standby in Kathmandu, Itahari, and Dhanusha to meet any eventualities. Provinces 1, 2 and 3 are the worst hit, with Lalitpur, Bhojpur and Rautahat witnessing the highest death toll. In addition, the lack of sanitation has increased the fear of the breakout of epidemics. Meanwhile, the Nepal government has decided not to seek foreign aid and instead directed the local bodies to expedite rescue and relief work.

Death toll reaches 90 in Nepal floods, landslides

Nepali climbers have retrieved four bodies and collected some <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-may-limit-access-to-everest-after-mountaineering-deaths-224409">11 tonnes of decades-old garbage</a> from Mount Everest and its approach below the base camp as part of a drive to clean up the world's highest mountain, the government said on Wednesday.

Climbers returning from the 8,850-metre (29,035-foot) mountain say its slopes are littered with human excrement, used oxygen bottles, torn tents, ropes, broken ladders, cans and plastic wrappers left behind by climbers, an embarrassment for a country that earns valuable revenue from Everest expeditions.

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The garbage, along with the bodies of some of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-mountaineer-ravindra-kumar-speaks-to-wion-explains-why-everest-has-turned-into-death-zone-222486">300 people who have died </a>over the years on Everest's slopes, are buried under the snow during winter, but become visible when the snow melts in summer.
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A clean-up team of 20 sherpa climbers collected five tonnes of litter in April and May from different camps sites above the base camp and another six tonnes from the areas below, said Dandu Raj Ghimire, director general of the Department of Tourism.

"Unfortunately, some garbage collected in bags at the South Col could not be brought down due to bad weather," Ghimire said in a statement on Wednesday.

Everest was first conquered by New Zealander Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay in 1953 and about 5,000 people have since reached the summit. South Col, on the Southeast Ridge route pioneered by Hillary and Tenzing, is located at some 8,016 metres (26,300 feet), and it is the site of the final camp from where climbers begin their summit attempts.

Cleaning campaign coordinator Nim Dorjee Sherpa, head of the village where Mount Everest is located, said two bodies were collected from the treacherous Khumbu Icefall and two from camp three site at the Western Cwm.&nbsp;

"They were exposed from the snow when the sherpas picked up and brought them down," he said.

None of the four bodies have been identified and it was not known when they died.

Nine mountaineers died on the Nepali side of Everest in May while two perished on the Tibetan side, making it the deadliest climbing season since 2015.

Climbers returning from Everest have talked of crowding and delays on the Nepali side just below the summit in the "death zone", so-called because at that altitude the lack of oxygen can be fatal. However climbers and guides have blamed a host of factors for the deaths.

Ghimire, of the Department of Tourism, said the deaths were not because of congestion but due to bad weather and short summit windows.

Nepal this year issued 381 permits to Everest, costing $11,000 each, an important source of income for the cash-strapped nation.

Nepali climbers have retrieved four bodies and collected some 11 tonnes of decades-old garbage from Mount Everest and its approach below the base camp as part of a drive to clean up the world's highest mountain, the government said on Wednesday.

Nepali climbers have retrieved four bodies and collected some 11 tonnes of decades-old garbage from Mount Everest and its approach below the base camp as part of a drive to clean up the world's highest mountain, the government said on Wednesday. Climbers returning from the 8,850-metre (29,035-foot) mountain say its slopes are littered with human excrement, used oxygen bottles, torn tents, ropes, broken ladders, cans and plastic wrappers left behind by climbers, an embarrassment for a country that earns valuable revenue from Everest expeditions. The garbage, along with the bodies of some of the 300 people who have died over the years on Everest's slopes, are buried under the snow during winter, but become visible when the snow melts in summer. A clean-up team of 20 sherpa climbers collected five tonnes of litter in April and May from different camps sites above the base camp and another six tonnes from the areas below, said Dandu Raj Ghimire, director general of the Department of Tourism. "Unfortunately, some garbage collected in bags at the South Col could not be brought down due to bad weather," Ghimire said in a statement on Wednesday. Everest was first conquered by New Zealander Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay in 1953 and about 5,000 people have since reached the summit. South Col, on the Southeast Ridge route pioneered by Hillary and Tenzing, is located at some 8,016 metres (26,300 feet), and it is the site of the final camp from where climbers begin their summit attempts. Cleaning campaign coordinator Nim Dorjee Sherpa, head of the village where Mount Everest is located, said two bodies were collected from the treacherous Khumbu Icefall and two from camp three site at the Western Cwm. "They were exposed from the snow when the sherpas picked up and brought them down," he said. None of the four bodies have been identified and it was not known when they died. Nine mountaineers died on the Nepali side of Everest in May while two perished on the Tibetan side, making it the deadliest climbing season since 2015. Climbers returning from Everest have talked of crowding and delays on the Nepali side just below the summit in the "death zone", so-called because at that altitude the lack of oxygen can be fatal. However climbers and guides have blamed a host of factors for the deaths. Ghimire, of the Department of Tourism, said the deaths were not because of congestion but due to bad weather and short summit windows. Nepal this year issued 381 permits to Everest, costing $11,000 each, an important source of income for the cash-strapped nation.

4 bodies, 11 tonne garbage picked in Mount Everest clean-up operation

Under pressure after a deadly season on traffic-clogged Mount Everest, Nepal is considering tightening access to the world's highest peak, but mountaineering experts fear the proposed changes could amount to little more than lip service. &nbsp;

Eleven people died during the climbing season that ended this week, as record numbers lined the route to the summit. Although overcrowding was blamed for at least four deaths, many say inexperience is a bigger killer.

"People who know nothing of climbing, never been on a mountain, came and tried to climb Everest," Chilean mountaineer Juan Pablo Mohr told AFP after returning to Kathmandu.

"A lot of people didn't know how to put (on) crampons or (use) the fixed ropes," he said, adding they relied on an army of sherpas or Nepali guides to help them accomplish such basic tasks.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/whats-behind-the-spike-in-deaths-on-mount-everest-223460">What's behind the spike in deaths on Mount Everest?</a>

For years, Kathmandu has issued permits to anyone willing to pay $11,000, regardless of whether they are rookie climbers or skilled mountaineers.

But after a devastating spring season, officials told AFP they are considering imposing more restrictions.

"We are looking into having a minimum requirement for climbers, fixing more ropes or taking more oxygen and sherpas," said Mohan Krishna Sapkota, secretary at Nepal's tourism ministry.

For veteran mountaineers, the announcement of new rules amounts to little more than a futile annual exercise -- with the government each year promising tougher measures that fail to materialise by the following spring.

'Just stupid words'

Russell Brice, whose company Himalayan Experience (Himex) has been organising Everest expeditions for decades, told AFP his meetings with government officials over the years had left him in no doubt about their indifference towards the industry.

"The ministry is in denial of overcrowding, of issuing too many permits, not checking what people are doing and so on," Brice said.

"It is just stupid words," he said, adding, "they are not interested."

In 2014, Kathmandu said it would double the number of fixed ropes near the summit to prevent traffic jams.

It never happened.

The government also said it would station soldiers and police at Everest base camp for assistance. An AFP visit to the area in 2015 revealed no such deployment.

Unlike Tibet, which caps the number of Everest climbers at 300, there are no limits on the Nepali side, making for an exceedingly profitable -- and dangerous -- business.

As cheaper operators have entered the fray, the number of climbers has shot up, creating deadly bottlenecks en-route to the top of the 8,848-metre (29,029-feet) peak -- especially when bad weather cuts the number of summit days, as it did this year.

Phurba Tenjing Sherpa, who has guided clients on Everest for over a decade, told AFP one of the climbers who died should never have been allowed to go up, given her excessively slow pace.

But the woman, who was in her fifties, "would not listen" because she had paid the fee and wanted to see the summit, he said.&nbsp;

"Such climbers are increasing on Everest. They force us, they want to climb no matter what. Their stubbornness is killing people on the mountain," he said.

Rush to profits

The situation has deteriorated to such a degree that Nepal's Mountaineering Association, which represents operators, is lobbying the government for stricter rules. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The association's president, Santa Bir Lama, told AFP the high number of deaths this year was due to the increased presence of inexperienced climbers.

"Climbers should be self-reliant. It would be best if there is a criteria set for issuing permits," he said.

For years after Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay made the first ascent of Everest in 1953, access to the world's most famous peak was a rare prize, offered only to solo mountaineers charting new routes or to climbers belonging to national teams or boasting major sponsorship deals.

But after Nepal scrapped its limit in the 1990s, operators have crowded the slopes for a slice of the multi-million dollar industry.

This year, the Himalayan nation made around $4 million from Everest permits alone.

"It is nice to see this income," Himex's Brice said.

But he warned the rush to reap profits was "detracting from the major attraction of Nepal, which is Mount Everest".

"If we ruin that business, it's going to have long-term effects".

Under pressure after a deadly season on traffic-clogged Mount Everest, Nepal is considering tightening access to the world's highest peak, but mountaineering experts fear the proposed changes could amount to little more than lip service.

Under pressure after a deadly season on traffic-clogged Mount Everest, Nepal is considering tightening access to the world's highest peak, but mountaineering experts fear the proposed changes could amount to little more than lip service. Eleven people died during the climbing season that ended this week, as record numbers lined the route to the summit. Although overcrowding was blamed for at least four deaths, many say inexperience is a bigger killer. "People who know nothing of climbing, never been on a mountain, came and tried to climb Everest," Chilean mountaineer Juan Pablo Mohr told AFP after returning to Kathmandu. "A lot of people didn't know how to put (on) crampons or (use) the fixed ropes," he said, adding they relied on an army of sherpas or Nepali guides to help them accomplish such basic tasks. Also read: What's behind the spike in deaths on Mount Everest? For years, Kathmandu has issued permits to anyone willing to pay $11,000, regardless of whether they are rookie climbers or skilled mountaineers. But after a devastating spring season, officials told AFP they are considering imposing more restrictions. "We are looking into having a minimum requirement for climbers, fixing more ropes or taking more oxygen and sherpas," said Mohan Krishna Sapkota, secretary at Nepal's tourism ministry. For veteran mountaineers, the announcement of new rules amounts to little more than a futile annual exercise -- with the government each year promising tougher measures that fail to materialise by the following spring. 'Just stupid words' Russell Brice, whose company Himalayan Experience (Himex) has been organising Everest expeditions for decades, told AFP his meetings with government officials over the years had left him in no doubt about their indifference towards the industry. "The ministry is in denial of overcrowding, of issuing too many permits, not checking what people are doing and so on," Brice said. "It is just stupid words," he said, adding, "they are not interested." In 2014, Kathmandu said it would double the number of fixed ropes near the summit to prevent traffic jams. It never happened. The government also said it would station soldiers and police at Everest base camp for assistance. An AFP visit to the area in 2015 revealed no such deployment. Unlike Tibet, which caps the number of Everest climbers at 300, there are no limits on the Nepali side, making for an exceedingly profitable -- and dangerous -- business. As cheaper operators have entered the fray, the number of climbers has shot up, creating deadly bottlenecks en-route to the top of the 8,848-metre (29,029-feet) peak -- especially when bad weather cuts the number of summit days, as it did this year. Phurba Tenjing Sherpa, who has guided clients on Everest for over a decade, told AFP one of the climbers who died should never have been allowed to go up, given her excessively slow pace. But the woman, who was in her fifties, "would not listen" because she had paid the fee and wanted to see the summit, he said. "Such climbers are increasing on Everest. They force us, they want to climb no matter what. Their stubbornness is killing people on the mountain," he said. Rush to profits The situation has deteriorated to such a degree that Nepal's Mountaineering Association, which represents operators, is lobbying the government for stricter rules. The association's president, Santa Bir Lama, told AFP the high number of deaths this year was due to the increased presence of inexperienced climbers. "Climbers should be self-reliant. It would be best if there is a criteria set for issuing permits," he said. For years after Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay made the first ascent of Everest in 1953, access to the world's most famous peak was a rare prize, offered only to solo mountaineers charting new routes or to climbers belonging to national teams or boasting major sponsorship deals. But after Nepal scrapped its limit in the 1990s, operators have crowded the slopes for a slice of the multi-million dollar industry. This year, the Himalayan nation made around $4 million from Everest permits alone. "It is nice to see this income," Himex's Brice said. But he warned the rush to reap profits was "detracting from the major attraction of Nepal, which is Mount Everest". "If we ruin that business, it's going to have long-term effects".

Nepal may limit access to Everest after mountaineering deaths

Civil society members in Nepal stage silent protest against Pulwama attack

As many as three explosions hit Arun-III hydropower project, a 900-megawatt power plant being built with Indian assistance in Sankhuwasabha District of Nepal on Thursday night.

Police Inspector of the district Rameshwor Pandit confirmed the news.

“A total of three bombs exploded at the power plant of the hydel project located in Pukhuwa of Chichila Rural Municipality-03 of the district. The group behind the blast is yet to be identified,” Pandit told ANI over the phone.

A boomer used to drain out the water from the tunnels and the generators operated for the construction has been damaged in the blast, the police said.

Following the incident, Chief District Officer Ganesh Bahadur Adhikari and Deputy Superintendent of Police at the District Police Office Shyam Saru Magar rushed to the site to take stock of the situation.

Security has been beefed up near the power plant and the area has been cordoned off.

The foundation stone of the 900-MW power plant was jointly inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart KP Sharma Oli last year.

The estimated cost of the project stands at US$ 1.04 billion and is scheduled to be completed within five years.

When operational, the power plant will produce 4,018.87 million units of electricity a year.

The project is being developed on a build-own-operate and transfer (BOOT) basis by Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) through its wholly-owned subsidiary SJVN Arun-3 Power Development Company (SAPDC).

The SJVN signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the execution of the project with the Government of Nepal in March 2008.

The SJVN will operate the power plant for a concession period of 30 years, following which the ownership will be transferred to the Nepal government.

The plant will provide 21.9 per cent of free power to Nepal during the concession period.

The power plant project is expected to pump in billions of foreign direct investment into Nepal and create jobs for thousands of people.&nbsp;

As many as three explosions hit Arun-III hydropower project, a 900-megawatt power plant being built with Indian assistance in Sankhuwasabha District of Nepal on Thursday night.

As many as three explosions hit Arun-III hydropower project, a 900-megawatt power plant being built with Indian assistance in Sankhuwasabha District of Nepal on Thursday night. Police Inspector of the district Rameshwor Pandit confirmed the news. “A total of three bombs exploded at the power plant of the hydel project located in Pukhuwa of Chichila Rural Municipality-03 of the district. The group behind the blast is yet to be identified,” Pandit told ANI over the phone. A boomer used to drain out the water from the tunnels and the generators operated for the construction has been damaged in the blast, the police said. Following the incident, Chief District Officer Ganesh Bahadur Adhikari and Deputy Superintendent of Police at the District Police Office Shyam Saru Magar rushed to the site to take stock of the situation. Security has been beefed up near the power plant and the area has been cordoned off. The foundation stone of the 900-MW power plant was jointly inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart KP Sharma Oli last year. The estimated cost of the project stands at US$ 1.04 billion and is scheduled to be completed within five years. When operational, the power plant will produce 4,018.87 million units of electricity a year. The project is being developed on a build-own-operate and transfer (BOOT) basis by Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) through its wholly-owned subsidiary SJVN Arun-3 Power Development Company (SAPDC). The SJVN signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the execution of the project with the Government of Nepal in March 2008. The SJVN will operate the power plant for a concession period of 30 years, following which the ownership will be transferred to the Nepal government. The plant will provide 21.9 per cent of free power to Nepal during the concession period. The power plant project is expected to pump in billions of foreign direct investment into Nepal and create jobs for thousands of people.

3 explosions hit India-assisted Arun-III hydel project in Nepal

India on Saturday donated 30 ambulances and six buses to Nepal and extended its support to the country in achieving prosperity.

India's gesture came as it marked 70th Republic Day.

India's Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri handed over keys of the ambulances and buses to the recipient organisations amidst celebrations in Indian Embassy premises, Katmandu on Saturday.

Since 1994, the Government of India has gifted 722 ambulances and 142 buses to various organisations across Nepal to expand access to healthcare and educational services in Nepal.&nbsp;

Ambassador Puri also distributed cash to the kins of war veterans from the Gorkha regiment and gifted books to 53 schools and libraries across the country.

Puri unfurled the Indian national flag and read out the message delivered by the president of Indian to the nation on the occasion of the Republic Day.

"Government of India will extend support to the government of Nepal in attaining its goal of 'Samriddha Nepal ra Sukhi Nepali' or 'Prosperous Nepal and Happy Nepali'," assured ambassador Puri.&nbsp;

The function was attended by more than 2,000 people, including Indian embassy staff, Indian citizens residing in Nepal, Indian business community in Kathmandu, media persons and students.&nbsp;

India on Saturday donated 30 ambulances and six buses to Nepal and extended its support to the country in achieving prosperity. India's gesture came as it marked 70th Republic Day.

India on Saturday donated 30 ambulances and six buses to Nepal and extended its support to the country in achieving prosperity. India's gesture came as it marked 70th Republic Day. India's Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri handed over keys of the ambulances and buses to the recipient organisations amidst celebrations in Indian Embassy premises, Katmandu on Saturday. Since 1994, the Government of India has gifted 722 ambulances and 142 buses to various organisations across Nepal to expand access to healthcare and educational services in Nepal. Ambassador Puri also distributed cash to the kins of war veterans from the Gorkha regiment and gifted books to 53 schools and libraries across the country. Puri unfurled the Indian national flag and read out the message delivered by the president of Indian to the nation on the occasion of the Republic Day. "Government of India will extend support to the government of Nepal in attaining its goal of 'Samriddha Nepal ra Sukhi Nepali' or 'Prosperous Nepal and Happy Nepali'," assured ambassador Puri. The function was attended by more than 2,000 people, including Indian embassy staff, Indian citizens residing in Nepal, Indian business community in Kathmandu, media persons and students.

India gifts 30 ambulances, 6 buses to Nepal on Republic Day

Nepal's central bank has banned the use of Indian currency notes of Rs 2,000, Rs 500 and Rs 200 denominations, a move that could affect Indian tourists visiting the Himalayan nation where Indian currency is widely used.

Nepal Rastra Bank on Sunday issued a circular prohibiting Nepali travellers, banks and financial institutions from holding or carrying and trading Indian bank notes higher than Rs 100, the Kathmandu Post reported.

The central bank said in its circular letter that Indian currency of 200, 500 and 2,000 denominations cannot be carried and used for trading, it said.

Under the new regulation, Nepali citizens cannot carry these denominations to countries other than India. Similarly, Nepalis are also not allowed to bring such notes from other countries. Indian notes of 100 or below, however, are allowed for trading and conversion, the bank's circular reads.

On December 13, the Cabinet had decided to publish the notification in the Nepal Gazette not to allow people to carry Indian currency notes above 100 denominations in Nepal.

The ban has been criticised by travel traders and entrepreneurs, saying that it would hurt the country's burgeoning tourism at a time when the government has announced 'Visit Nepal' campaign with an objective to draw at least 2 million tourists in 2020.

Since a majority of Indians come to Nepal over land from border towns, it is difficult for them to convert their currency to dollar or Euro, they said.

The overland Indian visitors' survey showed that 1.2 million Indians came to Nepal through the surface route while 160,132 travelled via air. The average length of stay of Indian tourists coming overland was 5.8 days. Average expenditure per visitor was as much as Rs 11,310, the paper said.&nbsp;

The Indian government introduced new banknotes of Rs 2,000, Rs 500 and Rs 200 denominations after the demonetisation of old notes worth Rs 500 and 1,000 in 2016.

However, the move hit countries such as Nepal and Bhutan where Indian currency is widely used.

Nepal Premier K P Sharma Oli said earlier this year that demonetisation hurt the Nepalese people and added that he would raise the matter with Indian leaders.

People have been using the new Indian currency in Nepal for nearly two years now.&nbsp;

Nepal's central bank has banned the use of Indian currency notes of Rs 2,000, Rs 500 and Rs 200 denominations, a move that could affect Indian tourists visiting the Himalayan nation where Indian currency is widely used.

Nepal's central bank has banned the use of Indian currency notes of Rs 2,000, Rs 500 and Rs 200 denominations, a move that could affect Indian tourists visiting the Himalayan nation where Indian currency is widely used. Nepal Rastra Bank on Sunday issued a circular prohibiting Nepali travellers, banks and financial institutions from holding or carrying and trading Indian bank notes higher than Rs 100, the Kathmandu Post reported. The central bank said in its circular letter that Indian currency of 200, 500 and 2,000 denominations cannot be carried and used for trading, it said. Under the new regulation, Nepali citizens cannot carry these denominations to countries other than India. Similarly, Nepalis are also not allowed to bring such notes from other countries. Indian notes of 100 or below, however, are allowed for trading and conversion, the bank's circular reads. On December 13, the Cabinet had decided to publish the notification in the Nepal Gazette not to allow people to carry Indian currency notes above 100 denominations in Nepal. The ban has been criticised by travel traders and entrepreneurs, saying that it would hurt the country's burgeoning tourism at a time when the government has announced 'Visit Nepal' campaign with an objective to draw at least 2 million tourists in 2020. Since a majority of Indians come to Nepal over land from border towns, it is difficult for them to convert their currency to dollar or Euro, they said. The overland Indian visitors' survey showed that 1.2 million Indians came to Nepal through the surface route while 160,132 travelled via air. The average length of stay of Indian tourists coming overland was 5.8 days. Average expenditure per visitor was as much as Rs 11,310, the paper said. The Indian government introduced new banknotes of Rs 2,000, Rs 500 and Rs 200 denominations after the demonetisation of old notes worth Rs 500 and 1,000 in 2016. However, the move hit countries such as Nepal and Bhutan where Indian currency is widely used. Nepal Premier K P Sharma Oli said earlier this year that demonetisation hurt the Nepalese people and added that he would raise the matter with Indian leaders. People have been using the new Indian currency in Nepal for nearly two years now.

Nepal's Central bank announces ban on Indian rupee notes above Rs 100

Nepal’s new government has reversed its predecessor`s decision and has asked China Gezhouba Group Corporation to build the nation’s biggest hydropower plant, an official said on Sunday, as it seeks to woo Chinese investment in its ailing infrastructure.

The $2.5 billion deal with the Gezhouba Group to build the Budhi Gandaki hydroelectric project was scrapped last year by the previous government, citing lapses in the award process. State-run Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) was to have built it.

But Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, seen as China-friendly, pledged to revert the project to the Chinese company if he was elected to power in last year’s elections. Oli became prime minister in February after his Nepal Communist Party scored a landslide poll victory.

“Yes, the Budhi Gandaki has been given back to the Gezhouba Group,” said Roshan Khadka, an aide to Energy Minister Barsa Man Pun. “It is ... restoring the project to the Chinese company,” Khadka told Reuters. He did not give further details of the decision taken by the cabinet on Friday night.

China and India are both jostling for influence in Nepal by providing aid and investment in infrastructure projects.

Officials said a formal construction deal will be signed on the hydropower project after the government had negotiated the project modalities with the Chinese company. No date for this was given.

Nepal’s rivers, cascading from the snow-capped Himalayas, have vast, untapped potential for hydropower generation, but lack of funds has made Nepal lean on neighbour India to meet annual power demand of 1,400 megawatts (MW).

The 1,200 MW plant on Budhi Gandaki river, about 50 km (32 miles) west of Kathmandu, is meant to address acute power shortages that has marred economic growth in one of the poorest countries in the world.

Critics say the project should have been open for international bidding instead of being entrusted to the Chinese company.

Officials of the Chinese company were not immediately available for comment.

Nepal wants the Budhi Gandaki project to be part of the Belt and Road initiative (BRI), President Xi Jinping’s landmark scheme to connect China to the rest of Asia and beyond,&nbsp;to which it signed up last year.&nbsp;

Nepal’s new government has reversed its predecessor`s decision and has asked China Gezhouba Group Corporation to build the nation’s biggest hydropower plant, an official said on Sunday, as it seeks to woo Chinese investment in its ailing infrastructure.

Nepal’s new government has reversed its predecessor`s decision and has asked China Gezhouba Group Corporation to build the nation’s biggest hydropower plant, an official said on Sunday, as it seeks to woo Chinese investment in its ailing infrastructure. The $2.5 billion deal with the Gezhouba Group to build the Budhi Gandaki hydroelectric project was scrapped last year by the previous government, citing lapses in the award process. State-run Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) was to have built it. But Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, seen as China-friendly, pledged to revert the project to the Chinese company if he was elected to power in last year’s elections. Oli became prime minister in February after his Nepal Communist Party scored a landslide poll victory. “Yes, the Budhi Gandaki has been given back to the Gezhouba Group,” said Roshan Khadka, an aide to Energy Minister Barsa Man Pun. “It is ... restoring the project to the Chinese company,” Khadka told Reuters. He did not give further details of the decision taken by the cabinet on Friday night. China and India are both jostling for influence in Nepal by providing aid and investment in infrastructure projects. Officials said a formal construction deal will be signed on the hydropower project after the government had negotiated the project modalities with the Chinese company. No date for this was given. Nepal’s rivers, cascading from the snow-capped Himalayas, have vast, untapped potential for hydropower generation, but lack of funds has made Nepal lean on neighbour India to meet annual power demand of 1,400 megawatts (MW). The 1,200 MW plant on Budhi Gandaki river, about 50 km (32 miles) west of Kathmandu, is meant to address acute power shortages that has marred economic growth in one of the poorest countries in the world. Critics say the project should have been open for international bidding instead of being entrusted to the Chinese company. Officials of the Chinese company were not immediately available for comment. Nepal wants the Budhi Gandaki project to be part of the Belt and Road initiative (BRI), President Xi Jinping’s landmark scheme to connect China to the rest of Asia and beyond, to which it signed up last year.

Nepal restores $2.5 billion hydropower plant contract to Chinese firm

The Government of Nepal on Friday said it would block the publication and dissemination of pornographic content in the nation, citing an increase in incidents of rape.

The Ministry for Information and Communication issued a release citing pornographic content to be the reason for rape.

"The Criminal Code 2071 article 121 and other prevalent laws prohibit the production and dissemination of sexually obscene contents. In order to prevent the access of such content through electronic media, the need of pulling down such websites inside Nepal has become necessary," the release from the ministry stated.

Nepal has witnessed a sharp rise in the number of rape cases over the past weeks.

The decision of the Nepal government to ban pornographic content comes amid the rising rage against the government's failure to identify the perpetrators who allegedly raped and murdered a schoolgirl in Southern Plain of Nepal recently.

The Government of Nepal on Friday said it would block the publication and dissemination of pornographic content in the nation, citing an increase in incidents of rape.

The Government of Nepal on Friday said it would block the publication and dissemination of pornographic content in the nation, citing an increase in incidents of rape. The Ministry for Information and Communication issued a release citing pornographic content to be the reason for rape. "The Criminal Code 2071 article 121 and other prevalent laws prohibit the production and dissemination of sexually obscene contents. In order to prevent the access of such content through electronic media, the need of pulling down such websites inside Nepal has become necessary," the release from the ministry stated. Nepal has witnessed a sharp rise in the number of rape cases over the past weeks. The decision of the Nepal government to ban pornographic content comes amid the rising rage against the government's failure to identify the perpetrators who allegedly raped and murdered a schoolgirl in Southern Plain of Nepal recently.

Nepal to block pornographic content amid rising rape statistics

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